Category: English

Posted on

At The 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and partners explore innovative solutions to tackle deforestation in Africa

Source: APO – Report:

.

A new tool “The Solutions-tree: Solutions to halting deforestation – through sustainable agrifood systems transformation” which aims to help countries fight deforestation, was previewed today together with other innovations co-created with African countries at an event co-hosted by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan (MAFF), the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO), the UN-REDD‘ African Forest Forum (AFF) initiative,  at the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9). The tool is aligned with FAO’s efforts to collaborate with countries, international organizations and institutions to demonstrate how co-created knowledge and cross-sectoral collaboration can play a key role in halting deforestation while boosting economies, livelihoods and sustainable agriculture.

While deforestation rate decreased between 2010 and 2020, Africa – and the world – still faces an major challenge in overcoming this complex and persistent crisis, rooted in range of direct and underlying factors, including governance issues, competition for land among economic sectors, poverty, and insecure land tenure. 

Key solutions to halt and reverse deforestation lie in transforming how key commodities (in the case of Africa, especially meat and crops such as cassava, maize, and cocoa) are produced, along with strong engagement and capacity strengthening of small-scale farmers.

Developed by FAO, the Solutions-tree provides governments and partners with an innovative framework to identify, prioritize, and implement cross-sectoral actions that address direct and underlying drivers of deforestation. So far, it has been trialed in Benin and Guinea and will be officially launched in October 2025.

While opening the TICAD9 side-event, Alue Dohong, FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Asia and the Pacific, underlined the urgency of collective action: “Deforestation is one of the greatest challenges to Africa’s sustainable development. Halting deforestation is not just an environmental goal, it is an imperative for Africa’s food security, climate resilience, biodiversity protection, and socio-economic development,” he said.

“We have to collectively move away from ‘agriculture versus forestry’ trade-offs”, said Serena Fortuna, FAO Senior Forestry Officer and UN-REDD Management Group Member, “and work with governments and communities to co-create and scale up catalytic and transformational solutions that keep forests standing while boosting food security, rural economies and contribute to achieving climate targets”.

African countries are proving that this quadruple win can be a reality. 

Working together

At the event, partners and panelists from across Africa showcased how cross-sectoral collaboration is advancing efforts to stop deforestation.

Awessou Kohomlan Beranger, Senior Officer from Benin’s Ministry of Living Environment and Transport, presented how Benin is using the Solutions-tree to shape its REDD+ strategy and how it boosted a systemic approach. He highlighted how participatory science and collaborative approaches play a decisive role in guiding countries towards more sustainable and resilient development pathways. Roselyn Fosuah Adjei, Director of Ghana’s Forestry Commission Training Centre, shared Ghana’s experience in identifying cost-effective REDD+ solutions. She emphasized that holistic cost-benefit analysis for REDD+ can help stakeholders recognize the value of forests in climate finance and shared benefits. Professor Labode Popoola, Executive Secretary of the African Forest Forum, highlighted the need to align forest strategies with agriculture and food security goals, stressing that REDD+ is central to protecting forests and ensuring a livable future for all. ITTO’s project in Côte d’Ivoire showcased agroforestry as a key tool to protect forests while empowering women across Africa.

In closing, panelists shared a common message in the lead-up to COP30: Africa is proving that reducing deforestation and strengthening agriculture are intertwined and they are not unattainable goals. But world leaders’ commitments must now be translated into concrete action, if not at the COP in the heart of the Amazon, when?

FAO also highlighted its broader forestry work in Africa. The Green Climate Fund-funded PROMIRE project in Côte d’Ivoire, for example, has trained over 5 000 farmers to adopt sustainable cocoa production and has rehabilitated degraded lands to convert into agroforestry systems.

Kochi Kiyotaka, Director of the International Forestry Cooperation Office at MAFF, closed the event by reiterating the importance of working across agriculture and forestry to find sustainable solutions.

The Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD), led by the Government of Japan since 1993, provides a global platform for African countries and partners to advance sustainable development, strengthen resilience, and build partnerships to achieve shared prosperity.

