Category: English

Government says it has noted ongoing public discourse on immigration, particularly on issues related to illegal immigration.

On Wednesday, government reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding South Africa’s sovereignty, security and the rule of law, while upholding the country’s constitutional values and respect for human dignity.

“Government is strengthening measures to address illegal immigration, including tightening border controls to combat unlawful entry, illicit trade, and fraudulent activities that undermine revenue collection and the rule of law.

“These efforts form part of a broader programme to modernise and reform South Africa’s immigration and border management system into one that is secure, efficient, and responsive to the needs of a modern economy. 

“Key to this transformation is the introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, which will enhance the country’s ability to manage the movement of people in a secure, transparent and efficient manner,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said in a statement.

As part of ongoing reforms, government has also taken steps to improve infrastructure at ports of entry, including the planned redevelopment of major land ports through strategic partnerships aimed at improving security, efficiency and service delivery.

READ | BMA announces successful bidders for major border overhaul

Government emphasised that South Africa is a peaceful and responsible member of the international community that is committed to maintaining strong and constructive relations with countries across the region and the world. 

South Africa, government said, remains guided by the principles of cooperation, mutual respect and shared development, while firmly upholding the rule of law within its borders. It said all individuals within the country are expected to comply with the law and contribute positively to society.

It urged members of the public to work together with law enforcement authorities in addressing concerns related to illegal immigration and unlawful activities. 

“Such concerns should be reported to the South African Police Service, immigration authorities, or other relevant law enforcement agencies to ensure they are addressed lawfully and effectively. In this regard, members of the public are urged not to take the law into their own hands,” said the GCIS.

To date deportations, have increased by 46%. Since April 2023, the Border Management Authority has deported 500 000 people. Immediate steps are being taken to demolish and rebuild South Africa’s six busiest land ports of entry as part of a transformative public-private partnership (PPP). The six ports are Lebombo, Beitbridge, Oshoek, Kopfontein, Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg.

In addition, as per President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) 2026 announcement, the Department Labour and Employment is in the process of hiring 10 000 additional permanent labour inspectors this year to strengthen enforcement of labour laws, combat exploitation, and ensure compliance alongside the police and Home Affairs. This massive expansion aims to boost the existing +/- 2 300 inspectors and focus on auditing compliance.

“Government will continue working with relevant stakeholders to ensure that immigration is managed in a manner that protects national interests and the safety of citizens, while promoting economic growth and maintaining social cohesion,” the GCIS said. – SAnews.gov.za

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has concluded a high-level working visit to Argentina, securing key agreements aimed at strengthening South Africa’s response to Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and safeguarding the future of the livestock sector.

At the centre of the visit was a Ministerial engagement with Argentina’s Secretary of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, Sergio Iraeta.

The meeting resulted in a firm commitment to a structured cooperation framework that will intensify joint efforts against FMD, while deepening bilateral ties in agricultural trade, food security, and animal health resilience.

The partnership is anchored in the 2026–2028 FMD Work Plan, a time-bound programme designed to translate existing bilateral agreements into coordinated action. It focuses on enhanced technical cooperation, targeted capacity building, and strengthened scientific collaboration, with a clear focus on improving prevention, preparedness, and rapid response capabilities.

Steenhuisen led a delegation of senior officials and stakeholders, including from the Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP), the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), and representatives of organised agriculture. The mission sought to align international expertise with domestic operational needs at a crucial moment for South Africa’s animal health system.

South Africa has already secured and distributed 2.5 million doses of FMD vaccines from Biogénesis Bagó, including one million doses of bivalent SAT-1 and SAT-2 vaccines and 1.5 million doses of trivalent SAT-1, SAT-2, and SAT-3 vaccines.

During the visit, the delegation inspected production facilities where a further five million doses are ready for export, pending approval by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority under Section 21.

To ensure sustained vaccine availability, OBP and Biogénesis Bagó concluded a distribution agreement aimed at securing a reliable and continuous supply pipeline.

