Category: English

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, November 12, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

Efforts to step infrastructure development are accelerating in South Africa – to support economic growth and drive improved service delivery.

This is according to National Treasury’s Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) released on Wednesday. 

In the maiden budget speech of the Government of National Unity (GNU) earlier this year, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced a R1 trillion allocation for infrastructure investment over the medium term. 

“Infrastructure investment has strong direct and indirect effects on growth, boosting demand for inputs and workers in the short term and expanding the economy’s capacity to produce over the longer term.

“Reforms are under way to mobilise private-sector finance and technical expertise at scale. In parallel, there are initiatives to strengthen government’s ability to deliver infrastructure more efficiently and improve spending outcomes.

“These actions will address the persistent underspending of infrastructure budgets and enhance value for money,” National Treasury said.

Reforms to create a conducive environment for public-private partnerships (PPP) by “improving the PPP framework, strengthening institutional arrangements and enhancing monitoring and reporting”.

Amendments to Treasury Regulation 16 – which addresses PPPs – took effect in June.

“In October 2025, guidelines relating to unsolicited bids and fiscal commitments and contingent liabilities were published and took effect. These provide a clear, structured pathway for the private sector to submit innovative project ideas, including provisions for recoverable development fees. 

“They also provide a framework to identify, manage and report on fiscal commitments and contingent liabilities in anticipation of the expansion of the PPP market. Updates to the PPP manual and the development of sector-specific toolkits in priority sectors will be completed in 2026,” Treasury added.

Amendments to municipal PPP regulations are underway and are expected to be completed by February 2026, following COGTA concurrence.

Tabling the MTBPS in Parliament on Wednesday, the Minister gave more details on the reconfiguration of the Budget Facility for Infrastructure (BFI) which will now run four bid windows per year instead of one.

“Since the reconfiguration, the BFI has received 28 submissions. Nine projects were accepted for detailed analysis.

“Funding to the tune of R4.1 billion is also allocated for disaster relief to fix schools, pipelines, clinics and substations damaged between last year and this year by flooding in KwaZulu Natal, Mpumalanga, and the Eastern Cape,” he said.

A new infrastructure bond is expected to be launched to raise some R15 billion aimed at funding these BFI projects.

“The bond forms part of our efforts to introduce dedicated financing instruments that can mobilise cheaper financing to support our infrastructure agenda.

“Government will also contribute to R2 billion to capitalise the Credit Guarantee Vehicle. Initially, the vehicle will support electricity transmission expansion, directly contributing to our efforts at energy security while also driving decarbonisation.

“This heralds a new era in PPPs, where private investment in high-voltage transmission lines is enabled. This is real progress in our move away from merely fixing the power utility to securing power to the grid from a range of sources,” Godongwana added.

The Infrastructure Finance and Implementation Support Agency is expected to be operational by March 2026 to “infrastructure finance functions to systematically crowd-in private capital and promote the use of alternative delivery mechanisms”. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

The Ministry of Water and Sanitation has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating equitable and sustainable access to water and sanitation services across South Africa.

The commitment was made at the Association of Water and Sanitation Institutions of South Africa (AWSISA) Africa and Global South Water and Sanitation Dialogue, which is currently underway at Emperors Palace, in Johannesburg.

The dialogue was formally declared opened by Deputy President Paul Mashatile, supported by the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Pemmy Majodina, through a virtual address on Monday, 10 November 2025.

In his address, the Deputy President highlighted the urgency of advancing water security and dignified sanitation across all communities, while strengthening partnerships across Africa and the Global South.

More than 1,500 delegates are in attendance, including government leaders, water utility executives, researchers, civil society organisations, youth innovators, and private sector partners.

The Ministry recognises that Africa’s water and sanitation challenges are shared, transboundary and deeply interconnected. This is why South Africa continues to work closely with African governments, regional bodies and strategic global partners to advance the Africa Water Vision 2063, which seeks a prosperous and water-secure continent where water is equitably and sustainably managed.

Held under the theme: “Towards Sustainable Water and Sanitation Security in Africa”, the dialogue reflects and acknowledges the shared exposure to climate shocks, rapid urbanisation and the systemic pressures facing public infrastructure and institutions.

The dialogue goes beyond knowledge exchange but also creates a strategic platform, where policy harmonisation is pursued, technological solutions are tested for local relevance and cross-border partnerships are strengthened.

It also aims to accelerate infrastructure delivery, align regulatory reforms and unlock blended investment models capable of sustaining long-term development.