– on behalf of Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO): Regional Office for Africa.

Posted on

SANDF responds to allegations around General Maphwanya

Source: Government of South Africa

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has expressed concern over allegations suggesting that the Chief of the SANDF, General Rudzani Maphwanya, is defiant toward the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Angie Motshekga.

On Sunday, City Press reported that Maphwanya has allegedly vowed to continue defying the Minister’s directive to reinstate Colonel Eugene Motati, an air force officer who was unlawfully dismissed in 2019, based on an untested sexual harassment allegation made by a SABC journalist.

According to the publication, the directive aligns with findings from the Military Ombudsman, which stated the Colonel’s dismissal was unlawful.

However, the SANDF said these allegations are incorrect, misleading, and disregard the facts surrounding the matter.

“There is misrepresentation on the merits of the facts regarding the matter at hand, but it is not in the nature of the SANDF to discuss its members’ administrative matters in the public media, so are the Ombudsman’s recommendations and ministerial decisions,” the statement read. 

In addition, the insinuation that the Chief of the SANDF is “defying” or “giving the middle finger” to the Minister is baseless and irresponsible, said the defence force.

“General Maphwanya remains fully committed to the constitutional authority of the Minister and is engaging the matter with the utmost respect and diligence. In line with good governance and military protocol, the Chief of the SANDF is currently consulting with the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans and the Ombudsman on the matter.” 

The SANDF has since assured the public and all stakeholders that due process is being followed, and any final determination will be made in strict compliance with the law, established military procedures, and the directives of the Executive Authority. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Posted on

Beneficiaries urged to safeguard title deeds for future generations

Source: Government of South Africa

Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane has urged beneficiaries of fully subsidised government houses to value their properties and safeguard them as lasting assets for future generations.

Simelane made the call during the handover of title deeds to homeowners in Kwahlomendlini, Mandeni Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal’s north coast.

“Value your properties. The title deeds you are receiving today are not just pieces of paper. They are instruments of dignity, economic empowerment, security, and a promise of a better future,” Simelane said.

The Minister emphasised that title deeds provide legal ownership, protect families from illegal evictions or occupation, and offer peace of mind for current and future generations.

Earlier this month, the Minister and provincial Human Settlements MECs resolved to revive the Title Deeds Fridays campaign, an initiative aimed at mobilising all spheres of government to release all outstanding title deeds to rightful beneficiaries.

As part of the 2024-2029 Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP), the Department of Human Settlements is targeting the registration and handover 80 000 title deeds, unlocking asset value worth more than R16 billion.

Last week, Simelane and KwaZulu-Natal Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma conducted an oversight visit to assess housing needs of families affected by the 2022 floods in eThekwini and uMgungundlovu Districts Municipality.

Nearly 100 permanent houses were handed over to displaced families whose homes were destroyed.

Acknowledging delays in settling other victims, Simelane said the department has invested in social facilitation for both affected families and surrounding communities.

“We must reject the ‘Not in My Backyard’ mentality. This mindset perpetuates a form of pre-1994 segregation.

“It hinders the dismantling of the apartheid spatial planning. True democracy requires inclusive communities that reflect the values of our Constitution,” she said.

The Minister commended traditional leaders and communities who have embraced displaced families with compassion and solidarity.

The department has undertaken to prioritise building over 1000 housing units to accommodate victims of disasters in and around eThekwini. The MEC confirmed that government has secured several pockets of state-owned land to house displaced communities. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Posted on

Women’s Empowerment: A non-negotiable for South Africa’s future 

Source: Government of South Africa

By Bernice Swarts 

Malibongwe Igama Lamakhosikazi! – Praise the name of women! This rallying cry, echoing from the historic 1956 Women’s March, remains as relevant today as it was when more than 20,000 women stood in defiance of the oppressive pass laws. 

Their courage and unity were a turning point in our history, laying the foundations for a non-sexist, non-racial democracy.

But while we rightly honour the women of 1956 every August, I am convinced more than ever that our country cannot afford to limit women’s recognition to a single month. Women’s empowerment is not an event – it is an ongoing process that contributes the hope of our communities. The progress of our country is directly linked to the progress of its women.

