Category: Africa

Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong has urged public servants to treat their roles not merely as a job, but as a calling to serve society.

The Deputy Minister delivered an address at the 2026 Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Public Service Month commemoration, held in Pretoria, on Wednesday, 23 September 2026.

“Public service is more than a profession; it is a calling and a responsibility. It is a commitment to place the needs of our people at the centre of everything we do. Regardless of our role, we share a responsibility to contribute to the wellbeing, development and prosperity of South Africa.

“As we reflected last year, public service is not merely a job; it is a vocation rooted in the principles of Batho Pele, putting people first. Above all, we must never lose sight of who we serve and why we serve,” he said.

Public Service Month is recognised annually during September in South Africa.

“Public Service Month is not just a calendar event. It is both a celebration and a call to action. It recognises the contribution of public servants across the country while challenging us to continually improve the way we serve. 

“It is a call to strengthen our performance and uphold the values of professionalism, integrity, accountability and compassion,” Morolong noted.

Turning to the unique mandate of the GCIS, Morolong highlighted that communication is inextricably linked to effective service delivery.

Citizens, he noted, can only fully access government opportunities and programs when they are empowered with “accurate, timely and relevant facts”.

“GCIS sits at the intersection of policy and the people it is meant to serve: the voice, the bridge and, at times, the first responder when citizens ask what government is doing, how it affects their lives and whether they can trust the message. 

“Our responsibility is not simply to communicate, but to ensure that information reaches people in ways that are meaningful, accessible and useful.

“Every communication product, whether a media statement, community engagement, public information campaign or social media post, has the potential to help citizens make informed decisions and access opportunities that improve their lives,” he explained.

Morolong noted that with the Local Government Elections on the horizon (4 November 2026), the demands on government communicators will increase exponentially.

“During this period, citizens rely on government communication channels for information about services, programmes and government activities. It is therefore essential that we continue to provide information that is factual, accessible and responsive to the needs of the public.

“At the same time, we must remain mindful of an important principle that underpins our work: government communication must always be politically impartial,” he said.

The Deputy Minister urged all public servants within the GCIS to “take pride in what we have achieved while remaining focused on the work that lies ahead”.

“Let us continue to serve with professionalism, integrity and purpose. Let us continue striving for excellence in everything we do. And let us continue working together to build a stronger GCIS and a better South Africa.

“Together, we can ensure that government communication not only informs, but also strengthens democracy, promotes accountability and helps build a more united, inclusive and prosperous nation.

“In doing so, we carry forward the commitment we made last year: to ensure that no South African is left behind or left in the dark about what government is doing,” Morolong concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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By Dr Nomalungelo Gina

Dreams have fascinated humanity for centuries. Across cultures, people have understood them not only as experiences of the sleeping mind, but also as sources of reflection, spiritual meaning, and traditional knowledge. In South Africa, indigenous knowledge systems have long included rich traditions and practices associated with dreams and their interpretation.

This is one example of the depth of knowledge held within South Africa’s indigenous plant heritage. Plants such as Silene undulata and Entada rheedii have been associated with traditional practices and beliefs relating to dreams and spirituality. Their significance lies not simply in the plants themselves, but in the cultural knowledge, practices and traditions that communities have developed around them over generations.

These plants are among the many remarkable indigenous species found in South Africa. They form part of our traditional knowledge and are an important component of our living heritage. Protecting this heritage therefore also means protecting the biodiversity and natural habitats in which these plants grow.

South Africa’s biodiversity is safeguarded through a network of protected areas and conservation initiatives, including those managed by the South African National Parks (SANParks). From the fynbos of the Cape to the grasslands, forests and savanna ecosystems found across the country, these landscapes provide important habitats for indigenous plant species and the wider communities of life that depend on them.

But our indigenous plants are so much more. World-renowned plants such as Rooibos are part of our uniquely South African heritage, demonstrating how our natural biodiversity can be recognised and valued on the international stage. Rooibos is indigenous to South Africa and grows naturally in a geographically limited area of the Western and Northern Cape, including the Cederberg region. Its unique geographical identity is recognised internationally through Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) and Geographical Indication (GI) protection in the European Union.

Rooibos supports approximately 8,000 workers across primary production and activities including processing, packaging and retail. In 2025, production was estimated at approximately 15,000 tonnes, while total sales were equivalent to more than 10 billion cups. Rooibos is exported to more than 50 international markets, with Japan accounting for 33% of exports in 2025.

The success of Rooibos demonstrates what makes South Africa’s plant heritage distinctive on the international stage. We are home to an extraordinary diversity of indigenous plant species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world and have evolved within our unique ecosystems. Rooibos is a powerful example of how a plant rooted in a specific South African landscape can develop into a globally recognised product while retaining its geographical identity.

