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Migrants in South Africa’s economic powerhouse often go hungry: the drivers and what can be done about it

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Adrino Mazenda, Senior Researcher, Associate Professor Economic Management Sciences, University of Pretoria

About 281 million people globally have migrated from their country of origin to another country. This movement can be temporary or permanent and can occur for various reasons, including economic opportunities, family reunification and education. Then there are also millions who are escaping conflict and seeking refuge in another country.

Countries at different stages of development also experience large volumes of internal migration. Migration within a country can be temporary or permanent too, and reflect economic reasons or insecurity.

Both types of migrants sometimes experience food insecurity: the physical and financial inability to access nutritious, safe and sufficient food to fulfil a person’s dietary requirements.

There are an estimated 2.89 million documented foreign migrants in South Africa, accounting for about 5% of the country’s population. Most immigrants in South Africa come from the Southern African Development Community countries. South Africa also experiences a high annual internal migration rate. About 850,0000 people temporarily and permanently relocate from rural to urban areas.

Gauteng, the province which contributes more than a third of South Africa’s economic output, attracts a disproportionate share of internal and international migration.

As social scientists who have been studying migration and food security, we conducted research to explore the food security status of migrant households (international and internal) and native Gauteng households, and to understand their differences, if any.

The study used data from the 2020/21 Quality of Life survey. This is one of the largest social surveys in South Africa, and respondents include both internal and international migrants. It is conducted every two years by the Gauteng City Region Observatory. Quantitative research methods and statistical analysis were then applied to identify patterns and relationships between food insecurity and migration variables.

Food insecurity remains a pressing concern in South Africa’s major cities, particularly among migrant populations. Not all migrants experience food insecurity the same way, however. Internal and international migrants differ not only from native Gauteng residents but also from one another. There are different factors influencing their vulnerability.

The differences

One differentiating factor between the internal and foreign migrants is government social support services. They seem to play a key role in determining the well-being of internal migrants. International migrants don’t qualify for such services. But they sometimes fared better than internal migrants or natives, likely due to age, education, or resourcefulness (social support networks).

Internal migrants experienced their own set of challenges. For example, poor health service provision and lack of medical aid were strong predictors of food insecurity. This suggests that addressing food access requires improvements in health services, insurance, and broader social infrastructure.

Improved access to healthcare reduces the financial burden on households dealing with medical expenses, so they can spend more on food. Access to maternal and child health services enhances nutritional knowledge and practices. That in turn improves the way households use food. Health insurance and unemployment insurance protect households from income shocks that could otherwise lead to food insecurity.

A stronger social infrastructure improves food access by enhancing education, healthcare, and social protection systems. Education boosts income and nutritional knowledge. Preventive healthcare reduces illness and medical expenses, freeing up resources for food. Social protection measures help households withstand financial shocks, ensuring consistent access to food.

Of course all this support has a cost that needs to be funded from the public purse, but its benefits may well outweigh the cost.

Gender disparities

Immigrants contribute significantly to South Africa’s economy. Migration enhances labour market flexibility, promotes economic dynamism, and supports livelihoods in both urban and rural areas, making it essential for inclusive economic growth. Internal migrants provide labour in sectors such as mining, construction and services, while also supporting rural households through remittances. They help stimulate urban informal economies.

International migrants bring valuable skills and resilience to various sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, manufacturing and construction. They contribute local income taxes. Some operate small and large formal businesses, which adds to job creation.

However, employment data reveals a pronounced gender disparity among international migrants and internal migrants.

In all population groups (native residents, internal migrants and international migrants), men are more likely to be employed than women. Among international migrants, over 1 million men were employed compared to 400,000 women. More women (281,553) than men (88,598) were classified as economically inactive – not available for work.

The primary reason for internal migration among both men and women was the search for paid employment. For men, the second most common reason was job transfers or accepting new employment.

In contrast, female migrants cited moving to live with or be closer to a spouse, family, or friends, often due to marriage, as their main motivation.

Way forward

Our study highlights the determinants of food insecurity among migrant populations. It also challenges harmful stereotypes and invites more inclusive thinking about social support and job creation.

The study’s findings can help inform the public about who needs more support and why. It shows that food aid and government support systems aren’t working as intended.

The main conclusions we reached from the study were that:

  • Rural health infrastructure is in dire need of public support.

  • Increased inequities in healthcare access are unjustified.

  • The medical and health bills of foreign citizens can be shared between home and host countries to reduce the strain on the host’s infrastructure through a combination of policy reforms, bilateral agreements and global cooperation mechanisms. Key to this is an inter-government billing system where host countries track migrants’ healthcare use and send bills to their home country governments or insurers.

