Category: English

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has collected some R2.010 trillion in net revenue for the 2025/26 financial year, breaking the threshold for the first time since its inception.

The historical milestone was announced by SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter during a presentation of the preliminary revenue outcome for the financial year on Wednesday.

Collections at SARS have grown at a compound annual growth rate of 5.8% since the start of Kieswetter’s tenure seven years ago.

“This is a historic milestone of crossing [the] R2 trillion threshold for the first time in our history. Indeed, a defining moment. This is R155 billion more than what we collected a year ago, a remarkable year-on-year growth of 8.4% under these economic conditions where nominal growth, for now, is projected to have grown at 4%.

“This implies a tax-to-GDP [Gross Domestic Product] ratio of 25.9% and tax buoyancy ratio of 1.73%,” Kieswetter said.

The largest contributors to the collection were individual taxes at R794 billion followed by Value Added Tax (VAT) at R500 billion, company taxes stood at R350 billion while customs reached R352 billion and excise stood at R182 billion.

Kieswetter noted that refunds stood at R458 billion at year’s end.

“Refund payments…especially during tough economic times for small businesses and families in financial stress, are an important lifesaver and a necessary injection of cash into the economy.

“The fact that the R458 billion refunds that we processed represents 5.9% of GDP. So, I am therefore pleased that our growth in refunds has consistently grown higher than gross or net revenue. This even after we’ve consistently increased refund risk management to deal with impermissible and fraudulent refund claims,” he said.

The revenue collector took some 22 years to reach the R1 trillion threshold and just ten years to double the collection to R2 trillion despite the effects of slow economic growth, load shedding and COVID-19.

“We believe that this is noteworthy and reflects the diligent work of our employees, the institutional integrity of SARS and the tax administrator centrality to the fiscal health of South Africa.

“SARS is truly a national asset that must never be taken for granted and must be treasured,” the Commissioner added.

A worthy farewell
Kieswetter will be ending his tenure as Commissioner of the revenue service at the end of this month with an announcement of his replacement to be announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

“As I come to the end of the seven years of national service, I recall the President’s challenge to those who cared about the future of South Africa and the generations to come to step forward, to leave behind a comfortable life of retirement, and take their place at the forefront of the struggle where real change happens.

“It was a call to service, a call to restore credibility and the capability of our damaged institutions, succinctly captured in the call ‘Thuma Mina’.

“I want to thank the President, the Minister [of Finance], and all South Africans for affording me the rare privilege to make my humble contribution to the wellbeing of our country and its people. I am filled with immense pride that thankfully, together with the help of the people at SARS, we have given our best to the nation,” he said.

The Commissioner encouraged all taxpayers to remain compliant while praising employees at the revenue service.

“Collecting over R2 trillion is not an accident, but the outcome of the more than 14 500 employees who diligently perform millions of activities meticulously to achieve this record collection.

“Every rand not only helps build a capable state that honours the social contract but also enables the state to deliver for all South Africans and strengthen fiscal integrity of South Africa.

“The record achievement we reached today is because of all compliant taxpayers;
I would like to thank them for their fiscal citizenship and contribution to help the most vulnerable in our society,” Kieswetter concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has forecast partly cloudy conditions with isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers across parts of the country on Thursday and Friday, as many South Africans prepare to travel for the Easter period.

In its latest weather outlook, SAWS said conditions will be cool to warm in most areas, but hot in some regions, with a higher likelihood of scattered showers in the western parts of the country.

The forecast comes as increased traffic volumes are expected on major routes, with authorities urging motorists to plan their journeys carefully and remain weather-aware.

Safety focus for Easter travellers

With changing weather conditions, SAWS is encouraging travellers to prioritise safety on the roads, particularly in areas prone to thunderstorms and reduced visibility.

The weather service encourages travellers to download its WeatherSmart app which will help in detecting weather conditions ahead of time.

“Headed somewhere this Easter? Our weatherSmart App helps you know when to stop, stay safe from lightning and arrive relaxed. Your safety travel this Easter is only as good as your data,” the weather service said in a post on X, highlighting the importance of using reliable weather data to make informed travel decisions. 

The WeatherSmart App is among the tools being promoted to help motorists track conditions in real time. According to SAWS, the app enables users to monitor weather patterns, identify when it may be safer to delay travel, and stay alert to lightning risks.

Lightning awareness and verification

As thunderstorms are expected in some areas, SAWS has also emphasised the importance of lightning awareness, particularly for those travelling long distances or leaving property unattended.