Our unique plant heritage also holds significant potential for science, biodiversity conservation and innovation. Indigenous plants can provide opportunities for research, new products, agricultural development and sustainable livelihoods, particularly in rural communities.

The development of South Africa’s hemp industry is one example of how plant-based resources can contribute to economic development. Hemp has applications across a range of industries, including textiles, construction, paper, food and other manufactured products, creating opportunities for agriculture, processing and value-added manufacturing. With appropriate research, regulation, investment and skills development, the hemp value chain has the potential to support rural livelihoods, stimulate innovation and contribute to a more diversified agricultural and manufacturing economy.

The National Cannabis Master Plan provides a strategic framework for unlocking the agricultural, industrial and economic potential of South Africa’s cannabis and hemp sectors. Currently, the hemp and cannabis industry employs more than 90 000 people in South Africa, and the sector holds significant potential for further growth as demand for medicinal products and other cannabis and hemp-based applications increases.

The value of our indigenous plants is also reflected in their long history of use in traditional medicine. For generations, communities across South Africa have drawn on knowledge of indigenous plants to support health and wellbeing, with this knowledge passed down through generations. Buchu, indigenous to the Western Cape, is one such example, with a long history of traditional use for urinary and digestive complaints. Beyond its cultural significance, it also holds potential for further research and responsible commercial development.

Hypoxis hemerocallidea, more commonly known as African potato, is an indigenous medicinal plant with a long history of traditional use for various ailments. Harpagophytum procumbens, commonly known as Devil’s claw, is indigenous to the Kalahari region and has gained international recognition for its traditional use in relation to pain and inflammation. These plants demonstrate the depth of traditional knowledge associated with South Africa’s indigenous flora and the potential for this knowledge to inform further scientific research and responsible innovation.

These and so many more form part of our unique South African heritage. Our indigenous plants are living archives of our nation and its people, carrying generations of knowledge, traditions and practices. They are an irreplaceable cultural inheritance, a source of biodiversity and knowledge, and an important part of our identity.

We must therefore work together to protect the natural habitats in which these plants thrive, while respecting and learning from the traditional custodians who have safeguarded this knowledge across generations. At the same time, we must create space for responsible research, innovation and development so that the value of our indigenous plant heritage can be shared with future generations and contribute to sustainable livelihoods and economic development. In protecting our indigenous plants, we are not only preserving our past; we are investing in a future that is distinctly South African.

*Gina is the Deputy Minister of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation

 

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The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has received 51 474 applications within the first four days of the opening of the 2027 application cycle. 

The early application figures demonstrate the continued importance of NSFAS in enabling access to higher education and training for deserving South African students and reflect growing awareness of the opportunities available through government-funded student financial aid.

According to the latest application dashboard statistics, the scheme has recorded a student headcount of 49 413 applicants, indicating that thousands of prospective students have already begun their journey towards accessing higher education and training opportunities in the 2027 academic year.

Of the applications received since the application cycle opened on Friday, 18 September 2026, 43 297 applications were submitted by first-time entering students and prospective applicants, while 6 865 were from Further Education and Training (FET) applicants.

A total of 1 312 applications were also submitted by senior applicants seeking funding, with 12 625 applicants indicated that they are beneficiaries of the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), and 52 received from students with disabilities.

“The data further indicates that female applicants continue to make up the majority of applications received, accounting for 38 121 applications (74.06%), while male applicants account for 13 353 applications (25.94%).

“The majority of applications have been received from young people between the ages of 18 and 29, highlighting the continued demand for financial assistance amongst learners and prospective students transitioning from secondary education into the post-school education and training sector,” NSFAS said in a statement on Tuesday.

NSFAS also noted progress made in processing applications received to date. 

The scheme said it is encouraged by the high level of participation and commended learners, parents, guardians, schools, and stakeholders for actively supporting prospective applicants since the opening of the application period.

NSFAS also reminded all prospective applicants that the application period will close on 31 October 2026.

“Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible and not wait until the closing stages of the application period. Applicants are also urged to ensure that all required supporting documents are submitted correctly and that consent forms are completed where required to facilitate verification processes.

“The NSFAS Board has already communicated that there will be no extension of the application period, and all eligible applicants are therefore encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date,” NSFAS said.

The scheme said it will continue to provide regular updates on application trends and progress throughout the application period as part of its commitment to transparency and stakeholder engagement.

Applications can be submitted online through the NSFAS website or via the NSFAS mobile application, which is available on Android and Apple devices. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has conducted a search and seizure operation at the offices of the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) in Centurion, Pretoria.

The operation was conducted in conjunction with the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), also known as the Hawks.

In June this year, the SIU was authorised by a proclamation by President Cyril Ramaphosa to investigate allegations of maladministration and unlawful conduct linked to a R130 million training contract awarded by PSIRA.

