Category: Africa

The Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System, commonly known as the Madlanga Commission, has moved to clarify that arrests made as a result of revelations during proceedings are carried out by the police and not the commission itself.

Commission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels explained that the commission was established by President Cyril Ramaphosa to investigate the allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

This while the task team appointed to investigate matters arising from the commission’s first interim report was established by Police National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola.

“The commission is making this clarification because, recently, there have been media reports to the effect that the ‘Madlanga Task Team’ or ‘Madlanga Commission Task Team’ has arrested certain people.

“This is likely to lead to the wrong perception that Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, or the commission he chairs, is arresting people. 

“The truth is that it is a SAPS task team that has been arresting people. Justice Madlanga is concerned by this possible perception, not least because the function of arresting people is at odds with the judicial function.

“Following interactions between the commission and SAPS, the latter has agreed that the name of the task team will be changed. The SAPS will issue further communications in this regard,” Michaels said.

The commission’s public hearings continue today at the Brigitte Mabandla Justice College in Tshwane where the city’s Chief Financial Officer Gareth Mnisi is the witness on the stand. – SAnews.gov.za

 

96 views

Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister, Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has partnered with the Ministry of Defence and Military Veterans to host a Ministerial Career Expo and Outreach Programme at Masameni Sports Field in Ixopo, KwaZulu-Natal.

The Deputy Minister is joining the Department of Defence and Military Veterans at the Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma Municipality for the initiative, which is aimed at equipping young people with information about career pathways within the defence and military environment.

The career expo is designed to expose youth to a wide range of opportunities within the defence and military environment, such as technical trades, engineering, aviation, maritime services and security. It also seeks to promote values of discipline, patriotism, and national service, while aligning these opportunities with education and training pathways that respond to the needs of the economy.

Through the Deputy Minister’s leadership, the Department of Higher Education and Training will showcase relevant courses, qualifications, and institutions. The programme will further highlight skills development initiatives aligned to industry demand and provide guidance on post-school education and training opportunities.

According to the department, the strategic objectives of the expo include bridging the gap between education, skills development, and economic opportunities. The initiative also aims to strengthen collaboration between the defence sector, higher education institutions, and provincial government, while positioning the defence sector as a career pathway of choice, contributing to youth empowerment and national development.

“At heart of the career expo is also the aim to promote social cohesion and patriotism,” the department said in a statement,” the department said in a statement. –  SAnews.gov.za

67 views

Suspended Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) Deputy Chief Julius Mkhwanazi and his co-accused, Ekurhuleni Municipal Manager Kagiso Lerutla, have appeared in the Boksburg Magistrates’ Court to face charges of corruption, fraud and defeating the ends of justice.

The two appeared in court on Monday, following their arrests over the weekend.

“The State alleges that in March 2019, the accused acted with a common purpose to unlawfully evade court proceedings. Following Lerutla’s arrest for speeding and his subsequent obligation to appear before the Boksburg Magistrates’ Court, the accused allegedly recruited and paid a third party to impersonate Lerutla in court, while he attended a job interview.

“It is further alleged that the third party appeared in court under false pretences and completed diversion documentation using Lerutla’s personal details. The State contends that the accused shared gratification of approximately R400 000 for facilitating this scheme,” National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago said.

The matter has been postponed to Thursday for formal bail applications.

Meanwhile, the case against alleged criminal mastermind Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala and 15 others has been postponed to next month.

“The Pretoria Magistrates’ Court postponed the case… for the finalisation of consultations and for him to give instructions to his attorney.

“The court granted the State its request to have Matlala detained at Kgosi Mampuru until consultations are completed,” Investigating Directorate against Corruption spokesperson, Henry Mamothame, explained.

The accused face charges of corruption, fraud and Contravention of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).

“The charges relate to the alleged irregular awarding of a contract to Medicare 24, a company owned by Matlala, valued at approximately R228 million,” Mamothame said. – SAnews.gov.za

63 views

The North West Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) has reported steady progress in the implementation and expenditure of the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG), with notable gains in infrastructure delivery across the province.

In a statement issued on Monday, the department said the province received a total MIG allocation of R2.19 billion for the 2025/26 financial year, with the total annual allocation transferred to municipalities.

MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs Gaoage Oageng Molapisi said municipalities had collectively spent R1.3 billion by the end of March, translating to 64% of the total allocation.

