Category: Africa

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Media, advertising and communication sector vital in connecting SA

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong says the media, advertising and communication (MAC) sector not only connects South Africans as compatriots but also with the rest of the continent and the global community.

“It is a sector that draws on the creative spirit of our nation, both to celebrate and magnify the best of who and what we are,” Morolong said.

Speaking at the inaugural Out-Of Home (OOH) Media Owner’s Session in Johannesburg on Tuesday, Morolong said the sector can help the country overcome the many persistent challenges that confront society and the economy. 

“Our expectations of this sector are therefore onerous,” Morolong said at the gathering, which brings together media owners across all scales – from established industry leaders to emerging independent operators fostering meaningful dialogue built on unity, transparency, and the collective commitment to advancing the OOH landscape.

Morolong said government viewed the broader MAC and Out-of-Home-Media as crucial to creating jobs, alleviating poverty and growing the South African economy.

“We undertook to have a government that develops investor-friendly policies, laws and regulations including municipal by-laws.”

He said the creative sector should be supported by government and by the private sector as a sector that has great potential for growth and job creation.

“This represents an enormous challenge for the South African government, and we will look to this forum to provide leadership and advice on how best government can match other countries’ successes in redressing the economic imbalances in a digital and multi-platform environment.

“In 2024, government and the private sector joined hands to celebrate 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy across the country. We are proud to report that several policies have been implemented by government to facilitate a better match of the demand and supply of labour. 

“The unemployed section of our population, however, often lives far from jobs, in rural areas, making transport costs unaffordable,” Morolong said.  

He said the lack of nearby amenities and expensive transport costs raise the cost of job- seeking for those least able but competent to apply.

“While there has been huge improvement from 1994 to date, unfortunately economic growth has not been equitably distributed throughout the population, making the per capita figures an inaccurate reflection of the change in well-being for the poorest segment of the population,” the Deputy Minister said.

Morolong said one of the strategic objectives of the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) is to ensure a transformed, print and digital media, advertising sector as well as community media.

“The GCIS is mandated by the B-BBEE Act of 2003 to drive the seven pillars of the B-BBEE Codes (ownership and control, management control, skills development, enterprise development, employment) through the Sector Code whose mandate is overseen by the Sector Charter Council.

“Therefore, the role of the MAC Sector Charter Council becomes more urgent to ensure that transformation is promoted, monitored and reported to the GCIS, the dtic, B-BEE Commission and the President’s Advisory Committee on B-BEE,” Morolong said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Government hands over houses to KZN flood victims

Source: Government of South Africa

Minister of Human Settlements Thembi Simelane, alongside KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Human Settlements and Transport Siboniso Duma and local municipalities’ mayors, is leading a two-day programme to hand over homes to families affected by the 2022 floods.

The programme, taking place from 19–20 August forms part of Operation Siyahlola to assess interventions made in response to disasters that affected parts of KwaZulu-Natal.

The programme includes site visits to eThekwini, uMsunduzi and Impendle Municipalities to assess progress on disaster recovery interventions.

On Tuesday morning, Simelane received a briefing on temporary residential units and long-term housing plans in the Umgungundlovu District.

Together with uMgungundlovu District Mayor, Mzi Zuma, the Minister held an engagement with the affected communities in Impendle Municipality, where she introduced a contractor to begin building permanent homes for the families affected by recent disasters.

The delegation also handed over newly built houses in Copesville to flood survivors in uMsunduzi Municipality.

According to the department, central to the planned Operation Siyahlola is the delivery of permanent houses to families affected by disasters in eThekwini and uMsunduzi Municipalities.

“Minister Simelane and the provincial government will also hand over title deeds as part of the government-wide campaign to register and hand over 80 000 title deeds by 2029, thus unlocking over 16 billion asset value.

“Working with all stakeholders, including traditional leaders and community members, the government is convinced that interventions aimed at settling all flood victims will continue to yield positive results,” the department said.

