Category: Africa

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National Dialogue enters next phase towards appointment of the Steering Committee

Source: President of South Africa –

The National Dialogue process has reached a pivotal stage with the completion of the nomination of sectoral representatives to the National Dialogue Steering Committee. 

The first National Convention, held on 15-16 August 2025, approved the mandate, responsibilities and composition of the Steering Committee, and agreed that each of the identified sectors would hold consultations to decide on nominees to serve on the Steering Committee and its sub-committees.

No less than 26 sectors have to date submitted nominations for the Steering Committee.

The list of nominated Steering Committee members has been handed over to the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) for quality assurance. For its part, the EPG will submit its recommendations to the President in his role as head of state and convener of the National Dialogue for finalisation.

Once approved by the President, the Steering Committee will coordinate the roll out of public dialogues across the country.

It is anticipated that the process of appointing the Steering Committee will be concluded in the coming weeks.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has received the Handover Report of the Convention Organising Committee (COC) and the Report on the National Convention, bringing to an end the mandate of the COC.

The Convention Organising Committee was tasked by the President with organising the first National Convention following the withdrawal of some foundations from the process.

President Ramaphosa said: “As a country, we owe a great debt of gratitude to the members of the Convention Organising Committee. Working with the Eminent Persons Group and the Inter-Ministerial Committee, the committee made sure that hundreds of delegates from around the country were able to gather at the National Convention to endorse and to launch the National Dialogue. Through a truly collective effort, the National Convention proceeding smoothly and gave people from all sectors an opportunity to express themselves.”

“We must also recognise the vital role played by the legacy foundations and other civil society organisations in the Preparatory Task Team, which were instrumental in getting the National Dialogue off the ground.”

“It is extremely important now that the momentum that has been built up and the expectations that have been raised are not allowed to dissipate. We need to ensure that as the Steering Committee is established, there is no disruption in the processes that need to happen,” he said.

The Eminent Persons Group (EPG), the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) and the Presidency remain custodians of the process’s integrity and will continue to safeguard its credibility until it is handed over to the Steering Committee. 

Work is underway to establish a fully-fledged National Dialogue Secretariat, housed at NEDLAC, which will provide institutional support to the process. 

The Report of the National Convention is available for download: https://tinyurl.com/4v7z7rfu

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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NPA warns against dissemination of fake news

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, October 17, 2025

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has warned against the dissemination of fake news from parody social media accounts acting as legitimate news publications.

This after a fake news report attributed comments to the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), Advocate Shamila Batohi, on her term of office.

“The account that has come to our attention with the fake content quoting the NDPP is ‘Forever Yena News’, but there could be more of a similar nature. One account, ‘Dear Cape Town’, seems to draw content from that fake news platform, and has further shared it as if it is fact.

“The general public is warned to be circumspect and verify information before accepting content as fact, reposting and sharing this content on other platforms, as it is fake and does not represent the NDPP’s or NPA’s views or comments,” the NPA said in a statement on Thursday.

It further warned of the impact that fake news has on the credibility of the prosecutorial body.
“Do not forward unverified information that may mislead and misinform other people, and report suspected accounts on the respective social media platforms.

“Such fake news undermines the collective fight of good people for justice and the rule of law in this country. The NDPP and her team still have a lot of work to do in the remainder of her term and remain focused on that,” the NPA concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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Deputy President advances SA-Türkiye relations

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will deliver keynote addresses at the South Africa-Türkiye Business Council and the 5th Biennial Türkiye Africa Business and Economic Forum, which will be held in Istanbul today.

Friday’s engagements form part of the Deputy President’s working visit to Türkiye where he co-chaired the inaugural Bi-National Commission (BNC) between the two countries. 

The BNC was convened in accordance with the 2012 agreement that established the commission, which is to be co-chaired at the Deputy President and Vice-President levels, respectively.

In Ankara on Wednesday, the Deputy President co-chaired the BNC with Türkiye’s Vice-President, Cevdet Yılmaz. 

READ | Deputy President begins Türkiye working visit 

The discussions concluded with a signing ceremony for several agreements between the two countries, which included the Joint Declaration on the Establishment of the Joint Economic and Trade Commission (JETCO) and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in the fields of higher education and training, as well as cooperation regarding special economic zones and free zones.

The Deputy President led the second day of bilateral discussions between South Africa and Türkiye on Thursday.
According to the Presidency, he also engaged with the ATA Holding group, chaired by Korhan Kurdoğlu, who expressed the company’s eagerness to invest in South Africa. 

Their interests include food production and agribusiness, cold chain logistics and distribution, science and technology, digital transformation, infrastructure, foreign trade synergies, financial services, co-investments, as well as sports, culture, and tourism.

