Category: Africa

The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in the North West province has administered 86% of its Foot and Mouth Disease vaccines.

“The department confirms that 129,808 doses out of the 150,000 vaccines allocated have been administered, representing 86% usage. While this marks steady progress in the vaccination campaign against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), the department acknowledges that more work lies ahead to ensure full coverage across all affected areas,” it said in a statement on Friday.

This as the province has 210 confirmed cases of FMD that have been reported across its municipalities.
“The majority of these reported cases involve cattle, with 206 cases,” said the department, adding that there were three cases reported in pigs and a single case in goats.

According to the department, the highest number of cases was recorded in the Dr. Kenneth Kaunda District with 62 animals, followed by the Bojanala District with 59 animals. 

“In Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District, 49 animals were affected, while Ngaka Modiri Molema District reported 40 animals. These figures highlight the spread of the disease across species and districts, reinforcing the urgency of continued vaccination and vigilance.

“Additional vaccine consignments are expected soon, which will allow the department to extend coverage and strengthen disease control measures. The campaign remains focused on vaccinating confirmed positive animals, ring vaccination around buffalo farms, protecting dairy herds, and mass vaccination of cloven-hoofed animals across the province,” the department said.

Farmers have been encouraged to use permanent ear-tags with unique numbers to help speed up the identification and vaccination of animals. 

Farmers and stakeholders are also urged to report any suspicion of FMD immediately to local veterinarians or animal health technicians. Early reporting and cooperation remain vital in preventing further spread and protecting the province’s agricultural sector.

North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development Madoda Sambatha has expressed appreciation for the patience and cooperation of farmers during this challenging period. 

He assured farming communities that every farmer and every animal will be covered as more vaccine doses arrive and emphasised that the department remains committed to working hand-in-hand with stakeholders to contain the outbreak and safeguard livelihoods. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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With Water Month drawing to a close, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) is set to officially launch the Moretele South Far West Pipeline on Monday.

This is part of the department’s bid to ensure an improved and reliable water supply to various villages. This will also address the previous challenges of inconsistent supply within Moretele Local Municipality (MLM).

The City of Tshwane has previously supplied water to Moretele Local Municipality through the Temba Water Treatment Works (WTW). However, due to increasing demand within the Hammanskraal area, Tshwane was unable to meet the water requirements of both areas, resulting in intermittent water supply to MLM.

To address these water supply constraints, Magalies Water identified the need to provide a reliable and sustainable source of potable water.

Subsequently, the Moretele South Bulk Water Supply (BWS) Project funded by DWS through its Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant (RBIG) schedule was initiated, with Magalies Water appointed as the Implementing Agent. 

The project aimed to develop a bulk distribution system to supply treated water from Klipdrift WTW to Carousel View, Bosplaas West, Mogogelo, and the Far Western systems of MLM.

“As part of the project, four bulk pipelines and a 25 MI command reservoir at Dilopye village were constructed to ensure adequate storage and reliable water supply,” the DWS said in an advisory on Sunday. 

All bulk pipelines and Dilopye Reservoir have now been completed, including the Moretele South Far West Pipeline, which connects the reservoir to the Far West systems.

“The Moretele South Far West Pipeline reached practical completion on 02 February 2026 and is expected to supply potable water and support sustainable service delivery and improved living conditions to the villages of Swartdam, Ga-Motla, Ratsiepang, Mmakaunyane, Noroki, Kromkuil, and Moeka,” the department said.

The scope of work for the Moretele South Far West Pipeline included the construction of a 9.2 km uPVC pipeline ranging from 500 mm to 600 mm in diameter, together with associated valves and fittings.

Commemorated annually from 1 – 31 March, National Water Month underscores the importance of managing water as a shared national resource and strengthening resilience for future generations. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Water and Sanitation (DWS) Deputy Minister Sello Seitlholo has acknowledged progress made to improve water and sanitation infrastructure in the JB Marks Local Municipality in the North West.

He highlighted this during his two-day oversight visit in Potchefstroom and Ventersdorp on 26 to 27 March 2026, as he assessed the state of water and sanitation infrastructure in those areas.

The first day of the oversight visit began with a briefing on the state of water and sanitation in the municipality, followed by a series of site visits to assess ongoing infrastructure projects and areas affected by sewer spillages.

This was followed by a site visit to the Potchefstroom College of Agriculture, where a maintenance project is underway to address a bulk sewer pipeline that has been discharging raw sewage into the Mooi River. 
“This was my second visit to the site since January this year, and it remains a priority due to the environmental risk it poses,” Seitlholo said.

