Category: Africa

By David Jacobs 
As South Africa marks Youth Month, we are reminded that the defining challenge facing this generation is fundamentally different from what confronted the youth of 1976. While previous generations fought for political freedom, today’s young people are engaged in a struggle for economic inclusion, opportunity and meaningful participation in the economy.

At the centre of this challenge lies youth unemployment, one of the most pressing obstacles facing our nation. Addressing it requires creating opportunities at scale, lowering barriers to entry, fostering entrepreneurship and supporting sectors capable of generating jobs across both urban and rural communities.
Tourism is one such sector. Over the past few years, it has demonstrated remarkable resilience, emerging as a major contributor to economic growth, job creation and business development. The latest Tourism Satellite Account report shows that tourism contributed R361.7 billion to the economy in 2024, accounting for 4.9 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP). In doing so, it outperformed several traditional sectors, including agriculture, utilities and construction, underscoring its growing importance to South Africa’s economic future.

Tourism’s impact is perhaps most evident in employment. In 2024, the sector sustained 954 000 direct jobs, meaning that one in every 18 jobs in South Africa is supported by tourism. The industry now employs more people than agriculture, mining or utilities individually, making it one of the country’s largest sources of employment. For every 13 international tourists who visit South Africa, one job is created or sustained.

This employment potential is being reinforced by a strong recovery in visitor numbers. South Africa welcomed 10.5 million tourists in 2025, up from 8.9 million in 2024, while nearly one million arrivals were recorded in April 2026 alone. This growth not only reaffirms South Africa’s appeal as a world-class destination but also highlights tourism’s ability to stimulate economic activity, support small businesses and create opportunities throughout the country.

As President Cyril Ramaphosa noted during his opening of Africa’s Travel Indaba this year, tourism “distributes economic activity across communities” and “opens opportunities for everyone”. Every visitor creates demand for accommodation, transport, food services, cultural experiences and local enterprises. The benefits therefore extend far beyond the tourism sector itself, reaching small businesses, community initiatives and informal traders whose livelihoods depend on visitor spending.

Recognising tourism’s ability to spread economic activity across cities, towns and rural communities, government has introduced programmes to expand participation in the sector. The Market Access Support Programme helps small tourism enterprises, including youth-owned businesses, connect with markets and unlock new growth opportunities.

These enterprises also stand to benefit from South Africa’s growing business events industry. Through the South African National Convention Bureau, the country has secured 66 international and regional conferences expected to contribute more than R1.2 billion to the economy between 2025 and 2030. Hosted across a range of destinations, these events will boost local economies and create opportunities throughout the tourism value chain.

Government is also investing in programmes that empower young people to become entrepreneurs and innovators. The Tourism Technology Grassroots Innovation Incubator Programme supports young entrepreneurs to develop technology-driven solutions that can modernise the industry, while the Tourism Transformation Fund provides financial support to black-owned tourism enterprises, helping to expand participation and unlock opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs.

Tourism’s greatest promise, however, lies in its ability to create pathways into the economy for young people. As a labour-intensive industry, it is uniquely positioned to absorb new entrants into the workforce while equipping them with valuable skills and experience. From hospitality and tour guiding to transport, digital marketing and cultural enterprises, tourism offers diverse avenues for employment and entrepreneurship.

Government continues to strengthen these pathways through targeted skills development initiatives in the tourism sector. During the previous financial year, more than 800 Technical and Vocational Education and Training students were placed in workplaces through partnerships with Harambee and the Youth Employment Service to complete the practical training required for graduation. 

The sector is also embracing technological change, with young innovators participating in initiatives that explore how artificial intelligence can drive inclusive growth and job creation in tourism.

As we commemorate Youth Month, we should remember that the aspirations of young South Africans have not changed. Like the generation of 1976, they seek dignity, opportunity and the ability to shape their own futures. Tourism as one of the country’s most inclusive and labour-intensive sectors, has the capacity to create jobs, nurture entrepreneurs, develop skills and spread opportunity across the country.

*Jacobs is Chief Director :Cluster Communication at the Government Communication and Information System 
 

0

South Africa and Rwanda have reaffirmed their commitment to rebuilding and strengthening bilateral relations, with International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola saying the two countries are determined to deepen cooperation across a range of sectors and contribute to peace and stability on the African continent.