The service offers a Lightning Verification Report at a fee, which can confirm whether a lightning strike occurred at a specific location a tool aimed at helping citizens protect valuable assets and support insurance claims if needed.

SAWS has urged the public to stay updated through official weather platforms and to adjust travel plans where necessary. 

With variable conditions expected over the Easter period, travellers are advised to remain cautious, take regular breaks, and ensure their journeys are guided by up-to-date weather information to arrive safely at their destinations. – SAnews.gov.za

A new partnership between government and the private sector is set to equip thousands of South African students with critical digital and artificial intelligence (AI) skills aimed at improving their chances of securing future employment.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed between the Department of Higher Education and Training and Google South Africa, will expand access to training programmes across universities, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, and Community Education and Training (CET) institutions.

Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Mimmy Gondwe, said the initiative is designed to prepare students for a rapidly evolving job market shaped by digital transformation.

“Digital and AI skills are vital for navigating the modern world and securing future employment opportunities. It is essential that our students, especially those in remote and township areas, are prepared for the job market once they leave our sector and possess the right skills for employability, including self-employment and entrepreneurship,” Gondwe said.

The agreement, signed in Johannesburg on Monday, 30 March, alongside Google South Africa Country Director Kabelo Makwane, marks the fourth public-private partnership spearheaded by Gondwe’s office to strengthen youth skills development.

Expanding access to digital training

The Google MoU seeks to enhance digital skills, incorporate AI in higher education, and promote workforce development in South Africa. It will offer access to training programmes for public universities, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and Community Education and Training (CET) colleges, including an initial 10 000 Google Career Certificate scholarships.

In addition to student training, the partnership will prioritise upskilling educators through initiatives such as Generative AI for Educators and a “train-the-trainer” model to promote wider skills sharing across institutions.

The agreement also includes support for curriculum development, with Google providing access to AI tools and collaborating with institutions to develop locally relevant content. Device support will be enhanced through the deployment of ChromeOS Flex to revitalise existing hardware, offering strategic hardware advice, and empowering IT teams through advanced training.

The MoU will also include collaboration on policy and governance, sharing expertise on AI policy development and the use of AI in public institutions.

Makwane said the partnership reflects Google’s commitment to building local capacity and unlocking economic potential through technology.

Makwane further emphasised that the commitment to higher education and South Africa overall, is deeply rooted in capacity building.

“AI has moved from theory to everyday reality. Our research shows digital technology is a massive catalyst for South Africa, with Google tools alone contributing R118 billion to the economy in 2023. AI is set to add another R172 billion, creating new skills and unlocking growth opportunities for all citizens.

“To capture this value, we must close the skills gap and empower our youth to innovate for Africa’s unique context. Inclusivity is key; when South Africans build with tools that understand their environment and languages, technology becomes a true driver of growth,” Makwane said.

The agreement will be implemented over a period of two years. – SAnews.gov.za
 

The Electoral Commission has today officially unveiled the identity (logo) and tagline for the 2026/27 Local Government Elections, marking a significant step in its preparations for the upcoming elections.

As every election carries its own story and identity, the 2026/27 elections logo and tagline represent a forward-looking, voter-centric democracy that reflects the aspirations of South Africans and drives greater youth participation, while reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to credible and accessible elections.

The launch of a new logo signals that the Commission’s readiness to deliver the elections is at an advanced stage.

The call-to-action tagline, “Get Up. Show Up. Vote”, is anchored in the belief that South Africans fundamentally care about their families, communities, their livelihoods and the future of the country. The logo and tagline will be embedded across all election materials and platforms.

Speaking at the unveiling of the logo at Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, IEC Chairperson Mosotho Moepya said the three-part call to action meets people where they are, while inviting them to be part of something bigger than themselves.

“This logo represents inclusive civic activism, shared patriotism, and national pride. It does not lecture, it does not demand, and it does not overcomplicate.

“It evokes a strong emotional resonance and inspires a collective sense of South African optimism. Anchored in this optimism, the logo will come to life during the Local Government Elections as a shared national asset belonging to all South Africans,” Moepya said.

The Electoral Commission also announced the launch of its podcast channel – a platform designed to enhance transparency, expand access to information, and strengthen civic education. The podcast will go live on 8 April 2026.

Additionally, “Beats for My Peeps” is a cutting-edge, limited edutainment reality series designed to inspire young South Africans to register, vote, and recognise the power of their voice in shaping our democracy.