Molapisi welcomed the expenditure performance, noting that it reflects continued investment in critical infrastructure such as water and sanitation, roads, stormwater systems, waste management and community facilities, which remain central to improving service delivery and the quality of life for residents across the province.

“The progress recorded demonstrates that municipalities are increasingly improving their capacity to deliver critical infrastructure. We remain on course to ensure 100% expenditure of funds allocated after achieving 99% last financial year,” Molapisi said.

Several municipalities have demonstrated strong performance in infrastructure spending and project implementation, particularly in districts including Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, where expenditure reached 82% of allocated funds, signalling improved planning and execution capacity.

To accelerate infrastructure projects in their localities, additional funding has been allocated to six municipalities, including Kgetleng Rivier (R15 million), Maquassi Hills (R16 million), Ditsobotla (R37 million), Ratlou (R17 million), Lekwa Teemane (R12 million), Greater Taung (R19 million) and Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District (R50 million).

However, Molapisi noted that some municipalities have lost portions of their allocations to other municipalities due to slow spending and implementation challenges.

In cases where performance remains weak, Molapisi said swift action is required to protect public funds.

“While reallocation may affect project timelines in underperforming municipalities, the measure is intended to improve overall delivery rather than penalise those affected.

“The lost portions will have an impact on the ongoing infrastructure projects implemented by the affected municipalities. Planned completion dates will now be prolonged into the new financial year,” Molapisi said.

He added that these actions are not intended to penalise municipalities, but rather to improve performance.

“The reallocation is to ensure 100% expenditure of the grant in the province. When funds are reallocated, it is done to maximise impact and ensure that infrastructure delivery continues without delays,” the MEC said.

Implementation plans for next financial year

As part of preparations for the 2026/27 municipal financial year, which begins in July, the department has supported municipalities in assessing draft implementation plans to ensure alignment with grant conditions, infrastructure priorities, and compliance with the Division of Revenue Act.

The process aims to strengthen long-term infrastructure planning, address stalled projects, and improve sustainable service delivery.

Molapisi also announced that the department will convene a provincial MIG workshop ahead of the new financial year to assess municipalities’ readiness for implementation of the MIG funded infrastructure projects.

“The aim is to ensure that municipalities finalise the appointment by end June 2026 so that construction can commence at the beginning of the financial year in July 2026.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

145 views

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) says conditions are favourable for the development of severe storms, potentially leading to minor impacts over the western and eastern parts of the North West, the extreme north eastern parts of the Northern Cape and the western and central Free State, on Tuesday.

This could cause localised damage to infrastructure, settlements (informal), property, vehicles, livelihood and livestock.

In addition, there could be localised flooding of susceptible roads, low-lying areas and bridges and trees could fall, blocking minor roads.

The weather service said there is also a low likelihood of significant impacts due to severe thunderstorms over northern Gauteng, the Lowveld and south-western parts of Limpopo, as well as the extreme north-eastern parts of Mpumalanga on Tuesday.

These storms may result in flooding of susceptible low-lying areas (including bridges and roads) and damage to infrastructure and settlements due to strong, damaging winds and hail.

“A high likelihood of minor impacts due to severe thunderstorms is expected over Mpumalanga and the central parts of Limpopo. 

“Severe thunderstorms may cause localised flooding and damage to infrastructure, settlements, property, vehicles, livelihood and livestock due to heavy downpours and strong damaging winds,” SAWS said.

Meanwhile, the extended weather forecast for Wednesday and Thursday shows partly cloudy and cool with isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers, but widespread in the north-east. –SAnews.gov.za

 

52 views

Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Seiso Mohai has led an intergovernmental engagement on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) in Matjhabeng Local Municipality in the Free State.

Addressing the gathering, Mohai described GBVF as one of the most urgent social crises facing the country, saying it has devastating consequences for families, communities and society.

He said rebuilding the family unit requires restoring fatherhood, nurturing stable homes and instilling values of respect and protection, while harmful behaviours and substance abuse must be addressed through community interventions, rehabilitation programmes and zero tolerance for violence.

Mohai was joined by Matjhabeng Executive Mayor Thanduxolo Khalipha and Lejweleputswa District Executive Mayor Veronica Ntakumbana.

