No Water From the City of Tshwane, so Families Turn to Illegal Suppliers
The 12,000 households in Azania informal settlement have no official supply of water
Water
Off-Duty Cop Accused of Brutally Assaulting Cape Town Man
Unconscious victim dumped at community clinic
Students Disrupt Classes Amid Housing Crisis
NSFAS blamed for student accommodation challenges
Annual toll tariffs to increase by 4.84%
Annual toll tariffs to increase by 4.84%
The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has announced the adjustment to the toll tariffs effective from 1 March 2025.
The tariffs are adjusted annually in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) as obtained from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA).
The annual toll tariffs will increase by 4.84%, as published in the Government Gazette of 7 February 2025. This rate is less than last year’s 6.25% adjustment.
SANRAL’s General Manager for Communications and Marketing, Vusi Mona, explained that toll revenue is necessary to maintain, operate and improve toll roads, as well as to service debt incurred to implement a toll road project.
“The funds go a long way towards ensuring that SANRAL fulfils its mandate of delivering quality road infrastructure that adds value to the lives of South African citizens,” Mona said on Monday.
He further said that key economic infrastructure, such as the national road network, is a precondition for providing basic services such as electricity, water, sanitation, telecommunications and public transport.
“This road network therefore needs to meet industrial, commercial and household needs. SANRAL is empathetic to the South African public, considering the current state of the economy. However, it is equally important to introduce the adjustments to ensure that the agency continues to deliver safe and quality roads to the benefit of all road users,” Mona said.
SANRAL is an entity of the Department of Transport -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 02/11/2025 - 12:41
65 views
Over 90 communities to benefit from Lubisi water project
Over 90 communities to benefit from Lubisi water project
Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina has officially handed over the Lubisi Water Treatment Works in the Chris Hani District Municipality, in the Eastern Cape.
The project, implemented under the department’s Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant (RBIG), will provide sustainable and reliable water services to underserved communities in the Intsika Yethu, Sakhisizwe, and Emalahleni Local Municipalities.
The water treatment works will benefit 96 communities with an estimated population of 94 307.
Speaking at the handover ceremony on Monday, Majodina called on municipalities to maintain their water infrastructure.
"Failure to maintain water infrastructure by the District Municipality impacts negatively on water provision. Illegal water connections and vandalism by some members of the community must be confronted and eliminated,” the Minister said.
Majodina reminded the community members that they carry a civic duty to report vandalism and theft of water infrastructure.
“It is your infrastructure [and you must] protect it. Theft and vandalism of water infrastructure contribute to water shortage. You must also stop buying stolen goods, because when you do that, you are as guilty as the thief,” Majodina said.
The Minister also urged the department officials to work with farmers, to monitor and control water usage.
She assured that working together with partners, the Ministry will continue to intensify its efforts to expand access to water services across the country.
This is consistent with the undertaking made by the President in his recent State of the Nation Address. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 02/11/2025 - 10:20
185 views
This SASSA Office Opens Earlier to Deal with “High Influx” of Clients
A community worker says she sleeps outside the office to secure spaces for elderly or disabled people
Over 1 000 households benefit from leak repair project
Over 1 000 households benefit from leak repair project
A total of 1 688 registered indigent households in Cape Town have benefitted from the city’s indigent leak repair project since 2021.
Through the project, the city’s Water and Sanitation Directorate has assisted in repairing private water leaks at residents’ properties, which helps to prevent unnecessary water losses and ensure that vulnerable residents can manage their water consumption more effectively.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Water and Sanitation, Zahid Badroodien, explained that households are identified based on unexplained high-water usage.
“Once the city engages with the affected resident and inspects the property to find the source of the water leak, repairs are conducted at no cost to the property owner.
“Indigent customers receive a free water allocation of 15 000 litres (15kl) per month. Consumption above this threshold may result in water supply restrictions, making leak repairs critical for sustainable water use,” Badroodien said.
To support these residents, Badroodien said the city offers a once-off leak repair benefit to qualifying households.
The MMC noted that beneficiaries are determined by analysing trends, where registered indigent properties are found to be consuming water above 50 000 litres (50Kl) per month.
“Households who opted in for the programme will be assisted with repairs to leaking internal pipes, taps, toilets, fittings and meter replacements, as determined by individual needs,” Badroodien said.
Through this initiative, water losses are reduced, and it demonstrates the importance of residents maintaining plumbing on private properties to avoid unnecessary costs.
Badroodien said the city has invested R3.8 million towards the leak repair programme for the 2024/2025 financial year.
He said the growing uptake of the programme is encouraging and shows how aware indigent customers have become about water-wise behaviours.
The top 10 areas where the city has recently conducted leak repairs, includes Nyanga, Philippi, Gugulethu, Delft, Leiden, Bloekombos, Wallacedene, Tafelsig, Vrygrond and Bonteheuwel.
The city reiterated its call for residents to continue saving water and use the city’s resources responsible “regardless of the season or our dam levels.”
Helpful guides on ‘Finding and Fixing Leaks’ are available at http://www.capetown.gov.za/savewater - SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 02/10/2025 - 14:12
31 views
Residents urged to handle waste disposal wisely
Residents urged to handle waste disposal wisely
The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) has called on residents and businesses to exercise caution and follow protocols for the safe handling and disposal of all types of waste, especially hazardous waste.