On Wednesday, Simelane is scheduled to hand over houses at the Illovo Infill and Cato Crest housing projects, both built for victims of the 2022 floods in eThekwini.

Upgraded Coedmore bridge reopens

Meanwhile, eThekwini Municipality Mayor Cyril Xaba has officially reopened the Coedmore bridge, which was severely damaged during the April 2022 floods.

The R47 million project included the construction of a 150-metre access road, installation of traffic-calming measures, and enhances surface drainage systems to improve water management.

Speaking at the recent opening of the bridge, Xaba said the state-of-the-art bridge will benefit residents by eliminating their travel time, which had increased due to detours.

“The bridge has been widened and is now two lanes. Following the damage caused by the floods, we are building back better and have rebuilt three bridges of this nature, with state-of-the-art, resilient infrastructure. So, even during heavy rains, the structures will not collapse,” Xaba said.

The project also benefited local communities, as it created 10–15 job opportunities per month, with community-based subcontractors contributing to specialised works including earthworks, concrete placement, steel fabrication, drainage installation, landscaping, and electrical services.

Xaba said this inclusive approach ensured that economic benefits were shared locally, while building skills and capacity in the area. 

Mayor Xaba noted that while completion was initially scheduled for late last year, delays were caused by unfavourable weather and unforeseen geotechnical complexities at the site.

“This rebuilt bridge is one of the three best bridges in the city. We are happy that we have these unique bridges, which have brought hope to people. We are not concerned about heavy rains as these bridges have been built to be resilient,” the mayor said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Le commandant de la Force de la Mission de l’Organisation des Nations unies en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO) à Bunia pour renforcer la coopération avec l’armée dans la protection des civils

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le commandant de la Force de la MONUSCO, le général Ulisses de Mesquita Gomes, est arrivé à Bunia lundi 18 août pour une visite consacrée à l’évaluation de la situation sécuritaire en Ituri, au renforcement de la protection des civils et à la consolidation de la coopération opérationnelle avec les Forces armées de la République démocratique du Congo (FARDC).

A son arrivée, il a rencontré le vice-gouverneur de l’Ituri et les membres du conseil provincial de sécurité. Cet échange a permis d’apprécier conjointement les défis sécuritaires actuels et de dégager des pistes de solutions afin d’améliorer l’impact des opérations menées conjointement par les FARDC et les Casques bleus de la MONUSCO dans un contexte marqué par une recrudescence des violences. À la fin du mois de juillet, une attaque armée a fait plus de quarante morts à Komanda.

Au cours de sa visite en Ituri, le commandant de la Force se rendra dans cette localité où des troupes additionnelles ont été déployées. Le général Ulisses de Mesquita Gomes ira ensuite à Fataki pour rencontrer les communautés, évaluer les besoins et adapter la posture de protection des civils sur le terrain. « Cette visite témoigne de la solidarité de la MONUSCO avec les populations de l’Ituri à la suite de l’attaque tragique de Komanda. Nous sommes ici pour évaluer la situation, renforcer la coordination avec les autorités et accroître l’efficacité de nos opérations conjointes », a déclaré le commandant de la Force.

Pour sa part, le vice-gouverneur de l’Ituri, le général Raüs Chalwe, a salué l’engagement continu de la MONUSCO ainsi que la coopération entre les FARDC et les Casques bleus : « Vous pouvez constater les patrouilles mixtes dans la province ; sans une bonne collaboration, elles n’existeraient pas. Nous agissons en prévention pour que de telles tragédies ne se reproduisent plus et pour que la population se sente en sécurité. Le dispositif sécuritaire a été renforcé, nos forces de sécurité sont à pied d’œuvre en coordination avec la MONUSCO ».

Les autorités provinciales ont exprimé des attentes claires : une protection accrue des civils pour restaurer le calme et la confiance envers les institutions ; une montée en puissance des capacités opérationnelles conjointes et un partage renforcé d’expertises ; un appui soutenu au processus de désarmement, démobilisation et réintégration à travers le PDDRC-S, avec l’implication des leaders communautaires pour faciliter la réinsertion des ex-combattants.

