Category: Africa

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and South Africa have signed a USD 500 million sovereign-backed loan to support improvements in the provision of water and sanitation, electricity, and solid waste services in South Africa’s eight metropolitan cities.

South Africa’s metropolitan municipalities are home to approximately 22 million people and generate around 85% of the country’s economic output, yet face mounting challenges from aging infrastructure, rapid urbanization and increasing climate risks. 

The loan will support the Metro Trading Services Program to address these pressures by helping reduce non–revenue water and electricity losses, improve solid waste management and strengthen institutional capacity, contributing to more reliable service delivery and greater climate resilience.

The Program will help improve the financial sustainability, accountability and operational performance of municipal services, including water supply and sanitation, electricity and solid waste management services, while supporting South Africa’s transition to low-carbon, climate-resilient urban development.

“By strengthening municipal governance and improving the performance of essential urban services, the Metro Trading Services Program will enhance infrastructure delivery while supporting South Africa’s climate and development objectives,” AIIB’s Director General, Public Sector Clients Department, Rajat Misra said in a statement on Friday.

The financing marks AIIB’s first investment in South Africa, establishing a new partnership to advance the country’s sustainable infrastructure priorities.

According to National Treasury, by 2031, the Program is expected to enable all eight participating metropolitan municipalities to meet the program’s minimum performance conditions, reduce non-revenue water from 41% to 28% and lower electricity losses from 22% to 12%, delivering more efficient, reliable and sustainable municipal services.

“The AIIB financing strengthens the Government’s broader package of support to improve the governance, financial management and operational performance of trading services in metropolitan municipalities,” National Treasury Director-General Duncan Pieterse said.

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank is a multilateral development bank dedicated to financing “Infrastructure for Tomorrow,” with sustainability at its core. –SAnews.gov.za

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Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Peace Mabe has called on all South Africans to rally behind Banyana Banyana as they prepare to face Morocco in a crucial quarter-final match at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Saturday.

The senior women’s national team booked their place in the quarter-finals after defeating Burkina Faso 1-0 in Casablanca, Morocco, on Tuesday night.

Congratulating the team on Wednesday, Mabe said their qualification was a powerful demonstration of resilience and determination following a challenging start to the tournament.

“The job is not finished. We have reached the knockout stages, and now we look ahead to the quarter-finals with confidence and determination. I wish the players, the technical team, and the entire squad every success in the next match,” the Deputy Minister said.

The Deputy Minister wished the team every success in the quarter-finals as they continue their pursuit of continental glory.

Banyana Banyana have been training in Rabat ahead of the quarter-final clash against Morocco.

According to the South African Football Association (SAFA), the 2026 edition of WAFCON also serves as a FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifier, with only the top four teams securing qualification for the tournament in Brazil.

“Banyana Banyana have shown once again that South Africa never gives up. They faced a difficult group-stage campaign, but they continued to fight, believe in themselves, and represent our country with pride.

“This is a remarkable achievement for Banyana Banyana and for South African football. The players understood exactly what was at stake, and they responded with determination and courage when it mattered most,” Mabe said in a statement.

She also congratulated Head Coach Desiree Ellis, the technical team, the players, and the support staff for their collective contribution to guiding the team to the knockout stages of the competition.

The Deputy Minister said the team’s achievement should inspire young girls across South Africa who look up to Banyana Banyana as role models.

“Banyana Banyana continue to demonstrate that resilience, discipline, and hard work can take you to the highest levels of the game. We are immensely proud of this team, and we will continue to support them as they take on the next challenge,” she said. –SAnews.gov.za

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By Sandile Nene

South Africa’s pursuit of sporting excellence is about more than winning medals, lifting trophies or achieving victories on the global stage. It is about building a nation that believes in its potential, invests in its people and creates opportunities for every South African to excel. As we mark Mandela Month, we are reminded of Nelson Mandela’s belief that sport has the unique ability to inspire, unite and bring people together across social, cultural and economic differences.

The recent achievements of our national teams and athletes demonstrate the resilience, discipline and determination that define the South African spirit. From Bafana Bafana’s historic progress at the FIFA World Cup 2026, to the Proteas Men being crowned ICC World Test Championship winners and the continued rise of women in sport, these moments represent more than sporting success; they reflect the power of sport to strengthen national pride, social cohesion and confidence in our collective ability to succeed.

As South Africans gathered in homes, communities and fan parks to cheer on Bafana Bafana at the FIFA World Cup 2026, it was clear that this moment was more than a sporting spectacle or competition. It was a shared national experience that united citizens through hope, pride and confidence in our ability to compete and excel on the global stage.

