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Government welcomes Walmart’s investment

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, September 10, 2025

Government has welcomed plans by Walmart to open its first branded stores in South Africa later this year.

“Government welcomes Walmart’s investment in South Africa as an expression of confidence in the country. The investment underscores a strong belief in the country’s economic trajectory and confirmation that South Africa remains a reliable investment destination,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said.

This announcement comes in the footsteps of Walmart’s first growth summit that was held in South Africa and resulted in the company recruiting small and medium-sized suppliers from South Africa and the rest of the African continent. 

“Walmart’s commitment to sourcing locally produced products will contribute to the growth of the economy and job creation, which are apex priorities of the government’s medium term development plan (MTDP),” GCIS said.

Walmart International President and CEO Kath McLay expressed that the company was thrilled to begin the journey of introducing the iconic Walmart brand to South African associates, customers and communities.

“By listening and working together, we aim to build lasting relationships and deliver a delightful shopping experience that reflects the needs and aspirations of South Africans,” McLay said.

Walmart’s South African stores will offer a wide range of merchandise, including fresh groceries, household essentials, apparel and technology. 

Walmart will also offer a variety of locally sourced products. 

“By partnering with South African suppliers and entrepreneurs, Walmart will bring its signature Every Day Low Prices and global standards to the market, while celebrating the country’s rich culture.

“With sites already in development, these new stores are set to open before the end of the year, with official opening dates to be announced in October. The company will share further details about store locations, hiring and community initiatives in the coming months,” McLay said. –SAnews.gov.za

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Postbank not yet ready for full banking licence, says President Ramaphosa

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa says Postbank is not yet in a position to be granted a licence to operate as a fully-fledged State-owned bank.

Responding to questions in the National Assembly on Tuesday, the President stressed that while financial inclusion remains a national priority, Postbank still has work to do before it can qualify for a commercial banking licence.

ANC Member of Parliament, Mdumiseni Ntuli, asked what measures government is taking to support the Postbank in obtaining its commercial banking licence and whether government has established the need to capitalise the institution. 

“According to the Minister, Postbank has not yet fully met the conditions for a banking licence, particularly around its card key management processes and compliance with prudential standards.

“Its immediate challenge is to strengthen its governance, ensure compliance with prudential standards and stabilise its finances,” President Ramaphosa said.

Government remains committed to supporting the Postbank to obtain its licence, as it is meant to play a critical role in extending affordable banking services to underserved communities, small businesses, and youth- and women-owned enterprises.

“When more South Africans, especially those in rural and underserved communities, are able to access affordable banking and credit, we unlock entrepreneurship, support job creation and stimulate growth in local economies.

“Financial inclusion also empowers youth- and women-owned enterprises, narrows inequality and builds resilience in households and communities,” he said.

The President explained that South Africa has a well-developed and competitive financial services sector and its commercial banks, development finance institutions, co-operative banks and new digital entrants, all provide a range of financial products and services to small businesses and individuals. 

“The Postbank Amendment Act was enacted to strengthen the diversity of our financial sector and ensure a dedicated focus on underserved communities.

“The Act was meant to establish Postbank as a developmental State-owned commercial bank, offering accessible financial services to all South Africans,” he said. 

The President further explained that while capitalisation will be considered, it will only take place after Postbank has been granted authorisation to establish a bank. Once authorisation is secured, the institution will have 12 months to raise the necessary funding to be registered as a bank.

He said that this will be determined by its business case, for which the Postbank board is responsible, and submitting that business case to government via the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies.

“These steps are essential to ensure that Postbank obtains its banking licence and is able to fulfil the vital mandate that it bears to promote financial inclusion for all,” President Ramaphosa said.

In answering further supplementary questions on the matter, President Ramaphosa indicated that government will not rule out the possibility of bringing together African Bank and Postbank as part of establishing a state bank. 

He told Parliament that all available assets may need to be leveraged to extend banking services to South Africa’s unbanked population.

“There is a general agreement that we need a state bank. The key question is how we move forward to put a bank together, and how we put all key elements together – whether it resides in Postbank or whether African Bank could be part of it.