The Deputy Minister noted that the bulk sewer pipeline at the college has deteriorated significantly and is in a state of progressive structural failure. The major challenge at the Potchefstroom College of Agriculture is that the pipeline has reached the end of its lifespan and is systematically collapsing.

“The pipeline requires full replacement rather than temporary repairs. I have therefore committed to engaging with the Department’s Water Services and the municipality to ensure that we provide the necessary support to resolve this matter permanently,” he said.

The oversight visits also included an inspection of the Ikageng Pump Station, which is currently undergoing refurbishment and upgrading, and once it is completed, the upgraded facility is expected to pump water at a rate of 400 litres per second and support improved supply to surrounding communities through the filling of the 25-megalitre reservoir in Extension 7.

Seitlholo welcomed the progress being made on the project but stressed the importance of seeing such infrastructure projects through to completion.

“It is important to acknowledge the good progress being made, but it is even more crucial to ensure that these projects are completed successfully and begin delivering real benefits to communities,” he said.

Concerns were also raised regarding the newly constructed Zakhele Sewer Pump Station; however, while acknowledging the necessity of the infrastructure, the Deputy Minister expressed reservations about its proximity to nearby households and the adequacy of security measures in place.

“Sanitation infrastructure should ideally be located at a reasonable distance from residential areas to minimise the impact on communities in the event of failures. I have also raised concerns about the adequacy of the current fencing, as insufficient security exposes the infrastructure to vandalism and theft, which remain major challenges in the water sector,” he said.

Further inspections were conducted at the Promosa bulk sewer pipeline upgrade project, which is intended to address long-standing sewer spillages that have resulted in pollution of the Poortjie Dam.

He noted that the progress on site was encouraging and expressed optimism that the project, once completed, would significantly reduce sewage spillages and improve environmental conditions in the area.
“Communities deserve to live in dignified environments with access to safe and reliable sanitation. I will continue to monitor the progress of these projects to ensure that pollution of our water resources is fully eliminated,” Seitlholo said.

On the second day of the oversight visit, the Deputy Minister travelled to Ventersdorp, where he engaged with community members and assessed the town’s persistent water supply challenges.
Focus was on Ventersdorp, particularly the Tshing area, which has been experiencing recurring water shortages for many years, resulting in widespread frustration among residents.

He indicated that Ventersdorp has been plagued by water supply challenges for a prolonged period, and residents have expressed feelings of neglect. 
In some areas, water shortages have been experienced for more than a decade, and this is a matter that requires urgent and coordinated intervention.

“Ventersdorp is currently facing a significant gap between water demand and available supply. The demand for water in Ventersdorp is estimated at approximately 20 megalitres per day, while the current infrastructure is only able to supply between 5 and 6 megalitres per day, leaving a deficit of around 15 megalitres.

“This deficit means that while some areas may receive water, others remain without supply. The current infrastructure must not only be maintained but expanded to meet the needs of a growing population,” he said.

Water tankers
During his engagement with the community, the Deputy Minister also addressed concerns related to the provision of water using water tankers. He assured residents that the department would engage further with municipal leadership to address the matter and also accelerate interventions.

“I have asked the community to allow me time to engage with the municipal leadership and relevant officials so that we can establish the facts and return with clear feedback and solutions,” he said.

Multi-stakeholder engagement
Seitlholo further announced that he would convene a multi-stakeholder engagement involving national, provincial and municipal leadership to develop coordinated interventions for the area. This will include collaboration with senior officials from the Departments of Water and Sanitation and Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs.

“It is my responsibility to conduct oversight and ensure that the constitutional rights of citizens to access water and sanitation are upheld. We will therefore bring together all relevant stakeholders to ensure that sustainable solutions are implemented,” he said.

The Deputy Minister reaffirmed that the issues identified during the oversight visit will receive the necessary attention and that DWS will continue to provide updates.
 
“I want to assure communities that the concerns raised during this visit are being taken seriously and will receive the attention they deserve. Access to water is a basic human right, and we remain committed to ensuring that this right is progressively realised for all residents,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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As global trends in technology, sustainability, and shifting consumer behaviour continue to transform industries, South Africa’s furniture sector must evolve through adaptation and innovation. 

This was emphasised by the Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) Deputy Minister, Alexandra Abrahams, in her keynote address at the annual Furniture Design Competition Awards ceremony on Friday.