“Our immediate priority is to secure a stable and sufficient vaccine pipeline so that we can scale up vaccinations rapidly across the country. Speed is non-negotiable. We must get ahead of this disease to protect our national herd, our farmers, and the broader agricultural economy,” the Minister said in a statement on Wednesday.

He added that South Africa’s response carries regional significance, particularly within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

“Our livestock sector is deeply interconnected with the economies and food systems of the Southern African Development Community. This partnership is about integrating science, production, and implementation to build a resilient animal health system capable not only of managing the current outbreak, but of preventing future crises,” he said.

The Minister also underscored the importance of private sector participation in vaccine distribution, noting that government is expanding distribution mechanisms to include the private sector, under the strategic coordination of government, to ensure that vaccines reach farms efficiently and at scale.

“This is about closing the gap between policy and practice and delivering real outcomes on the ground.”

Looking ahead, discussions also explored positioning South Africa as a regional vaccine distribution hub for the SADC region, leveraging the expertise and partnerships developed through this collaboration.

In parallel, the ARC renewed and extended its cooperation agreement with Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), Argentina’s leading agricultural research institution.

Building on a Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2021, the renewed partnership will deepen collaboration in research, technology transfer, and skills development, particularly in the fields of animal health and vaccine innovation.

The strengthened alliance reflects a shared commitment to advancing scientific excellence and practical cooperation in support of more resilient, competitive, and sustainable agricultural sectors in both countries.

The visit marks a significant escalation in South Africa’s war against FMD, reinforcing the country’s determination to protect its national herd, secure rural livelihoods, and restore confidence in its biosecurity systems. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Postbank has announced that from 1 May 2026, customers will no longer be able to access cash deposit, withdrawal and related services at the South African Post Office (SAPO) branches, as these services move to alternative banking channels.

The transition means customers who previously relied on Post Office branches must now use Postbank’s expanded network, which includes retail outlets, Standard Bank and its ATMs. 

Social grant beneficiaries can continue to enjoy access to their payments through retailers and Standard Bank ATMs.

“Importantly, this change does not affect social grant beneficiaries in any way. All South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant recipients will continue to receive their grants as usual through existing channels, including retail partners and Standard Bank ATMs. There are no changes to how grants are paid, accessed or managed through Postbank,” the bank said on Wednesday.

As part of the new arrangement, Postbank customers will be able to deposit and withdraw cash through Standard Bank and participating retailers nationwide.

Cash deposits can be made at Standard Bank branches and ATMs, subject to the bank’s transaction limits and fees. Withdrawals will be available at Standard Bank ATMs as well as retail stores using a cardless solution.

Customers can also access support services, including account management and statements, through Postbank’s Contact Centre via telephone, WhatsApp and email.

The move forms part of a broader strategy to improve customer experience and expand access to modern, community-based banking services. 

It also marks the final phase of the bank’s multi-year transition away from SAPO branches, following the migration of social grant payments completed in March 2023.

Postbank said it has invested more than R500 million over the past three years in upgrading technology and infrastructure to ensure customers have access to better, more reliable banking services.

The bank has urged customers to remain vigilant against fraud, warning that neither Postbank nor Standard Bank will ever request PINs or one-time passwords in person or through calls, messaging platforms or email.

Postbank said the new channels are designed to reduce travel time, improve convenience and make banking services more accessible. 

Postbank Chief Commercial Officer Thamsanqa Cele said the changes are aimed at advancing financial inclusion. 

“At the heart of Postbank’s mandate is financial inclusion; ensuring that every South African has access to safe, reliable and dignified banking services. This change allows us to serve our customers better by providing more accessible and efficient banking channels that are closer to their communities,” Cele said.

Customers requiring assistance or information on nearby service points can contact the Postbank Contact Centre on 0800 53 54 55.

The bank added that it remains committed to rolling out additional customer-focused banking channels in the future. – SAnews.gov.za

South African soccer fans have been handed a golden opportunity to turn their passion into a passport, with a new competition offering a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Through this competition, 20 passionate South African supporters will be selected to travel to either the United States or Mexico to attend one of Bafana Bafana’s group-stage matches.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) announced the launch of the Mzansi to the World Cup Lucky Fans Competition, a bold initiative aimed at celebrating South Africa’s vibrant football culture.