It brings together digital creators, including music artists, both established and emerging, and dynamic IEC representatives to create something truly fresh: a youth-driven television experience where democracy meets culture.

Together, they unpack myths, challenge disillusionment, and produce original tracks that motivate young people to show up and shape their communities in the upcoming Local Government Elections. The show is set to air on SABC 1 in May 2026.

The Chairperson urged all stakeholders to support the Commission’s efforts, emphasising that the success of the electoral process depends on strong partnerships.

“We call on all stakeholders to work with us in strengthening our democracy. This can only be achieved through collaboration with key partners, including political parties, government agencies, and civil society organisations,” Moepya said.

He announced that the next key milestone is the launch of the national campaign on 27 May 2026, followed by the first voter registration weekend on 20–21 June, aimed at encouraging more South Africans to register on the voters’ roll.

The Electoral Commission also urged all voters to use the online platform to check and update their registration details, including residential address, to ensure they are correctly registered and able to vote at the appropriate voting station.

“This will help ensure a smooth and efficient voting process on election day.”

Voters can check and update their registration details at Registertovote.elections.org.za – SAnews.gov.za
 

The Department of Home Affairs has reached yet another major milestone on its digital transformation journey, with 110 branches already live across the length and breadth of South Africa.  

The department has exceeded its own internal target of rolling out its new Digital Partnership Model to 100 bank branches by the end of March.

Additionally, First National Bank (FNB) has officially become the third bank to join the rollout of this ground-breaking project at their branches.

Just three weeks after the first branch was launched, 77 branches of Capitec Bank, 30 branches of Standard Bank, and the first three branches of First National Bank are now live throughout the country, offering Smart ID replacement services in communities that never had access before.

When compared to the existing 248 Home Affairs offices offering Smart ID services, the addition of 110 more service points constitutes a 44% service expansion in just three weeks.

To date, more than 25 000 Smart ID applications have already been processed through participating bank branches, with the system processing applications at a rate of more than one per minute. 

Through this new model, citizens are now able to apply to replace their Green ID Book or a lost Smart ID at participating bank branches in as little as five minutes, avoiding long travel times and queues.

This initiative forms part of the Department’s Home Affairs @ home reform programme, which aims to build a modern, digital-first Home Affairs ecosystem and transform how citizens access government services.

Instead of citizens being forced to travel great distances and stand in long queues to access services at just a few physical locations around the country, Home Affairs @ home is using digital transformation to bring services to citizens right where they live.

This new service does not require any prior booking or paperwork, and is secured through cutting-edge fingerprint and facial recognition technology.

By eliminating paper-based manual processes and official discretion, the application process has also been secured against manipulation and fraud.

Having already exceeded the initial target of 100 bank branches by March 2026, Home Affairs is firmly on track to deliver on its target in the Medium-Term Development Plan to reach 1 000 bank branches by 2029. 

The rollout remains deliberate and phased to ensure system stability and service quality, with further expansion planned in the coming weeks. Absa Bank and Nedbank are currently in varying stages of testing and are expected to go live once testing is complete.

“The rapid pace at which Home Affairs is fixing long-standing problems is a testament to the power of reform-minded leadership that embraces innovation. 

“In addition to what we have already delivered, over the coming weeks, first time Smart ID applications, Passport applications, secure courier delivery of IDs and Passports, as well as applications submitted via digital banking apps will all become reality through these reforms,” Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber, said. 

“By expanding access and inclusion at a scale and pace not seen before, we are eliminating long queues and freeing up Home Affairs resources and officials to focus on complex tasks that have been neglected for decades, including late birth registrations and ensuring the systematic documentation of all South Africans in underserved areas. This is how we are delivering dignity for all,” Minister Schreiber concluded.

Existing Home Affairs branches and mobile offices remain available to all citizens. To find your nearest bank branch offering Smart ID services, visit: www.dha.gov.za/banks. – SAnews.gov.za

Legal Aid South Africa has revised upwards its Means Test in line with the Consumer Price Index in response to ongoing economic hardship and the rising cost of living.

This, the statutory body said, is aimed at ensuring that South Africans can afford to have legal representation.

“As many South Africans continue to face financial pressure, these revisions are a vital step toward safeguarding equitable access to justice. By expanding the financial eligibility criteria, Legal Aid SA is reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that no one is denied legal representation simply because they cannot afford it,” Legal Aid SA said.