  • It is desirable for migrants to hold valid health insurance as a condition of entry or residency.

  • Policies to promote agriculture and rural areas, particularly developing new rural housing schemes, appear to be a promising way to abate food insecurity.

  • Revitalising special economic zones, the designated areas offering incentives to attract investment, boost trade and create jobs, can help limit the concentration of migrants in Gauteng.

– Migrants in South Africa’s economic powerhouse often go hungry: the drivers and what can be done about it
– https://theconversation.com/migrants-in-south-africas-economic-powerhouse-often-go-hungry-the-drivers-and-what-can-be-done-about-it-256907

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Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation Meets Representatives of Chinese Business Community and Investors on Sidelines World Economic Forum (WEF) Meetings in Tianjin


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H.E. Dr. Rania A. Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, held an expanded meeting with a number of leaders and representatives of the Chinese business community, with the participation of Eng. Hassan El-Khatib, Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade.

The meeting took place during her participation in the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting in Tianjin, China, and included several CEOs from Chinese companies in the automotive, pharmaceutical, financial, and digital transformation sectors, among others.

During the meeting, H.E. Minister Al-Mashat emphasized the deep and distinguished Egyptian-Chinese relations, which span decades of close cooperation based on mutual respect and common interests. She noted that the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, launched in 2014, represents a successful model for South-South cooperation and contributes to achieving mutual development.

H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat pointed out that in recent years, the Egyptian state has adopted an ambitious program of economic and structural reform aimed at enhancing the investment environment, stimulating private sector participation, and developing infrastructure. This creates promising opportunities for joint investment in priority sectors such as industry, renewable energy, telecommunications, technological infrastructure, and logistics.

H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat reiterated that China is a key partner in this vision, as economic relations between the two countries are witnessing remarkable development, both in terms of trade volume and direct investments. She highlighted the unique investment opportunities Egypt offers, based on its distinguished geographical location, a network of free trade agreements, and legislative frameworks that support business growth.

H.E. Minister Al-Mashat added that the Egyptian government seeks to strengthen cooperation with Chinese companies and institutions wishing to expand into the Egyptian market, especially within the framework of Egypt’s Vision 2030, which includes targets related to sustainable growth, green transformation, and the localization of strategic industries.

H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat reaffirmed that the government is working to consolidate macroeconomic stability and preserve development gains to deal with successive regional and international challenges. She noted that the state continues to implement a comprehensive program of economic and structural reforms aimed at enhancing the economy’s resilience, improving the business climate, and expanding the growth base led by the private sector. She mentioned that these reforms, along with continuous investments in infrastructure and legislative modernization, make Egypt an attractive and growing destination for foreign direct investment.

At the conclusion of the meeting, H.E. Minister Al-Mashat invited the Chinese business community to take advantage of cooperation opportunities with Egypt as a gateway to African, Middle Eastern, and European markets. She stressed the state’s commitment to providing all means of support to serious investors and building long-term partnerships that contribute to achieving common interests and balanced development.

It is worth noting that the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, in its role of developing and strengthening economic relations with development partners, is working to advance relations on various levels with the Chinese side, particularly in the field of exchanging expertise and technology and enhancing scientific research. The Chinese side contributes to supporting and developing Egyptian expertise in the field of satellite assembly and testing, and training Egyptian cadres.

In 2023, a Memorandum of Understanding for the Global Development Initiative (GDI) was signed during Dr. Rania Al-Mashat’s visit to China. This MoU lays the foundation for a new phase of joint work with the Chinese side. Through this, an integrated strategy for development cooperation between Egypt and China for 3-5 years will be formulated for the first time in light of the joint relations between the two countries. The two countries also signed their first MoU for debt-for-development swap, which the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation is working to activate.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation – Egypt.

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Correctional Services Committee Wants More Inmates to Participate in Production Workshops


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The Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services has noted with concern the number of inmates participating in rehabilitation programmes and has urged the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) to encourage greater participation, as this will benefit both offenders and the department.

Committee Chairperson Ms Kgomotso Anthea Ramolobeng said the committee yesterday received a briefing from the DCS on rehabilitation and reintegration programmes: the effectiveness of educational, vocational and therapeutic programmes, including success rates of inmate reintegration into society and reduction in recidivism, especially among the youth.

