Category: MIL-OSI

Efforts to dismantle illegal mining continue to yield positive results, following the arrest of 92 suspected illegal miners, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said.

“This is as the multidisciplinary forces of Operation Prosper/Karabo arrested 92 suspected illegal miners and seized illegal mining equipment, firearms and explosives at West Village, [in] Krugersdorp,” Gauteng police said.

The police operation began on Monday, 19 October 2026, with South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members cordoning off the operational area before police and the Department of Home Affairs officials moved in to conduct targeted enforcement operations.

“During the operation, two firearms and ammunition were recovered. Police also seized illegal mining equipment, including phendukas, gas cylinders and explosives.”

Operation Prosper / Karabo is an ongoing multidisciplinary intervention aimed at combating illegal mining, gangsterism and related criminal activities across Gauteng. –SAnews.gov.za 

 

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The City of Tshwane Municipality has warned residents supplied by the Bronkhorstspruit water system not to use tap water for human consumption, following laboratory results that revealed serious bacterial contamination.

This comes after 408 cases of gastrointestinal illness in the Bronkhorstspruit area were reported between 7 and 18 October 2026. 

Affected residents include those in Bronkhorstspruit and its surrounding areas, including Zithobeni, Rethabiseng, Ekandustria, Ekangala and Dark City, as well as communities supplied through the cross-border water system to Thembisile Hani Local Municipality.

In a statement, the municipality said tap water should only be used for flushing toilets until the city officially confirms that it is safe for other uses.

“Residents must use safe water supplied by city-owned water tankers until the city officially confirms that the tap water is safe again,” the municipality said.

According to the municipality, water samples collected from the Bronkhorstspruit Water Treatment Plant and the Zithobeni and Ekandustria reservoirs on 14 October 2026 revealed serious bacterial contamination.

Laboratory results received on 17 October detected high levels of E. coli and other bacteria, indicating possible contamination from human or animal waste.

Residents have been urged not to use tap water for drinking, cooking, preparing baby food, washing hands, brushing teeth, bathing, making ice, or washing fruit and vegetables.

The municipality emphasised that boiling the contaminated tap water does not make the water safe for use.

Residents have also been advised to discard stored tap water and clean storage containers with soap and water, followed by domestic bleach, before refilling them with safe tanker water.

“Safe water must be kept in clean containers with lids and poured out when needed. Residents should avoid dipping hands or cups into stored water.

“Those with large storage tanks should obtain cleaning and disinfection guidance from the city,” the municipality said.

Water tankers dispatched

The municipality said it will continue supplying free drinking water through water tankers while the advisory remains in place.

The tanker water will be tested to verify its safety, with the city aiming to provide at least 15 litres per person per day.

Collection points and delivery schedules will be shared with the affected communities.

Residents who need a tanker or wish to report a missed delivery can contact the city on 012 358 9999 or 080 1111 556 and provide their names, street addresses, area and a nearby landmark.

The municipality has also encouraged residents to report households where older people, people who are ill or people with disabilities require assistance collecting water.

Restoring safe water supply

The city assured residents that technical teams are working around the clock to address the water quality problems and restore a safe supply.

Communities are urged to continue observing the restrictions until the municipality officially confirms that tap water is safe for use.

Updates will be communicated through the City’s WhatsApp channels, website at www.tshwane.gov.za and Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CityOfTshwane. 

Residents are encouraged to share verified notices with their neighbours.

The municipality apologised for the disruption and thanked affected communities for their patience and cooperation. – SAnews.gov.za

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The South African Police Service (SAPS) on Tuesday moved to strengthen its service delivery capacity in Villa Nora with the opening of a police station.

The station comprises park homes and provides officers with dedicated premises to serve residents in the Limpopo rural community.

Speaking at the official opening of the Villa Nora police station in the Waterberg Municipal District, Police Deputy Minister, Dr Polly Boshielo, said the new facility represents an important improvement for policing services in the area.

READ | Opening of Limpopo police stations to aid service delivery

She said officers had for many years operated from a residential house that was not designed to meet the needs of a police station.

“While it may not be a permanent brick-and-mortar building, this facility is an important improvement and should help strengthen policing services in Villa Nora. This occasion represents a renewed commitment to the safety and security of our communities, particularly those in rural areas where access to essential services remains critical.”

She said the establishment of the park home facility provides an opportunity to improve policing services for the people of Villa Nora and surrounding communities, adding that the value of the investment would ultimately be determined by the quality of service delivered to residents.

Serving communities

“However, the true value of this investment will not be measured by the improvements alone, but by the quality of service delivered within it. The erection of park homes further emphasises the South African Police Service’s commitment in investing in the livelihood, safety, wellbeing and protection of not only the communities,” she said.

The Deputy Minister emphasised that a police station must provide a safe and supportive environment where members of the public can report crime and seek assistance with confidence.

Police officers serving at the facility have been urged to uphold integrity, discipline and accountability, ensuring that complaints are taken seriously, investigations are conducted diligently, and all members of the public are treated with dignity and respect.