Speaking at the ceremony held in Midrand, Gauteng, Abrahams said the government’s vision is to build a fast-growing, profitable, inclusive and sustainable furniture industry that creates jobs, reduces poverty and contributes to economic growth.

However, she stressed that the sector must adapt and innovate to remain competitive and achieve this vision.
“Our commitment to strengthening local industry must be reflected in concrete, sustained action wherever it is feasible. The furniture sector has been designated a priority sector since 2012 and remains crucial to the government’s plans to boost manufacturing and industrial capacity. 

“We should recognise the enabling role government can play in this industry: with the state procuring more than R2 billion in furniture annually, public expenditure can be positioned in a disciplined and market-supportive manner to expand opportunities for local manufacturers, crowd in private investment, and strengthen employment across the value chain,” Abrahams explained.

She noted that, if strategically positioned, this demand can anchor industrial capability, strengthen supplier networks, and ensure that government spending delivers meaningful economic returns for South African workers and industries.

“The dtic is driving a range of programmes funding initiatives that directly support these transformative efforts. The Furniture Challenge Fund has disbursed over R100 million to support nearly 20 companies, while the Furniture Export Strategy opens new markets. 

“This is bolstered by [the] private sector’s own investments in raw materials and factory expansions, which will only serve to strengthen the sector in the long term. Together, these initiatives are laying the foundation to establish a sustainable and globally competitive industry in South Africa.”

Furthermore, Abrahams noted the challenges that are faced by the industry, including intensifying competition from imports and rapidly expanding e-commerce platforms, limitations in design capability and broader skills shortages, which continue to inhibit the sector’s ability to move up the value chain and compete effectively in both domestic and export markets. 

She added that, in the context of a low-growth domestic market and an international market shaped by turbulent geopolitical events, the government, through the dtic and partners, are working to overcome these challenges.

“The Furniture Design Competition showcases the creativity of our students and professionals, introduces new products to the market, and elevates South African furniture on the global stage,” Abrahams said.

The ceremony was hosted by the dtic in partnership with industry stakeholders, including the South African Furniture Initiative, the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), and Proudly South African. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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The National Prosecuting Authority’s (NPA) Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) has condemned the false allegations circulated on social media platforms, insinuating that IDAC is deliberately targeting South African Police Service (SAPS) senior officials.

This follows the arrest of 12 senior police officers and summons being served to the National Police Commissioner, in relation to an alleged irregular contract that was awarded by the SAPS to Medicare 24, a company owned by Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, who is also an accused in the matter.

READ | Government welcomes arrest of 12 police officers

“The NPA has, from the onset, indicated that this matter was referred to the IDAC in 2024, wherein investigations were conducted. It is also imperative to note that this matter was referred to IDAC by the SAPS Risk Audit Unit for investigation, after suspicions of irregularities were discovered,” the IDAC said in a statement on Saturday.

IDAC said it was irresponsible and reckless for certain formations of society and individuals to create a narrative that the arrests were as a result of submissions made at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry and the Parliament Ad Hoc Committee set to investigate allegations made by the KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, on 06 June 2025. 

“The IDAC respects the work done by the commission and the Ad Hoc Committee and will abide by the recommendations that will follow.”

It said that society should be vigilant not to fall prey to false narratives created to destabilise the fight against corruption. 

“The attacks and baseless speculations also have the potential to place the lives of the officials working in these complex cases and the Investigating Director and their families at risk. Despite this, the IDAC cannot afford to allow itself to be deterred from discharging its constitutional mandate to the best of its abilities, within the prescribes of the law.”

The IDAC called on all South Africans to allow the law to take its course.
“The IDAC, as an important division within the NPA, prescribes to the principle of investigating and prosecuting without fear, favour or prejudice. Every action that has been taken [has] followed all the due processes of the law. The arrests are based on the evidence at hand. 

“The view shared by certain individuals that others should have been charged is unfortunate, as IDAC had to deal with the matters within its space and the evidence it contains. The issues relating to other persons arose at the Madlanga Commission, and as and when [the] same are referred to IDAC, [the] same will be acted upon without fear, favour or prejudice. 

“In relation to the arrests, no rules were flouted in arresting the accused in the Medicare 24 matter and any other matter where the accused were summoned to appear before court. The process followed was lawful in all aspects. Crime cannot be allowed to flourish, and IDAC, in discharging its mandate, seeks to prevent this as best it can,” IDAC said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Ahead of the Easter Holiday period, the Border Management Authority (BMA) has issued a stern warning to travellers and officials that any involvement in illegal activities will be detected and met with decisive consequences.