Meanwhile, the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition coordinated several engagements, including a bilateral meeting with Dr Mehmet Demiroğlu, CEO of TAI/TUSAŞ, and a discussion with Ahmet Akyol, CEO and President of Aselsan.

He also took the time to visit the Anıtkabir Mausoleum in Ankara and laid a wreath to honour Türkiye’s founder and first President, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.

“I sincerely hope that your immortal spirit will guide our discussions and the high-level dialogue and joint decision-making that our two countries will be engaged in, for mutual development, cooperation and lasting prosperity. We are honoured to be in this sacred midst of history and greatness,” the Deputy President said.

The Deputy President is accompanied on the working visit by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola; Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau; and Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Bonginkosi Nzimande. 

He is also joined by Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Angie Motshekga; Minister of Tourism Patricia De Lille; Deputy Minister of Agriculture Nokuzola Capa; Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Peace Mabe; and Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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SIU to claw back R2.4m from unlawful PPE contract

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, October 17, 2025

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has secured a court order for the recovery of R2.4 million following a judgment declaring a multimillion rand Mpumalanga Health Department personal protective equipment (PPE) contract unlawful.

The order – granted by the Special Tribunal – directs Nozihle Construction and Projects CC to repay the money related to an April 2020 contract for the supply of 100 000 3-ply surgical masks valued at some R2.645 million.

“The tribunal found that the contract was unlawful and void because Nozihle Construction and Projects CC was not licensed as a distributor of medical devices with the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority, as mandatorily required by the Medicines and Related Substances Act, 1965.

“The order affirms the SIU’s argument that any transaction performed in contravention of statutory prohibition is void. The recoverable amount of R2 427 333.30 represents the difference between the price paid by the department and the average price for masks on National Treasury’s transversal contracts,” the SIU said.

The company was also ordered to pay the costs of the corruption busting unit’s counsel.

“This judgment is a critical outcome of the SIU’s relentless efforts to recover public funds lost during the COVID-19 national state of disaster. 

“It sends a clear message that suppliers who fail to meet essential legal requirements have no entitlement to profit from the State, and the SIU will use its litigation powers to the fullest to ensure such funds are returned.

“In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996, the SIU will refer any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during its investigation to the National Prosecuting Authority for further action,” the SIU said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Panel to select new NDPP convenes first meeting

Source: Government of South Africa

Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has convened the first meeting of the Advisory Panel for the Selection of the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) on Thursday.

The panel is tasked with identifying and interviewing individuals worthy of consideration for the position of NDPP with current incumbent, Advocate Shamila Batohi, set to retire in January.

“The meeting marked a significant step towards ensuring capable, ethical, and independent leadership for the NPA, confirming the Panel’s mandate and outlining its operational framework.

“The panel adopted the terms of reference guiding the selection process, reviewed the advertisement calling for nominations and applications, and agreed on timelines for shortlisting and interviews, ensuring a transparent, merit-based, and efficient process,” the department said in a statement.

Members of the panel – which is chaired by the Minister – are:

  • Chairperson of the South African Human Rights Commission, Andrew Christoffel Nissen.
  • Chairperson of the Commission for Gender Equality, Nthabiseng Sepanya-Mogale.
  • Auditor-General of South Africa, Tsakani Maluleke.
  • Chairperson of the Public Service Commission, Professor Somadoda Fikeni.
  • President of the Black Lawyers Association, Nkosana Mvundlela.

Nominations and applications will be sought through the following timeline:

  • 18 – 19 October 2025: Advertisement placed in the media.
  • 07 November 2025: Closing date for applications and nominations.
  • 17 – 21 November 2025: Shortlisting and screening of candidates.
  • 22 November – 06 December: Public comments on shortlisted candidates.
  • 07 – 11 December: Interviews of shortlisted candidates.

“This transparent and merit-based approach follows the precedent set during the appointment of the current NDPP, Advocate Shamila Batohi, whose term concludes in January 2026.

“The panel will ensure that all candidates meet the requirements set out in Section 9 of the National Prosecuting Authority Act, 1998, and are capable of acting independently, free from improper influence, and without fear, favour, or prejudice.

“Members of the panel acknowledged the significance and gravity of the task before them and committed to diligently ensuring that a fit and proper candidate is appointed to this important position,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

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Beni : la Mission de l’Organisation des Nations unies en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO) renforce les capacités judiciaires face aux défis de la cryptomonnaie et du financement du terrorisme

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Dans un contexte marqué par l’évolution rapide des technologies numériques et financières, la MONUSCO intensifie son appui aux institutions judiciaires congolaises. Depuis le 13 octobre, une formation spécialisée se déroule à Beni à l’intention d’inspecteurs de police judiciaire ainsi que de magistrats civils et militaires.

Organisée par la section d’Appui à la justice, cette session de deux semaines sur le thème « La cryptomonnaie et les échanges chiffrés : nouveaux défis pour la lutte contre le financement du terrorisme » réunit dix participants, dont deux femmes, et s’achèvera le 24 octobre 2025.