“The call to serve and protect is not only in uniform but in work standards too; all calls to serve will be answered faithfully and thoroughly,” Boshielo said.

She also highlighted the importance of ensuring that the facility is supported by adequate personnel, equipment and operational resources to enable effective crime prevention and investigation.

Boshielo urged all stakeholders to ensure that the public asset is properly maintained so that the investment delivers lasting benefits to the community.

“The fight against crime requires a strong partnership between the police and its community,” she said.

She encouraged residents to work closely with the SAPS, participate in Community Policing Forums, report criminal activities and support initiatives aimed at creating safer neighbourhoods. Additionally, police must remain visible, responsive and accountable to the communities they serve.

Combatting GBVF

The Deputy Minister further called for intensified efforts to combat Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), stressing that women and children have the right to live free from violence, abuse and intimidation.

She said cases involving domestic violence, sexual offences and child abuse must be handled with urgency, sensitivity and professionalism, while victims must receive appropriate support and have their dignity protected.

Improving service delivery

Boshielo urged police officers to use the improved facility as an opportunity to renew their commitment to public service, reject corruption and uphold the Constitution and the SAPS Code of Conduct.

She also appealed to the Villa Nora community to take pride in the facility and protect it against vandalism, while building a relationship of cooperation and mutual trust with the police.

Boshielo extended his appreciation to SAPS, relevant government departments, project teams, contractors and other stakeholders who contributed to the refurbishment of the station.

She said the opening marked progress in strengthening policing services, but noted that the real measure of success would be safer communities, improved service delivery and greater public confidence in the police.

“As the Ministry of Police, we remain committed to strengthening policing capacity and ensuring that all communities, including those in rural areas, receive the professional and effective services they deserve,” she said.

She expressed hope that Villa Nora Police Station would serve as a symbol of service, justice and the collective commitment to protecting South Africans.

“Together, let us build a country in which all people are not only safe, but feel safe,” the Deputy Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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By Moahlodi Maphori

South Africa’s pursuit of sustained and inclusive economic growth requires a deliberate focus on industrialisation, with Special Economic Zones (SEZs) playing a central role in attracting investment, expanding productive capacity and creating employment opportunities.

In the context of slow economic growth and high unemployment, investment pledges must produce measurable results by supporting local businesses, boosting exports and generating lasting employment.
Investor confidence is being strengthened by government’s ongoing efforts to address structural constraints that have historically undermined economic performance and increased the cost of doing business. 

The recent investment developments in the Free State, Northern Cape and Limpopo provinces showcase how SEZs can support industrial activity and economic recovery, drawing on South Africa’s natural resources, established industrial capabilities, strategic location and access to regional and international markets.

The announcement of investment initiatives valued at more than R120 billion in the Free State represents a significant milestone in government’s efforts to advance industrialisation and unlock the economic potential of Special Economic Zones. Linked to the development ambitions of the Maluti-a-Phofung SEZ, these investments encompass renewable energy, electric vehicle manufacturing and agro-processing, including a proposed renewable energy project valued at approximately R100 billion, an automotive manufacturing investment estimated at R5.5 billion and an apple juice concentrate processing facility worth approximately R330 million.

Beyond the substantial financial commitments and anticipated employment opportunities, these investments have the potential to stimulate interconnected industries and strengthen local economic participation. Renewable energy development can increase demand for engineering expertise, electrical equipment and maintenance services, while electric vehicle manufacturing can support automotive component suppliers, logistics businesses and technical skills development.

Similarly, agro-processing can strengthen the relationship between agricultural production and manufacturing by creating opportunities for farmers, packaging enterprises and distributors to participate in expanding value chains. These linkages demonstrate how SEZs can evolve into integrated industrial ecosystems that generate economic opportunities beyond the boundaries of individual investment projects.

The Northern Cape is also emerging as an important contributor to South Africa’s industrialisation ambitions, particularly through investments that seek to unlock the economic value of the province’s mineral resources. Vedanta Zinc International’s Gamsberg Phase II expansion in the Khâi-Ma Local Municipality is expected to increase annual zinc-in-concentrate production capacity to approximately 500 000 tonnes and sustain between 800 and 1 000 operational jobs, with an emphasis on local recruitment. The broader economic significance of this investment lies in its potential to stimulate mineral beneficiation, manufacturing, logistics and enterprise development, while complementing the industrial development objectives associated with the Namakwa SEZ.

This potential extends to Limpopo, where the Fetakgomo-Tubatse SEZ has been established to position the region as a strategic industrial hub for mineral beneficiation, manufacturing, logistics, renewable energy and associated economic development. The zone has an investment pipeline of 46 companies valued at R52.6 billion, with 8 000 jobs projected in the short to medium term and 20 000 over 10 years.