Ms Ramolobeng said: “A greater number of inmates participating in such programmes in the workshops or agricultural means skills are developed, assisting offenders when they are released from correctional facilities that makes social reintegration smoother. At the same time, it will save the department money as they aim to move toward self-sustainability.”

She said the committee noted that the Eastern Cape region, for example, has 14 077 sentenced offenders, but only 91 participate in production workshops and 651 participate in agriculture production, resulting in only 742 offenders active in skills development out of a total population.

Also of concern is the number of hours inmates currently work. The presentation highlighted that offenders work less than five hours per day. This raises concern, especially considering plans by the DCS to become self-sufficient in terms of food for offenders and revenue generation through production workshops. “So, the issue is clearly two-fold. Encouraging offenders to participate in production workshops ensures skills transfer and development, as well as ensuring that the department cuts cost on items that can be insourced through offender labour,” Ms Ramolobeng said.

It is also concerning that that the DCS has no post establishment for bakers in the bakeries. “This is surprising since bread is the most consumed food in our centres. We also need to increase the number of bakeries currently. We must ensure we are self-reliant,” said the Chairperson.

Ms Ramolobeng further stated that the presentation only highlighted post establishments for psychologists, social workers, educationists and spiritual care workers but not for other important professions such as artisans. In a presentation to the committee earlier this year, the DCS reported that there were 17 vacancies for psychologists and currently there are 26 vacancies. This means an additional nine posts became vacant since then. “We have been assured that some of these posts are receiving urgent attention. We can expect appointments within the next six months. They will also provide us with their recruitment plan. We assured the department we will closely monitor this commitment to see if materialises,” she emphasised.

The committee also commended the DCS for Sunday’s unannounced raid at Odi Correctional Centre in Pretoria. “We note the contraband that were confiscated. We note that disciplinary processes are being followed where officials were implicated. Furthermore, we call for further charges to be added for those inmates that were caught in possession of contraband. This initiative is a commendable step and should be continued, especially in problematic facilities,” the Chairperson said.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

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eQUB brings Ethiopia’s traditional saving system into the digital age


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Fintech company eQUB is digitizing Ethiopia’s traditional savings culture through its mobile app. With support from the NTF V Tech project in Ethiopia, the business is bringing a trusted community system online to improve financial access, transparency and inclusion.

In Ethiopia, informal saving groups known as ‘equb’ have long helped people access money when formal credit options are limited. It’s a system built on trust, and used by friends, neighbours, and families who pool funds and take turns receiving the total contribution. Now, that familiar tradition is being transformed into a digital platform with global potential.

With support from the Netherlands Trust Fund V (NTF V) Programme at the International Trade Centre (ITC), Ethiopian fintech company eQUB has developed an app that digitises this centuries-old savings model. Users can create and join groups online, manage contributions, automate payments and record-keeping, and access features such as digital withdrawals and customer support.

Where the idea came from

In 2018, eQUB co-founder and CEO Alexander Abay Hizikias struggled to access funding for his business. ‘Banks want collateral that most early-stage entrepreneurs don’t have, and microfinance loans are expensive,’ he says. ‘I ended up joining a traditional equb to get the money I needed, and it made me realize this system could work better if it was digital.’

After nearly two years of development, eQUB was officially registered in 2020. The first version of the app was based on assumptions, but user feedback quickly showed the team what needed to change. That led to a much-improved second version, shaped by real user input and behaviour.

The eQUB App is now available in English and four local languages. It offers two main options. In private groups, people who already know each other can manage their equb through the app, using features like automatic record-keeping and secure payments. In public groups, individuals can join others with similar savings goals. The app helps match members and handles the draw system fairly.

Backed by global support and exposure

eQUB’s growth has picked up speed since joining the NTF V Ethiopia Tech project. The programme has provided technical training, mentoring, and financial support to help the company take part in international trade shows and startup events.

Since then, the number of users has grown from 25,000 to over 110,000. Monthly savings through the platform now exceed eight figures in Ethiopian birr, and eQUB is on track to surpass 100 million birr ($720,000) in total savings processed by 2026.

eQUB gained further recognition at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) and 4YFN (Four Years From Now) in Barcelona, two of the world’s leading platforms for mobile innovation and startups, where it won the Best FinTech Pitch award in 2024. 

The company also topped the FinTech category at AfricArena Johannesburg, standing out among strong competitors from across the African continent. These wins attracted interest from global investors, some of whom have since visited eQUB’s headquarters in Addis Ababa.