Lamola hosted Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe, in Pretoria on Wednesday as part of ongoing efforts to normalise and revitalise relations between the two countries.

Addressing the bilateral meeting, Lamola welcomed his counterpart and conveyed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s greetings to Rwandan President Paul Kagame.

“Our two Heads of States share a profound and deep commitment to reset and re-energise our bilateral relations. Furthermore, they also have a common love for Africa and the great promise this continent holds for its people, their wishes for a stable, secure, and prosperous Africa,” Lamola said. 

He said South Africa and Rwanda have a responsibility to work more closely together, noting that both countries emerged from painful histories.

“Both our countries emerge from painful pasts, from the apartheid era in South Africa and the genocide against the Tutsi people in Rwanda. We will not forget and will forever remember the heroes and the heroines who laid their lives to nurture and build foundation for the two nations that are South Africa and Rwanda today.”

He added that the visit by the Rwandan delegation reflects the commitment of both governments to advance the revitalisation and strengthening of bilateral relations.

“The normalisation of relations thus assumes great significance. This visit takes place at an important moment in our relationship, it provides an opportunity to consolidate the progress made thus far, addressing outstanding issues through constructive dialogue and openness, and chart a clear path towards a more stable and mutually beneficial partnership.”

Sectors for cooperation 
Lamola said Presidents Ramaphosa and Kagame had directed that efforts be intensified to strengthen bilateral relations across various sectors.

He said foundations already existed to enhance collaboration in trade and investment, infrastructure development, people-to-people exchanges, socio-cultural ties, tourism, wildlife conservation, health and education.

“It is important that we redouble our efforts to ensure that levels of trade and investment are increased for the mutual benefits of our countries. Rwanda hosts numerous South African companies, and it is therefore important that the presence of Rwandan companies in South Africa is also increased.”

Lamola commended Rwanda for progress made in sectors such as digital technology, agro-processing, tourism, health and education, as well as for successfully hosting major sporting events and international conferences.

Peace and security and global affairs 
The Minister highlighted the importance of peace and security on the continent, saying South Africa and Rwanda should be at the forefront of strengthening the African Union’s peace and security architecture.

“Conflicts and wars in various parts of our continent continue to be a threat to fulfilment of Agenda 2063, the Africa we want. By silencing the guns and achieving peace and stability, we will strengthen our prospects for economic development and ultimate prosperity on the continent,” he said. 

Lamola thanked Rwanda for its collaboration in supporting peace efforts in South Sudan through the African Union Committee of Five.

Turning to global affairs, Lamola said the international environment had become increasingly fragile and unpredictable, placing multilateralism under pressure.

“In this context, continued impetus and focus should be on reforming the global system of governance, including the United Nations Security Council. The voice of the developing world, represented by the Global South and the African continent, should find permanent expression in the United Nations Security Council,” the Minister said. 

He said Africa should have a greater voice on issues such as debt restructuring, development financing, climate change, health, energy and food security.

“We should not be marginal players in this regard,” he emphasised. 

Lamola also noted South Africa’s role as incoming Chair of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), saying the country would work with member states to deepen regional integration and share lessons with other regional blocs, including the East African Community.

“Regional integration in the respective regional communities throughout our continent is a critical objective that should be pursued in a globally competitive environment. Africa is already a force to be reckoned with, but we need to collaborate more and work towards regional integration,” he said. 

He concluded by welcoming the Rwandan delegation and expressing confidence in the outcomes of the bilateral engagement. – SAnews.gov.za

 

5

Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth has welcomed an agreement which clears a pathway towards stabilising Tongaat Hulett and securing the future of the sugar industry value chain.

The agreement, concluded between the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), Tongaat Hulett’s business rescue practitioners and the Vision Group, is expected to preserve approximately 250 000 jobs across the sugar industry value chain.

 

In a statement on Thursday, Minister Meth commended the decisive intervention by the IDC and acknowledged its leadership in extending post-commencement finance and its commitment to restructuring this support into equity.  

The Minister said the move would strengthen the company’s capital structure and position it for sustainable recovery.

“This landmark agreement marks a pivotal turning point following a prolonged period of uncertainty, including the imminent risk of liquidation. The decision by all parties to pursue a collaborative solution that preserves operations and protects value across the ecosystem is both timely and commendable,” Meth said. 

