Category: Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has held a bilateral engagement with the President of the Republic of South Sudan, Salva Kiir Mayardit, at his official residence in Pretoria, Mahlamba Ndlopfu, on the occasion of a Working Visit to South Africa. 

“The Working Visit provides an opportune moment for the two Heads of State to discuss bilateral relations and exchange views on the latest political developments in South Sudan, particularly the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS),” the Presidency said on Thursday.

The R-ARCSS is a legal framework governing South Sudan’s transition to peace.

It outlines governance structures, security sector reform, the establishment of unified forces, disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration (DDR), as well as judicial review and constitution-making processes.

Relations between South Africa and South Sudan were formalised with the signing of an agreement establishing bilateral relations on 24 September 2012, followed by the General Cooperation Agreement (CGA) in 2013.

These fraternal relations are founded on longstanding ties that predate South Sudan’s independence.

The meeting follows recent engagements between the two leaders on the margins of the African Union (AU) Summit held in Addis Ababa in February 2026, where President Ramaphosa also chaired the Ad Hoc High-Level Committee on South Sudan (C5) Plus.

The role of the C5 is to oversee the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS).

 The year 2026 marks a pivotal moment for South Sudan, as the country is earmarked to hold its first-ever elections since gaining independence from Sudan in July 2011. – SAnews.gov.za

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Communities in uMzimkhulu have welcomed what they described as a long-awaited moment of justice and restoration, as President Cyril Ramaphosa officially handed over title deeds to land claim beneficiaries on Friday.

The handover, which forms part of government’s Land Restitution Programme under the Restitution of Land Rights Act, restores more than 17 000 hectares of land to four claimant groups — the Ngunjini, Ndzimankulu/Vierkant and St Paul communities, as well as the Lawrence family.

For many beneficiaries, the ceremony marked the end of decades of waiting and the beginning of a new chapter.

READ | President to hand over title deeds in KwaZulu-Natal

Speaking to SAnews ahead of receiving the title deed, Yongama Nyangiwe, representing the Ndzimankulu/Vierkant community, said the day carried deep emotional significance for families, who had fought for recognition of their land rights.

“This is the day of good news. We have been waiting for this moment so that the title deeds can be handed over to us, because you can’t say you own the land without a title deed,” he said.

Nyangiwe explained that the claim was originally lodged by his late father, a traditional leader, on behalf of the community that had been forcibly removed during apartheid.

“Today, the community is overjoyed. We believe we will work together as beneficiaries and embark on projects that will benefit the community in a positive way,” he added.

The Ndzimankulu/Vierkant claim traces its origins to the early 20th century, when colonial land systems and later apartheid laws such as the Natives Land Act stripped communities of their customary land rights.

Following a detailed investigation, the claim was validated and eventually settled, restoring more than 2 500 hectares of land to 124 households, benefiting 575 people. The settlement includes a package valued at R35 million, alongside development plans and mentorship agreements to support sustainable land use.

For the Lawrence family, the restitution process has brought closure to a painful history of forced removals.

John Lawrence recalled how his family was displaced decades ago.

“My grandparents lived there for more than 70 years, and we were moved from the place 50 years ago. Houses were demolished by big machinery, and everything was destroyed,” he told SAnews. 

“We even left our belongings behind because we didn’t know where we were going.”

He described the handover as a moment of gratitude and healing.

“Today is a joyous day. We never thought we would get our land back, but today we have our title deeds. The land is back to us, now we can celebrate,” he said. 

The Lawrence family claim restores 84.7 hectares to 27 households, benefiting 127 descendants. The land includes sites of historical and cultural importance, such as a church, school and cemetery.

Members of the Ngunjini community also expressed optimism that the restored land would bring meaningful development.

Sibonisiwe Mgilane said the return of land ownership would help uplift vulnerable households.

“Today we are very happy to get back our title deeds. We hope this will benefit the poor people in our community and help develop the whole area. We must be involved in the entire process,” she told SAnews.

The Ngunjini claim, which covers more than 6 800 hectares, benefits over 500 people and has already contributed to job creation and community development through forestry partnerships. The settlement, valued at around R80 million, includes direct financial support to households and long-term plans for economic sustainability.

The St Paul community, one of the largest beneficiaries, is reclaiming more than 7 600 hectares lost through forced removals between the 1950s and 1960s. The claim affects over 1 400 beneficiaries and has already supported a range of youth development and community upliftment initiatives.