The engagement brought together representatives from national, provincial and local government, community leaders, civil society organisations, faith-based organisations, traditional leaders and other stakeholders to strengthen efforts against GBVF through a coordinated approach.

Mohai said the impact of GBVF often extends beyond individual victims, leaving children orphaned, deepening trauma and perpetuating poverty and social instability across generations.

He called for stronger prevention measures, greater accountability and more visible action from all sectors of society.

During the programme, Mohai also visited the Goldfields Family Advice Shelter, where he engaged with service providers and assessed support services available to survivors of GBVF.

The visit highlighted the need for stronger support systems that are accessible, responsive and survivor-centred.

Government leaders at the engagement committed to working together to address violence against women and children and strengthen interventions that promote safety, healing and dignity.

Among the key outcomes of the meeting were renewed commitment to a united government response, placing survivor support at the centre of interventions, rebuilding families and communities, encouraging men and boys to reject violence, and recognising the role of institutions such as schools, workplaces, faith communities, civil society, sport, arts and culture in prevention and mobilisation.

The Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation said it remains committed to working with partners across government and society to ensure programmes responding to GBVF are monitored, strengthened and implemented to deliver meaningful change in communities. – SAnews.gov.za

 

106 views

A fire was reported on Tuesday morning at Lower Sabie Rest Camp in the Kruger National Park, affecting the shop and restaurant. 

“The Ranger team and other staff members reacted quickly and managed to contain the fire before it could spread to other structures,” the South African National Parks (SANParks) said.

No injuries or fatalities were reported. The cause of the fire is still being investigated at this stage, and an update will be provided in due course. 

The restaurant and reception area are currently inaccessible for safety reasons. –SAnews.gov.za

221 views

The Presiding Officers of Parliament, National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza and National Council of Provinces Chairperson Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, have expressed their deepest condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and the broader arts community, following the passing of multi-award-winning and internationally recognised thespian, Cynthia Shange.

“Shange was more than an actress – she was a cultural pioneer, a trailblazer, and a powerful symbol of African excellence at a time when the dignity and humanity of Black South Africans were systematically denied under apartheid,” Parliament said on Monday.

Born in Lamontville, Durban, she rose to prominence in the early 1970s, not only as a beauty queen but as a bold representative of Black identity and pride.

“Her historic achievement as the first Black woman to win a Miss South Africa title in 1972 was not merely a moment of personal triumph – it was an act of defiance against a brutal and dehumanising system. 

“At the height of apartheid, when Black people were excluded from mainstream recognition and representation, Shange’s presence on that stage asserted the beauty, worth, and humanity of Black women in a society that sought to erase them,” Parliament said.

For Black women in particular, apartheid oppression was compounded by patriarchal structures and entrenched gender stereotypes. 

“In this context, Shange’s rise was profoundly significant. She did not only embody beauty, but she also redefined it. She stood as a declaration that Black womanhood is powerful, dignified, and worthy of global recognition. Her success affirmed the importance of telling African stories, embracing African identity, and reclaiming narratives that had long been suppressed,” Parliament said.

Shange’s life and career spanned generations, and her influence extended far beyond the screen. 

She became a role model to countless women – particularly young Black women in the arts – demonstrating that it is possible to rise, to lead, and to shape one’s narrative despite systemic barriers.

“As the nation mourns her passing, we also celebrate a life lived with purpose, courage, and grace. Parliament conveys its heartfelt condolences to her children, including media personality Nonhle Thema, her extended family, and all those whose lives she touched.” –SAnews.gov.za

108 views

The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie and Deputy Minister Peace Mabe have paid tribute to veteran actress, model and beauty queen Cynthia Shange, whose legacy spans decades of contributions to the country’s arts and culture, and to global representation.

They extended their heartfelt condolences to the Shange family, colleagues and the broader arts and culture community after she passed away at the age of 76.

McKenzie described Shange as a fearless pioneer who transformed the landscape of representation.

“Cynthia Shange was a barrier-breaker for black people and for women at a time when both were systematically excluded from global platforms. She stood where many were told they did not belong, and in doing so, redefined what was possible for generations to come. Her legacy is one of courage, dignity and unapologetic excellence,” the Minister said on Monday.

Born in 1949 in Lamontville, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, Shange emerged as a pioneering figure during a period of deep systemic exclusion.