Since 1994, our democracy has made important strides in advancing gender equity. Today, women occupy 25.8% of top management positions in the private sector and 43% of seats in Parliament. These achievements are significant, but much more remains to be done to ensure full economic and social emancipation for women in our country. 

This year’s Women’s Month theme, “Building Resilient Economies for All,” reminds us that empowering women is not an act of charity – it is the foundation of inclusive growth. President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed it well when he said: “When a woman is empowered – everyone gets empowered. When women prosper, we all prosper. When women rise, we all rise.”

As the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, we continue to prioritise women in the employment profile of the department – especially at the most senior levels. We are proud that our department is led by a female Director-General, Ms Nomfundo Tshabalala. Of the 11 Deputy Directors General positions, nine are held by women. There are 204 positions at Senior Management level and 105 are held by women which constitute 51% representation. Our Total Permanent Staff Compliment is 3115 and 1623 are women which constitute 52% representation. It is also worth mentioning that the department has achieved on 2% Government set target for Persons with Disabilities; we have employed 64 persons with disabilities. These figures reflect a deliberate effort to ensure inclusivity and equity within our department.

Beyond the corridors of our offices, we are implementing programmes that continue to open doors for women across communities. Between 2020/21 and 2024/25, the department created 323,462 Expanded Public Works Progarmme (EPWP) work opportunities, surpassing our five-year target. Of these, 56% went to women, 59% to youth, and 1.09% to persons with disabilities. Through the EPWP, we also achieved 95% of our five-year target for Full-Time Equivalents, contributing 140,594 to the total and advancing the goals of the Medium-Term Strategic Framework. Moving forward, we will intensify our focus on prioritising women within EPWP and many of our programmes.

Our department’s efforts to empower women are also reflected in the services we deliver to the public. We are transforming the forestry sector by transferring plantations to communities. Between 2020/21 and 2024/25, we transferred 21 plantations across the country, fostering inclusive economic participation and empowering rural communities – particularly bringing in women to benefit from this programme. The transfer of these plantations to our communities supports the objectives of our Commercial Forestry Masterplan.

Through our Chemicals and Waste Management Branch, we are involving women in initiatives to tackle plastics pollution, e-waste, and hazardous chemicals – this sector remains important in the creation of green jobs and sustainable livelihoods.

But empowerment is not only about jobs and leadership – it is about safety and dignity. South Africa cannot talk about women’s empowerment while Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) continue to plague our communities. Government has strengthened the legislative framework with measures such as the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act, the Domestic Violence Amendment Act, the National Council on GBVF Act, and the NPA Amendment Act.

These laws are crucial, but laws alone will not end GBVF. Every South African – men and women – must actively take part in creating safe communities and ending this national crisis.

As we honour the bravery of the women of 1956, let us recommit ourselves to a future where women and men build together, rise together, and prosper together. Because when women thrive, nations flourish.

*Bernice Swarts is the Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
 

Posted on

Zero tolerance for violence and drugs in schools

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, August 25, 2025

Government has condemned all forms of violence in schools, which undermine learning, safety, and the future of children.

In a government news bulletin on Monday, government emphasised that schools must be safe spaces, and teachers must be respected for their role in shaping young minds. It added that violence in schools is unacceptable, and learners must respect rules, teachers, and peers. 

“Government calls on parents to take an active role in the upbringing of their children and to instil values of respect, responsibility, and non-violence. Learners must not bring drugs to school. Anyone found in possession of any mind-altering substance will face disciplinary action and the full might of the law.”

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) is currently working with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to ensure active police participation in creating safe and orderly learning environments.

The SAPS-DBE collaboration strengthens early detection of criminal activity in schools and provides a support system to teachers and learners facing threats. 

The public is urged to report any cases of violence and crime to their nearest police station or by calling the SAPS crime stop number on 08600 10111. – SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

SASSA to introduce biometric enrolment in September

Source: Government of South Africa

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced that it will be introducing mandatory Beneficiary Biometric Enrolment at all its offices from 01 September 2025. 