“Failure to do so exposes people to serious health hazards,” Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Public Health, Thsonono Buyeye warned.
The call follows the unfortunate death of a 13-year-old child, who is suspected to have consumed a poisonous substance from a refuse bag in Bluewater Bay recently.
Following the unfortunate incident, the city’s Waste Management Sub-Directorate, under the Public Health Directorate, has embarked on an intensive stakeholder awareness and engagement programme to empower the public and businesses regarding guidelines on how to safely manage hazardous waste.
Buyeye said the stakeholder awareness and engagement programme will form part of a project called the Separation at Source Programme (SSP), which is currently underway.
“Separation at Source is a practice of sorting waste materials into different categories (like paper, plastic, glass and, etc.) at the point where they are generated, like in a household or factory, before they are disposed of, essentially preventing recyclable materials from going to landfills by separating them from other waste streams at the source,” Buyeye explained.
Buyeye said the sessions will include public education meetings, including door-to-door registration in Blue Water Bay, where the second phase of the SSP will be introduced on Tuesday.
Addressing the residents during a recent public engagement meeting in Bluewater Bay, Buyeye committed that the work currently underway will place special focus on hazardous waste handling and disposal.
"We will be working in partnership with waste pickers, households, businesses and the Nelson Mandela University (NMU) to improve in this area. It is unfortunate that the child’s death occurred at the time when the Directorate was about to launch the SSP in Bluewater Bay and surrounding areas,” Buyeye said.
He said engagements with business will include the education of businesses on the separation of recyclable and non-recyclable materials, with the intention of reducing the opportunity for waste reclaimers accessing dangerous waste items, and to ensure that hazardous substances are safely disposed of.
Buyeye said that the directorate is also engaging with the Nelson Mandela University to get access to, and benefit from the wealth of knowledge and expertise in various fields, including environmental science, waste management and chemical safety.
“The municipality also hopes to benefit from the university’s research to improve its waste management practices, especially concerning the safe handling and disposal of chemicals,” Buyeye said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 02/10/2025 - 10:04
61 views
SONA in numbers – 2025
SONA in numbers - 2025
MOURNING
- 14 – South African soldiers who died as part of a mission to bring peace to the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
HISTORY
- 70 – years since the adoption of the Freedom Charter at the Congress of the People in Kliptown.
- 30 – years since the dawn of democracy.
ECONOMY AND INFRASTRUCTURE
- 5 – number of years for the implementation of the Medium-Term Development Plan.
- 3 – government’s strategic priorities to be advanced by the Medium-Term Development Plan.
- Over 3% – the level of economic growth that government aims to lift to create the virtuous cycle of investment, growth and jobs.
- R100 billion – value of infrastructure financing expected from local and international financial institutions and investors.
- More than R940 billion – money that government will spend on infrastructure over the next three years.
- 3 – number of years during which government will spend more than R940 billion on infrastructure.
- R375 billion – money to be spent by state-owned companies on infrastructure.
- 12 – blended finance projects worth nearly R38 billion that have been approved through the Infrastructure Fund last year.
- Nearly R38 billion – value of 12 blended finance projects that have been approved through the Infrastructure Fund last year.
WATER
- 490 million – cubic metres of water a year that the Polihlali Dam will feed from the Lesotho Highlands into the Vaal River System.
- R23 billion – money secured by the Infrastructure Fund for seven large water infrastructure projects.
- 7 – large water infrastructure projects for which the Infrastructure Fund has secured R23 billion.
ENERGY
- More than 300 – days without load-shedding since March 2024.
- Over 13 billion – United States dollars that have been pledged by the international community to the Just Energy Transition.
VISA
- Over 90% – the backlog of more than 300 000 visa applications that government has cleared.
- More than 300 000 – visa applications of over 90% of the backlog that government has cleared.
BUSINESS FUNDING AND JOB CREATION
- R20 billion – value of a transformation fund a year over the next five years that government will set up to fund black-owned and small business enterprises.
- Over 10 000 – persons with disabilities to be empowered by the National Skills Fund Disabilities Programme through tailored training programmes, stipends and specialised tools.
- Almost 2.2 million – work and livelihood opportunities created by the Presidential Employment Stimulus through innovative models that provide high-quality work to participants.
- Over 80 000 – jobs created by the Social Employment Fund in 2025.
- More than 12 000 – participants supported by the Social Employment Fund to enter entrepreneurial activities.
TOURISM
- Close to 9 million – tourists who visited South Africa last year.
YOUTH EMPOWERMENT AND EMPLOYMENT
- 235 000 – work opportunities secured by young people during the past year through the National Pathway Management Network, which is underpinned by the SAYouth.mobi platform.
- Some 4.5 million – young people registered on the SAYouth.mobi platform.
- Around 60% – value of the national budget that government spends on the social wage: on health, education, social protection, community development and public employment programmes.
SOCIAL ASSISTANCE AND EDUCATION
- More than 28 million – unemployed and vulnerable people who receive social grants.
- More than 10.5 million – learners who go to public schools where they do not have to pay fees.
- Over 900 000 – students from poor and working-class backgrounds who received funding to study at universities and colleges in 2024.
- 10 – key priorities of the National Strategy to Accelerate Action for Children.
- 87% – learners who passed their matric exams.
