Category: English

Public Service Commission (PSC) Commissioner Anele Gxoyiya says the non-payment of invoices by government departments within 30 days remains a concern and violates the Public Finance Management Act.

“The non-payment of invoices by government departments is a contributing factor to the lack of sustainability in the small businesses environment,” Gxoyiya said on Wednesday in Pretoria.

The Commissioner was addressing the media in Pretoria, where he attributed the persistent non-payment of invoices in supply chain operations to structural weaknesses, including a lack of consequence management and insufficient monitoring at lower operational levels.

As a result, the cash flow of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) is compromised, forcing suppliers to borrow money to meet contractual obligations and, in some cases, retrench staff or close their businesses.

According to National Treasury’s 2025/26 third quarter report on Non-Compliance with Payments of Suppliers’ Invoices within 30 days, the number of invoices older than 30 days and not paid by national and provincial departments at the end of the third quarter of the 2025/26 financial year stood at 90 856, with a rand value of R15.5 billion.

“This represents a regression of 25%, or 4 543 invoices, compared to the end of the second quarter of the 2025/26 financial year, which had 95 399 invoices with a rand value amount of R12.4 billion.

“Provincial departments account for 98% of invoices older than 30 days and not paid, and they also account for 98% of the R15.5 billion,” Gxoyiya said.

Gxoyiya said the number of invoices paid after 30 days by national and provincial departments during the third quarter of the 2025/26 financial year stood at 89 499, with a rand value of R10.8 billion.

“Provinces continue to be the highest contributors to the statistics of late payments and unpaid invoices, and interventions must be prioritised at the provincial level. The provincial departments that contributed the highest number of invoices paid late or not paid during the third quarter of the 2025/26 financial year,” he said.

National departments that contributed the most to the late or non-payment of invoices for the third quarter of the 2025/26 financial year were Home Affairs; Land Reform and Rural Development; Water and Sanitation (Trading Account); Public Works and Infrastructure (Trading Account); Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment; and the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development.

The Department of Defence reported the highest number of invoices paid after 30 days during the second quarter, at 15 769, or 80% of invoices, amounting to R450 million.

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure reported the second highest number of invoices paid after 30 days during the same period, at 1 391 invoices, or 7% of the total number of invoices paid after 30 days by national departments, with a rand value of R216 million.

Gxoyiya said the non-payment of invoices is counterproductive to government’s vision of economic development, job creation and poverty alleviation.

“In the absence of clear accountability frameworks or enforcement mechanisms, delayed or ignored payments often remain unresolved, fostering a culture of complacency,” the Commissioner warned.

He added that weak oversight among junior supply chain staff further contributes to poor tracking of invoice status, ineffective follow-up and limited escalation of outstanding payments.

“These challenges are compounded by inefficient internal controls, fragmented interdepartmental communication, delays in invoice verification and approval, and limited real-time visibility into financial obligations. 

“Capacity constraints, skills gaps, and reliance on manual processes also heighten the risk of errors and extend payment cycles. Collectively, these shortcomings erode supplier confidence, strain business relationships, and undermine the efficiency and long-term sustainability of the supply chain,” the Commissioner said. – SAnews.gov.za

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The Road Traffic Infringement Authority (RTIA) says the implementation of  Phase 2 of the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences Act (AARTO) is continuing as scheduled.

This as RTIA welcomed the order of the Gauteng Division of the High Court in Pretoria on Tuesday. The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) had brought an urgent application to interdict the implementation of Phase 2 of AARTO, which is scheduled to commence on 1 July 2026.

“On 23 June 2026, SALGA instituted an urgent application against the Minister of Transport, RTIA, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), and the Minister of Finance. SALGA raised concerns on the regulatory framework for the implementation of Phase 2 of AARTO, infrastructure and equipment readiness of issuing authorities, and the financial model for municipalities,” the authority said in a statement.

The purpose of the Act is to promote quality, safety and discipline in road traffic by providing for a scheme to discourage road traffic contraventions; to facilitate the adjudication of road traffic infringements; to support the prosecution of offences in terms of national and provincial laws relating to road traffic, and to implement a points demerit system, among others.

Additionally, SALGA had formally declared an intergovernmental dispute on 19 June 2026, in terms of section 41 of the Constitution and the Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act, seeking to halt the implementation of Phase 2 of AARTO, pending the resolution of the dispute.