The new means threshold is as follows:

• Criminal matters: R9 400 up from R9 100.
• Civil matters (individual applicant): R9 400 up from R9 100.
• Civil matters (spouse/household): R10 200, up from R9 900.
• Movable assets (household, no property): R173 300 up from R167 900.
• Immovable and movable assets (household, owns property): R812 800 up from R787 600.

“In criminal cases, children continue to automatically qualify for legal aid and do not have to take the Means Test. If it is a civil case, the family of the child will need to take and pass the Means Test.

“The revised Means Test takes effect from today, 1 April 2026, and will continue to be applied to all new applications received from this date onwards.

“Legal Aid SA continues to strengthen its role as a champion of equal access to justice by refining its policies to respond to the evolving needs of society. In a time of economic uncertainty, these changes are designed to extend legal support to a broader segment of the population, particularly those whose financial circumstances limit their ability to secure representation,” the body said. – SAnews.gov.za

As the South Africa Investment Conference 2026 moves from pledges to implementation, renewable energy company Mulilo has announced a nearly R15 billion investment expected to translate into significant employment opportunities for South Africans.

The investment, unveiled on Tuesday, will fund the development of three large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) projects and a battery energy storage system (BESS), adding 716 megawatts of new capacity to the national grid.

While the projects are aimed at strengthening energy security, they are also expected to create jobs across multiple phases, from construction to long-term operations.

From infrastructure to employment

Large-scale renewable energy projects are labour-intensive during construction, requiring engineers, technicians, project managers and local labour. Once operational, they continue to support jobs in maintenance, security and plant management.

Mulilo’s pipeline, which targets the rollout of up to one gigawatt of renewable energy annually, is expected to sustain ongoing job creation as new projects are developed.

This reflects a broader trend highlighted at SAIC: that infrastructure investment plays a critical role in absorbing labour while building productive capacity in the economy.

Economic opportunities beyond the grid

Beyond direct employment, energy investments have a ripple effect across the economy. Reliable electricity supply enables businesses to operate efficiently, supports industrial growth and helps small enterprises expand all of which contribute to job creation. 

For many communities, particularly in rural and underdeveloped areas where renewable projects are often located, such investments can unlock local economic activity through supplier opportunities and community partnerships.

Private sector driving inclusive growth

Mulilo’s Chief Commercial Officer, Seithati Bolipombo, said this commitment reflects its conviction that South Africa is on a positive trajectory towards a just energy transition supported by private sector investment in renewable energy. 

“We are not only investing capital, we are investing in long-term partnerships that unlock infrastructure, create jobs, and deliver tangible impact where it is needed most,” she said.

She emphasised that with the right collaboration across government, regulators and industry, South Africa can move faster, build at scale, and fully realise the opportunity of its energy transition.

The announcement reinforces the central message emerging from SAIC: that investment commitments must translate into real benefits for citizens.

As South Africa advances its energy transition, projects such as Mulilo’s are expected to play a dual role addressing the country’s electricity constraints while creating sustainable livelihoods.

With implementation now in focus, the success of these investments will ultimately be measured not only in megawatts added to the grid, but in the number of South Africans who gain access to jobs and economic opportunities. – SAnews.gov.za

Global ride-hailing platform Uber has pledged R5 billion over the next few years towards South Africa’s mobility, delivery and digital economy, a move that underscores how investment commitments made at SAIC are expected to directly support employment and income opportunities for ordinary citizens.

Uber’s General Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa, Deepesh Thomas, said the 2026 South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC) marked a shift from announcements to implementation, with a focus on how investments impact people on the ground.

“At Uber, we believe that the true measure of an investment is not the figure typed into a spreadsheet, but the heartbeat of the economy it sustains.

“It is found in the student in Mamelodi reaching an exam on time; the restaurant owner in Soweto reaching new customers via a digital storefront, and the driver-partner building a family legacy, one trip at a time,” Thomas said.

Thomas added that this commitment is a vote of confidence in the South African “hustle” and a primary contribution toward the national goal of mobilising R2 trillion in new investment.

From investment to income opportunities

The company’s commitment is expected to expand earning opportunities across its platform, particularly for drivers, delivery partners and small businesses operating in townships and urban centres.

Uber says more than 100,000 earners already use its platform, with the new investment aimed at lowering barriers to entry through incentives such as fuel support, vehicle financing models and partnerships that reduce operating costs.