- Approximately 10 000 – students in the first year to be supported through Phase 1 of the Comprehensive Student Funding Model for Higher Education to address the needs of the “missing middle”.
HEALTH
- 3 – existing old central hospitals to be replaced.
- 3 – new central hospitals to be constructed.
- 5 – new district hospitals to be constructed.
- 5 – community health centres to be constructed.
- 1 – a new psychiatric hospital to be constructed.
- 96% – people living with HIV who knew their status, by the end of March 2024.
- 79% – people on antiretroviral treatment among the 96% of people living with HIV who knew their status, by the end of March 2024.
- 94% – people on antiretroviral treatment, among the 96% of people living with HIV who knew their status by the end of March 2024, who were virally suppressed.
- 1.1 million – additional HIV-positive people not on antiretroviral treatment that government will look for to ensure that South Africa reaches its target of 95-95-95.
- 90 – days during which the United States Government has decided to suspend some of its funding for HIV and TB programmes in African countries.
- About 17% – the value of funding from the United States Government to South Africa’s HIV spend.
HOUSING
- 300 000 – serviced stands to be provided to qualifying beneficiaries to enable housing development in well-planned, connected communities along key development corridors.
RAIL TRANSPORT
- More than 80% – passenger rail corridors that have been returned to service.
- Over 200 – locally-produced trains that the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa has introduced on its network to provide a low-cost option for public transport.
- Over the next five years – period during which government will restore the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa’s signalling system.
CRIME AND CORRUPTION
- 4 000 – personnel to expand the Detective Service through internal recruitment processes.
- Over R95 billion – value of leakage in impermissible refunds that the South African Revenue Service prevented by using artificial intelligence in its fraud risk detection and verification work.
- R20 billion – amount recovered by the South African Revenue Service.
- Over R10 billion – money recovered by the Special Investigating Unit and Asset Forfeiture Unit in state capture related cases.
- 16 out of 22 – action items that government has fully addressed in the law-enforcement system to secure the removal of South Africa from the international Financial Action Task Force grey list.
GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE
- 65 – Thuthuzela Care Centres across the country.
- 52 – districts in the country.
- 44 – districts, out of 55 districts in the country, which have gender-based violence shelters.
- 16 – additional sexual offences courts to be established in the next financial year.
VISION
- Next 30 years – period of a vision for the country to be defined by all South Africans coming together in the National Dialogue.
Janine
Sat, 02/08/2025 - 09:11
59 views
President Ramaphosa tees off for charity
President Ramaphosa tees off for charity
In a bid to raise funds for charity, President Cyril Ramaphosa has this morning teed off alongside a diverse stakeholder grouping during the annual Presidential Golf Challenge.
This year, President Ramaphosa partnered with an 11-year-old golfer Shalom Madlala from Malelane in the Mpumalanga province. Shalom is a provincial player in the South African Golf Development Board’s (SAGDB) program.
The PGC, held at the Atlantic Beach Golf Estate, Melkbosstrand, is held every year following the State of the Nation Address (SONA) and is hosted by the Ministry of Public Service and Administration in partnership with the private sector as part of the activities around SONA.
According to the Presidency, the challenge raises funds for charities designated by the sitting President and provides an opportunity for networking between government and the private sector.
The proceeds will be donated to the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation, which will in turn distribute funds to deserving charities to improve education and promote skills development in the communities across the country.
Job creation, economic development and investment
Speaking to members of the media on the sidelines of the PGC, the President outlined his strategy for job creation and economic growth. He highlighted that investment confidence was rising, indicating a potential increase in investments and job creation.
“As I said yesterday in the State of the Nation Address, we intend to grow our economy, we're focusing more intently on growing the economy by ensuring that our reforms take root, and we broaden our reforms as well to the second phase.
“We've done relatively well so far with our reforms, particularly when it comes to network industries our electricity, our logistics, our rail, and our ports with doing much better than we did in the past. And that in itself is a really good indicator to investors they see that we are serious and beginning to address issue that they were believing are holding back their own investment,” he said.
The President emphasised that increased investor confidence was a key driver of economic growth and job creation.
“Investment confidence is up, and once investment confidence is up, we will see a real growth in investments in our economy, and then we will see growth and creation of jobs.
“We intend to get into the second phase, which will focus on water and local government as well and the regulatory environment. So, we are intending to do a clean sweep of everything that is holding our economy back,” he said.
The President also highlighted the government's commitment to expanding public employment programs, particularly targeting young people, women, and people with disabilities. He pointed to emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, the green economy, and the digital economy as key areas for job creation.
“And at the same time, government itself is ramping up its public employment programs, we are going to be integrating them and making sure that we bring in young people, we bring in women, we bring in disabled people and give them opportunities, real opportunities of learning new skills…we want to get into new industries, the green economy, artificial intelligence and digital economy,” he said.
The President expressed confidence that opportunities would open up in South Africa, adding that the government was excited about this prospect. He highlighted the importance of collaboration with business, labour, and social organisations in driving economic growth.
“The growth of our economy is going to revolve around pulling together and I have a sense that South Africans collectively now want the country to move forward and that nothing should hold us back and government is going to be there to facilitate that,” he said.
International relations
President Ramaphosa stressed a diplomatic approach when it comes to international relations, particularly regarding engagements with the United States and South Africa’s role in the G20.
He reiterated that the United States was an important player on the global stage.