Bafana Bafana may not have progressed to the Group of 16, but their historic progress to the knockout rounds of the FIFA World Cup 2026 reminded the country of sport’s rare power to uplift and unite a nation. This achievement is a testament to resilience.

The Proteas Women carried the same spirit in the ICC finals, strengthening the profile of women’s cricket and inspiring many through their commitment and courage. This performance by our athletes and teams teaches us a crucial lesson: success is not measured only by lifting a trophy at the end, but by the determination, discipline and character demonstrated in pursuit of excellence. It reflects the courageous character of South African teams and their ability to deliver when the world is watching.

Together, these achievements tell a deeper story of hope and the unifying power of sport in our nation. Across several sporting codes, including soccer, cricket, rugby, netball, athletics, the Olympics and Paralympics, our national teams and athletes continue to demonstrate South Africa’s talent, resilience and ability to compete on the global stage.

At the 2026 Commonwealth games in Glasglow, Scotland, Team South Africa delivered an outstanding performance as they brought home 28 medals, including 7 gold medals, 11 silver medals and 10 bronze medals. Twenty-two of those medals were achieved by our dynamic swimming squad, with highlights including Pieter Coetze’s win of the men’s 100m backstroke and Lara Van Niekerk successfully defending her women’s 50m breaststroke title. Additional key features came from Chad le Clos making headlines as the most decorated Commonwealth Games athlete of all time, with 21 medals to his name, and from the track, with Sinesipho Dambile winning the men’s 200m. These athletes have participated with excellence and strengthened our belief in what we can achieve together.

We also celebrate various individual achievements that raise the South African flag on the international stage, such as Dricus du Plessis making history as the first South African to win the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) middleweight championship, the premier global mixed martial arts organisation. His achievement has inspired local talent and contributed to the growing popularity of combat sports across the country.

Alongside this milestone, Kagiso Rabada’s exceptional 2026 Indian Premier League season, which earned him the coveted Purple Cap as the tournament’s leading bowler; Temba Bavuma’s inclusion in the TIME100 Most Influential Sports People of 2026; Bayanda Walaza’s remarkable victory in the men’s 100 metres at the Ostrava Golden Spike in Czechia and Akani Simbine’s triumph in the men’s 100 metres at the prestigious Fanny Blankers-Koen (FBK) Games in the Netherlands.

Prudence Sekgodiso made history by becoming the first South African woman to win a gold medal at the World Athletics Indoor Championships following her victory in Nanjing, China. The achievements of South African women in sport also reflect our nation’s commitment to inclusion, empowerment and the breaking of barriers. From Banyana Banyana winning the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in 2022 and making history by reaching the Round of 16 at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, to the SPAR Proteas representing South Africa with distinction as the country proudly hosted the Netball World Cup for the first time in 2023, our women continue to inspire future generations and demonstrate the depth of talent within our country.

Banyana Banyana continue to showcase South African excellence on the continental stage. As the reigning Women’s Africa Cup of Nations champions, they are representing South Africa at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where they are defending their continental title. Their continued participation at the highest level of African women’s football reflects the remarkable progress of the women’s game in South Africa and continues to inspire a new generation of athletes.

Together, these achievements reinforce South Africa’s reputation for producing world-class athletes who inspire future generations and strengthen national pride through excellence on the international stage.

Our legendary Springboks became the first nation to win four Rugby World Cup titles, securing their fourth championship in 2023 and further cementing their place among the world’s greatest sporting teams.

The Springboks remain one of the clearest symbols of South Africa’s ability to rise, unite and lead. As the team prepares to tackle new global challenges, they carry more than a sporting mandate; they carry the hopes of millions and the responsibility to build on a legacy of excellence, resilience and national pride.

This is especially significant in light of our recent commemoration of Mandela Month. The image of President Nelson Mandela presenting the Webb Ellis Cup to Springbok captain Francois Pienaar after the 1995 Rugby World Cup Final remains one of the defining moments of our democracy. It demonstrated that sport could become a powerful instrument for reconciliation, healing and nation-building. That moment showed the world that South Africans could look beyond their differences and rally behind a shared national purpose.

Sport gives South Africans a sense of belonging and community through visible acts of unity such as raising our flag, wearing our national colours and singing the national anthem. It reflects our heritage, humanity and collective identity while bringing people together across language, race, culture, class, gender, geography and generations. In doing so, sport strengthens the social cohesion that is essential for building a united, resilient and prosperous South Africa.