La MONUSCO reste profondément préoccupée par l’évolution de la situation en Ituri. Elle réaffirme sa détermination à renforcer sa posture opérationnelle, intensifier la coordination avec les FARDC et l’ensemble de ses partenaires et soutenir les efforts des autorités afin de regagner le contrôle total des zones affectées et rassurer les populations civiles.

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

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The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) launch $82.5 Million project to eliminate harmful firefighting foams in African airports

Source: APO


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The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) have jointly launched the Fortifying Infrastructure for Responsible Extinguishment (FIRE) project, which aims to phase out the use of toxic fluorinated firefighting foams and replace them with safer alternatives at major airports in Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa.  

FIRE – a $82.5 million initiative with a $10 million grant from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and $72.5 million in co-financing from partners – will phase out firefighting foams containing PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), hazardous “forever chemicals” linked to serious environmental and health risks.  

“The FIRE project shows how sector-focused action can drive the elimination of hazardous chemicals across value chains,” said Anil Sookdeo, Senior Chemicals Specialist, Global Environment Facility (GEF).  “The GEF is proud to support this effort, which we hope will inspire both participating countries and the wider aviation sector to transition to PFAS-free firefighting foams.”  

“FIRE is an important initiative that empowers countries to eliminate one of the most harmful groups of pollutants found in firefighting foam supply chains,” said Sheila Aggarwal-Khan, Director of UNEP’s Industry and Economy Division. “It supports a practical transition to safer, accessible, and affordable alternatives, showing that environmental and health protection can go hand in hand with business and operational viability.” 

A safe and sustainable transition in airports and beyond 

Together with participating airports, FIRE will support the transition from highly toxic firefighting foams  to fluorine-free foams while maintaining safety and operational integrity. These efforts are expected to promote safe removal of 4,500 tonnes of PFAS-contaminated material from fire trucks and safe disposal of 130 tonnes of PFAS-based foam concentrate.  

“This project marks a significant step forward in Kenya’s commitment to protecting public health and the environment,” said Dr Mohamud Gedi, CEO and Managing Director of Kenya’s Airport Authority. “By phasing out harmful PFAS chemicals from firefighting foams, we are safeguarding our communities and contributing to a cleaner, safer future for all.” 

“The International Civil Aviation Organization is committed to supporting the adoption of safer and more sustainable firefighting practices at airports worldwide,” said Juan Carlos Salazar, ICAO Secretary General at ICAO. “The facilitation of access to safe alternatives to PFAS foams will be a very significant step for the recipient countries.” 

Turning Global Commitments into Action 

“PFAS is an invisible pollution time bomb that demands urgent, globally coordinated action before it is too late,” said Rolph Payet, Executive Secretary of the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. “The inclusion of several major PFAS under the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants marks a critical step in international efforts to reduce exposure and environmental contamination. Initiatives like FIRE, which aim to eliminate PFAS from high-risk open applications such as firefighting foams, demonstrate how the Convention fosters multilateral cooperation, drives innovation, and transforms practices—ultimately contributing to a cleaner environment and a healthier planet and people.” 

The FIRE Project is implemented by UNEP, executed by ICAO, and funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF). This project is part of a broader set of UNEP-GEF activities dedicated to global monitoring and eliminating the use of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) and reducing the impacts of POPs on human health and the environment.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

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Suspects arrested for possession of illegal firearm and dealing in drugs

Source: Government of South Africa

Suspects arrested for possession of illegal firearm and dealing in drugs

Police members attached to Operation Shanela II, who are deployed in the Western Cape to combat the ongoing gang violence, have arrested several suspects for possession of a prohibited firearm and ammunition as well as possession and dealing in drugs in separate incidents. 