Government says the handover is not only about restoring land ownership, but also about rebuilding livelihoods and advancing economic inclusion.

Led by Minister Mzwanele Nyhontso, the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development has emphasised the importance of post-settlement support, including development funding and partnerships with industry players to ensure the land remains productive.

The ceremony, held during Human Rights Month, underscores the link between land reform and the broader constitutional goal of restoring dignity and equality.

As communities celebrate the return of their land, many say the real work now begins, transforming restored land into sustainable opportunities for future generations, while preserving the heritage and identity that was once taken from them. – SAnews.gov.za

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Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Saturday participate in the Alex 10K race in Alexandra township, Gauteng. 

The Alex 10K race entered its second year in 2025, following Adreach Group’s three-year partnership with Run Alex Athletics Club. This collaboration is aimed not only to revive road running events in Alexandra but to promote local tourism under the theme: ‘Explore Alex on Foot’.

“The purpose for the race is to fund grassroots operations for the Run Alex Athletics Club and support the Read Alex Project, a Saturday programme aimed at improving literacy and educational outcomes for local children,” the Presidency said in a statement.

The 2025 event saw the participation numbers increase by 58%, from 1400 starters in 2024 to 2220 starters in 2025. 

Over 3 000 participants are expected to partake in this year’s race, as they will explore Alexandra’s rich history. – SAnews.gov.za

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Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has appointed FFS Tank Terminals as the preferred bidder to refurbish and operate a liquid bulk terminal for a 25-year concession period at the Port of Cape Town.

The terminal, specialising in edible oils and compatible cargo, is a brownfield development covering approximately 6,289 m² within the Liquid Bulk Precinct, boasting a projected investment value of R102 million – including capital and maintenance costs.

FFS Tank Terminals will finance, construct, operate and maintain the liquid bulk terminal, and transfer it back to TNPA at the end of the concession period. 

The work includes upgrading storage tanks to enhance structural integrity and repurposing the existing import pipeline, which is currently used for vegetable and edible oils. The investment will further focus on repurposing the Nautilus facility as well as upgrading gantry and receiving systems. 

Once upgraded, the import pipeline will suitably handle additional new cargo types such as caustic soda lye and monoethylene glycol at the terminal. These improvements are expected to enhance the throughput of vegetable oils and specialty chemicals through the port.

“The modernisation of this liquid bulk terminal is part of TNPA’s strategic shift towards diversification in response to evolving market demands. It ensures the security of supply of industrial and food service supplies whilst meeting new market demands for importation of specialty chemicals. 

“This is a vital contribution to economic stability whilst optimising infrastructure utilisation and commercial viability of our seaports,” said Dr Dineo Mazibuko, TNPA General Manager: Commercial Services said on Friday.

This milestone follows the successful conclusion of the Section 56 process under the National Ports Act of 2005.

FFS Tank Terminals (Pty) Ltd is a Level 1 B-BBEE contributor, bringing over two decades of experience in liquid bulk terminal operations. 

The company operates multiple manufacturing sites, storage facilities and tank farms across the country, and is committed to ongoing investment in local suppliers and skills development initiatives. – SAnews.gov.za

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The Limpopo Commissioner of Police, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has noted with concern the circulation of unverified and misleading information on social media platforms on alleged criminal activities involving a “crying doll” used to lure community members out of their homes.

According to circulating claims, the alleged incidents involve a doll that cries or screams like a baby during the early hours of the morning, prompting residents to go outside, where they are then reportedly mugged.

Hadebe has categorically refuted these claims, saying that no such incidents have been reported to the police.

“We want to assure the community that there are currently no cases reported or patterns identified relating to these allegations. These claims are unfounded and create unnecessary panic among residents.

“We appeal to community members to verify information before sharing it. The spreading of unconfirmed rumours can lead to panic and may divert attention from real crime-related issues,” Hadebe said in a statement on Thursday.

The Provincial Commissioner further encourage residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities to their nearest police station.

Anyone with positive information about criminal activities is urged to contact their nearest Police Station or Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPSApp. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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South Africans at large will commemorate Human Rights Day on Saturday, 21 March, under the theme: ‘A Legacy of Courage: Protecting Rights, Preserving Humanity’.