The initiative forms part of DSAC’s broader commitment to uniting the nation through sport, promoting national pride, and showcasing the energy and spirit of Mzansi on the global stage.

Fans from all 16 Premier Soccer League (PSL) clubs will have an opportunity to represent their teams, with additional wildcard entries ensuring that every South African supporter has a fair chance to participate, regardless of club affiliation.

To enter, members of the public are required to visit the official DSAC website (https://dsacevents.dsac.gov.za/DSAC_LuckyFan_WC26/) to access the submission link and competition details. 

Participants must upload a 30-second video demonstrating their passion for football, their club loyalty, and why they deserve to represent South Africa at the World Cup.

“The department encourages all South Africans to take part in this exciting campaign by visiting the DSAC website, submitting their entries, and proudly showcasing the passion, diversity, and unity that define our nation.” 

Winners will receive a fully sponsored travel package, including international flights, accommodation, match tickets, and ground transport.

The Minister and Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture will officially announce the winners on 5 May 2026. – SAnews.gov.za

The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has unveiled a new safety and security fleet valued at R16.1 million, aimed at strengthening crime prevention, emergency response, and disaster management across the metro.

The launch, led by Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe and Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Safety and Security Luyanda Lawu forms part of a broader capital investment exceeding R43 million, dedicated to strengthening frontline safety services.

The newly unveiled fleet includes 20 vehicles already delivered and deployed across Metro Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Traffic and Licensing, Security Services and Disaster Management units. The allocation is intended to improve operational visibility, coordination, and rapid response capability.

The fleet includes two Metro Police vehicles valued at R555 600; fire services assets featuring two delivered fire tankers with two additional units pending, together valued at R7.9 million, and traffic and licensing vehicles, including a VW Transporter, a Mercedes Fuso breakdown truck, and two Toyota bakkies valued at R4.45 million. Security services vehicles account for R3.13 million, while three disaster management vehicles are valued at R1.75 million.

In addition, communication equipment worth R4.7 million has already been delivered, with a further R4.1 million in equipment expected to strengthen coordination across safety services.

The municipality is also awaiting the delivery of specialised firefighting vehicles valued at R27 million, including a rescue pump and hydraulic platform, which are expected to significantly enhance advanced emergency response capabilities.

Lobishe said the investment forms part of a targeted programme to improve frontline service delivery, particularly in response to crime, fires, and disaster incidents, following public concern over the condition of Fire and Emergency Services.

“This investment is firmly aligned to the priorities of the 7th Administration, building a capable and ethical state, driving inclusive economic growth, and improving the quality of life of our people. It is equally aligned to the Municipality’s Integrated Development Plan priorities, particularly strengthening basic service delivery, building safer communities, and positioning Nelson Mandela Bay as a competitive and investable city.

“At its core, this is an investment in people’s safety, dignity, and confidence in government. A safer city is a more liveable city, and a more investable city. Through this intervention, we are strengthening our ability to respond effectively, protect communities, and support an environment where both residents and businesses can thrive,” Lobishe said.

Lawu said the investment significantly strengthens the responsiveness of the Safety and Security Directorate across law enforcement, crime prevention, fire and emergency services, security operations, and disaster management.

“It enhances our ability to respond to incidents with speed, coordination, and effectiveness. Our responsibility is clear, when communities face crime, fires, or disasters, the municipality must be equipped, present, and able to act decisively.

“These resources are therefore critical tools to ensure that response is not delayed, and that service delivery is felt directly by our communities,” Lawu said.

The municipality confirmed that the procurement of the fleet was conducted in full compliance with the Municipal Finance Management Act, underscoring its commitment to transparent, accountable, and value-driven public spending.

The metro has reaffirmed its commitment to continued investment in frontline safety services to build a more responsive, coordinated, and capable city. – SAnews.gov.za

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday convene an Extended Presidential Coordinating Council (PCC) meeting in Boksburg, Gauteng, with a sharp focus on addressing South Africa’s ongoing water crisis. 