She added that the IDC’s intervention demonstrated its commitment to supporting industrial capacity.

“The agreement is of profound importance to the broader economy, as it is expected to preserve approximately 250 000 jobs across the sugar industry value chain, including workers, growers, suppliers, and dependent communities in South Africa and the region. 

 

“This intervention not only protects livelihoods but also ensures continuity in a strategic sector that underpins rural economies and regional trade,” the Minister said.

According to the Minister, the participation of Vision Group as a long-term investor further strengthens the prospects for recovery.

She said Vision Group’s commitment to invest in operations, support growers and suppliers, and restore stability to the business signals renewed confidence in the sector and creates a platform for sustainable growth.

Meth also welcomed the withdrawal of the liquidation application, saying it clears the way for the implementation of the approved business rescue plan and reinforces the shared objective of stabilising the company and enabling its successful exit from business rescue.

“This agreement underscores the power of strategic partnerships between the public sector, private investors, and key stakeholders in addressing complex economic challenges. It reflects a collective commitment to safeguarding productive assets, transforming industries, and driving inclusive growth across the Southern African region.”

 

Meth reiterated government’s support for initiatives aimed at strengthening industrial resilience, protecting jobs and promoting investment in key sectors such as agriculture and agro-processing.

“The preservation of Tongaat Hulett is not only a corporate turnaround, but it is a critical step towards securing food systems, sustaining rural economies, and advancing economic transformation,” she said.

READ | Minister Tau welcomes withdrawal of Tongaat Hulett liquidation

Government, the Minister said, will continue working closely with all stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the agreement and to support the long-term stability and competitiveness of the sugar industry. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

2

President Cyril Ramaphosa on Wednesday met with religious and interfaith leaders at the Union Buildings in Pretoria to discuss migration and the National Dialogue, as government continues to implement a comprehensive approach to migration management.

The meeting follows government’s recent announcement of measures aimed at managing migration and comes amid growing public concern over illegal immigration.

This as South Africans have raised concerns about migration, and illegal immigration in particular. 
President Ramaphosa noted that these concerns arise in conditions of persistently high unemployment, poverty and hardship, as well as in communities affected by crime, violence and corruption and increasing pressure on public services.

However, the President emphasised that illegal immigration is not the cause of South Africa’s social and economic challenges.

“To tackle the challenges our country faces, we need faster and more inclusive growth, investment and the creation of jobs. We need to strengthen our efforts to tackle poverty and hunger. We must build safer communities by addressing the causes of crime, improving policing and ending corruption. 

“Migration is not the cause of our problems, but it is something that we must manage constructively and collectively, always holding firm to our Constitutional principles and shared values,” he said.

President Ramaphosa called on religious and interfaith leaders to work with government and other social partners to ensure that frustration over migration does not lead to hatred or intolerance. 

READ | Faith leaders urged to help shape SA’s migration response

“We must demonstrate that there is a better way to manage these genuine concerns – a way that builds cohesion in communities and strengthens the bonds between us,” President Ramaphosa said.  

The President also highlighted the importance of the National Dialogue, saying both migration and the dialogue process touch on the values that bind South Africans together and the shared responsibility to build a better future.

He underscored the role of faith communities in ensuring the success and inclusivity of the National Dialogue.

“Faith communities are vital to this endeavour, for you reach into every village, township and suburb. The National Dialogue continues our proud tradition of coming together to confront our challenges, to build consensus and to chart a course for the future. At every defining moment in our history, we have found our way forward through dialogue with one another.

“The National Dialogue is a people-led process that unfolds from local dialogue to national gatherings, through which all South Africans are able to define a vision and plan for our country,” President Ramaphosa said.

The religious and interfaith leaders welcomed government’s comprehensive approach to migration management, which is anchored on five pillars: the enforcement of migration laws, securing South Africa’s borders, strengthening immigration systems, closing gaps in laws and policies, and working with sister African countries through diplomatic channels.

Among the issues raised by religious and interfaith leaders was the need to strengthen law enforcement’s response to vigilantism, amplify government communication efforts, enhance diplomatic engagement and address the situation in Sherwood, Durban, in KwaZulu-Natal.

Government said the Department of Home Affairs has begun deportation proceedings through dedicated priority courts to accelerate the processing of Malawian nationals seeking to leave the country.