“We must remind ourselves that African Bank has other shareholders who aren’t state entities. All those entities need to be synchronised to create a state bank,” the President told MPs. – SAnews.gov.za

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Acting Police Minister engages WC communities on gang violence

Source: Government of South Africa

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia on Tuesday held an engagement with community stakeholders in Mitchells Plain and Mfuleni in an effort to curb violence linked to gang activity in the Western Cape.

The Minister’s visit forms part of a broader Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster effort aim to implement practical, community-driven interventions against gang violence and foster safety.

Among the stakeholders attended the engagements included representatives from civic groups, religious leaders and Community Policing Forums (CPFs). 

Cachalia said gang violence in the province are as a result of organised transnational crime, stressing the need for a coordinated response. 

Cachalia said he requested a briefing from National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola on what the South African Police Service (SAPS) is doing to curb the violence, including the effectiveness of anti-gang units that has been established.

“I am aware of course that some time ago anti-gang units were put in place. There’s been some question about their effectiveness, and I intend to look into that,” he said.

Gang violence in areas like Mitchells Plain and Mfuleni has been going on for some time, with communities experiencing high levels of extortion, shootings and drug-related crimes. 

The Cape Flats, including some suburbs, sees frequent clashes between rival gangs such as the Americans and Mongrels, leading to crossfire that endangers innocent residents.

Mitchells Plain residents told Cachalia that they need increased police presence to protect them from gangsters’ violence.

Cachalia pledged to do everything in his power to improve policing and reducing crime in the country. 

Cachalia said the provincial commissioner and the head of crime intelligence presented him with a strategy to fight crime in the affected areas.

“They must still implement that plan. They must still resource that plan, that plan is needed. So we need a stabilisation plan.

“We need to go on the offensive against the drug lords, stabilise our communities, make sure that we are in charge, not the criminals,” he said.

Cachalia said that they might have to put in place special measures to get rid of gangsterism.

A number of people have died in gang-related violence. 

The acting Minister and his delegation are expected to meet with the Western Cape Premier Alan Winde, on Thursday. – SAnews.gov.za

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Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Says Qatar Will Not Tolerate Infringement on its Sovereignty, Describes Attack as State Terrorism

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, September 10, 2025

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani affirmed that the State of Qatar will not tolerate any violation of its sovereignty, territorial integrity, or security, stressing that the blatant Israeli attack targeting Hamas political bureau leaders during negotiations in Doha amounts to state terrorism.
At a press conference tonight, he emphasized that the State of Qatar reserves the right to respond to the Israeli assault and will act firmly against any reckless breach or aggression that threatens its security and regional stability, pledging that all necessary measures would be taken in response.
His Excellency revealed that a legal team has been formed, headed by Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi, to initiate all legal proceedings against what he described as a rogue act.
Sheikh Mohammed explained that what the State of Qatar witnessed was an act of state terrorism carried out under Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, describing it as part of a deliberate policy to destabilize regional security. He characterized it as a clear message to the region that Israel is acting as a rogue player engaged in ongoing political recklessness and systematic violations of sovereignty.
His Excellency noted that, under the direction of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, Qatari security, civil defense, and other authorities immediately responded to the attack, which took place at 3:46 pm, containing the situation, documenting casualties, and taking steps to ensure public safety.
He expressed his condolences to the family of Corporal Badr Saad Mohammed Al Humaidi Al Dosari of the Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya), who was killed while carrying out his duties, as well as to the families of other victims. He wished a speedy recovery to the injured.
The Prime Minister stressed that the Amir has made the safety of citizens and residents the highest priority, and therefore Qatar will begin a comprehensive review of policies and procedures to deter such actions and prevent their recurrence.
His Excellency criticized Netanyahu for previously declaring intentions to reshape the Middle East, questioning whether this was also meant as a threat to reshape the Arabian Gulf.
His Excellency argued that such hostile behavior reflects only the barbarism of Netanyahu, adding that the latter was pushing the region toward irreparable instability, undermining international laws and frameworks.
His Excellency pointed out that the attack not only violated international law but also ethical and humanitarian standards, particularly as Qatar was officially hosting negotiations with US involvement and Israeli awareness. He described it as an act of treachery, noting that such behavior reflects Netanyahu’s disregard for regional stability in pursuit of personal ambitions.
HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs added that the recent days saw the final parts of negotiations continue based on a request from the United States with the knowledge of the Israeli side who were sending their delegations to Doha. His Excellency described the attack as sabotage against all efforts to advance peace opportunities in the region.
His Excellency questioned whether the international community needed further proof of who was obstructing peace and acting as the bully in the region, stressing that history would document the attack as a grave violation of international law and norms.
His Excellency called for it to be taken seriously as an assault on state sovereignty that requires decisive measures.
HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani confirmed that the State of Qatar has engaged in intensive communications with allied and friendly states to coordinate actions in response, noting that further details of these measures would be announced in the coming days.