The high-level meeting, scheduled to take place at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre, will bring together key stakeholders across national, provincial and local government to coordinate urgent interventions and long-term solutions.

The PCC serves as the President’s platform for consultation and engagement with provinces and organised local government. It aims to align priorities, strengthen coordination, and assess performance on issues of national importance.

The meeting follows the announcement made during the State of the Nation Address 2026, where President Ramaphosa established the National Water Crisis Committee (NWCC) to drive a coordinated response to ongoing water challenges. The committee has been tasked with accelerating interventions in a manner similar to the government’s energy crisis response framework.

The Presidency said the Extended PCC meeting will focus on immediate measures to stabilise the water system, while also adopting medium- to long-term strategies to ensure sustainability. 

“The Extended PCC meeting will discuss immediate interventions aimed at stabilising the system, while adopting short- to long-term sustainability instruments to ensure infrastructure resilience, improved governance and a culture of accountability founded on promoting responsible water use among citizens,” the Presidency said in a statement.  

The PCC is designed to transcend administrative boundaries and enable a transversal, whole-of-government response to complex challenges such as water security. 

Attendees will include Premiers, Members of Executive Councils (MECs) for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, mayors, municipal managers, traditional leaders and other stakeholders involved in the work of the NWCC. 

Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, is expected to deliver opening remarks, followed by an address by the President. Proceedings will then move into a closed session. – SAnews.gov.za 

South Africa’s tourism sector continues to gather momentum, with more than three million travellers moving through the country in March 2026, as holiday travel remained the dominant reason for visits.

New figures released by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) show that 3 037 756 travellers — including arrivals, departures and transits — passed through South African ports of entry during the month, underlining tourism’s growing contribution to economic activity.

Of the total number of travellers, 723 364 (23.8%) were South African residents, while 2 314 392 (76.2%) were foreign travellers.

Foreign arrivals included 1 171 740 visitors, of which 911 962 were overnight tourists and 259 778 were same-day visitors.

Stats SA said overseas tourists accounted for 24.5% (223 641) of all tourists, with the United Kingdom leading the way at 45 902 visitors, followed by Germany at 39 913 and the United States of America at 31 268. Together, these three countries contributed 52.4% of all overseas tourists.

Travellers from Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries made up the largest share of tourists at 73.5% (670 498). Mozambique contributed 208 306 visitors, Zimbabwe 179 403 and Lesotho 108 482, together accounting for 74% of SADC tourists.

Tourists from other African countries outside SADC made up 1.8% (16 827) of all tourists. Kenya led this group with 5 196 visitors, followed by Ghana with 4 008 and Nigeria with 2 507.

Holiday travel remained the key driver of tourism activity, with 97.2% of all tourists visiting South Africa for holiday purposes.

The latest data also points to growing travel volumes compared with previous periods.

Between February 2026 and March 2026, the number of South African resident arrivals increased by 17.9%, rising from 296 413 to 349 439. Departures climbed by 25.6%, while transits rose by 23.3%.

Compared with March 2025, South African resident arrivals were up 1.6%, departures increased by 2.4%, and transits grew by 26,2%.

Foreign traveller movements also recorded solid annual growth. Arrivals increased by 8.4%, from 1 107 069 in March 2025 to 1 200 534 in March 2026. Departures rose by 8.8%, while transits were up 11.7%.

Road travel remained the most common mode of transport, used by 1 985 575 travellers (65.4% of the total). Air travel accounted for 998 792 travellers (32.9%), while 53 389 travellers (1.8%) used sea routes.

Among South African residents arriving in the country, 41.8% came by air, 53.5% by road and 4.7% by sea.

Stats SA’s age profile of tourists showed that travellers aged between 35 and 44 formed the largest group at 28.8%, followed by those aged 25 to 34 at 24.1%. Travellers aged 45 to 54 accounted for 18.8%.

The figures reflect sustained demand for South Africa as a tourism destination, with strong regional travel and continued interest from key overseas markets. – SAnews.gov.za