At the AfricArise Scale Programme, which included mentorship from experienced founders, cloud infrastructure specialists, and finance professionals, eQUB won $50,000 in Amazon Web Services credits at events in Johannesburg and London. These resources have helped reduce the costs of scaling the platform’s technical infrastructure.

Local impact, global relevance

The company has already identified similar saving systems in other African countries that follow the same model, such as ‘susu’ in Ghana, ‘esusu’ in Nigeria and ‘stokvels’ in South Africa. 

‘People in these countries are already familiar with community savings,’ says Hizikias. ‘Instead of introducing unfamiliar digital banking products, we’re building on what people already trust and making it more secure and trackable.’

To support this, the eQUB App is developing a credit scoring system based on users’ savings and payout history. ‘Right now, if someone has participated in an equb for 10 years, they have no proof of financial reliability. Our platform creates a digital trail that could help them access formal credit down the line,’ he says.

Hizikias also has advice for other fintech founders. ‘Before you raise money, prove your product works. Start small, find early users, and focus on solving real problems. Then use international platforms to test your idea against global standards. That’s where you’ll really learn and grow.’

As eQUB enters its next phase of growth, the company is actively raising its first seed funding round, which it aims to close by the end of 2025. With a growing user base, international recognition, and deep cultural relevance, eQUB is showing how local innovation, when supported and scaled well, can compete and succeed globally.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Trade Centre.

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Basic Education and Police Chairpersons Welcome Signing of Collaborative Protocols on School Safety


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The Chairpersons of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Mr Ian Cameron, and the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education, Ms Joy Maimela, welcome the bold step taken by the Ministers of Police and of Basic Education to sign and launch the Collaborative Implementation Protocol on School Safety. The protocols, if properly implemented, will be a game-changer in school safety, especially with increasing incidents of crime in the four identified provinces.

“The murder of Lethabo Mokonyane four days ago underscores the trend of violent crime in and around school premises that requires a concerted effort by all stakeholders to bring an end to this worrying trend. School environments should be safe spaces for teaching and learning and nothing else,” Ms Maimela said.

The intention to focus the roll-out in four provinces, namely Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Western Cape, is in line with calls for data-driven focus in combating crime. “The approach to target hotspots has the potential of stemming the tide of crime in schools. But it is up to station-level management to implement the protocols effectively to ensure success,” Mr Cameron emphasised.

Both Chairpersons highlighted concern that the fourth-quarter crime statistics revealed six reported murders and 80 rapes in educational institutions. The intended intervention of increasing police visibility and linking schools to a police station has the potential to reverse these high numbers.

Furthermore, Ms Maimela commended the intention of improving the vetting process for educators and staff in schools against the National Register for Sex Offenders and the National Child Protection Register. “This has long been a requirement to obtain a position in schools to safeguard vulnerable groups but was neglected. It is important that such safeguards are adhered to without fail,” Ms Maimela argued.

The question of substance abuse was also highlighted as a concern that requires a society-wide approach as it has far-reaching consequences, especially for schools. Mr Cameron highlighted that municipalities must also play their role in enforcing municipal bylaws that prohibit the establishment of liquor-selling premises near schools.

Both committees have committed to ensuring effective oversight over the implementation of the protocols.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

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Liberia Observes International Women in Diplomacy Day


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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with UN Women Liberia, proudly commemorated International Women in Diplomacy Day at the historic Cecil C. Dennis Jr. Auditorium, bringing together a broad spectrum of stakeholders to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in diplomacy and foreign service. This year’s observance was held under Liberia’s national theme, “Accelerate Action,” underscoring the urgent need to fast-track efforts toward achieving gender equality and empowering women globally. The event provided a platform to honor trailblazing women, reflect on progress, and renew commitments to advancing women’s roles in international relations and decision-making spaces. In a message delivered on behalf of H.E. Sara Beysolow Nyanti, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Deputy Minister Cllr. Deweh E. Gray paid tribute to iconic Liberian women who have shaped the nation’s diplomatic and governance landscape. Among those honored were Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa’s first democratically elected female president; Angie Brooks Randolph, the first African woman to preside over the United Nations General Assembly; and Nobel Peace Laureate Madam Leymah R. Gbowee, all recognized as pioneers and beacons of peace, leadership, and gender inclusion.

Cllr. Gray highlighted key national initiatives aimed at enhancing women’s participation in diplomacy and peacebuilding, including the National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security, aligned with UN Security Council Resolution 1325. She emphasized that Liberian women are not only contributors to peace processes but are increasingly leading them affirming the country’s growing commitment to gender-responsive governance. She reflected on Liberia’s historic role as a champion of African sovereignty and global diplomacy, recalling the country’s early establishment of diplomatic relations with major powers as part of its longstanding advocacy for African self-determination. “Liberia has always been a symbol of hope and agency on the international stage,” she noted, urging continued leadership by women in diplomacy to shape a more inclusive and equitable world.