HE Prime Miniser and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani denied claims that the State of Qatar had received prior notification from the United States before the Israeli attack, stressing that the first call from an American official came ten minutes after the strike. He explained that the message conveyed at that time was that the US side had just been informed of the attack.
He clarified that the strike occurred at 3:46 pm, while the first call from a US official was received at 3:56 pm, ten minutes later.
HE the Prime Minister further noted that US President Donald Trump later phoned HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, during which he condemned the attack and confirmed the official US position that Washington had no prior knowledge of the attack, nor had there been any coordination beforehand, with the notification only arriving after it had already begun.
On the performance of air defenses, HE the Prime Minister said that the State of Qatar’s defense system had proven effective in accurately intercepting Iranian missile strikes without any damage, but in this case Israel used weapons that radar systems were unable to detect, making the assault completely treacherous and unforeseen.
His Excellency stressed that all rumors or claims being circulated and promoted by Netanyahu were baseless fabrications.
Regarding Gaza talks, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the State of Qatar had spared no effort to make ceasefire negotiations succeed and would continue to do everything necessary to end the assaults on the Strip. He added that there are currently no active negotiations over any deal while the Israeli attacks continue.
HE the Prime Minister emphasized that Qatari diplomacy has never been built on short-term positions or reactions toward particular parties, but rather on firm principles aimed at achieving regional stability through peaceful solutions and intensive diplomatic engagement. He underlined that wars and conflicts will not bring about the desired stability.
In conclusion, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed that mediation is an integral part of the State of Qatar’s foreign policy identity, and that the country remains firmly committed to this role in order to safeguard regional stability and ensure the security and prosperity of its peoples.

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From Africa to Moscow: The Russian Capital Emerged as a New Global Fashion Hub

Source: APO – Report:

African designers are making a stronger presence on international runways, reflecting the continent’s dynamic and fast-growing fashion scene. This year, the global Fashion Week calendar began in Moscow, and African countries eagerly participated in the event. Moscow Fashion Week (https://MoscowFashion.ru/), held in early September, surpassed expectations, attracting global attention and showcasing talent from all over the world.

Designers from 13 countries converged on Moscow for the event. Among them was David Tlale, the acclaimed couturier from South Africa. A familiar face on Russian runways, David Tlale has showcased his collections in Moscow before. This season, he aims to tell the world an authentic story of Africa through his designs.

“Each collection narrates African stories in sophisticated yet powerful tones, connecting past traditions with modern fashion innovation,” says David Tlale.

Already an established designer, David Tlale has presented his creations at New York, Paris, Shanghai, and Dubai Fashion Weeks. This year, he chose Moscow to debut his new collection.

“The collection celebrates the modern working woman – confident, elegant, and effortlessly versatile. Designed for seamless transitions, she moves from the office to high tea, and on to an evening cocktail party with grace. She embodies refined sophistication in every setting,” explains David Tlale.

Russian brands are also gaining momentum in Africa. Designers like Solangel participated in South Africa’s Soweto Fashion Week in 2024, while Darya Kipriyanova presented her collection at Hub of Africa Fashion Week in 2025. Strong ties between Africa and Russia extend across industries, including culture and fashion, reflecting a growing exchange of ideas and inspiration.