SALGA’s application was opposed by the Department of Transport, RTIA, and the South African Post Office (SAPO) on the following grounds:
•    Lack of urgency: SALGA had been aware of the 1 July 2026 implementation date since November 2025 but delayed bringing the application, creating its own urgency.
•    Lack of authority to represent municipalities: SALGA failed to provide evidence that municipalities authorised it to bring the application on their behalf. The Minister served a formal notice in terms of Rule 7 of the Uniform Rules of the High Court, requiring SALGA to produce council resolutions from the affected municipalities. 
•    Presidential proclamation not yet in place at the time of the filing of the application: The implementation of AARTO requires a Presidential Proclamation.
•    Readiness for implementation: RTIA demonstrated that it is fully prepared for Phase 2 rollout. Under Phase 2, there are 62 issuing authorities with 283 combined sites, of which 75% are properly equipped and have received relevant training. This includes the provision of equipment, training of law enforcement officers and back-office personnel and ensuring network connectivity.

Upon hearing the matter, the Court struck the application from the roll, finding that:
•    SALGA failed to establish urgency, as required by the rules of the High Court.
•    SALGA failed to demonstrate that it was authorised to act on behalf of municipalities.
•    Courts should not lightly interfere with government decisions on policy matters and the implementation of legislation.

“The order clears the way for the implementation of AARTO Phase 2, as scheduled on 1 July 2026, the system is now being rolled out across a total of 62 local and metropolitan municipalities, building upon the initial implementation already underway in Johannesburg and Tshwane.

“RTIA remains committed to the successful rollout of AARTO and will continue working with all issuing authorities to ensure effective implementation. Motorists and the public are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the AARTO system through the official channels and resources provided by RTIA,” it said.

Meanwhile, SALGA on Tuesday expressed disappointment at the ruling of the court.

“The ‘for lack of urgency’, reasoning by the court, only means that the merits of the case will have to be argued at a later stage and not on an urgent basis,” it said.

It further added that at the heart of the contention are concerns around the funding model underpinning the Act and its regulations. – SAnews.gov.za

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The Department of Human Settlements, together with the Gauteng Provincial Government, has brought dignity to families of the Rand West City Local Municipality, with the handover of housing units.

The units are part of the Droogeheuwel Mega Project, which is expected to deliver some 5 906 housing opportunities upon completion.

“Today, we have come to restore your dignity. Today, all of you can lift up your house keys and say, ‘I am going to my home’. 

“We are still going to come back and build sports facilities, a community hall and other facilities. 

“We ask that you be the ears and eyes of government here so that others, whose homes are still to be built, can also come in. Protect each other by starting community safety organisations so that there’s no crime. Build your community here, so that your lives may continue peacefully,” Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane told the community.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi said the new homes represent a “worthy investment” from government into the lives of ordinary people.

“Even the title deed that we are going to give you, you can rest assured that when you pass, your children will have the home that government has given you. So, take care of the home.”

Human Settlements MEC in Gauteng, Tasneem Motara, urged the new homeowners to take pride in their property and warned that renting out the home may result in criminal prosecution.

“We are building new communities, new suburbs, new towns so take pride in your property and your community.

“Don’t rent out the house to anybody else. You are not a landlord; you are a homeowner. We are going to do inspections. If you have rented the house out, we are going to jail you because it’s illegal. You are [also] not allowed to sell this house within eight years. But even after eight years, don’t sell it. Keep it for your children. Your children and grandchild will have a proper home.

“Congratulations and we thank you for being patient,” Motara said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Deputy President Paul Mashatile has launched BrainSAT Satellite Services and Thuraya satellite phones as part of efforts to expand digital connectivity to citizens in rural and remote communities.

Speaking at the launch and unveiling of the next-generation Thuraya satellite phone in Sandton, Johannesburg, on Tuesday, the Deputy President said the technologies would help bridge the divide between isolation and opportunity for people in rural villages, townships and remote communities.

“We want a young boy in a rural village, who once had to walk kilometres just to borrow textbooks from a distant school library, to now have full access to digital connectivity. From his home, he should be able to log into online learning platforms, attend virtual classes, and connect with mentors across the world,” the Deputy President.

He emphasised that reliable broadband and satellite connectivity are not merely technological advances but instruments of inclusion.

“This is the foundation of a resilient digital economy. It equips farmers with real-time weather and market intelligence, enables small businesses to compete in the digital marketplace, and provides young people with access to the skills and opportunities that will define the jobs of the future.

“Digital transformation is no longer a choice, it is an economic imperative. Around the world, it is driving investment, accelerating innovation, creating sustainable employment and improving the delivery of public services. 

“Satellite communications are equally strategic, extending connectivity to underserved communities, strengthening national resilience, and ensuring that no South African is left behind,” Deputy President Mashatile said.

The launch follows the Deputy President’s visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in April 2024, where he engaged various companies providing satellite technology.