In her address, Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina reiterated and emphasised the Ministry’s commitment to enhancing the delivery of water and sanitation services across the country, especially in disadvantaged and underserved communities.

“Our commitment is deeply rooted in restoring dignity to our communities. We are intensifying our work in the most disadvantaged and underserved areas. Every household, every school and every clinic deserves safe and dependable water. This is not just an aspiration; but a right we are actively realising through investment, partnership and accountable delivery,” Majodina said.

AWSISA was officially established in August this year through a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Department of Water and Sanitation. This milestone marked a shared effort to strengthen collaboration across the sector and expand access to clean water and dignified sanitation for communities in South Africa and across the continent.

The agreement cemented a unified commitment to unlock investment, drive innovation, and accelerate service delivery. It also provides a framework for aligning sector strategies and plans, promoting joint engagement on policy and regulatory reform, advancing research, data-sharing, and sector-wide capacity building, amongst others.

South Africa remains steadfast in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG 6 on Clean Water and Sanitation and in supporting Africa’s collective progress toward a just, inclusive, and water-secure future. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

Building effective and inclusive justice systems will take centre stage as global leaders meet in Spain for the 2025 Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Justice Leaders’ Dialogue.

Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Andries Nel will lead South Africa’s delegation to the Justice Leaders’ Dialogue, as part of the 2025 OECD Global Roundtable on Equal Access to Justice.

The roundtable will take place in Madrid, Spain, from 12 to 14 November 2025, marking the 10th anniversary of the OECD Global Roundtable on Equal Access to Justice, a key platform promoting international cooperation and people-centred justice systems.

The event forms part of the OECD Reinforcing Democracy Initiative, which over the past decade has served as a vital platform for international dialogue and policy exchange, supporting countries in their efforts to advance people-centred justice.

Held under the theme: “Shaping the future of justice: building a system that earns trust and delivers shared prosperity”, the 2025 Justice Leaders’ Dialogue will bring together Ministers of Justice, Attorneys-General, and senior justice leaders from across the globe.

Co-hosted with the Ministry of the Presidency, Justice and Parliamentary Relations of Spain, the dialogue will focus on charting the next phase of action to build effective, inclusive, and responsive justice systems.

The Justice and Constitutional Development department said Nel has been invited to participate in the flagship Justice Leaders’ Dialogue, which opens the Roundtable and focuses on addressing pressing justice sector challenges, defining strategic priorities, and reinforcing global cooperation.

As countries navigate unprecedented challenges – from digital transformation and artificial intelligence to demographic shifts, the department has emphasised a need for agile, effective, and forward-thinking justice institutions has never been greater.

“In this complex landscape, justice systems play a crucial role in fostering economic competitiveness and social stability by ensuring legal certainty, resolving disputes efficiently, and maintaining a fair business environment.

“Since effective justice systems are essential for economic welfare, foreign investment, and innovation, the discussions will address how to reinforce the rule of law amid rising pressures and declining public trust,” the department said in a statement on Tuesday.

The discussions will also examine what is needed to build a justice sector that not only upholds protection and opportunity, but also serves as an enabler, empowering people, communities, and economies to thrive.

During the dialogue, participants will be invited to discuss the challenges their justice sectors face, define actionable policy responses, shape global priorities, and strengthen international cooperation to promote the rule of law and access to justice for greater trust and shared prosperity.

The South African delegation has been streamlined to ensure cost-efficiency, while maintaining meaningful participation.

The delegation will also engage in the Justice Policy Forum and Technical Roundtable sessions, contributing to discussions on policy innovations, good practices, and collaborative strategies to build future-ready justice systems.

“South Africa remains committed to advancing equal access to justice and strengthening democratic institutions through inclusive, transparent, and people-centred approaches. The delegation’s participation underscores our country’s dedication to global cooperation and accessible justice for all,” the Deputy Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

Limpopo Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, has welcomed the significant drop in the provincial unemployment rate, which has decreased from 35% in the second quarter of 2025 to 29.8%. 

In a statement on Wednesday, the Limpopo Office of the Premier said this positive development, as reported by Statistics South Africa on 11 November 2025, positions Limpopo among the best performing provinces in South Africa.

The latest Labour Force Survey indicates that Limpopo has experienced a commendable 5.2% decline in unemployment, contributing to a national unemployment reduction of 1.2%, bringing the national figure to 31.9%. Notably, Limpopo recorded the largest decrease in unemployment among the provinces, showcasing the province’s resilience and potential.

The official unemployment rate decreased in seven provinces between Q2:2025 and Q3:2025. The largest decrease was recorded in Limpopo. Statistics South Africa said that employment increases were mainly in the construction, services and trade industries. 