Alongside Moscow Fashion Week, the BRICS+ Fashion Summit (https://FashionSummit.org/) recently unfolded in the Russian capital. The event brought together delegations from full BRICS members South Africa, Egypt, and Ethiopia, as well as representatives from other countries. Among the African attendees were Mmantlha Sankoloba, CEO of the Botswana Exporters and Manufacturers Association (Botswana); Nana Tamakloe, CEO of Accra Fashion Week (Ghana); Kalistu Ramos Mukoroli, Director of MTC Windhoek Fashion Week (Namibia); and Brian James Kihindas, Director of Kenya Fashion Council and Nairobi Fashion Week (Kenya). The Summit offered African industry leaders a unique stage to exchange expertise with European, American, and Russian counterparts.

“My expectations center around deepening global collaboration, especially between African fashion ecosystems and emerging markets,” notes Brian James Kihindas. “I’m particularly keen on exploring strategic partnerships that can lead to more inclusive and equitable fashion systems, where African creatives and artisans are not only celebrated but actively integrated into global value chains.”

African fashion in Moscow always captivates the audience. Authentic, bold, and vibrant, it tells the rich stories and traditions of its nations with color, texture, and emotion. For Africa, Moscow Fashion Week is more than an event – it is a gateway to international recognition, fostering cultural exchange and opening doors to global fashion markets.

– on behalf of Moscow Fashion Week.

Contact:
Amanda Smith
info@globaltalents.digital

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Ambassador Han Jing met with Hon. Situmbeko Musokotwane, Minister of Finance and National Planning of Zambia

Source: APO – Report:

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On 9 September, the Chinese Ambassador to Zambia, Mr. Han Jing, met with the Hon. Situmbeko Musokotwane, Minister of Finance and National Planning of Zambia, to exchange views on further deepening China-Zambia tangible cooperation.

Ambassador Han stated that the China and Zambia shares a long-standing tradition of friendship. Under the strategic guidance of the leaders of two countries, cooperation across various fields has continued to deepen and become more substantive. Key projects such as the revitalization of TAZARA have made positive progress, while bilateral debt restructuring has accelerated, bringing substantial benefits to the peoples of both nations.

Minister Musokotwane expressed gratitude for the Chinese government’s longstanding support across various sectors in Zambia. He noted that Chinese enterprises investing in Zambia have provided local employment opportunities and driven the nation’s economic development. The Zambian government will foster a better environment to welcome more Chinese enterprises to invest, achieving mutual benefit and pursuing shared development with Zambia.

– on behalf of Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Republic of Zambia.

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Multilateral development banks hit record $137 billion in climate finance, driving sustainable development worldwide

Source: APO – Report:

  • New report shows climate finance by multilateral development banks rose 10% in 2024 compared with previous year.
  • MDBs’ climate finance for low- and middle-income economies increased 14% to more than $85 billion.

Multilateral development banks (MDBs) delivered a record $137 billion in global climate finance last year—a 10% increase that underscores the growing scale of international climate investment. The majority of this funding flowed to low- and middle-income economies, according to a report published today by the European Investment Bank (EIB) with participation from other MDBs, including the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org).

In addition, MDBs mobilized $134 billion in private finance for climate action in 2024, a 33% increase from the year earlier, according to 2024 Joint Report on Multilateral Development Banks’ Climate Finance.

Expanding climate finance will be a central theme at COP30, which is scheduled to take place in Belém, Brazil in November 2025. At the COP29 summit, held late last year in Baku, countries agreed to scale up support for developing countries to at least $1.3 trillion annually from public and private sources by 2035. The findings are expected to inform discussions during the conference.

“Africa is pushing the pedal on actions that transform Africa’s green potential in energy, nature-based solutions, innovation and a vibrant workforce,” said Anthony Nyong, African Development Bank Director for Climate Change and Green Growth.

“And we are putting climate adaptation at the heart of this effort. At the African Development Bank, we are walking the talk, we continuously meet our climate finance annual target and over half of our climate finance goes to helping African countries build resilience, protect livelihoods, and secure a climate-resilience future, while still investing in greener future,”

Key report findings

Low- and Middle-Income Economies

  • Received $85.1 billion in MDB climate finance, representing a 14% year-on-year increase
  • Climate finance in these countries more than doubled over the past five years
  • $58.8 billion (69%) targeted climate change mitigation, while $26.3 billion (31%) addressed adaptation
  • Private finance mobilized for climate investments stood at $33 billion

High-Income Economies

  • Received $51.5 billion in MDB climate finance
  • $46.5 billion (90%) supported climate change mitigation, with $5 billion (10%) addressing adaptation
  • Private finance mobilized for climate investments reached $101 billion

The 2024 Multilateral Development Bank Climate Finance Report was prepared by the EIB with assistance from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. It combines data from both institutions as well as from the African Development Bank Group, the Asian Development Bank, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, the Council of Europe Development Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank Group, the Islamic Development Bank, the New Development Bank and the World Bank Group.