She rose to prominence in the early 1970s, making history in 1972 when she won the Miss Natal title and went on to become the first black woman to represent South Africa at the Miss World 1972 pageant. 

Her presence on the global stage during this period marked a defining moment for black South Africans and for women in public life.

Shange went on to build a distinguished acting career, with notable roles in Udlaliwe, Shaka Zulu, and Muvhango. Her performances resonated with audiences across generations and contributed meaningfully to South Africa’s creative identity.

The Deputy Minister emphasised the enduring significance of Shange’s journey.

“She broke barriers for black South Africans and for women throughout this country who saw in her a reflection of their own potential. Cynthia Shange carried the hopes of many and proved that talent, resilience and identity cannot be suppressed. Her life’s work will continue to inspire young women and creatives to claim their space in the world,” Mabe said. –SAnews.gov.za

115 views

By Nomxolisi Mashiyi

There’s a worrying belief circulating in some communities that transformer oil can be used to treat health conditions like rheumatic arthritis. While it may seem like a harmless home remedy, the reality is far more dangerous to human health and the environment.

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE) has raised a strong warning against this practice, and for good reason. Transformer oil is not meant for human appllication. It is an industrial substance used in electrical equipment, and in many cases, it may contain toxic chemicals known as Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) which are classified as forever chemicals. The PCBs would then leak into the environment (e.g. through wastewater) and cause negative environmental impacts. Beyond the severe risks to human health, the misuse of transformer oil also poses significant environmental threats. When transformer oil containing PCBs is spilled, disposed of incorrectly, or washed off the body into drains, soil, or water systems, these toxic chemicals are released into the environment. Since PCBs do not break down easily and can remain in soil, rivers, wetlands and sediments for decades. Once released, they spread silently through ecosystems, often far beyond the point of initial release or contamination. 

In aquatic environments, PCBs are absorbed by small organisms which fish feed on and thus PCBs build up in fish and other wildlife. This process, known as bioaccumulation, causes PCB concentrations to increase as they move up the food chain. As a result, birds, livestock, and people who eat contaminated food are exposed to high levels of PCBs.

 

PCBs are not just any chemicals, they are part of a group of substances globally recognised for their long-lasting and harmful impact on both human health and the environment. Even though their production was ceased decades ago in many countries, including in South Africa, they still exist in older electrical equipment and contaminated sites.

 

Research has shown that exposure to PCBs can lead to serious health problems. These include effects on the immune system, reproductive health, brain function, and hormones. Even more concerning, PCBs are considered possible cancer-causing substances. This is not something anyone should risk by applying contaminated oil to their skin.

Despite these risks, some communities continue to request transformer oil from municipal workers, believing it can heal certain ailments. This highlights a deeper issue – the spread of misinformation when it comes to health remedies. 

DFFE has continued to urge municipal officials to refuse to supply transformer oil to the public. Providing access to such hazardous substances for non-industrial use is not only unsafe but potentially life-threatening.

South Africa is already taking steps to eliminate PCBs as part of its commitment to international environmental agreements (Stockholm Convention). The country has regulations in place to phase out the use of these chemicals, and is working with municipalities to safely remove them from equipment. But these efforts can only succeed if the public also plays its part.

This is not just a government issue — it’s a public health issue.

Using transformer oil on your body is not a remedy – it is a risk – and a serious one. It is also important to remember that transformer oil is meant to be used in steel product such as a transformer and not a human flash. 

Transformer oil is an industrial insulating fluid designed for electrical equipment, not for human health. Even modern formulations that are free of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) can still pose health risks as they have not been subjected to the controls by South African Health Products Regulatory Authority which oversees safety and registration of medicines and health products.

Communities need to rely on safe, proven medical treatments and consult healthcare professionals rather than turning to hazardous substances. At the same time, anyone distributing or promoting the use of transformer oil for health purposes should be reported to the relevant authorities.

Misinformation can spread quickly, but so can awareness. By understanding the dangers and sharing the facts, we can protect ourselves, our families, and our communities. We call on you – members of the public – to work with the Department to spread the information about the dangers of using transformer oils to treat health related purposes. 

Our message is simple and clear: transformer oil belongs in machines – not on people!

*Mashiyi is the Acting Chief Director for Communications and Advocacy in the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.

61 views