One of the key outcomes of these engagements was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Space42 and the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies. Space42 is partnering with BrainSAT South Africa to implement the MOU.

BrainSAT South Africa provides integrated satellite communication solutions to government, business and industry, including secure voice, broadband and data connectivity services across various sectors.

Through its strategic partnership with Space42, a leading global SpaceTech company, BrainSAT South Africa uses advanced satellite infrastructure and technologies to extend satellite communication services across South Africa and the continent.

“We want to ensure connection availability across South Africa’s most connectivity-dependent sectors such as energy, mining, maritime, and humanitarian operations. Satellite connectivity is essential for maintaining operational continuity and safety in extreme conditions. 

“Collaborations with Government and Private Entities will ensure that critical sectors stay connected, thus advancing technological innovations while also protecting the essential lifelines of the economy and society,” the Deputy President said.

The Deputy President said connectivity alone is not enough, adding that it must benefit everyone as a key engine of upward mobility in the digital age.

He called on BrainSAT and Thuraya to invest deeply in training programmes, apprenticeships and skills development initiatives.

“If we equip our youth with the expertise to design, maintain, and innovate within this sector, we secure South Africa’s digital future while empowering a generation to lead in the knowledge economy.

“Our partnership must therefore be more about capacity-building, job creation, and nurturing talent so that our youth stand at the forefront of Africa’s digital transformation,” he said.

The Deputy President further emphasised government’s commitment to improving access to public services for millions of South Africans.

“To achieve this, we have implemented the Roadmap for Digital Transformation in Government, aimed at simplifying access to essential services, including grants, ID applications, payment collections, and school registrations.

“The roadmap outlines a strategy for modernising service delivery through investments in shared systems, improved coordination, and the elimination of access barriers,” the Deputy President said.

The launch of Thuraya satellite phones and BrainSAT Satellite Services is expected to support the government’s digital transformation roadmap by providing resilient infrastructure for modern and accessible public services.

“This technological foundation is designed to bridge the digital divide, enhance resilience, and empower citizens, allowing them to access government services with dignity and ease.

“Furthermore, the Government views connectivity through the lens of the South Africa Connect programme, which aims to provide universal broadband access to all schools, health facilities, and Government institutions,” Deputy President Mashatile said.

The initiative seeks to create an integrated “network of networks” to ensure that connectivity meets the cost and quality requirements of citizens, businesses and the public sector.

The SA Connect initiative is aimed at improving connectivity in remote areas of South Africa through a satellite-based communications network, complementing broadband services and helping to address the digital divide. –SAnews.gov.za

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that South Africa and the wider African continent have broken the cycle of playing “digital catch-up” and are firmly in the driving seat of a technological revolution that will catalyse jobs and modernise public services.

The President was speaking at the first Google Cloud Summit held on the African continent at the Sandton Convention Centre on Wednesday.

“The regional Google Cloud Summits are the premier technology and enterprise events for showcasing the latest innovations in cloud computing, AI [artificial intelligence] and digital transformation. This event affirms Africa’s position as a core growth region for the global cloud ecosystem.

“This is so because Africa is no longer simply adopting technologies developed elsewhere. We are becoming a place where new digital solutions are imagined, tested and scaled,” President Ramaphosa noted.

He highlighted that Africa has an opportunity to be at the cutting edge of industrialisation.

“For far too long, Africa has had to play digital catch-up with the world’s leading and most industrialised economies. We are now presented with a unique opportunity to be in the driving seat of our own industrialisation and growth.

“Technology will unlock entirely new industries, improve the competitiveness of existing firms and create opportunities for thousands of entrepreneurs who today face barriers to entering the formal economy,” the President stated.

He welcomed Google’s latest investment in South Africa’s, which will be announced at the Summit – describing them as a significant vote of confidence in the country’s economic trajectory and structural reforms.

“They will catalyse job creation, support the growth of small and medium enterprises, and, above all, enhance our global competitiveness.

“Cloud and AI are reshaping the global landscape at a pace unprecedented in human history. As South Africa, we stand ready to harness these shifts to transform our economy and society,” he said.

A fitting match

The President described South Africa as the continent’s “digital investment powerhouse and Africa’s largest cloud market” and hosts approximately 70 percent of the continent’s hyperscale data centre capacity.

Additionally, Cape Town was recently ranked as the third-highest startup ecosystem on the continent.

“South Africa and Google are a perfect match. South Africa combines world-class financial markets, sophisticated legal institutions, deep engineering capability, globally respected universities and a growing innovation ecosystem.

“These are precisely the ingredients required for a thriving AI economy,” the President noted.

Furthermore, the push towards digitisation aligns with government’s ongoing economic turnaround strategy.