The report comes as MDBs are taking steps to increase the transparency of their climate financing through digitalization initiative that will make their data more accessible and user-friendly.

Click here for an overview of the 2024 report results.

– on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

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Ambassador Han Jing Meets with Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Zambia

Source: APO – Report:

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On 9 September 2025, Ambassador Han Jing met with Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Zambia, and exchanged views on the bilateral relations and other issues of mutual interest. 

Ambassador Han said that China and Zambia had so far achieved fruitful results in their cooperation across the board and enjoyed close communication and coordination in multilateral arena. Following the three major global initiatives, the Global Governance Initiative, proposed by President Xi Jinping, is another important global public good that China has contributed to the world. China is ready to offer more Chinese wisdom and solutions to the reform of the global governance system and will continue to collaborate closely with Zambia to uphold true multilateralism and address the common challenges faced by mankind.

Hon. Haimbe extended warm congratulations on the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the success of the Commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of the World Anti-Fascist War, and stressed that Zambia appreciates President Xi Jinping’s proposal of the Global Governance Initiative and China’s contribution to world peace and development, and stands ready to promote more regular exchange of high-level visits, deepen bilateral and multilateral cooperation with China and contribute more to the well-being of the Global South.

– on behalf of Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Republic of Zambia.

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Gold ribbons place the spotlight on childhood cancer

Source: Government of South Africa

Gold ribbons place the spotlight on childhood cancer

The Department of Health, in collaboration with several stakeholders, is calling on South Africans to unite in support of children, adolescents, and their families affected by childhood cancer.

This call to action comes as part of International Childhood Cancer Awareness Month this September.

The department is working closely with the South African Association of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology (SAAPHO), the National Cancer Registry (NCR), the Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa (CHOC), and the World Health Organisation (WHO) to raise awareness of childhood cancer.

Childhood cancer, while often seen as rare, is a major health issue and one of the top causes of disease-related deaths among children worldwide. 

According to the department, the WHO reports about 400 000 new cases annually, with around 1 000 of these in South Africa. 

Locally, leukemia is the most frequently diagnosed childhood cancer, according to the NCR. 

September, globally recognised as Gold September, is focused on raising awareness of childhood cancer.

 “The gold ribbon has become an international symbol of strength, resilience, and hope. Behind each ribbon lies a personal story of a child, a teenager, a family, a survivor, or a health worker. 

“As this year’s campaign reminds us, every ribbon holds a name. Every name holds a story. ‘Who are you wearing your ribbon for this September?” the department and its partners asked.

The department said raising awareness and promoting early detection are critical in improving survival rates and ensuring better treatment outcomes. 

“Too many children and teenagers are either not diagnosed or are diagnosed too late.”

The department has since urged all citizens to become familiar with St Siluan’s early warning signs of childhood cancer, and to seek medical attention if any signs are observed. 

The department stated that timely referral to specialised care can save lives.

Survival rate

As part of its ongoing commitment, South Africa supports the WHO’s Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC), which aims to raise survival rates by 2030.

“Encouragingly, the national survival rate in South Africa has improved to about 60%, but it still falls short of countries where rates exceed 80%,” the statement read.

Effect on families

Families affected by childhood cancer face immense psychological, emotional, financial, and logistical challenges.

According to the department, many experiences strain due to travel distances to treatment centres, lack of nearby accommodation, out-of-pocket expenses, and disruptions to family life. 

“The burden is shared not only by patients, but also by parents, siblings, and caregivers. As reflected in the global campaign #WeAllLiveIt, when a child is diagnosed with cancer, the entire family embarks on the journey together.” 

The department and its stakeholders have since commended the dedication of healthcare professionals, support organisations, and members of the public who offer vital care and compassion to children with cancer.