READ | SIU authorised to probe PSIRA and UIF training contracts

The unit subsequently wrote to PSIRA requesting documentation related to the contract.

“The SIU’s request for documents was only partially complied with, and the bundles sent to the Unit omitted a year’s worth of documents necessary for the investigation. The SIU deemed it necessary to seek a search warrant from the Special Tribunal to seize documents and electronic devices, such as cell phones and computers, to assist an ongoing investigation. 

“The SIU uses search and seizure as a last resort to obtain information to assist with an investigation, after failing to secure full cooperation through cordial engagement,” the corruption-busting unit explained.

The SIU noted that it is empowered by the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act) to “subpoena bank statements and cellphone records, search and seize evidence, and interrogate witnesses under oath to investigate allegations brought before the Unit fully”.

“The SIU is also empowered to institute civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to correct any wrongdoing uncovered during investigations caused by acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration.

“In line with the SIU Act, the SIU will refer any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers to the National Prosecuting Authority for further action,” the SIU said on Tuesday. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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By Dikeledi Molobela

New York, USA — South Africa has called for concrete action and increased development financing to ensure that the Pact for the Future translates into meaningful opportunities for Africa’s young people and delivers measurable progress ahead of its 2028 review.

International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola said Africa’s youthful population presented an extraordinary opportunity for the continent and the global community but warned that the ambitions contained in the Pact could not be realised without adequate financing for development.

Lamola was speaking at a high-level side event on the implementation of the Pact for the Future in Africa, held on the margins of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York on Tuesday.

The event focused on translating the Pact’s commitments into concrete action on the continent, including youth empowerment and financing for development.

The Pact for the Future, adopted by UN Member States in 2024, provides a framework for advancing sustainable development and financing for development, international peace and security, science, technology and innovation and digital cooperation, youth and future generations, and global governance.

“As Chair of the Southern African Development Community, South Africa shares the belief that youth empowerment and financing for development are key priorities for our region and our continent.

“At its core, the Pact for the Future is an affirmation of our shared responsibility to future generations,” Lamola said.

He said this responsibility was inseparable from Africa’s young people, noting that the continent has the youngest population in the world, with a median age of 19 years.

“Our youthful population represents an extraordinary opportunity for our continent and the global community,” Lamola said.

He stressed that the commitments contained in the Pact must translate into tangible improvements in the lives of young Africans, including through quality education and skills development, access to decent work, entrepreneurship and meaningful participation in public life.

“For SADC, investing in youth is an investment in social cohesion, economic transformation and shared prosperity,” he said.

Financing remains critical

Lamola said the ambitions of the Pact, including its commitments to young people, could not be achieved without addressing the continent’s development financing needs.

“To achieve the SDGs by 2030, Africa needs to close an annual financing gap of 1.3 trillion US dollars,” he said.

Countries of the Global South are facing growing pressure on public finances, high borrowing costs and increasing climate-related financing needs, he said.

“These challenges directly affect our ability to invest in infrastructure, human capital and productive capacity,” he said.

Lamola said these pressures underscored the importance of the Pact’s call for reform of the global financial architecture.

South Africa’s G20 Presidency had called for greater debt transparency and accountability from credit rating agencies and supported the establishment of a Borrowers’ Club to strengthen the collective voice of indebted nations, he said.

“We attach special importance to the Seville Commitment and to ongoing efforts to strengthen international tax cooperation,” the Minister said.

He said negotiations towards a UN Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation presented an important opportunity to strengthen domestic resource mobilisation and address challenges arising from the international tax system.

“The negotiations for a UN Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation present a unique opportunity to support domestic resource mobilisation and address challenges arising from the international tax system,” he said.

Lamola said strengthening countries’ ability to mobilise resources for development was essential to delivering on the priorities contained in the Pact.

From commitments to measurable progress

Looking towards the 2028 review, Lamola said the focus must now shift towards implementation, with countries and institutions working together to ensure that commitments translate into measurable results.

“As we look towards 2028, our task is to ensure that implementation of the Pact is anchored in concrete action and measurable progress,” he said.

He said SADC remained committed to working with the African Union, the United Nations system, the UN Economic Commission for Africa, Member States and other partners to advance the continent’s priorities.

The implementation of the Pact is being advanced through engagement with Member States, the UN system, civil society and young people, with a particular focus on translating its commitments into practical action.

Lamola said the continent’s young population should be at the heart of these efforts.

“Let us ensure that the Pact for the Future becomes not only a framework of commitments, but a catalyst for unlocking opportunities for young people and future generations,” the Minister said.

He added that this would require sustained cooperation and a shared commitment to turning Africa’s demographic advantage into inclusive development, economic transformation and shared prosperity. – SAnews.gov.za

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