“A critical part of the structural reforms being coordinated through Operation Vulindlela is the creation of a comprehensive digital public infrastructure for South Africa that will serve as the backbone of our modern economy.

“Secure, interoperable digital systems will support digitalisation across the public and private sectors, foster financial inclusion and scale up the delivery of public services.

“A key strategic priority of our government is inclusive growth and job creation, and we have been clear on the role a robust digital infrastructure must play in achieving this goal. We are greatly encouraged that Google shares this view,” he said.

The President praised Google’s commitment for being a “steadfast partner in Africa’s development journey” and added that the continent and South Africa have ambitions that go deeper.

“Our ambition is not simply to expand and host data centres. Our ambition is to build companies. To produce researchers. To commercialise African ideas. To create intellectual property that competes globally, 

“Ours is the generation called upon to build the digital infrastructure that will power the African century. Let future generations say that when the opportunity came, Africa chose ambition over hesitation, innovation over imitation and partnership over isolation.

“Together we will ensure that the technologies shaping tomorrow are developed in ways that advance human dignity, expand opportunity and improve the lives of all our people,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

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The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has increased the sardine Total Allowable Catch (TAC) for areas west of Cape Agulhas by 6 000 tonnes, adjusting the overall limit from 30 500 tonnes to 36 500 tonnes.

According to Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Willie Aucamp, the decision will protect more than 5 000 livelihoods.

“I am very pleased that we have saved more than a thousand jobs, whilst also ensuring the protection of our natural resources. Creating jobs and growing our economy does not stand in opposition to the protection of our environment, which was again evident in reaching this decision,” the Minister said on Tuesday.

The increase comprises 3 000 tonnes supported by revised survey timing corrections, and a further 3 000 tonnes made available through the conversion of existing sardine Total Allowable Bycatches (TABs).

The decision follows several requests from stakeholders in the commercial Small Pelagic sector, who raised concerns about a shortage of sardine for processing in areas west of Cape Agulhas.

This resulted in socio-economic hardship, with several right holders having already harvested their local sardine TAC allocations and being forced to scale down operations.

These circumstances consequently placed more than one thousand jobs at risk.

The Minister therefore instructed the Small Pelagic Scientific Working Group (SWG) to investigate whether additional sardine TAC could be made available for areas west of Cape Agulhas in the short term to help alleviate these impacts.

Following its deliberations, the SWG reached a decision on Monday, 29 June 2026.

The determination of the TAC is governed by the Marine Living Resources Act, 1998 (Act No. 18 of 1998).

The department said it will continue to monitor the status of the resource through its established scientific assessment and stakeholder engagement processes.

“Any future adjustments to management of our small pelagic stock will be considered strictly within the framework of the applicable scientific advice, sustainable resource management and legislative requirements,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Authorities in the Eastern Cape have arrested 208 suspects during coordinated law enforcement operations conducted while residents participated in demonstrations against illegal immigration.

The operations form part of ongoing efforts to prevent and combat crime, maintain stability and ensure the safety and security of all residents.

“While the security situation remains stable, deployed law enforcement officers will remain on high alert, closely monitoring developments across the province. Security agencies stand ready to respond swiftly and decisively to any incidents that may threaten public safety or disrupt public order,” Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane said on Tuesday.

The provincial government acknowledged the concerns raised by communities regarding undocumented immigrants.

“While the provincial government acknowledges the concerns raised by communities regarding undocumented immigrants, it reiterates that the enforcement of immigration laws remains the responsibility of the relevant State authorities.

“The provincial government strongly condemns acts of vigilantism, intimidation, discrimination, criminality or violence against any individual or community, and urges residents to allow law enforcement agencies to carry out their responsibilities within the confines of the law.”

Mabuyane encouraged members of the public to report suspected criminal activity or immigration-related offences through the appropriate law enforcement channels and to refrain from taking the law into their own hands.

The Eastern Cape provincial government commended law enforcement agencies across the province for their coordinated and professional response during the demonstrations.

Mabuyane said the successful management of the protests reflects the strength of coordinated planning and cooperation between all spheres of government and law enforcement agencies.

“I wish to commend all law enforcement agencies for their vigilance, professionalism and restraint in ensuring that the protests remained peaceful. We also appreciate the cooperation shown by communities and protest organisers who exercised their constitutional rights responsibly.

“Government remains committed to working with all stakeholders to address concerns relating to illegal immigration through lawful, coordinated and constitutionally compliant interventions,” the Premier said.

The Eastern Cape provincial government reaffirmed that it would continue monitoring developments through established security structures and remains committed to safeguarding the lives, property and wellbeing of all residents. – SAnews.gov.za

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