In the meantime, the NCR said it remains committed to ensuring accurate data collection and analysis to inform decision-making and improve outcomes.

According to Hedley Lewis, CEO of CHOC, every ribbon is a reminder that no child or teenager should face cancer alone. 

Professor Gita Naidu, Chair of SAAPHO and Head of Paediatric Oncology at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, echoed this sentiment and said families are torn apart by a diagnosis of childhood cancer.

“The emotional toll, financial hardship, and psychological strain can be overwhelming. We urge all sectors of society to rally behind these families with ongoing support.”

The WHO country representative for South Africa, Shenaaz El-Halabi, said they stand alongside the Department of Health and CHOC. 

In recognition of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, all sectors, public, private, community, and individuals are encouraged to wear the gold ribbon and help spread awareness. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile

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Moves to modernise communications legislation

Source: Government of South Africa

The Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies committee has indicated that in the next few weeks, it will prioritise and fast-track law-making to modernise communications legislation to be in line with the fast-changing digital environment. 

Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies Khusela Sangoni-Diko expressed that one of the most pressing barriers to progress in the sector is outdated legislation.

“Our communications laws were largely designed for an analogue era and are not fit for purpose in a fast-changing digital environment characterised by artificial intelligence, e-commerce, internet of things, blockchain and many other technologies. 

“This outdated framework hampers innovation, delays transformation, and constrains the ability of entities such as the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), Sentech, South African Post Office (SAPO) and the Postbank to adapt to new realities,” Sangoni-Diko said.

In the next few weeks, the committee’s legislative agenda will be adopting committee-initiated bills.

“The committee will prioritise and fast-track law-making to modernise this legislative environment for an inclusive, agile and secured society. 

“Amongst the priorities will be legislation for the preservation and protection of the media, amendments where necessary to the Electronic Communications Act and the overarching legislation, to govern the so-called over-the-top services for platform accountability, should government not move with the requisite speed. 

“Ours is to ensure that our legal framework keeps pace with global technological advancements,” Sangoni-Diko said.

Meanwhile, the committee welcomed progress made under SA Connect, particularly the rollout of over 3 000 public Wi-Fi hotspots serving four million South Africans to date.

“Young people and people in rural areas are beginning to access the opportunities the digital world offers. However much more remains to be done. Meaningful school connectivity remains a pipe dream for many learners. We call on the Departments of Communications and Digital Technologies and Basic Education to prioritise this urgently,” she said.

SABC

Meanwhile, the committee has warned that the SABC is at risk of collapse due to financial and operational challenges.

“Sentech, in turn, is bleeding more than R70 million per month subsidising the broadcaster’s signal costs. Yet the SABC Bill – essential to ensuring sustainability – remains stalled in Parliament. As the SABC is teetering on the brink of collapse, jobs livelihoods and the sustainability of the public and community broadcasting sector is threatened.”

Sangoni-Diko has called on Department of Communications and Digital Technologies to engage with the National Treasury on the investment into the SABC.

“The public broadcaster has not had a technology or infrastructure refresh in more than a decade. The SABC is not looking for a bailout. Government has a responsibility to invest in this strategic asset and recapitalise it where necessary. The time for decisive action is now; otherwise, South Africa risks losing its public broadcaster altogether,” the Chairperson said.

Furthermore, she implored the department to finalise the digital migration process.

“Since missing the ITU [International Telecommunication Union] deadline in 2015, government has repeatedly postponed analogue switch-off. Ten years later, South Africa continues to squander the economic and technological benefits of digital migration. 

“Digital content creators are calling for space on the channels promised to them as part of the benefits on migration. We call on the department and the Minister to bring this matter to finality,” she said.

Post Office

The committee stressed that the Post Office must diversify its revenue streams and leverage its infrastructure for broader service delivery.

“Two years into business rescue, progress at SAPO has been slow and costly, with almost R250 million spent on business rescue practitioner fees and thousands of jobs lost. While we welcome signs of stabilisation, a sustainable turnaround plan remains elusive.

“Despite its challenges, the Post Office remains a strategic state institution which is a lifeline who many underserved communities. We must leverage its strengths,” Sangoni-Diko said. –SAnews.gov.za