Le commandant Rhafer Ahnouche, expert en investigation numérique, précise que cette initiative vise à « renforcer les capacités des acteurs judiciaires face aux mutations technologiques et financières qui complexifient la traçabilité des flux monétaires. Ces outils peuvent être détournés pour financer des activités illicites, notamment le terrorisme et la criminalité organisée ».

Les travaux portent sur la compréhension des mécanismes de la cryptomonnaie, l’identification des risques liés à son utilisation, la collecte et l’analyse de preuves numériques, ainsi que la coopération entre institutions judiciaires et sécuritaires.

La magistrate Deborah Mabondani, substitut du Procureur près le Tribunal de paix de Beni, salue cette initiative : « Cette formation prolonge celle que nous avions suivie sur le financement du terrorisme. Elle nous permet d’approfondir nos connaissances des technologies employées dans les transactions suspectes et les échanges chiffrés. Ces compétences renforceront notre capacité à détecter et à poursuivre les cas de financement illicite ».

Cette activité s’inscrit dans la stratégie de la MONUSCO visant à appuyer la justice congolaise dans la lutte contre l’impunité, le crime organisé et le terrorisme à travers le renforcement des compétences techniques et opérationnelles des acteurs judiciaires.

Distribué par APO Group pour Mission de l’Organisation des Nations unies en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO).

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Zoom sur l’Association Balawa de Bossangoa

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


À l’occasion de la Journée internationale de la femme rurale, célébrée chaque année le 15 octobre, les femmes rurales de Bossangoa (Nord-ouest de la RCA) sont à l’honneur avec la transformation des produits agricoles locaux pour améliorer leur quotidien et celui de leur communauté. Parmi elles, l’Association Balawa (Karité), véritable modèle d’autonomisation et de solidarité féminine et dont les actions se décuplent grâce à l’appui de la MINUSCA.

Komi Ambroise Dagnon / Ingrid Josette Souembot née Sandanga

Cette association a connu des débuts modestes, mais la détermination de ses membres a été sans faille. En 2023, la visite à Bossangoa de la cheffe de la MINUSCA, Valentine Rugwabiza, a marqué un tournant. Touchée par la ténacité de ces femmes, elle leur a promis un appui concret. Une promesse qui a désormais pris corps avec la construction d’un bâtiment pour abriter les activités de l’association.

Céline Gambor, présidente de l’Association des Femmes Balawa, témoigne : « nous sommes à ce niveau grâce à l’appui de la MINUSCA. Avant, il n’y avait pas d’aire de séchage, pas de salle de formation, le matériel de travail était étalé à même le sol. Aujourd’hui, nous avons tout ça ».

Pour la Mission des Nations Unies en Centrafrique, cet accompagnement s’inscrit pleinement dans son mandat. Hélène Ida Zomahoun, coordinatrice des Affaires civiles à Bossangoa, souligne le rôle central des femmes dans la reconstruction de leur pays :

« On ne peut pas parler de relèvement économique sans donner de capacités aux femmes, sans les autonomiser dans leurs initiatives. L’Association Balawa effectue un travail énorme de transformation, mais aussi de formation. Elle transmet son savoir-faire, et c’est ce qui fait toute sa force », fait-elle remarquer, rappelant que « dans son mandat, la MINUSCA appuie le relèvement économique ».

Dans une salle flambant neuve, des femmes s’affairent autour de bassines et de moulins. Ici, on transforme le karité, le néré, le maïs, l’igname et même le miel. Depuis sa création en 2001, Balawa forme chaque année une centaine de femmes.

Une dynamique dont bénéficie Clotilde, mère célibataire : « Je suis divorcée et mère de cinq enfants. C’est grâce à l’Association Balawa que j’arrive à subvenir aux besoins de mes enfants. Je suis infiniment reconnaissante à Maman Céline [présidente de l’Association] pour cette opportunité ».

Afin d’améliorer les rendements de production, l’Association Balawa plaide aujourd’hui pour l’installation d’un point d’eau potable, le plus proche se trouvant à plusieurs centaines de mètres du site de transformation.

Distribué par APO Group pour United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).

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Democratic Republic of the Congo – Goma: International Day of the Girl Celebrated Under the Banner of Peace, Rights, and Leadership

Source: APO – Report:

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The International Day of the Girl was marked on 14 October in Goma by the BI-ESTHER Foundation, with support from MONUSCO’s Gender Section. Around fifty young girls from various local organizations took part in a workshop focused on their rights, their role in peacebuilding, and efforts to end gender-based violence.