On Saturday afternoon, the police members arrested a 48-year-old female at a premises in Buall Walk, Hanover Park, Philippi for the possession of a firearm and ammunition as well as for the possession of drugs. 

The members followed up on a tip off that firearms and drugs were being stored at the mentioned address. 

They immediately operationalised the information and searched the identified premises where they confiscated a 9mm pistol with four rounds of ammunition, mandrax tablets and six sachets of tik.

Later in the afternoon at about 16:30, the members arrested a 42-year-old male for dealing in drugs at the corner of Govan Mbeki and Ottery Road, Hanover Park when he was found in possession of 300 mandrax tablets. 

“The members performed stop and search operations in the Philippi policing precinct when they saw the suspicious male at the mentioned address. 

“They stopped and searched him and found the mandrax tablets and an undisclosed amount of cash, believed to be the proceeds of crime in his possession,” the SAPS said in a statement.

The members arrested a 40-year-old male in the same vicinity for possession of drugs when he was found in possession of 50 whoonga and tik in a plastic bag.

In the Ravensmead area, the members of Operation Shanele II arrested two males, aged 22 and 45, for dealing in drugs. 

“The members deployed in the Ravensmead policing precinct performed patrols in Jakaranda Street, Uitsig in Ravensmead. 

“They saw the two males, stopped and searched them upon found 100 mandrax tablets and one plastic bag containing tik and an undisclosed amount of cash believed to be the proceeds of crime. Both were arrested and detained at Ravensmead SAPS,” the SAPS said. 

All the arrested suspects appeared in the Athlone and Goodwood Magistrate’s Courts on Monday on their respective charges. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin

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SA’s agricultural exports to US demonstrates resilience despite global trade challenges

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, August 19, 2025

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen says South Africa’s increase in agricultural exports to the United States (US) demonstrates remarkable growth and resilience in the face of significant global trade headwinds.

According to recent data from Trade Map and analysis by the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz), South Africa’s exports have not only remained competitive, but have increased in the second quarter of 2025 to US$161 million, up by 26% from the same period in 2024.

Steenhuisen welcomed the performance but stressed the importance of examining the gains with a forward-looking perspective.

“The figures speak for themselves. In the first quarter of 2025, South African agricultural exports to the US were US$118 million, up by 19% year-on-year. This growth is not merely a statistical anomaly, but a reflection of a bountiful harvest; a surge in high-quality produce, and the efficient operation of our ports,” the Minister said.

Leading export products include a variety of fruits such as citrus, grapes, apples, pears, as well as nuts and wine.

The Minister said the recent imposition of a 30% tariff on South Africa’s exports by the US has underscored the urgent need to diversify the county’s export markets and enhance its competitiveness to mitigate the economic impact of losing preferential trade access.

“The results of the second quarter of 2025 also highlight how urgent it is to resolve the ongoing tariff talks with the US. The country’s capacity to gain steady, long-term access to this important market, continues to be a top priority.

“As we continue to engage in diplomatic negotiations and work towards a more favourable trade agreement, the focus remains on ensuring that our farmers and exporters can continue to thrive in the global marketplace, securing the future of our agricultural sector,” Steenhuisen said. – SAnews.gov.za

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NHLS targets 50% reduction in toxicology backlog by 2025/26

Source: Government of South Africa

The National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) has announced a targeted strategic initiative to achieve a 50% reduction in the toxicology case backlog by the end of the 2025/26 financial year.

According to the NHLS, this initiative, supported by new investments in infrastructure, technology, and human resources, aims to significantly improve turnaround times for toxicological results across all NHLS Forensic Chemistry Laboratories (FCLs).

City Press reported that forensic laboratories are overwhelmed by significant DNA and toxicology backlogs, with some cases pending for over 17 years.

“The NHLS recognises the recent media coverage and public apprehensions regarding delays in toxicology services. These concerns are legitimate, and the organisation is committed to working diligently to stabilise and expedite service delivery within the criminal justice and forensic pathology domains,” the national public entity said. 