Ramathuba welcomed these finding and further expressed her enthusiasm. 

“We welcome the results of the Q3 Labour Force Survey, which affirm our earlier assessments regarding Limpopo’s economic growth trajectory. Our province’s contribution of 0.9% to the national GDP highlights the strides we are making as we work collectively to provide opportunities for our residents.

 “The 29.8% is not the ideal to celebrate but a step towards making sure that unemployment in our province is way below 20%, as espoused in the Limpopo Development Plan. It is for this reason we are pushing for more industrialisation, specially manufacturing in our own province,” she said. 

The Premier pointed out that the recent investment pledges – totalling R170 billion raised from the Limpopo investment conference – signify a strong vote of confidence in Limpopo’s economy. 

“It is our responsibility as an administration to ensure that at least 50% of these investment pledges are realised without delay. Our commitment to inclusive growth is unwavering and we will leverage these opportunities for the benefit of our people,” she said.

Ramathuba highlighted the ongoing infrastructure development initiatives, which are poised to generate additional employment opportunities. Recent discussions with the South African National Roads Agency Limited, mining houses, the province’s commitment to building 21 new roads have unveiled major projects that will enhance the province’s road network, ultimately leading to job creation during the construction phase.

The Premier said the 7th Administration remains dedicated to fostering a thriving economy in Limpopo. 

The positive shift in unemployment statistics reinforces the determination to create jobs, fight poverty and curb the high cost of living for all residents of the province. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, November 12, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

The City of Johannesburg says preparations to host the 2025 G20 Leaders’ Summit have reached their final stages, with significant investments in infrastructure and security.

The city said the Johannesburg summit, to be held later this month, will mark the first time the prestigious gathering of world leaders is held on African soil.

In a statement on Tuesday, the city said hosting the summit will unlock a wealth of economic prospects for the city and the broader South African economy. 

The gathering is expected to attract high-profile delegates, global investors and international media, providing a platform to showcase the city’s burgeoning markets, technological innovations and entrepreneurial spirit. 

“This momentous occasion positions Johannesburg not only as a political and economic centre but also as a beacon of urban innovation, inclusive development and international cooperation.

“The city’s readiness reflects a comprehensive effort encompassing infrastructure upgrades, security measures and economic opportunities that promise to leave a lasting impact on the city and continent at large,” the city said. 

Increased investment during this period is anticipated to stimulate local economies, create jobs and foster new business partnerships across sectors such as finance, technology and tourism.

The city said it was also ready to welcome an influx of international visitors, with hotels, shopping centres, and transport networks having been upgraded ahead of the summit. 

The city expects to benefit from heightened global exposure, positioning it as a premier destination for business and leisure tourism beyond the event itself.

Infrastructure and safety upgrades

A major part of Johannesburg’s readiness plan has been the extensive infrastructure upgrades. 

The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) has been conducting maintenance along critical routes including Sandton, Alexandra, Lanseria, the M1, M2, and Soweto corridors. 

These efforts include resurfacing, pothole repairs, stormwater management, and beautification projects in collaboration with Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) and waste management entity Pikitup.

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has implemented a dual security and traffic management plan focusing on high-security zones, motorcade routes, and overall public safety. This includes strict perimeter controls, enhanced patrols, and enforcement of bylaws across the city.

“City Power has undertaken a major overhaul of the electricity network, with over 30 substations undergoing maintenance and upgrades to ensure a reliable power supply. 

“Streetlighting has been rehabilitated along strategic routes, enhancing both safety and visibility. Critical water infrastructure, including Rand Water’s Eikenhof Pumping Station, has received reinforced power supply systems to prevent disruptions during the event,” the city said. 

Johannesburg Water said contingency plans, including mobile water tanks and sanitation services, are in place to respond swiftly to any emergencies that might arise during the summit.

A defining moment for Johannesburg and Africa

The City of Johannesburg said these efforts go beyond the immediate needs of the G20 Summit, laying a foundation for Johannesburg to attract more international events in future.

“By investing in infrastructure, security and economic development, the city is not only ready to welcome the world but also to position itself as a leading African city capable of hosting future international events. 

“The summit promises to be a pointed milestone, nurturing economic growth, tourism and international collaboration that will benefit Johannesburg for years to come,” the statement read.

The 2025 G20 Summit is expected to be a defining moment for Johannesburg and for the African continent as leaders from the world’s largest economies convene to discuss global growth, sustainability, and development. – SAnews.gov.za