Our sporting journey reminds us that we must never give up in the pursuit of excellence. South Africa must continue to invest in and support sport because its value extends far beyond victories, trophies and results on the scoreboard. Inspired by Madiba’s legacy, we must continue to nurture sporting excellence, support our athletes and use the power of sport to unite South Africans, celebrate our diversity and build a stronger, more resilient nation.

*Nene is the Acting Deputy Director-General at the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS)

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The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has notified consumers of the recall of certain Mercedes-Benz trucks and Alfa Romeo Tonale vehicles, as notified by Daimler Truck Southern Africa Limited and Stellantis South Africa (Pty) Ltd.

In a statement on Thursday, the Commission, which is an agency of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, said it was informed by Daimler Truck Southern Africa Limited that it is recalling certain Mercedes-Benz Atego 967, Actros 963, Arocs 964 and eActros 983 trucks that were made available for sale nationwide from 2022 onwards, affecting 153 trucks.

The recall follows a self-disclosure by supplier ZF Friedrichshafen AG, which identified a potential manufacturing deviation in the ball joints installed in the steering components of the affected vehicles.

According to the supplier, some of these components may not have undergone the prescribed hardening process during manufacturing, resulting in insufficient material hardness.

“This may lead to increased wear of the steering components. Over time, the components may lose strength and could fracture, particularly at low speeds when high steering force is required, such as during manoeuvring. If this occurs, the vehicle may no longer be steerable, and there would be a risk of accident,” said the Commission.

Meanwhile, Stellantis South Africa (Pty) Ltd informed the NCC that it is recalling certain Alfa Romeo Tonale vehicles equipped with a 1.5-litre engine that were made available for sale nationwide between March 2022 and March 2026, affecting 141 vehicles.

According to the supplier, the affected vehicles may suffer engine damage caused by the bending or breakage of the connecting rods due to engine misfire.

“In the worst case, this could cause a fire in the vehicle while driving. To solve this problem, the engine control module software will be updated.”

Owners of the affected vehicles have been urged to take the vehicles to their nearest authorised Daimler Truck or Stellantis dealership for inspection and the necessary repairs.

“All corrective work will be carried out at no cost to consumers,” it said.

Questions and queries relating to this recall may be directed to: ProductRecall@thencc.org.za. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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As part of efforts to create an enabling learning environment, Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Seiso Mohai, and the Embassy of China will today donate educational equipment and learning materials to the Thiboloha Special School in the Maluti-aPhofung Local Municipality in the Free State.

The visit to the school that caters for learners from Grade R to Grade 12 living with deafness, blindness, autism and intellectual disabilities forms part of government’s commemoration of Nelson Mandela International Day under the 2026 theme: “It is still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity.”

“The school has been identified for developmental support, including learning aids, sports equipment, boarding-house essentials and infrastructure-related improvements.

“As part of preparations for Mandela Month, the Deputy Minister engaged the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to South Africa, His Excellency Wu Peng, regarding possible support for the school and broader cooperation linked to District Development Model (DDM) initiatives in the Thabo Mofutsanyana District,” the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation said ahead of Friday’s visit.

The department said the donation will contribute towards the educational needs of learners.

“The donation will contribute to the educational needs of learners and support teachers in creating an enabling and inclusive learning environment,” said the department. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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With just hours to go before the midnight deadline for South Africans to register or update their details online ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections, the Electoral Commission is set to provide an update on key dates in the election timetable.

Electoral Commission Chairperson, Commissioner Mosotho Moepya, will  brief the nation today on key dates in the election timetable as the country marches towards the 4 November polls.

In a post on social media platform X, on Thursday, the Commission said: “Your vote starts with registration. Proclamation on 7 August [at] midnight. Online registration closes then.”

Voters who were unable to visit a registration station during the weekend can register or update their details through the IEC’s Online Voter Registration portal before the registration period closes. 

The registration portal can be accessed on: https://registertovote.elections.org.za 

Voters can also register via WhatsApp. To use the service, voters can WhatsApp “Hi” to 0600 88 0000. The platform uses secure identity verification, including one-time password authentication, ID document uploads, address verification, and voting-station confirmation.

Citizens can register from the age of 16, although only those who are 18 or older are eligible to vote.

The IEC has also stressed the importance of ensuring that registration details are correct, particularly for voters who have moved. In local government elections, voters must vote at the voting station where they are registered, meaning those who have changed addresses should update their details before the deadline.

Voters can check their registration status by SMSing “myID” followed by their ID number to 32810.

The IEC’s contact centre, 0800 11 8000, is also available to assist with registration queries.