In a statement on Monday, the agency said this was expected to revolutionise the administration of social grants and that the biometric enrolment was set to be a precursor to detect and nip in the bud any potentially fraudulent activities in the SASSA’s grant system.  

The agency said this comes after engagements with organised labour on a myriad of issues which have since been successfully resolved, paving the way for a new age for SASSA in its resolve to administer a tight and credible grant system. 

SASSA CEO Themba Matlou has expressed his relief at the conclusion of discussions with organised labour.  

“Our plans were to commence with biometric enrolment at the beginning of the 2025/2026 financial year; however, we hit a snag, but we have ironed out the issues that delayed our plans and it is all systems go for the implementation,” he said. 

The Beneficiary Biometric Enrolment comes at an opportune time when the agency is ramping up efforts to improve its systems, detect and effectively root out any fraudulent elements in social grant administration. 

Moreover, biometric enrolment is a strategic move to ensure every grant recipient is verifiably authentic and that SASSA’s systems are resilient against manipulation and error, especially in cases involving forged green Identity Documents that frontline staff cannot reliably detect. 

In addition, the biometric enrolment will ensure: 

  • Significant reduction in fraudulent applications and duplicate payments,
  • Reliable verification of beneficiary authenticity and proof of life,
  • Reduction in inclusion errors,
  • Streamlined documentation processes, and
  • Enhanced audit outcomes and stronger record integrity. 

Improved public trust in the Social Assistance Programme include biometric fingerprint enrolment or facial recognition through electronic Know Your Client (eKYC). 

Applications without biometric data will be immediately put into the review cycle, notifying the client of the need to capture biometrics as per the review processes.

This initiative will ensure the enhancement of risk controls, contributing to a more secure and accountable grants system, while ascertaining that social grant recipients are living individuals at the time of application. 

The agency has set up the necessary infrastructure and tools at all its offices across the country.

Front line staff have been trained throughout the month of August to ensure their readiness and effective and efficient implementation of the biometric enrolment. 

“SASSA would like to reiterate its commitment and resolve to pay the right social grant to the eligible beneficiaries, and the agency will continue to work with all its stakeholders in strengthening and safeguarding its systems. 

“The agency will not hesitate to act against any of its officials should they be suspected of working with anyone to defraud its systems,” the CEO said. 

For grant enquiries, beneficiaries are urged to visit www.sassa.gov.za or call our toll-free number: 0800 60 1011 or watsap GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za 

Posted on

Zambia Energy Minister Launched Media Campaign for C&I Energy + Storage Summit

Source: APO – Report:

Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote has launched the media campaign for the forthcoming C&I Energy + Storage Summit Zambia (https://apo-opa.co/4lMDTK9), describing it as a key step in raising national awareness on the importance of energy in Zambia’s economic transformation. The launch, held at the Taj Pamodzi Hotel in Lusaka on Friday 22 August, was officiated on his behalf by Senior Energy Officer Palanga Ngoma. The conference is scheduled for August 27th and 28th 2025 and will bring together government officials, private sector players, development partners, financiers, and the media to deliberate on energy consumption and production in the commercial and industrial sectors.

The Minister said the energy sector is undergoing a significant transition globally and locally, driven by climate change, technological advances, and the demands of sustainable development. He stressed that Zambia’s response must be bold, inclusive, and anchored on partnerships. The upcoming summit, he explained, will focus on renewable energy integration, energy efficiency, financing mechanisms and policy alignment, with the goal of delivering practical solutions that ensure reliable and affordable energy for industries.

Highlighting government reforms, Mr. Chikote said the Ministry is reviewing the Electricity Act and Energy Regulation Act to make them responsive to emerging realities such as renewable energy and storage. Other measures include strengthening the Energy Regulation Board, streamlining licensing and tariff-setting processes, and promoting public-private partnerships to accelerate modern energy infrastructure. He urged the media to amplify key messages from the conference, noting their critical role in shaping public discourse.

