Category: English

Source: Government of South Africa

Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela says government remains focused on ensuring that traffic signals and road infrastructure function optimally to improve road safety and mobility across the province.

“We are aware of the inconvenience caused by non-functional traffic lights and the impact this has on traffic flow and safety. Our teams are working tirelessly to restore vandalised intersections and strengthen maintenance across the province,” the MEC said on Wednesday.

She said the upcoming procurement of maintenance service providers will significantly improve government’s ability to respond swiftly to faults and prevent prolonged outages. 

The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport asserted that it continues to intensify efforts to enhance traffic management and road infrastructure, with significant progress reported on the M43 (Atlas Road) traffic lights in Ekurhuleni and the Rooihuiskraal/N14 off-ramp project in Centurion.

Several intersections along the M43 are currently fully operational, however, inspections have identified that certain intersections were vandalised and remain non-operational. 

Damaged components include power supply units, poles, and copper cables. 

The department is in the process of finalising procurement for the restoration of these intersections, with costs to be confirmed upon completion of this process.

The department further noted that certain intersections along the route fall under the jurisdiction of the City of Ekurhuleni. 

Engagements will be undertaken with the City to ensure coordination and alignment of repair efforts.
Diale-Tlabela also expressed concern about the recurring vandalism and theft of road infrastructure, which continues to undermine service delivery and public safety. 

“Vandalism and cable theft remain some of our biggest challenges, costing the province millions and setting back progress. We urge communities to work with law enforcement and report acts of vandalism so that we can protect these shared public assets and ensure a safer, more efficient transport system for all,” she said.

The department has confirmed that development for the Rooihuiskraal/N14 off-ramp project will proceed as a standalone project.

Procurement for a service provider is planned for Quarter 3 of the 2025/2026 Financial Year. 

“The Rooihuiskraal/N14 off-ramp project is an important investment in improving traffic flow and accessibility in Centurion. It forms part of our broader programme to expand and modernise Gauteng’s road network in support of economic growth and improved connectivity,” the MEC said.

The department said it remains committed to delivering safe, efficient, and reliable road infrastructure across the province. 

“Despite the challenges posed by vandalism and budgetary constraints, efforts continue to restore and maintain critical infrastructure, improve mobility, and advance the province’s transport priorities,” she said. –SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, November 5, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, will lead South Africa’s delegation from the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) at the 43rd Session of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) General Conference, currently under way in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

The conference, which began on 30 October, will conclude on 13 November 2025.

The DSTI delegation will participate in sessions that align with the department’s areas of expertise and mandate, starting on Thursday, 6 November.

The UNESCO General Conference convenes every two years and gathers ministers, heads of delegation, senior policymakers, and experts from 195 member states. 

It also includes representatives from the United Nations (UN) and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

Nzimande emphasised the significance of participating in the conference and believes that this global forum provides South Africa with a strategic opportunity to influence global standards concerning the ethics of artificial intelligence (AI) and open science. 

“It contributes to multilateral frameworks that advance science, innovation, and environmental sustainability, promotes South Africa’s initiatives in indigenous knowledge systems, youth engagement in science, and inclusive sport and education. It also strengthens our country’s visibility and leadership within the Group of 20 (G20) science and innovation platforms.”

South Africa will begin sessions focusing on two key UNESCO Commissions, the Social and Human Sciences (SHS) Commission and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (SC-IOC) for Natural Sciences.

The SHS Commission will focus on the ethical, social, and policy aspects of science, technology, and education. This includes topics such as the ethics of artificial intelligence, science policy, inclusive sports, and the inclusion of individuals with disabilities. 

The commission will be chaired by South Africa’s permanent representative to UNESCO, Ambassador, Dr Phil Mjwara.

According to the department, South Africa’s participation in this commission is undertaken in partnership with the Department of Social Development, the lead department for the SHS Sector. 

SC-IOC will focus on science, oceanography, climate, and environmental sustainability. 

The DSTI will lead South Africa’s participation in this commission, supported by the Department of Water and Sanitation and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment.

As part of the conference program, Dr Blade Nzimande has been invited by UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Natural Sciences, Dr Lidia Brito, to be a panellist in a high-level side event titled: “Trust, Transformation, Tomorrow: The Science We Need for 2025.” The event will take place on Sunday, 10 November. 

Through its active participation in the 43rd Session of the UNESCO General Conference, the DSTI reaffirms its commitment to fostering global collaboration and addressing societal challenges through science, technology, and innovation. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

The Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana, has appointed Lebogang Paul Mogashoa as the Pension Funds Adjudicator for the Office of the Pension Funds Adjudicator (OPFA) for a period of three years, effective 8 December 2025.

With over 17 years of extensive expertise in pension fund law, governance, management, and administration, Mogashoa brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his new role.

“Throughout his career within the pension funds sector, Mogashoa has demonstrated strong leadership and strategic insight, particularly in managing high-value litigation. His profound understanding of the pension funds’ legal framework, coupled with his dedication to serving the South African public and all stakeholders, positions him as an ideal candidate to lead the OPFA,” the Minister said on Wednesday.

The OPFA’s primary role is to investigate and determine complaints related to pension funds, as outlined in the PF Act. 

Additionally, the OPFA handles complaints designated to it under section 211 of the Financial Sector Regulation Act, 2017 (Act 9 of 2017 – ‘FSRA’), further promoting accountability and fairness within  the pension funds industry.