The NHLS reported a toxicology backlog of 40 051 cases, most of which predate the NHLS’s integration of the FCLs. 

To advance this backlog recovery plan, the NHLS said it has procured new high-output analytical instruments for its laboratories in Pretoria, Johannesburg, and Cape Town. 

“These instruments are exclusively designated for backlog samples, ensuring that they do not disrupt the processing of new incoming cases,” the entity explained. 

In addition, the NHLS has hired extra technical professionals on fixed-term contracts, whose primary responsibility will be to clear the backlog, leaving permanent employees to focus on routine casework. 

In Johannesburg, additional laboratory space has been acquired to establish a dedicated backlog processing unit. 

“New submissions will be processed in an expanded area, facilitating a critical separation of functions and creating two parallel workflows that promote faster and uninterrupted processing. A similar model has been implemented in the Pretoria FCL.” 

Meanwhile, the NHLS is also in the process of expanding its toxicology services in KwaZulu-Natal, while addressing the sample capacity in Pretoria and Cape Town FCLs.

To increase capacity, the NHLS has also launched a full technical assessment of all analytical equipment, ensuring that any faulty or out-of-date instruments are serviced or replaced immediately. 

“In addition, a structured shift system is now in place, accompanied by approved overtime hours, to increase throughput and decrease sample turnaround times.” 

As part of a wider digital modernisation programme, the NHLS stated that it was transitioning its existing Labware Laboratory Information Management System to TrakCare. 

“This migration will improve performance reporting, data integrity, and management oversight, ensuring real-time visibility into progress made toward backlog targets.” 

The entity believes that this initiative represents a critical advancement toward long-term sustainability and accountability within the FCLs. 

“By enhancing both capacity and systemic efficiency, the NHLS aims to restore operational effectiveness, strengthen public confidence, and reaffirm its commitment to supporting justice and public health.” – SAnews.gov.za

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Authorities dismantle major transnational rhino horn trafficking network

Source: Government of South Africa

Six suspects appeared in the Pretoria magistrate’s court on Tuesday in connection with a scheme involving the trade of 964 rhino horns that were destined for illegal markets in Southeast Asia. 

Investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly defrauded the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) by securing permits under false pretences to buy and sell rhino horns domestically, while funnelling them into illegal international markets. 

Under South African law, domestic trade is permitted with a valid DFFE-issued permit in terms of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) of 2004.

International commercial trade in rhino horn is banned under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

“After a seven-year investigation, the Wildlife Trafficking Section of the Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit has dismantled a major transnational rhino horn trafficking network.

“The six suspects, between the ages of 49 and 84, face charges of fraud, theft, and contravention of the NEMBA, with additional charges of racketeering and money laundering under consideration,” the department said.

The six suspects, five men and one woman, surrendered to the Hawks at Sunnyside Police Station.

The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has hailed the arrests as a decisive victory in South Africa’s fight against international wildlife crime.

“This complex investigation, which was also supported by the Enforcement unit of the Department (the Green Scorpions) and the National Prosecuting Authority, is a powerful demonstration of South Africa’s resolve to protect its natural heritage.

“The Hawks’ work shows that our enforcement agencies will not hesitate to pursue those who plunder our wildlife for criminal profit. The illegal trade in rhino horn not only destroys biodiversity but also undermines the rule of law and the foundations of environmental governance,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Minister Chikunga recovering after health scare at Y20 summit

Source: Government of South Africa

Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, is recovering after experiencing a health scare during the opening of the Y20 South Africa Summit 2025 on Monday.

Chikunga was escorted off stage while delivering a keynote address at the summit, currently underway at Birchwood Conference Centre in Boksburg, Johannesburg.

The department confirmed that the Minister is recovering and has been advised to take time off her official schedule to rest and recuperate.