“They're the biggest economy and they are a very important trading partner. So, we intend to deal with them in a formal way and in proper engagement. And as I said, I'm going to be sending a delegation to the world, on our own continent, to Europe, to America, Asia, and to the Middle East…to go and explain our position, more particularly our G20 objectives, because we want this G20 to be an African G20 but also to be a G20 that is going to focus on the issues that impact on the global south and humanity more broadly,” the President said.
Addressing South Africa’s stance on international negotiations, President Ramaphosa underscored the importance of open dialogue and consensus-building.
“Anybody who says some things are not for negotiation is not being realistic. We live in a world where we want to promote cooperation. We want to promote dialogue. We want to promote being able to work with others, so we want people to put their views forward.
“It must be a festival of ideas being put forward, where we sharpen each other's wits and where we put wisdom and facts on the table, so we will be willing to talk to people,” he said.
As the current president of the G20, the President said South Africa takes on the role of host and lead in dialogue.
“We are the dialogue leader; we are going to be presenting positions and therefore we are open to talking as we are open for business. And when you're open for business, you want to hear views even when they are divergent to your own views. And you want to find consensus, and once we get consensus, we're then able to move forward,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 02/07/2025 - 14:07
103 views
Ministers welcome President’s focus on economic growth, job creation
Ministers welcome President’s focus on economic growth, job creation
Government Ministers have thrown their weight behind President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), which focused on economic growth, job creation, infrastructure development and reducing household expenses.
“Our most urgent task is to grow our economy so that we can create jobs, reduce poverty, and improve the lives of all South Africans,” the President told Members of Parliament (MPs) and guests on Thursday evening.
The President emphasised that the nation urgently requires a robust economy that benefits everyone.
To achieve this virtuous cycle of investment, growth and job creation, the President said economic growth must surpass 3%.
Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, has echoed the President’s sentiments, stating that South Africa needs to transform its economy.
“We’ve got to be able to show more jobs. We need to bring in the private sector so that we can get more agricultural products to the world a lot quicker and expand.
“The citrus industry told me that they could quadruple the production over the medium-term if they have reliable ports and can get their products to the market.”
Steenhuisen believes that the Head of State and Government has demonstrated a clear focus.
“Now, we can [move with] the urgency that’s required and I wish I could see more of those deadlines around when we’re going to achieve these things.
“I think the President diagnosed the problem perfectly – it’s about growth and jobs. That’s why we’re in the GNU [Government of National Unity].”
The Minister also expressed his satisfaction with the plans presented by the President.
He also welcomed the investment in infrastructure, the commitments made toward Early Childhood Development (ECD), and the transformation of Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grants into income protection for impoverished South Africans.
The President announced that this grant will serve as the foundation for introducing a sustainable income support system for the unemployed.
He also stated that the Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme will continue to prioritise students who wish to pursue a career in teaching, particularly in the foundation phase.
In addition, government will work to expand access to ECD services for all children.
“We can’t be sitting within the 2029 election and going to the electorate with some of these projects languishing in the drawing board. I think now we have to unpack; take all of these things and move them with speed and urgency,” Steenhuisen added.
Deputy Minister for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, believes that the President has issued a clear call regarding the government’s mid-term development plan, focusing on actions and priorities.
“Part of the non-negotiable... is job creation and economic growth in all sectors. No sector must be left behind - whether it’s infrastructure, construction, agriculture or finance.
“Our President has said our country is capable and we must make sure that the capability and the potential of young people that we often find neither in employment, education nor training must be brought to the table.”
Letsike believes that the President is prioritising women, youth and persons with disabilities.
She welcomed the Transformation Fund, which is worth R20 billion a year over the next five years, to support black-owned and small business enterprises.
“It’s already telling us its action plan. This public purse must reach the relevant people.”
Letsike also welcomed President Ramaphosa’s commitment to reform the energy and water sectors, which are essential for service delivery to the people.
“When he wrapped it up, he said our nation is capable and we can’t leave anyone behind.”
Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, expressed his satisfaction that the President addressed the importance of building the economy to create jobs.
“That has been a very big problem for about two decades in our country and he tried his best to tackle it,” he said.
Motsoaledi also welcomed the three significant announcements related to his department, which include advancing the National Health Insurance (NHI), enhancing public health infrastructure, and working towards the elimination of HIV and AIDS.
“I’ve been telling people that improving public health infrastructure and implementing the NHI aren’t mutually exclusive and don’t have to follow one another, and that we can do it simultaneously .
“The President just announced a huge hospital bill programme and so, we’re forging ahead with NHI and we’re going to put this massive infrastructure.”
According to the Minister, the infrastructure will complement improvements in public health facilities.
“South Africans must not accept or get used to the idea that we’re going to live with HIV/Aids forever and it’s part of life. It’s not. At some stage, we need to bring it to an end and we’re targeting 2030.”
While he acknowledged that the country may not be able to completely eradicate the disease, he stressed that government is working tirelessly to eliminate it as a public threat.
To achieve this goal, approximately 1.1 million more people need to be on antiretroviral therapy (ARVs) between now and November of this year.
“People have been asking me where are you going to get money (sic). But I tell them, when you want to save people, don’t ask about money. Look at the human beings you want to save first and money will follow when you have that determination.”
Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, has echoed the President’s sentiments of providing universal healthcare for all South Africans.