Observed annually on 21 March since the advent of democracy, Human Rights Day marks South Africa’s progressive trajectory toward an equal, free, and open democratic society. 

The day serves as a reminder of the 1960 Sharpeville Massacre, where 69 people were killed by police during a peaceful protest against apartheid “pass laws”. 21 March is a call for South Africans to reflect on the struggle for liberation, celebrate the democratic Constitution and human rights, and take stock of the progress made. 

“This observance holds particular significance for historically marginalised and subjugated communities, and pays solemn tribute to the activists and supporters who sacrificed their lives or made various contributions to the struggle for freedom,” said The Presidency.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the keynote address at the 2026 national commemoration of Human Rights Day, which will be held at the AR Abass Stadium in Kimberley on Saturday.

The Presidency said Human Rights Day reaffirms the moral urgency and importance of protecting human dignity and achieving equality in all aspects of life.

The theme for 2026 celebrates 30 years since the adoption of South Africa’s Constitution.

Some of the objectives of Human Rights Month are to honour and commemorate the courageous individuals and collective efforts who fought and continue to fight for human rights in South Africa. It is also an opportunity to create awareness of the human rights enshrined in the Constitution, and to encourage the active protection, promotion and fulfillment of these rights.

The month also serves to reinforce the Constitution as a living document and mandate for ongoing collective responsibility, and courageous action in protecting human rights. 

“Human Rights Month has been leveraged as a vehicle to foster social cohesion, nation building, national identity, socio-economic development and to combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and all related intolerances,” The Presidency said.

Saturday’s programme

On Saturday, President Ramaphosa will visit the Re Tlameleng Special Needs School ahead of the formal proceedings to unveil the 2026 Human Rights Day legacy project that demonstrates government’s commitment to inclusive development and disability empowerment.

The President’s address to the nation at the stadium in the Northern Cape is expected to get underway at midday. – SAnews.gov.za

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The government has introduced measures aimed at shifting decisively from the export of raw minerals towards the development of competitive local industries.

“Government remains committed to ensuring that South Africa builds diversified mineral value chains that create sustainable jobs, expand industrial capacity and broaden economic ownership, particularly among the youth of our country,” Deputy President Paul Mashatile said on Thursday.

He was responding to Oral Questions in the National Assembly as part of Parliament’s oversight and accountability processes.

According to the Deputy President, the government is implementing the Critical Minerals and Metals Strategy approved by Cabinet in May 2025, and the Exploration Implementation Plan aimed at transitioning from raw mineral exports to local beneficiation, high-tech manufacturing, and increased local ownership.

“The Critical Mineral and Metal Strategy is aligned with national efforts to drive industrialisation, promote inclusive growth, and enhance the country’s contribution to global clean energy supply chains, including electric vehicles (EVs), hydrogen fuel cells, and battery storage.

“These strategies aim to leverage the global demand for minerals required in renewable energy and digital technologies, such as Platinum Group Metals (PGMs), manganese, and vanadium to build sustainable local industries and create jobs,” Mashatile said.

Furthermore, the Special Economic Zones dedicated to mineral beneficiation will be expanded, offering tax incentives and infrastructure support. 

Public-private partnerships will co-invest in beneficiation plants.

“Government is also implementing procurement reforms and enterprise development programmes aimed at expanding market access for youth-owned businesses in both the public and private sectors. 

“These measures are aligned with broader industrial policy efforts to promote local beneficiation, strengthen supplier development and broaden participation in the mining economy,” the Deputy President said.

Government is also rolling out technical training programmes through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges and universities, directly linked to beneficiation industries. 

These include mining engineering diplomas, beneficiation academies, and professional certificates in mineral beneficiation, all designed to link directly to the country’s industrialisation agenda.

“Through these coordinated interventions, government remains committed to ensuring that South Africa builds diversified mineral value chains that create sustainable jobs, expand industrial capacity and broaden economic ownership, particularly among the youth of our country,” he said.

Special envoy to South Sudan
The Deputy President further used his time in Parliament to explain his mandate as the President’s special envoy, focusing on South Sudan. 

He said his mandate is to support the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), a legal framework governing South Sudan’s transition to peace.
The year 2026 marks a pivotal moment for South Sudan, as the country is earmarked to hold its first-ever elections since gaining independence from Sudan in July 2011.

“Since I assumed the role of Special Envoy in South Sudan, and in pursuit of the peace process, I have undertaken two working visits to Juba, the most recent of which was in October 2025. 