For many South Africans, particularly young people and those in the informal sector, such platforms provide what Thomas describes as a “license to earn” offering a pathway into the economy where traditional jobs are scarce.

Supporting township economies

Beyond individual earners, the investment is also expected to support small businesses. Through partnerships with the Gauteng Department of Economic Development, Uber has already helped digitise over 2,000 township enterprises, enabling them to reach more customers through delivery services.

This has generated an estimated R1 billion in value for local merchants, demonstrating how digital platforms can formalise and grow previously underserved parts of the economy.

By scaling these initiatives, Uber aims to deepen its contribution to economic activity while supporting job creation indirectly through expanded business opportunities.

Driving innovation and future jobs

Part of the R5 billion pledge will fund innovation tailored to South African conditions, including the expansion of motorbike services for last-mile delivery and investment in electric vehicles.

“We are expanding Uber Moto to provide affordable, last-mile connectivity in areas where traditional public transport may not reach. We are also doubling down on our “Green” initiatives, partnering with fleet providers to accelerate the rollout of Electric Vehicles and alternative vehicle financing models, such as our work with Moove,” Thomas said. 

These initiatives are expected to create new types of work within the transport and green economy sectors, while also improving access to affordable mobility for commuters.

Enabling environment key to job creation

While investment is critical, Thomas emphasised that job creation also depends on a supportive regulatory environment.

He called for clear and forward-looking regulations that recognise the role of the platform economy, arguing that efficient licensing systems can unlock more opportunities for drivers and small operators.

“For a driver-partner, an operating license is more than a regulatory requirement – it is a #LicenseToEarn. It represents the dignity of legal work and the security of knowing their livelihood is protected. We are committed to working hand-in-hand with the Department of Transport and local authorities to streamline these processes,” he said. 

SAIC’s impact on citizens

The Uber investment reflects a broader message emerging from SAIC: that large-scale investment commitments are not only about economic growth, but about creating sustainable livelihoods. 

As South Africa works towards its investment targets, the focus is increasingly on ensuring that these commitments translate into real benefits for citizens, from job creation and skills development to greater financial inclusion.

With implementation now in focus, the success of SAIC will ultimately be measured by how effectively these investments improve everyday lives across the country. – SAnews.gov.za

Public Service Commission (PSC) Commissioner Anele Gxoyiya says a study on hybrid work arrangements in the Public Service has found that 55% of departments lack hybrid policies, while 24% have implemented post-COVID policies.

“The PSC’s research aims to provide insights into the effectiveness of hybrid work arrangements and inform future policies on work arrangements in the Public Service,” Gxoyiya said.

Addressing media in Pretoria on Wednesday, Gxoyiya said the study, which initially involved six service delivery departments, aimed to draw lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, and its forced shift to alternative working arrangements.

“The extended study sampled all national departments and government components, with responses from 38 entities,” Gxoyiya said.

Gxoyiya said the Western Cape Provincial Government has a guide that was used to develop policies in different provincial departments, which follows the Telecommuting Hybrid Model.

“While hybrid work arrangements have shown benefits like cost savings, improved work-life balance, talent attraction, and job satisfaction, the public service is lagging behind in implementation,” Gxoyiya said, adding that the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) should finalise the proposed transversal guide or frame.

The work is based on lessons from departments that are implementing hybrid work arrangements polices and benchmarking with other countries.

“The framework can be used by other departments to develop their own policies to ensure consistency across the Public Service. The DPSA, in collaboration with the Department of Employment and Labour, should develop a comprehensive work from home toolkit on how employees and processes should be managed while working from home.

“Departments must develop human resource development strategies in line with the DPSA guidelines to ensure effective employee onboarding, induction and skills transfer. The Public Service should embrace technology and explore cost effective ways of automating and digitising processes to improve operational effectiveness and efficiency,” he said.

In addition, Gxoyiya said: “The Public Service, led by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, should promote efficient use of facilities in sourcing office space. Departments can share office space for example as they reduce their accommodation needs.” 

Gxoyiya said the Public Service, led by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, should promote efficient use of facilities in sourcing office space.

“The Public Service, led by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, should promote efficient use of facilities in sourcing office space. Departments can share office space for example as they reduce their accommodation needs. 

“This will enable the Public Service to release available state properties for repurposing into reasonable accommodation for students, pensioners and low-income earners,” he said.

Gxoyiya said whilst taking steps to limit employer exposure on Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) responsibilities, government departments should take steps to ensure a safe working environment even in a remote setting. – SAnews.gov.za