“We must do the basic things that need to be done. We must put the health infrastructure in place, so that there are hospitals and clinics that our people can access,” Ntshavheni said.
Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber, stated that the President’s adoption of digital technology in his department has been crucial.
He told SAnews that this aligns with the vision of Home Affairs and how the department wishes to turn it into a digitally first department - the first component of this initiative will be delivered this year.
Schreiber also highlighted the part of the address where the Head of State discussed tourism and attracting skills for investment.
“One of the big issues is getting visas. That’s why the electronic travel authorisation concept and the automated visa process are important. No more papers, no more space for human intervention and it’s going to deal with corruption and it’s going to deliver with efficiency.”
Meanwhile, the President of the Congress of the South African Trade Union Federation (Cosatu), Zingiswa Losi, also welcomed this year’s address.
“We’re happy because he touched on most of the things we expected the President to touch on -- the issue of the Social Relief of Distress grant and continuing with it to form the basic income grant. It has been the call Cosatu has been making for years now and we’re happy that the President is not talking about taking that away,” she said.
Losi believes that the State must ensure that unemployed individuals can sustain themselves.
“I’m also happy that he was also able to link that to Technical, Vocational, Education and Training (TVET) colleges because we’ve seen that now our kids have passed Grade 12. Most of them are devastated because they’re unable to get to universities but we’re not talking about artisans and skills that this economy is going to need.”
According to the Cosatu President, if government is planning to spend R940 billion on infrastructure over the next three years, the country will require a wide range of skills to revitalise roads and bridges, build dams and waterways, and modernise ports and airports.
“The emphasis by the President about the TVET Colleges and also spending R943 billion that has been allocated to infrastructure says we’re going in the right direction. But we must make sure that the construction mafias don’t take this away,” Losi said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 02/06/2025 - 23:47
114 views
Government puts shoulder to the wheel to build a thriving economy
Government puts shoulder to the wheel to build a thriving economy
Growing the economy and job creation are at the top of the seventh administration’s agenda, President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Thursday.
“We want a nation with a thriving economy that benefits all. To create this virtuous cycle of investment, growth and jobs, we must lift economic growth to above three percent,” the President said, as he delivered the State of the Nation Address (SONA) in Cape Town.
In the first SONA of the seventh administration, the President said government has adopted the Medium-Term Development Plan, which sets out a clear and ambitious programme for the next five years.
The actions contained in the plan advance three strategic priorities: driving inclusive growth and job creation; reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living as well as building a capable, ethical and developmental state.
“To achieve higher levels of economic growth, we are undertaking massive investment in new infrastructure while upgrading and maintaining the infrastructure we have.
“We are engaging local and international financial institutions and investors to unlock R 100 billion in infrastructure financing. A project preparation bid window has been launched to fast-track investment readiness.
“This includes revised regulations for public private partnerships, which will unlock private sector expertise and funds,” the President explained.
Focus on infrastructure
Over the next three years, government will spend more than R940 billion on infrastructure. This includes R375 billion in spending by state owned companies.
“This funding will revitalise our roads and bridges, build dams and waterways, modernise our ports and airports and power our economy. Through the Infrastructure Fund, 12 blended finance projects worth nearly R38 billion have been approved in the last year.
The aim of the Infrastructure Fund is to use committed government funding to leverage much higher levels of private sector investment in public infrastructure. Managed by Infrastructure South Africa, the fund is a portfolio of blended finance projects and programmes.
“These are projects in water and sanitation, student accommodation, transport, health and energy. Construction of the Mtentu Bridge continues. This bridge will rise above the river between Port Edward and Lusikisiki, and will become the tallest bridge in Africa,” the President said.
The Polihlali Dam will feed 490 million cubic metres of water a year from the Lesotho Highlands into the Vaal River System, securing water supply to several provinces for years to come.
In addition, government is working with international partners to revitalises small harbours and unlock economic opportunities for coastal communities.
“We are steadily removing the obstacles to meaningful and faster growth,” he said.
Operation Vulindlela
As government continues to implement economic reforms through Operation Vulindlela, the President said a new sense of optimism and confidence in the economy has been created.
“We have made progress in rebuilding and restructuring a number of our network industries. We are seeing positive results in the improvement of the functioning of our network industries as well as the investment opportunities that are opening up and are being taken by investors leading to job creation.
“Working together with business, labour and other social partners we must now finish this work. Over the coming year, we will initiate a second wave of reform to unleash more rapid and inclusive growth,” the President said.
Operation Vulindlela is a joint initiative of the Presidency and National Treasury to accelerate the implementation of structural reforms and support economic recovery.
The initiative aims to modernise and transform network industries, including electricity, water, transport and digital communications.
“Our immediate focus is to enable Eskom, Transnet and other state-owned enterprises that are vital to our economy to function optimally.
“We are repositioning these entities to provide world-class infrastructure while enabling competition in operations, whether in electricity generation, freight rail or port terminals.
“We continue with the fundamental reform of our state-owned enterprises to ensure that they can effectively fulfil their social and economic mandates."
READ | New wave of reforms to propel SA economy
This includes the work underway to put in place a new model to strengthen governance and oversight of public entities.
“We will ensure public ownership of strategic infrastructure for public benefit while finding innovative ways to attract private investment to improve services and ensure public revenue can be focused on the provision of public services,” the President said.