Buterla Investment Holdings Limited Chief Executive Officer, Happy Chisenga Mbulo, said his company was proud to be the local partner for the event. He introduced co-organiser VUKA Group, a South Africa-based leader in convening high-level industry forums across Africa. Mr. Mbulo said the C&I Energy + Storage Summit was a timely response to Zambia’s growing demand for sustainable energy solutions and would serve as a high-impact platform for knowledge exchange, partnerships, and investment.

Stanbic Bank, one of the event sponsors, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the government’s energy agenda. The bank pledged to continue leveraging its financial expertise and regional presence to back renewable energy, infrastructure, and industrial projects, in line with Zambia’s broader development goals.

Energy expert Dr. Johnston Chikwanda, in his vote of thanks, commended the Ministry of Energy for its leadership in guiding Zambia’s energy transition. He said the summit would not only respond to the immediate energy needs of the commercial, industrial, and agricultural sectors but also lay the foundation for a resilient, diversified, and sustainable energy future. He further thanked stakeholders, advisory board members, and the media for their role in ensuring the conference becomes a transformative platform that leads to action, investment, and partnerships.

Be part of the discussion – register to attend the Summit here: https://apo-opa.co/4627kDv

Explore the conference programme: https://apo-opa.co/4mUj1Sd  

– on behalf of VUKA Group.

About VUKA Group:
As part of the Power and Energy Portfolio of VUKA Group (https://WeAreVUKA.com), this Summit aligns with VUKA’s mission to connect industries, spark innovation, and fuel economic growth. VUKA Group is a premier organiser of conferences, exhibitions, and events across Africa, delivering tailored platforms for networking, knowledge sharing, and business development in energy and related sectors.

Media files

.

Posted on

Mali: United Nations (UN) experts call for immediate and unconditional release of civil society activist Clément Mamadou Dembélé

Source: APO – Report:

.

UN experts* today called for the immediate and unconditional release of Malian civil society activist Clément Mamadou Dembélé who has remained in detention despite being cleared of all charges by a judge.

“We urge the Malian authorities to comply with the order issued on 17 April 2025, by the investigating judge of the first chamber of the Pôle national de lutte contre la cybercriminalité, who ruled that the charges against the defendant were insufficiently substantiated and ordered that the case be dismissed,” the experts said.

“This case reflects the persistent and escalating pattern of human rights violations against members of opposition political parties, civil society organisations, journalists and human rights defenders in Mali,” they said, recalling that several mandate holders had expressed similar concerns in 2021, 2024 as well as in February and April 2025.

Malian academic and anti-corruption leader Clément Mamadou Dembélé has been jailed since November 2023, despite a court order to drop all charges. Dembélé is the president of Plateforme contre la corruption et le chômage au Mali (PCC) and the Front commun pour le Mali. Arrested in Bamako while preparing a press conference after denouncing nationwide power cuts, he was accused of making death threats against the transitional president and his family in a voice message attributed to him. On 17 April 2025, a judge dismissed the case for lack of evidence, yet Dembélé remains in Bamako Central prison amid mounting concerns for his health.

“This case appears to be politically motivated, as Mr. Dembélé is not being released despite a court order dismissing the case against him for lack of evidence,” the experts said. “His prosecution and continued detention could amount to instrumentalisation of the legal system by the Government .”

The experts have also conveyed their concerns directly to the Government of Mali and are awaiting a reply.

– on behalf of United Nations: Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

Posted on

KwaZulu-Natal Education condemns school violence

Source: APO – Report:

.

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education is deeply disturbed by two violent incidents that took place on Friday, 22 August 2025 one at Trenance Park Secondary School under the Pinetown District and a second incident involving a mass brawl of school learners from Esther Payne Smith Secondary School in Northdale Circuit, uMgungundlovu District.

The first incident involves an altercation of a 17-year-old Grade 10 learner outside the school during school hours, was stabbed in the neck with a kitchen knife by two grade 8 learners.

The learner received immediate medical attention, he yesterday underwent surgery, and is currently recovering in hospital.

As a department, “We are relieved to report that his condition is stable, and we remain hopeful for his full recovery,” said KZN MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka.