The intervention follows capacity challenges affecting the Malawian government’s repatriation efforts. The Department of Social Development will also mobilise resources to provide relief assistance.

President Ramaphosa expressed appreciation to the religious and interfaith leaders for their contributions and inputs during the engagement. – SAnews.gov.za

 

4

Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister, Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube, will on Friday officially launch the Artisan and Skills Development Centre and the Renewable Energy Training Centre at Elangeni TVET College in Inchanga, KwaZulu-Natal.

Hosted under the theme: “Skills Revolution Realised – From Skills to Production – From Training to Transformation”, the launch underscores the college’s strategic drive to ensure that skills development translates into meaningful production, employment opportunities, and socio-economic transformation.

The Artisan and Skills Development Centre represents a significant investment in artisan training and occupational skills development, aimed at strengthening the pipeline of skilled workers required to support South Africa’s economic growth and industrial development.

A key component of the initiative is the Renewable Energy Training Centre, established through a strategic partnership between Elangeni TVET College, the Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (EWSETA), the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), and the Chinese Culture and International Education Exchange Centre (CCIEEC). The collaboration supports international knowledge exchange and enhances the college’s capacity to deliver specialised renewable energy training.

The department said the centre is designed to strengthen training in renewable energy technologies, particularly photovoltaic systems, and to support South Africa’s just energy transition agenda by equipping students with practical, industry-relevant skills.

“In addition, a career exhibition will highlight vocational pathways across artisan trades and the renewable energy sector, reinforcing Elangeni TVET College’s role in expanding access to skills and employment opportunities,” the department said in a statement.

The launch marks a major milestone in Elangeni TVET college’s ongoing efforts to strengthening artisan development, occupational training, and future-focused skills delivery. – SAnews.gov.za 

0

Bafana Bafana will take on Czechia in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Group A encounter at Atlanta Stadium in the United States, with kick-off scheduled for 6 pm on Thursday.

“The South African senior men’s national team will be determined to return to winning ways, and coach Hugo Broos described this as a massive encounter following the 0-2 defeat to tournament co-hosts Mexico in the opening match of the global event a few days ago,” the South African Football Association (SAFA) said on its website.

Bafana Bafana will, however, return to the pitch without midfielder Themba Zwane, who has been suspended for three matches after receiving a red card in the opening fixture against Mexico last Thursday.

Bafana has also urged supporters in Atlanta to join a festive pre-match celebratory march ahead of the showdown.

“We will be marching together along the route from Founders Green straight to the Atlanta Stadium! Arrive early to vibe with us. There will be live music, food, and drinks to get the pre-match party started.

“Bring your flags, wear your jerseys, and warm up those vocal cords. Let’s show Atlanta how South Africans show up. See you there,” the team said on its X account. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

8

Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Maropene Ramokgopa is leading the South African delegation to the High-Level Consultative Conference on the African Union-led United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution A/RES/80/250 on the Transatlantic Slave Trade.

Taking place in Accra, Ghana, the conference, which gets underway on Thursday, 18 June 2026, is expected to deliberate on and adopt outcomes aimed at advancing the implementation of the UNGA Resolution, including the formulation of a global post-adoption framework to guide its implementation.

“The high-level conference is expected to bring together Heads of State and Government, Ministers, global reparations experts, legal practitioners, academics, civil society representatives, and delegates from regional and international organisations,” the Ministry of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation said in a statement ahead of the conference, which will conclude on Friday.

South Africa welcomes and supports the convening of the conference.

“The country believes that the call for reparatory justice for Africa and People of African Descent should be linked to a broader development agenda that addresses the enduring socio-economic consequences of the transatlantic slave trade, including debt burdens, poverty, inequality, and underdevelopment.

“South Africa further supports the key principles contained in the proposed Global Strategic Framework, which reflects and builds upon the extensive work undertaken by the African Union over many years in advancing the cause of historical justice, restitution, and sustainable development for affected communities,” the Ministry said.

The conference provides an important platform for advancing global dialogue and forging consensus on practical measures that can contribute to restorative justice and equitable development outcomes for Africa and the African diaspora.

South Africa looks forward to constructive deliberations and a successful outcome that will contribute meaningfully to the implementation of the Resolution and the advancement of the African Union’s longstanding position on reparatory justice. – SAnews.gov.za

0