The Deputy Minister challenged women across all sectors to unite across borders, cultures, and professions to create a future where women can dream, achieve, and lead. She called for collective action to advance gender-sensitive policies and to mentor and support emerging generations of women leaders. The event featured a high-level panel discussion under the theme, “From Resolution to Reality,” during which seasoned diplomats and emerging professionals shared their personal journeys, experiences, challenges, and successes in diplomatic service. The dialogue offered valuable insights into translating international commitments on gender equality into tangible outcomes. The celebration drew participants from across the Liberian government, civil society, academia, diplomatic missions, and international development partners demonstrating strong, multi-sectoral support for advancing the role of women in diplomacy. As Liberia continues to build on its legacy of women’s leadership, the 2025 International Women in Diplomacy celebration served as a resounding reminder of the nation’s unwavering commitment to gender equality, empowerment, and inclusive global governance.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Liberia.

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President Boakai Declares Thursday, June 26, As “International Drugs Day”


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The President of the Republic of Liberia, His Excellency Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has by Proclamation declared Thursday, June 26, 2025, as “International Drugs Day” and is to be observed throughout the country as a Working Holiday. The Proclamation calls on all citizens; government ministries and agencies as well as international organizations concerned to join the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) in executing appropriate programs befitting the occasion. According to a Foreign Ministry release, this year’s International Day Against Drug Abuse and its illicit trafficking will be observed under the global theme:  “The Evidence is clear, invest in Prevention. Slogan. Break the Circle. Stop Organized Crime”. Drug abuse and its illicit trafficking have posed major problems to the human race and millions of people worldwide continue to be affected directly and indirectly.

 The Proclamation is in consonance with an Act of National Legislature which was adopted in 1999, creating the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) with the authority to combat the importation, illicit trafficking and use of dangerous drugs. The observance of the day is intended to create awareness of the devastating effects of illicit drugs on individuals and families and to mobilize communities and other stakeholders against the use of such substances. On December 7, 1987, the General Assembly of the United Nations adopted Resolution 42/112, which set aside the 26th day of June of each year as International Day Against Illicit Trafficking of Drugs and other Substances of Abuse to be celebrated worldwide. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Liberia.

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President El-Sisi Speaks with Iranian President Pezeshkian


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Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi spoke by phone with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

The Spokesman for the Presidency, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, said President El-Sisi expressed Egypt’s absolute rejection of the recent Iranian missile attack targeting the State of Qatar. 

The President emphasized Egypt’s condemnation of any actions that infringe upon the sovereignty of states, particularly Arab and Islamic countries. 

President El-Sisi welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran, affirming the importance of underpinning and adhering to this agreement, in light of the regional escalation that almost plunged the region into widespread chaos and violence.

The call also reviewed Egypt’s intensive efforts and contacts over the past days with various concerned parties, mainly the United States, to curb the escalation and restore calm and stability to the region. 

The call underscored Egypt’s continued endeavors to exert all necessary efforts to solidify the ceasefire agreement.

The two presidents concurred that the current delicate and sensitive phase necessitates advancing comprehensive political solutions and adopting approaches that consider the various dimensions related to regional security. 

Both Presidents also reiterated the significance of resuming negotiations on the nuclear program between Washington and Tehran and the indispensability to address concerns related to nuclear non-proliferation, in addition to advocating the establishment of a Middle East Weapons of Mass Destruction-Free Zone.

The Iranian president expressed his gratitude and appreciation to President El-Sisi, valuing Egypt’s wise and supportive stances for restoring stability in the region, and the efforts to prevent bloodshed among all parties.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

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Norway calls for G20 Sherpa meeting to address ongoing global conflict

Source: South Africa News Agency

Norway calls for G20 Sherpa meeting to address ongoing global conflict

Henrik Harboe of Norway has highlighted the crucial role of the third Sherpa meeting in addressing international crises, including the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, as well as the broader tensions in the Middle East. 

“We are halfway through this year, only five months away from the summit in November, so we have a lot of work to formulate, what are the G20 recommendations to deal with all these international crises and the big issues around development and economic stability in the world,” he told SAnews. 

The third Sherpa meeting of the G20 kicked off on Wednesday morning at the Sun City Resort in the North West. 