Two Grade 8 learners were swiftly apprehended by the security company that responded first to the call by the school and were handed over to the South African Police Services .

The Department takes these incidents of violence in schools extremely seriously and is working closely with the police to ensure that those responsible face the full consequences of their actions.

“The safety and well-being of our learners remains our top priority. The Department will continue to monitor the learner’s recovery while ensuring he receives academic support. We extend our sincere appreciation to the Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA), the medical team for their swift intervention, and the teachers of Trenance Park Secondary School for their dedication and support during this difficult time” said KZN MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka.

The second incident involves two learners from Esther Payne Smith Secondary School in Northdale Circuit being injured in a massive brawl.

Multiple Mi7 teams were immediately dispatched to Bombay Road, joined by other private security providers. Upon arrival, Mi7 officers found two learners (aged 15 & 17) who had sustained lacerations to their head and legs.

The victims received on-site treatment from Mi7 before being transported to a nearby hospital for further care. Another security company had already apprehended a pupil believed to be responsible for the attack.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has since taken over the investigation.

“As a Department, we condemn school violence, it has no place in our learning environments and in our communities.

We wish the injured a speedy recovery,” said KZN MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka.

– on behalf of South African Government.

Posted on

Western Cape Mobility pays tribute to women leading frontline in road safety

Source: APO – Report:

.

This Women’s Month, we proudly recognise and honour the remarkable contribution of the Western Cape Mobility Department’s female traffic law enforcement officers. Leading a series of all-women integrated roadblocks and interventions across the province this month, these women are not only increasing visibility in traffic law enforcement, but also reaffirming the vital role that women play in keeping our roads safe.

The presence of female officers on high-traffic routes reflects their courage, determination, and professionalism in a demanding career that has traditionally been male-dominated. These ladies bring a unique perspective and strength to the profession, balancing firmness with compassion, and enforcement with community engagement. Their efforts show that traffic law enforcement is not only about issuing fines, but also about building trust, changing behaviour, and ultimately saving lives.

Day after day, these officers make countless sacrifices, working long hours in often challenging and dangerous conditions, all in service of protecting our residents. Beyond enforcement, they engage directly with motorists by sharing safe driving tips, promoting courteous behaviour, and encouraging all road users to take responsibility for safety. Their work reminds us that road safety is a collective effort, one that requires every driver, passenger, and pedestrian to play their part.

Many of these women carry deeply personal motivations for the work they do, and they continue to serve with integrity. Their example is an inspiration to their peers, to young women considering careers in enforcement, and to all of us who benefit from their commitment.

Somerset West Provincial Traffic Inspector (PI) Nthabeleng Sibiya stressed that while Women’s Month celebrates the contribution of female officers, road safety is a collective effort. “We appreciate the spotlight on female officers this month, but safer roads depend on every driver, passenger, and pedestrian. Regardless of gender, everyone has a role to play,” said PI Sibiya.

For Elizabeth Toerien, Caledon Provincial Traffic Inspector, her work is deeply personal. “I lost family members in road crashes. That loss drives me every day to make a difference. I enjoy my role, challenges and all, especially meeting people from all walks of life,” said PI Toerien.

Departmental Road Safety Coordinator, Nokuzola Letselebe, highlighted the value of partnerships, “Working with other road safety agencies allows us to spread road safety messages further and encourage all motorists to follow the rules.”

Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku hailed the women of traffic law enforcement as an inspiration to the province, “Traffic law enforcement is tough, yet these women serve with passion and courage. Every safer road and every life saved is their reward, and we thank them for it.”

This Women’s Month, we salute the hardworking women of our provincial traffic services, road safety ambassadors and partners. Their courage, strength, and perseverance remind us that every life saved is a victory, and every act of service is a step toward safer roads for all. To all our female officers, we see you, we value you, and we thank you for everything you do for the residents of the Western Cape.

While far too many lives are still lost to preventable incidents on Western Cape roads, each of us can help by making road safety a personal responsibility.

– on behalf of South African Government.