“In 2024, I met all the belligerent parties, including meeting with President Salva Kiir Mayardit. Minister Naledi Pandor and I held a meeting with the Head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, Nicholas Haysom, who sadly passed away yesterday. 

“We subsequently held 15 more meetings with other parties during the four days we spent in Juba. We were convinced that we were making good progress for them to hold democratic elections by the end of December 2026,” Mashatile said.

However, in January this year, fighting erupted once again amongst the belligerent forces and intensified earlier this month, leading to the displacement of over 280,000 people in Jonglei State. 

“The latest fighting is yet another illustration of the complexity of the search for peace in South Sudan. 

“ South Africa will utilise its role on the African Union Peace and Security Council, for the period 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2028, to mobilise the diplomatic, political, technical, and financial assistance required to support South Sudan in holding credible, free, and fair elections,” the Deputy President said.

He said the government intends to engage the wider international community and various non-state actors, such as non-governmental organisations (NGOs), for a coordinated response to the unfolding humanitarian crisis, which is also exacerbated by the civil war in the Republic of Sudan.  

“In this regard, I recently met with the regional leadership of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and will continue to engage them on the efforts they are undertaking to respond to the humanitarian situation.

“To resolve this conflict, it is incumbent upon the broad leadership of South Sudan to demonstrate the requisite political will and responsible leadership necessary to implement their own agreement, this being the R-ARCSS,” Mashatile said.  –SAnews.gov.za

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The eThekwini Municipality says the city remains in a strong financial position despite mounting economic pressures and ongoing revenue collection challenges.

This emerged during a Finance Committee meeting held on Wednesday, where the municipality reported that while cash and cash equivalents have declined over the past eight months, the city continues to be supported by stable grant allocations from national and provincial treasuries.

As of 16 March, the city’s cash on hand stood at R6.3 billion, representing 43 days’ liquidity, inclusive of grant funding.

“All proposed policies and amendments [discussed at the meeting], will be submitted to full council for consideration and final approval,” the municipality said in a statement on Thursday.

The committee noted that the Revenue Management Directorate is intensifying efforts to recover more than R26 billion in outstanding debt through targeted interventions.

Key measures include reducing estimated meter readings to below 10%, enforcing disconnections for non-compliant customers, and implementing full debt control processes, including the issuing of final demand notices.

Additional measures include replacing faulty and tampered meters, conducting audits to detect illegal connections, and investigating prepaid meters that reflect zero consumption.

The municipality is also implementing cost-saving initiatives aimed at improving operational efficiency and reducing losses.

These include strengthening invoice verification processes, leveraging the use of technology to prevent fuel theft and misuse of municipal vehicles, and conducting regular unannounced stock audits to curb material theft.

“Government and parastatal debt, currently at R2.2 billion, is being escalated to the Presidential eThekwini Working Group [for intervention]” the municipality said.

Proposed tariff adjustments

The committee approved a proposed 5% increase in the deposit tariff under the Revenue Management Policy, which will be included in the 2026/27 Draft Budget and Integrated Development Plan (IDP) consultations.

“This adjustment reflects the cost incurred by the municipality when providing services to new customers prior to billing. During this period, the municipality must settle obligations with service providers, such as Eskom and Umngeni-uThukela Water,” the city said.

The municipality noted that the deposit serves as a security measure and is not recognised as municipal income.

Policy amendments under review

The committee also recommended several amendments to the draft Credit Control and Debt Collection Policy for public consultation and council approval.

To address undetected underground domestic water leaks, the municipality proposed a fixed monthly charge for all domestic water users.

The fund would be used to support billing adjustments or write-offs in qualifying cases.

“Customers will now have 180 days, up from 60 days from the date of repair, to submit a water loss notification form, along with supporting documentation, at Sizakala Centres or Revenue Customer Services centres.”

In addition, the revised policy strengthens procedures for lodging account disputes, requiring customers to submit written applications with supporting evidence. It also strengthens the authority of municipal officials to investigate and resolve such disputes.

Draft indigent support policy

The proposed amendments to the draft Indigent Support Policy will allow trained municipal officials, in addition to social workers, to conduct socio-economic assessments and verify applications for municipal support programmes.

The municipality said the change aims to improve efficiency and expand access to indigent support services. – SAnews.gov.za

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