“We issue a stern warning to travellers and officials that any involvement in illegal activities will be detected and met with decisive consequences,” BMA Commissioner Dr. Michael Masiapato said on Sunday.
Earlier this month, the BMA announced that it had dismissed more than 50 immigration officials found to be involved in corrupt activities at ports of entry across the country.

Addressing a media briefing on the Authority’s operational plan for the Easter period, the Commissioner said the BMA will continue to use technology such as drones and body-worn cameras to deter corruption involving officials and non-compliant travellers.

“The BMA remains committed to delivering a secure, efficient, and traveller-friendly border environment. This 2026 Ester Operational Plan reflects a balanced approach between facilitation and enforcement, ensuring that South Africa’s borders contribute positively to economic growth while safeguarding and maintaining national security,” he said on Sunday.

The BMA also expressed appreciation to the KwaZulu-Natal Government for procuring and donating a drone, which has “increased our surveillance resources to address illegal migration.”

The Commissioner said the introduction of highly secured stamps on the 1st August 2025, with unique identifiers allocated to each immigration officer, continues to play a critical role in deterring the illegal/unlawful stamping of non-compliant passports.

In addition, the implementation of the ongoing anti-corruption and fraud awareness sessions under the leadership of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) through the Border Management and Immigration Anti-Corruption Forum continues to educate officials by demonstrating the serious consequences associated with corrupt tendencies/practices.

“As the BMA, we remain firmly bound by principles of integrity, operational excellence, and accountability. We do not take lightly our responsibility to protect the integrity of our borders and ensure the legitimate movement of people and goods. 

Masiapato called on members of the public to plan their journeys in advance, comply with all legal requirements, and cooperate fully with border officials. 
“We call on all travelers and stakeholders to adhere to the laws of the Republic and support/enable our personnel to perform their duties effectively.”

He said that high-risk areas will be closely monitored through coordinated operations with law enforcement agencies, supported by intelligence-led targeting and increased inspection of persons, vehicles, and goods.

Masiapato concluded by urging members of the public to assist by reporting suspicious activities and corruption by calling the BMA toll-free number 0800 122 9 019 or through the official website at www.bma.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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 The Cape Town International Airport is experiencing a temporary water supply disruption due to ongoing municipal repair work outside the airport precinct.

“While airport operations continue, contingency measures are in place to support passengers and stakeholders. Passengers are encouraged to follow airport announcements for guidance,” the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) said on Sunday.

ACSA owns and operates South Africa’s nine principal airports, including three international gateways: O.R. Tambo, Cape Town and King Shaka International Airports.

In a post on social media platform, X, Cape Town International Airport apologised for the inconvenience.

Meanwhile, ACSA said it was aware of false information circulating regarding flight disruptions at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Gauteng.

“We confirm that this information is incorrect and misleading. Airport operations are running as normal, with no widespread cancellations or delays. ACSA continues to work closely with airlines and operational teams to ensure the safe and efficient movement of passengers,” it said on Saturday. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Yellow Level 4 Warning for severe thunderstorms that are expected in Mpumalanga, Limpopo, and KwaZulu-Natal on Sunday.

“Severe thunderstorms with heavy downpours leading to localised flooding of low-lying areas, susceptible roads and bridges, as well as localised damage to infrastructure, settlements (informal), property, vehicles, livelihood, and livestock in the Lowveld of Mpumalanga, extreme south-eastern Lowveld of Limpopo, and the north-eastern parts of KwaZulu-Natal [are expected],” said the SAWS.

In addition, a Yellow Level 2 Warning for severe thunderstorms has been issued for the Free State, North West, the eastern parts of the Northern Cape, and the extreme western parts of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng (excluding the extreme north) and the Highveld of Mpumalanga. 

Heavy downpours, leading to localised flooding of low-lying areas, susceptible roads and bridges, as well as localised damage to infrastructure, settlements (informal), property, vehicles, livelihood, and livestock are expected. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed the reappointment of Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi as the Provincial Commissioner of KwaZulu-Natal on a five-year fixed-term contract.

In a statement on Saturday, the SAPS said the reappointment follows consultation with the Premier of the KwaZulu-Natal province, Thamsanqa Ntuli.

“Further details will be provided in due course. [National Police Commissioner] General [Fannie] Masemola has wished Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi well as he continues to provide stability and decisive leadership in the province of KwaZulu-Natal,” said the police. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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