“We’ll have a round [of discussions] about the G20’s role in the world in general. That’s very important. But then go straight into the geopolitical tensions. And then, of course, this being a group with a lot of different countries and different perspectives. 

“But I think we’ll touch upon Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, the horrible crisis in Gaza as a result of Israel’s response to the terrorist attack. And then, of course, the recent developments in the broader Middle East, with both Israel and the US bombing of Iran,” he explained.

The Director of Development Policy at the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed deep concern about recent developments. 

He noted that these events involve multiple violations of international law and the United Nations (UN) Charter.

“I mean, G20 is actually not about geopolitics, but we cannot avoid discussing geopolitical issues.”

In his opening remarks, Zane Dangor, the Director-General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation and South Africa’s G20 Sherpa, announced that the Foreign Ministers will have in-depth discussions on global geopolitical issues. 

These discussions will focus on international law and mutual accountability, while emphasising the importance of prioritising substantive matters.

In December last year, South Africa welcomed Norway as a G20 guest country during its Presidency. 

In an interview with SAnews, Harboe, a Norwegian Sherpa, said South Africa was poised to make history as the first African nation to host the G20 Leaders’ Summit. 

According to Harboe, the G20 focuses on sustainable development and a stable global economy to ensure growth for all countries.

As the first Presidency in Africa, Harboe believes they will use their position to highlight critical issues such as energy security, essential minerals, and sustainable development.

“All these issues are extremely important for Africa. So, we are very happy to see that and strongly support South Africa’s priority on these issues.” 

The official is of the view that South Africa serves as a microcosm of global challenges, making its perspective crucial. 

“South Africa has a huge poverty problem, job creation problem, inequality, and these are exactly the issues. 

“So, I think what we discussed around the G20 table is relevant for the world and developing countries, but also very much for Africa, and South Africa. South Africa’s own experience is extremely relevant for this broader discussion. I always encourage South African colleagues to talk about the challenges here.” 

He mentioned that he had attended a Just Energy Transition programme. He said while South Africa’s energy situation is challenging, it also serves as a valuable example for the world on how to conduct an energy transition in a fair manner while also creating job opportunities for young people.

On a lighter note, he told the SAnews that he had a wonderful stay in Sun City since his arrival. 

“I always love South Africa. It’s fantastic. Since I’m from Norway, the cold weather, I don’t mind, the fresh morning like today was just nice. The only problem this morning was a monkey, taking my bread on the breakfast table,” he said, with a chuckle. – SAnews.gov.za

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eThekwini Municipality cracks down on diesel theft

Source: South Africa News Agency

eThekwini Municipality cracks down on diesel theft

The eThekwini Municipality has called on residents to report any instances of fraud and corruption following the arrest of a man implicated in a diesel theft syndicate targeting the city’s fuel supply system.

According to the municipality, the suspect, who posed as a municipal employee, was apprehended while filling diesel at a petrol station used by the city’s fleet.

This followed a tip-off to the Municipal City Fleet Directorate, which reported suspicious activity involving certain vehicles refuelling excessively, with some more than 10 times a day.

A preliminary investigation conducted by the City Integrity and Investigations Directorate revealed that a municipal fuel master card, issued by the Water and Sanitation Directorate, was being fraudulently used by privately owned vehicles.

According to the municipality, the fuel master being used was for a vehicle that has been stationary for a long time and marked for disposal.

“The suspect had duplicated the number plate and branding on the side of the car doors to make it look similar to other municipal cars. in this instance, municipal employees were working with external people to conduct fraud and corruption.

“The culprit had four vehicles fitted with a 750-litre fuel tank at the base of each single cab van. The diesel was stored in these tanks and resold. Each vehicle generated about R78 000 a day,” Director of the City Integrity and Investigations Directorate, Jimmy Ngcobo said.

Ngcobo said the suspect, who did rounds everyday filling diesel at over 15 petrol stations around the city, was caught red-handed with assistance from the Metro Police and private company, Reaction Unit South Africa.

At the time of the arrest, the suspect, who was wearing a municipal uniform admitted that he does not work for the city but employed by a private individual and earned R2000 a day.

The suspect has since appeared in court on charges of fraud and corruption. The case was remanded to August 2025.

“This is organised crime and should be dealt with seriously. The municipality has suffered a great financial loss, which is why we are calling on various stakeholders to report fraud and corruption when they see it happening,” Ngcobo said.

The public can report fraud and corruption by calling 0800 20 20 20 or send an email to ombuds@durban.gov.za – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK

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