Meanwhile, government is in the process of establishing a dedicated State-Owned Enterprise (SOE) Reform Unit to coordinate this work.
Energy Action Plan
“The measures we have implemented through the Energy Action Plan have reduced the severity and frequency of load shedding, with more than 300 days without load shedding since March 2024.
“While the return of load shedding for two days last week was a reminder that our energy supply is still constrained, we remain on a positive trajectory.
“We now need to put the risk of load shedding behind us once and for all by completing the reform of our energy system to ensure long-term energy security.”
The President said the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act, which came into effect on 1 January, marks the beginning of a new era.
READ | President Ramaphosa signs Electricity Regulation Amendment Act into law
The act sets out far-reaching reforms of the country’s electricity sector, including the establishment of a competitive electricity market.
“This year, we will put in place the building blocks of a competitive electricity market. Over time, this will allow multiple electricity generation entities to emerge and compete.
“We will mobilise private sector investment in our transmission network to connect more renewable energy to the grid,” Ramaphosa said.
Rail network
The President said Transnet’s performance has stabilised and is steadily improving.
“We released a Network Statement in December 2024 which, for the first time, will enable private rail operators to access the freight rail system
“Open access to the rail network will allow train operating companies to increase the volume of goods transported by rail, while our network infrastructure remains state owned,” the President said.
This will ensure that South African minerals, vehicles and agricultural produce reach international markets, securing jobs and earning much needed revenue for the fiscus.
New cranes and other port equipment are being commissioned to speed up the loading and unloading of cargo and reduce waiting times for ships at ports. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 02/06/2025 - 21:22
235 views
Goma Call for Peace Campaign Launched at St George’s Cathedral
Religious leaders and civil society groups call for end to the war
Go-Slow at Hospital After CEO Suspended
Brief suspension came after a letter in the name of CEO Mziyanda Tshaka circulated about an acute shortage of doctors at Tambo Regional Hospital
GCIS reaches out to Hammanskraal residents ahead of SONA
GCIS reaches out to Hammanskraal residents ahead of SONA
By Sebjalo Rachuene and Boipelo Sefoka
Officials from the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) have undertaken an awareness campaign in Hammanskraal, Gauteng, aimed at raising awareness on the State of the Nation Address (SONA) and services offered by the GCIS.
Held late last week at Kopanong Complex, the community outreach was supported by staff members from the GCIS Information Resource Centre (IRC), the Gauteng GCIS branch and those from the Office of the Public Protector.
The engagement was also an opportunity for the GCIS to spread the message of food safety, in light of recent incidents where young lives have been lost due to foodborne illnesses.
The GCIS plays a critical role in ensuring that South Africans have access to accurate and up-to-date government information. During the campaign, officials engaged with community members, highlighting the significance of the SONA, where the President will outline the government's priorities, policies, and plans for the year.
“By informing the public about the upcoming address, the initiative aimed to encourage greater civic participation and awareness of national developments that directly impact communities like Hammanskraal.
“The campaign placed a strong emphasis on food safety awareness. Given past concerns about foodborne illnesses and water safety in Hammanskraal, the initiative sought to educate residents on best practices for food handling, storage, and hygiene.
“Through informative discussions and distributed materials, the team provided valuable guidance on preventing food contamination, ensuring proper sanitation, and making healthier food choices to protect families from potential health risks.
“The campaign saw active participation from local residents, who welcomed the opportunity to engage with government representatives and community leaders. The presence of the Office of the Public Protector further reinforced government's commitment to transparency, accountability, and service delivery,” the GCIS said in a statement.
By bringing together the GCIS, local government representatives and public sector partners, the initiative successfully strengthened communication between government and the people, ensuring that essential information reaches those who need it most.
With the State of the Nation Address scheduled for 7pm tonight, such awareness initiatives remain vital in keeping citizens informed and engaged in the country's democratic processes.
The food safety awareness aspect of the campaign also plays a crucial role in improving public health and ensuring the well-being of communities.
The GCIS and its partners continue to work toward bridging the gap between government and the people, fostering transparency, and empowering citizens with knowledge that impacts their daily lives. – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Thu, 02/06/2025 - 10:20
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Economic growth, job creation expected to take centre stage in President’s SONA
Economic growth, job creation expected to take centre stage in President’s SONA
Economic growth, service delivery, infrastructural development, and job creation are some of the key issues that President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to address in his highly anticipated State of the Nation Address (SONA) scheduled for Thursday, 6 February 2025.
Professor Dirk Kotze from the University of South Africa’s (Unisa) Department of Political Sciences, noted that economic growth will take centre stage in the President’s speech.
“I think first of all, what President Ramaphosa will focus on is, as always, on the economic matters - economic growth; the economic plan that he has developed since 2018,” Kotze told SAnews.
In addition, the Professor believes that the country’s commander-in-chief will zoom in on the water and electricity issues.
“Yes, electricity is definitely becoming more of a success story, but he will continue with that,” he added.
According to the political analyst, other important areas, including health, education, defence, and Home Affairs, will also be addressed.
Kotze explained that SONA focuses on the current year and outlines the government’s plans and the legislative agenda for Parliament.
This includes the introduction of new legislation, as well as a medium-term plan covering the next three years.