In this province of eastern DRC, scarred by years of armed conflict, girls and young women remain among the most affected by violence. The Executive Director of the BI-ESTHER Foundation, Mignonne Zaina, painted a somber picture of their situation:

“Girls in North Kivu have suffered deeply during this war. Many have been raped, others manipulated, and some are still missing today.” She emphasized the purpose of the event: “Today was about reminding every girl that she has a day dedicated to her — a moment to focus on her rights and to stand up against sexual abuse and exploitation.”

Promoting peace and empowerment

The workshop encouraged participants to take an active role in building peace and driving change within their communities. “We brought together girls from different backgrounds and associations to talk about peace in conflict areas, their involvement in resolving conflicts, and the peace process itself. It’s time for girls to take the lead and say no to anything that harms them,” said Zaina.

MONUSCO’s Gender and Child Protection Sections also used the occasion to raise awareness about UN Security Council Resolutions 1325 and 2250, one calling for greater participation of women in peace and security, and the other recognizing the essential role of youth in conflict prevention and peacebuilding.

Nathalie Koné Traoré from MONUSCO urged survivors to speak out: “To young girls who have experienced sexual violence, I say: break the silence and report your abusers. You have a vital role to play in restoring peace. Build your leadership, get involved, and make your voices heard!”

Inspiring determination and hope

Among the participants, determination and emotion were palpable. Faida Masika, one of the attendees, shared her resolve: “We learned a lot. From now on, we’ll not only fight sexual violence but also encourage others to start small businesses to challenge negative social attitudes.”.Held under the theme “Invest in the power of girls: our leadership, our future,” the event strengthened awareness of girls’ rights, potential, and role in shaping a better future for the region.

In a province marked by conflict and instability, the celebration offered young girls not only a platform to express themselves but also renewed hope for a more inclusive and equal future. Through education, leadership, advocacy, and economic empowerment, the girls of North Kivu are determined to become true agents of peace and change.

– on behalf of Mission de l’Organisation des Nations unies en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO).

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Justice Committee Recommends that South Africa (SA) Human Rights Commission Vacancy Process be Restarted

Source: APO – Report:

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The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development yesterday adopted its report recommending to the National Assembly (NA) that the process to appoint a Commissioner to the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) be re-started, after a procedural issue halted the process.

In a letter to the Speaker, dated 22 January 2024, the Chairperson of the SAHRC informed the NA of a vacancy created within the SAHRC following the resignation of the Deputy Chairperson, Ms Fatima Chohan. Ms Chohan’s resignation came into effect from 1 April 2024.

On 30 October 2024, the committee met to discuss the nominations/applications it received. It agreed to a shortlist of eight candidates. The committee interviewed the candidates on 19 November 2024, said Committee Chairperson Mr Xola Nqola.

He went on to say that deliberations took place on 2 April 2025, during which a debate arose about whether committee members who had not participated in the interviews should be able to deliberate and vote on a preferred candidate. The committee resolved to defer its decision on the vacancy to receive procedural advice on the application of Rule 115 of the NA Rules.

According to Mr Nqola, during a further meeting on 28 May 2025, the committee found itself unable to agree on a candidate to recommend for the position of full-time commissioner and/or of the Deputy Chairperson.

“Voting was, therefore, deferred once again. “The committee recommends that the process of filling the vacancy begin afresh,” emphasised Mr Nqola.

– on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

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South Africa: Public Service Committee Halts Meeting with KZN Provincial Government

Source: APO – Report:

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The Portfolio Committee on Public Service and Administration halted its engagement with the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government this morning due to the absence of members of the provincial executive council (MECs), the Premier or any of their authorised representatives.

The committee has been conducting oversight in the province this week to assess access to and the quality of frontline public services, under the theme “Ensuring Good Governance through Human Resource Management Practices in the Public Service”. As part of its oversight visit, the provincial government and administration were scheduled to brief the committee on the prevalence of ghost workers in provincial departments and the impact on the public wage bill. However, the committee was met by senior officials, most of whom were in acting heads of departments positions, including the acting Director-General for the Office of the Premier.

Members stated that the absence of political leadership is not only contrary to protocol but would hinder the meeting’s progress and the substance of discussions. The committee noted that the Office of the Premier and the KZN Provincial Legislature were fully aware of the committee’s oversight visit, and at no time did the committee receive any indication that neither the Premier, nor his political delegate, nor MECs would attend the meeting.

After confirming the absence and consulting with committee members, the Chairperson of the committee, Mr Jan de Villiers, decided to halt the meeting. “It is standard parliamentary protocol and also in the interest of accountability and transparency that the MECs or their designated representatives are present for the committee to engage substantively on matters before it. Without their participation, the committee was unable to fulfil its mandate for the session,” said the Chairperson.

The committee regrets the inconvenience caused to members, stakeholders and members of the public. “We are committed to upholding the principles and values of democratic oversight,” said the Chairperson.

– on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.