“He has held various key positions, most recently serving as the Deputy Principal Executive Officer and Company Secretary of the Eskom Pension and Provident Fund. Prior to this, he served as a Senior  Corporate Legal Counsel at the Pension Fund MANCO for the South African Tourism Board,” Godongwana said.

Mogashoa’s career began as a Legal Intern at the OPFA, where he rapidly advanced to the role of Senior Assistant Adjudicator, demonstrating his dedication and proficiency in the field. 

An admitted Advocate, Mogashoa holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from the University of Limpopo, a Master of Management (Governance and Management) from the University of Witwatersrand, and a Master of Laws (LLM) in Mercantile Law from the University of Pretoria, among other academic accolades.

Additionally, he has completed an Executive Development Programme at the University of  Stellenbosch, reinforcing his commitment to ongoing professional development.

As the PFA, Mogashoa is mandated to oversee the OPFA’s functions, ensuring that he acts in the  best interest of the public and the organisation while avoiding any conflicts of interest. 

The Minister has thanked the incumbent PFA, Muvhango Antoinette Lukhaimane, for her outstanding contribution and exceptional leadership in shaping the OPFA’s success. –SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Agriculture has issued a public warning of high-risk rabies areas across South Africa, following a rise in cases among dogs, Cape fur seals, and other mammals.

Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects all mammals and can be spread to humans. The virus is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, most commonly via bites, scratches, and licks.

The disease affects the brain and is fatal once a person or animal shows clinical signs. However, it can be prevented through preventive vaccination of animals and immediate medical attention for people exposed to an infected animal.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the department said several human deaths attributed to rabies transmitted by dogs have been reported this year in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, and Limpopo.

“The public is urged to keep away from stray animals and not to touch them. If a person suspects that an animal has rabies, he/she should report this to the local state veterinary office, local welfare authority, or the police,” the department said in a statement.

Rabies has also become endemic among Cape fur seals population, with cases detected on beaches Cape beaches.

The department warned that seals not only pose a rabies risk but may also transmit other diseases and inflict physical damage with their sharp teeth.

“The Public is urged to take note of the risk of rabies and other hazards in Cape fur seals and keep a respectful distance from these animals, including seal pups,” the department said.

How would I know if an animal might have rabies?

Animals infected with rabies may display abnormal behaviour and signs of disease of the brain (neurological symptoms), including excessive drooling, paralysis, inability to swallow, continuously vocalise (barking, whining, or howling), and become aggression. Some infected animals may just appear weak and in a comatose state (unresponsive).

Any mammal can become infected with rabies, including dogs, cats, livestock, jackals, foxes, mongooses, and marine mammals such as Cape fur seals.

Where does rabies occur in South Africa?

Rabies occurs in all nine provinces of South Africa and may be seen in dogs, cats, wildlife, and livestock. Rabies in dogs poses the biggest risk to human populations and is common in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, and Limpopo. Rabies in Cape fur seals has become endemic and can occur along the coastline of Northern Cape, Western Cape, and Eastern Cape (up to Algoa Bay).

What should I do if I am bitten or scratched by a rabid animal?

Anyone bitten, scratched, or licked by an animal suspected to have rabies should immediately wash the affected area with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes and then seek urgent medical attention at the nearest clinic or hospital.

Further information on rabies post-exposure prophylaxis is available from the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) at www.nicd.ac.za/diseases-a-z-index/rabies.

How do I keep my animals safe?

All dogs and cats must be correctly vaccinated against rabies throughout their lives. This is required by law. If you walk your dogs, keep them under control or on a leash to avoid contact with other stray dogs, seals, and wildlife.

“When travelling with your pets, ensure that they are up to date with their rabies vaccinations and carry their vaccination booklets with you. Enquire with your local state veterinarian, animal health technician, private veterinarian, or animal welfare organisation for access to rabies vaccinations.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

The African Union (AU) and the European Union (EU) will hold a high-level meeting on Wednesday, 5 November 2025, to renew their strategic partnership on health.

Guided by the principles of equity, security, and resilience, the meeting will lay the foundation for deeper cooperation ahead of the Group of 20 (G20) Health Ministers Meeting and the AU-EU Summit in Luanda, Angola, taking place on 24 to 25 November 2025.

The engagement marks a new phase in their 25-year partnership.

The key outcomes of the collaboration include the procurement and donation of 215 000 vaccine doses to support the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) in addressing the mpox outbreak in Africa. 

In addition, this effort has strengthened regulatory systems at both the continental and national levels to ensure that all Africans have access to safe and effective medicines and vaccines. 

In South Africa, the establishment of the mRNA [messenger ribonucleic acid] technology transfer hub aims to enhance health and health security by facilitating sustainable regional production of mRNA-based health products.

The high-level strategic meeting organised by South Africa’s Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the African Union Commission, Africa CDC, the European Commission, and the government of Belgium, will convene key stakeholders from across the continent. 

The event is expected to gather approximately 30 delegates representing 15 countries, four regional bodies, and 11 continental institutions.

“The day-long discussion will ensure strategic alignment, informing and building consensus on health priorities and identifying areas of convergence around global health architecture and health financing.

“Specifically, Africa and Europe reaffirm their commitment to advancing Universal Health Coverage through sustainable, country-led health financing, building on Africa’s leadership,” the media advisory read. 

Key stakeholders in the discussions include Director-General of Africa CDC Dr Jean Kaseya, Director-General of the African Medicines Agency Dr Mimi Darko, representatives from the European Commission, and ambassadors from various EU Member States.

Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi will deliver the opening remarks.

The gathering will be held at the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Pretoria at 1 pm. – SAnews.gov.za