“He will also refer to some matters that will later be presented in more detail in the budget speech by the Minister of Finance [Enoch Godongwana]. So, these two, the budget speech and the SONA address, are very much linked to each other.
“I don’t think one can expect new issues,” he added.
In addition, the Professor stated that the President's address will reaffirm the government’s position on issues, such as climate change.
“Renewable energy will receive, I think, a lot of attention, given the developments in the US, President [Donald] Trump, who wants to move away from that,” he told SAnews.
According to the analyst, international relations will be specifically addressed, particularly in light of the recent incidents in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Several soldiers serving with peacekeeping forces in the DRC have been killed by the M23 rebel group in recent days amid fierce fighting, including 14 members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).
The recent deadly clashes have intensified in eastern DRC after Kinshasa withdrew its diplomats from Kigali in Rwanda. Rebels have advanced toward the strategic city of Goma, which is rich in minerals.
The SANDF soldiers are part of the mission which aims to help restore peace, security, and stability in Africa’s second-largest country.
Tomorrow’s SONA will mark the President’s first SONA as the Head of the Government of National Unity (GNU) in the seventh administration.
This address holds particular significance as it coincides with the 30th anniversary of freedom and democracy in South Africa, as well as the country’s Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20).
Tomorrow's address also marks the official start of the parliamentary programme, which is followed by a debate in the National Assembly and the President’s response to that debate.
In an interview with SAnews on Tuesday, Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, emphasised the importance of this year’s SONA.
He noted that President Ramaphosa will be addressing the nation following an election that led to the formation of a GNU, as no single political party received enough support to govern independently.
“This SONA will outline the three priorities and strategic direction of the GNU which are to drive inclusive growth and job creation, to reduce poverty and tackle the high cost of living, and to build a capable, ethical and developmental State.”
Morolong said it was important for South Africans to tune in and watch the President and hear him deliver the plans of government that he leads, as the Head of State. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 02/05/2025 - 07:03
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Municipalities face challenges but they ‘can be fixed’ – Deputy President Mashatile
Municipalities face challenges but they 'can be fixed' - Deputy President Mashatile
South African municipalities may be grappling with challenges, but they are "fixable", according to Deputy President, Paul Mashatile
Mashatile made the remarks when he was delivering the keynote address at the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) National Executive Committee Lekgotla, in Cape Town, on Tuesday afternoon.
South African municipalities are grappling with several challenges, including the inability to pay for bulk water and electricity supply, deteriorating infrastructure, service delivery issues, and poor governance.
However, Mashatile insists that, despite these challenges, coordinated efforts from all sectors can revive local government.
“I believe that our municipalities can be fixed. We just need more concerted efforts in the implementation of the Professionalisation Framework, which applies to the National, Provincial, Local Government, and SOEs (State Owned Entities). The Framework focus on accelerating service delivery, addressing poor performance and the skills gap in the public service.
“Professionalisation is critical to ensuring that government is capable of delivering essential services to its citizens,” Mashatile told the lekgotla.
The Deputy President emphasized that intergovernmental integration is crucial for local government to turn the corner and achieve progress.
“Intergovernmental integration is critical for promoting collaboration, coordination, and communication across different levels of government. Through coordinating our efforts and resources, we can solve the complex difficulties that our communities face and, ultimately, provide better services to our residents.
“Together, we can streamline processes and leverage each other’s strengths to achieve greater impact. It is through this collaborative approach that we can unlock innovative solutions and drive sustainable development across our nation,” he said.
Mashatile highlighted government interventions aimed at “fixing” local government, including:
- Harmonising planning and budgeting as part of adopting the District Development Model.
- Implementing a Public-Private Partnership model in water supply with the National Treasury and the Department of Water and Sanitation to ensure that the current water crisis facing several communities is resolved
- The Minister of COGTA has proposed a one-stop solution to resolve the interlinked financial challenges between municipalities, water boards, and other stakeholders.
Coalition councils
Following the 2021 Local Government Elections, about 70 municipalities required coalitions to form governments as no single political party gained a majority.
The Deputy President acknowledged that although this is necessary, some of these municipalities have been plagued by instability and dysfunction.
“[In] practice, coalition governments have been unstable and are often terminated before the end of their term of office. Instability in local government coalitions has contributed to severe inefficiencies and service delivery challenges.
“Coalition arrangements have compromised the ability of municipalities to adopt policies, pass budgets, adopt by-laws, and make senior management appointments,” he said.
However, growing instability in ‘hung’ municipalities, led to a government-convened National Dialogue on Coalition Governments.
The results of the dialogue was the development of a Framework for Coalitions in Local Government by SALGA.
“We have since used this framework as part of our source documents, amongst others, to develop a discussion document during the National Dialogue on Coalition governments, I convened in August 2023 at the University of the Western Cape.
“To this end, with the assistance of the Dullah Omar Institute and MISTRA (Mapungubwe Institute For Strategic Reflection), we have been able to develop a Coalitions Framework for South Africa.
“This framework has been handed over to Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), as a basis for the development of the Municipal Structures Amendment Bill 2024 [Coalitions Bill] by CoGTA, which will be submitted for Cabinet approval and introduction to Parliament this year,” he revealed.
Working together
The Deputy President also implored the lekgotla to work with government to ensure that local government improves its responsiveness to communities.
“[It] is important that SALGA and all three spheres of government collaborate in order to find solutions to service delivery challenges.