In terms of Section 159 of the Constitution, read together with the Municipal Structures Act, the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) is responsible for proclaiming the date of local government elections, which must be held within 90 days after the expiry of a municipality’s five-year term.

The proclamation and gazetting of the election date will result in the closure of the voters’ roll for the 2026 elections. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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As the country moves to celebrate Women’s Day, the South African Police Service (SAPS) continues to profile the work of female officers who give their all to protect the nation.

Sergeant Ilze Fan, an investigator attached to the De Aar Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit in the Northern Cape, has a passion for investigating crimes committed against women and children.

The 43-year-old began her policing career in 2006 as a constable at Victoria West Police Station. Recognised early on for her ability to take quality statements and conduct thorough investigations, she pursued a career in the detective environment. 

It was there that she discovered her passion for investigating crimes committed against women and children, leading to her transfer to the De Aar FCS Unit.

Among her many career highlights, one case stands out above the rest. In March 2024, the De Aar Regional Court sentenced 47-year-old Coert Botha to 66 years’ imprisonment on 13 charges, including rape, sexual violation, exposing and displaying pornographic material to children, causing a child to witness self-masturbation, and attempted sexual violation.

Between 2019 and 2021, Botha lured young boys between the ages of nine and 14 to his home, where he sexually assaulted and raped them.

The matter was assigned to Sergeant Fan for further investigation. Leaving no stone unturned, she meticulously gathered and analysed the evidence, building a watertight case that ultimately secured the offender’s conviction and lengthy prison sentence.

In another notable success, the De Aar Regional Court, on 29 January 2026, sentenced 26-year-old Hilton Jafta to 15 years’ direct imprisonment for kidnapping, rape and statutory rape. The court also ordered that his name be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders and declared him unfit to possess a firearm.

On 26 October 2024, Jafta forcibly took his girlfriend to his home in Sunrise, where he assaulted and raped her. Community members alerted police after hearing the victim’s cries for help, leading to Jafta’s immediate arrest.

During the investigation, Sergeant Fan established that Jafta had fathered a child with the victim while she was still a minor. This crucial discovery resulted in an additional charge of statutory rape being added to the case.

A mother of two, Sergeant Fan says she is proud to serve in the South African Police Service because it gives her the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of victims.

“Every case docket that lands on my desk is an opportunity to restore the dignity of a victim, identify the perpetrator and ensure that justice is served. Our women and girl children deserve to live and walk freely in their communities without fear,” Sergeant Fan said.

Fan’s unwavering commitment to protecting the vulnerable, pursuing justice and serving with integrity embodies the professionalism, accountability and service excellence that lie at the heart of the SAPS Reset Agenda.

The SAPS  Women’s Month campaign, “Women Leading the Reset Agenda,” honours women in blue.

This year’s campaign recognises the dedication, resilience and professionalism of female police officers who protect women, children and other vulnerable groups while advancing the SAPS Reset Agenda through ethical leadership, accountability, service excellence and professionalism.

South Africa commemorates Women’s Month annually in August to honour the 1956 Women’s March, when 20 000 women walked to the Union Buildings in protest against apartheid pass laws.

The country will celebrate Women’s Day on Sunday, 9 August, 2026.  – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Employees of the National Student Fund Aid Scheme (NSFAS) have opened a case of theft against a former board member for stealing laptops earmarked for under-resourced schools in the Eastern Cape.

The board member, who was leading the scheme’s delegation, kept ten laptops instead of delivering them to the already identified schools during the Eastern Cape Donation Drive in March 2026.

NSFAS said the 30 laptops were earmarked for distribution to six high schools, with each receiving five laptops for communal use.

“It is shocking that, particularly a board member of an organisation designed to alleviate hardships from economically deprived communities, would be responsible for such an act,” NSFAS Administrator, Professor Hlengani Mathebula, said on Thursday.

Mathebula added that he was pleased that NSFAS’s employees have decided to pursue justice on behalf of the voiceless learners, noting that “criminality can only thrive when witnesses turn a blind eye to such matters.”  

Mathebula also emphasised that the scheme must only be associated with a certain calibre of leaders and employees.

“This act by our colleagues is exemplary. It testifies to the fact that we are turning the corner as an organisation, as employees are reclaiming their organisation from the grubby hands of those who have been manipulating it for their own self-enrichment while our children suffered the indignity wrought on by poverty.

“Children from impoverished backgrounds need all the help they can get from all of us. It is therefore appalling to learn that someone used his position of privilege, being a board member, to steal from the same needy children. It does not get worse than that,” Mathebula said.

Mathebula expressed his full confidence in the South African Police Service to speedily secure justice for the intended beneficiaries. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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