“The Minister remains committed to addressing the unique challenges faced by women, youth, and persons with disabilities, through economic empowerment, social justice and inclusion, as well as advocacy, mainstreaming, monitoring, and evaluation,” Selala said.

He added that the department continues to work towards “creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all, with a particular focus on empowering and enhancing the well-being of women, youth, and persons with disabilities.”

Held from 18-22 August 2025, under the theme “Youth for Global Progress: Uniting for Solidarity, Championing Equality, Driving Sustainability”, the summit is the first Y20 gathering held on African soil.

It serves as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and action, ensuring that young voices contribute meaningfully to global decision-making.

The summit aims to include voices from across the continent, amplifying youth perspectives in addressing global and regional challenges.

The discussions at the summit will focus on five thematic areas linked to South Africa’s priorities, the African Union’s Agenda 2063, and the United Nations 2030 Agenda, all reinforcing South Africa’s commitment to social and economic development and climate action.

Under the South African G20 Presidency theme of “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability”, the Y20 Summit will gather youth delegates from G20 nations, regional representatives, and additional invited nations.

In her address, before the incident, the Minister encouraged the youth delegates to consider “pathways to a fairer and more connected world, while dismantling old ones.” – SAnews.gov.za

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Eskom launches first-ever Renewable Energy Offtake Programme

Source: Government of South Africa

Eskom has announced the launch of its first-ever Renewable Energy Offtake Programme.

This marks a significant milestone in the utility’s strategic objective to facilitate a “competitive future energy industry” and integrate more clean power into the national grid.  

In a statement on Tuesday, the power utility said that it was transitioning its generation mix from predominantly coal to a blended portfolio with an increasing proportion of clean energy sources by 2040. 

The programme, unveiled through a Request for Proposal (RFP), invites large power users to procure 291MW of Solar Photovoltaic (PV) capacity through long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) from Eskom-owned renewable energy sites. 

According to Eskom, this programme follows a successful Expression of Interest (EOI) process and extensive engagement with commercial and industrial customers, which revealed strong demand for direct contracting through long-term PPAs.

These agreements enable businesses to align with global sustainability standards, reduce carbon footprints, and green their supply chains, enhancing competitiveness. 

The RFP offers tailored solutions that meet operational requirements while contributing to South Africa’s decarbonisation goals. 

Successful bidders will enter PPAs ranging from 5 to 25 years, with renewable energy delivered in phases from multiple Eskom projects. The earliest project is expected to reach commercial operation by December 2027. 

Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, said the programme was a crucial step in reshaping the company’s generation mix.

“This is the next step in the focused execution of our strategy to integrate additional renewable energy into the grid, in line with global electricity industry trends for environmentally sustainable solutions that support broader decarbonisation objectives. 

“We have seen strong interest in Eskom’s capabilities in green energy supply, which this programme demonstrates. Just over a year into our turnaround strategy, we are not only focused on ending loadshedding but are also pivoting Eskom into a sustainable and competitive company while ensuring security of supply through a customer-centric approach,” Marokane said. 

Eskom Distribution Acting Group Executive, Agnes Mlambo, said the programme signalled Eskom’s innovation in building a resilient energy future.

“This programme demonstrates Eskom’s commitment to innovation and building a cleaner, more resilient energy future. By offering customised renewable energy offtake solutions, we are enabling our customers to transition to low-carbon operations while ensuring a secure and competitive supply, through customer-centred solutions,” Mlambo said. 

She added that structured engagement with the private sector would give impetus to Eskom’s efforts to create a sustainable pathway for clean power integration into the grid. 

Eskom said it continues to develop a balanced energy mix, comprising coal, nuclear, gas, renewables, and energy storage solutions such as Battery Energy Storage Systems and pumped hydro. 

The power utility added that a renewable energy business will accelerate deployment of green projects, targeting 2 gigawatts (GW) of construction-ready capacity by 2026 and scaling up to 32GW, including Green Hydrogen projects, by 2040. – SAnews.gov.za