“Let us harness the power of intergovernmental integration to build a more responsive, effective, and inclusive system of governance that truly serves the needs of our people,” Mashatile said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 02/04/2025 - 15:35
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Lesotho Highlands Water Project on track for completion
Lesotho Highlands Water Project on track for completion
The South African government says it is confident that the maintenance work at the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) tunnel in Clarens, in the Free State, will be completed within its scheduled six-month timeframe.
Water and Sanitation Minister, Pemmy Majodina, and Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo, conducted an oversight visit to the Ash River Outfall in Clarens over the weekend to assess the progress of the maintenance of the LHWP tunnel.
The Minister and Deputy Minister were joined by Performance, Monitoring and Evaluation Deputy Minister, Seiso Mohai; Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha Mathae; Free State Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Saki Mokoena, and the Executive Mayor of Thabo Mofutsanyana District Municipality, Conny Msibi.
The maintenance and refurbishment of the 37-kilometre water tunnel has been ongoing since its closure on 31 October 2024. Repair work on the South African side is being carried out by the Trans Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA), while the Lesotho Highlands Development Agency (LHDA) oversees the maintenance work on the Lesotho side, focusing on the transfer tunnels at the Muela Hydro power station.
The repair work included mechanical, electrical, civil, and general works, as well as the repair of waterway steel lining to protect tunnel corrosion. The primary construction work currently underway on the South African side is the painting of the tunnel’s inner side.
While progress has been steady on the South African side, Majodina noted a slight delay in the maintenance work undertaken by LHDA.
However, their work indicates that they are on track to complete the work by 28 March 2025.
Majodina expressed satisfaction with the progress on the South African side, acknowledging the challenges faced by their counterparts in Lesotho, but reaffirming their commitment to meet the 31 March deadline.
“I am satisfied that the maintenance work has advanced very well on the South African side, and I know that our counterparts in Lesotho are doing everything they can to ensure that we meet the deadline set for 31 March. We know that the contractors here appointed by TCTA to conduct the maintenance work are within the schedule.
“They have done an exceptional job even in difficult situations of rain and mist, which interfered with their work. However, they have pulled through and I would like to extent my gratitude to the work that they have done up to date,” Majodina said.
The Minister also visited the Clarens Water Treatment Works, which is undergoing an upgrade to increase its capacity from 1 to 4 megalitres of water per day. The upgrade will ensure a consistent water supply to Clarens and surrounding areas.
The supply of raw water from Townlands storage dam in Dihlabeng Municipality, which abstracts water from the Little Caledon River (a tributary to Caledon River) and is filled with water from the LHWP tunnel.
However, the dam levels have deteriorated due to the tunnel closure and exacerbated by a high-water demand over the festive season.
However, the Department of Water and Sanitation, through its Water Services Infrastructure Grant (WSIG), has availed funds for the refurbishment of boreholes to the local municipalities of Dihlabeng and Mafube and Nketoana, to ensure consistent supply of water to the high lying areas of Kgubetswana (Clarens), Mamafubedu (Petrus Steyn), Petsana (Reitz), and Namahadi (Frankfort). The boreholes ensured that there is sustainable water supply to the communities. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 02/04/2025 - 09:08
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Deputy Minister Mhlauli motivates learners at Intshukumo Secondary School
Deputy Minister Mhlauli motivates learners at Intshukumo Secondary School
The Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli, has visited Intshukumo Secondary School in Gugulethu, as part of the government's Back to School programme, aimed at inspiring and motivating learners to achieve academic success.
Addressing Grade 11 and 12 learners, Deputy Minister Mhlauli emphasised the importance of education in transforming communities and urged the learners to dedicate themselves to their studies.
She was accompanied by Gift of the Givers and Cape Town City FC, which is a Premier Soccer League (PSL) team, both of whom partnered with the government to support and encourage the learners.
Gift of the Givers is a South African humanitarian aid organization known for its rapid disaster response and relief efforts. Founded in 1992 by Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, the organization provides emergency aid, food, water, medical assistance, and other essential services to communities affected by disasters, conflict, and poverty - both in South Africa and internationally.
“We are here with our partners, Gift of the Givers, which does amazing work within our communities, as well as Cape Town city FC to motivate the learners and to ensure that we help them on their journey towards achieving a 100% pass rate. Last year, the school achieved a 76% pass rate, and with our continued support, we are hopeful that we can reach the 100% mark,” said Mhlauli.
She encouraged the students to remain disciplined and focused throughout the year, emphasising the impact that education can have on their future and the broader community.
“Sacrifice this year alone and tell yourself that you are going to make sure you get the results you need to progress in life. Whether you aim to attend a higher education institution, secure a good job, or start your own business, education is the key to changing the story of our communities, homes and schools," she added.
The Deputy Minister highlighted that through partnerships with organisations like Gift of the Givers and Cape Town City FC, the learners would receive the necessary support to help them succeed.
"By dedicating just two extra hours each day to studying and listening to your teachers, I promise you that this school will achieve a 100% pass rate. Sacrifice this year alone; its only through us and the education we acquire that we can change the lives of our parents, cousins and our entire families,” she said.
The Back to School programme continues to engage schools across the country, reinforcing the government's commitment to improving education outcomes and ensuring a brighter future for South Africa’s youth. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 02/04/2025 - 11:17
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