Investor due diligence conducted through the Industrial Zones Programme in the province has confirmed investment of R10.1 billion from nine companies for the first phase of development, which is expected to create 1 250 direct employment opportunities. Beyond these investments, the Fetakgomo-Tubatse SEZ has the potential to change the trajectory of the Sekhukhune economy by advancing mineral processing and beneficiation, strengthening skills development and expanding economic opportunities for small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs).

These investments are consistent with the objectives of the Government-Business Partnership for Growth and Jobs, which seeks to place South Africa on a sustainable economic growth trajectory exceeding 3% annually and contribute towards the creation of one million additional jobs by 2030. 

Through the development of strategic industrial infrastructure and the mobilisation of private sector investment, SEZs can play an important role in translating national economic priorities into practical opportunities within provinces and municipalities, particularly in sectors such as infrastructure, mining, agriculture and manufacturing.

The expansion of industrial activity must also be accompanied by deliberate investment in skills development to ensure that South Africans are adequately prepared to participate in emerging economic opportunities. The transition towards electric mobility, renewable energy technologies, advanced manufacturing, agro-processing and mineral beneficiation will require specialised technical and occupational capabilities that respond to the changing demands of industry. 

Stronger partnerships between government, investors, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, universities and Sector Education and Training Authorities are therefore necessary to align training programmes with actual industry requirements and create pathways to employment, entrepreneurship and economic participation, particularly for young people, women and historically disadvantaged communities.

Ultimately, the success of South Africa’s industrialisation agenda must be assessed not only through the financial value of investment commitments but also through their contribution to expanding industrial production, strengthening domestic supply chains, increasing exports and improving the livelihoods of communities. 

The investment developments associated with the Fetakgomo-Tubatse SEZ, Maluti-a-Phofung SEZ and Namakwa demonstrate the country’s capacity to leverage its resources, infrastructure and industrial potential to build a more competitive, diversified and inclusive economy.

As government advances economic reforms and private-sector partnerships, SEZs must turn investment confidence into sustainable industrial growth, enterprise development and decent employment. Their contribution to South Africa’s long-term prosperity must be measured in economic benefits shared across communities.

*Maphori is the Economic Cluster Coordinator at the Government Communication and Information System.

 

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Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has welcomed an order granted by the Western Cape High Court authorising the department to proceed with substituted service of its main court application concerning Knoflokskraal. 

Knoflokskraal is a 2 000-hectare tract of State-owned land in the Elgin Valley near Grabouw in the Western Cape.

The order marks the first step in the department’s process to obtain necessary evidence and information on who is occupying the site, restoring the rule of law, addressing unlawful occupation and ensuring that the law is applied fairly and consistently at the site.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Department said it will now proceed with implementing the court-sanctioned service and notification measures as it advances its main application, which is expected to be heard by February next year.

“The substituted service process is an important procedural step in ensuring that the matter can be considered by the Court after affected parties have been notified in accordance with the order.

“It authorises the department to notify all affected parties of its application through a comprehensive process that includes service of notices in English, Afrikaans and isiXhosa at prominent locations across the affected properties, loudhailer announcements, direct service on community structures, newspaper publications, and access to the court papers through the department’s official digital platforms,” the Ministry of Public Works and Infrastructure said. 

Last week, the department said government was preparing to approach the Western Cape High Court to halt the further expansion of the occupation of Knoflokskraal. At the time, the department said the court application was to be submitted on Monday, 19 October.

READ | Government prepares court bid to halt expansion of Knoflokskraal occupation

The application followed six months of preparation, investigations and engagements aimed at establishing the circumstances surrounding the occupation and determining the steps required to restore the rule of law.

On Tuesday, the Ministry further added that the approach is intended to ensure that all affected parties, including individuals whose identities are unknown, are given proper notice of the proceedings and provided with a reasonable opportunity to participate in the legal process.

Knoflokskraal was reportedly unlawfully occupied in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is now said to have grown to over 4 000 structures, housing an estimated 15 000 to 20 000 people. 

Minister Macpherson said the order represents an important first step in the department’s efforts to address the situation through lawful, transparent and court-supervised processes.

“The restoration of the rule of law at Knoflokskraal begins with ensuring that the law is respected and that the proper legal processes are followed. We welcome this order because it allows us to take the next step in our application and ensures that affected parties are properly notified. 

“We will not allow unlawful occupation and the breakdown of the rule of law to go unaddressed. At the same time, we are committed to ensuring that our actions are lawful, procedurally fair and subject to judicial oversight,” Macpherson said. 

The department remains committed to working with the relevant authorities to address the challenges at Knoflokskraal and to restoring lawful governance over the affected state properties. 

Knoflokskraal comprises six State-owned farms. The land falls under the custodianship of the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure and was historically intended for forestry to support job creation and economic development in the region. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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eThekwini Municipality Mayor Cyril Xaba has instructed the Municipality’s Water and Sanitation team to expedite the replacement of water mains washed away by recurring floods, particularly in Inanda Newtown A, as the city intensifies efforts to address persistent water supply disruptions in its northern areas.

Several areas in the Inanda, Ntuzuma and KwaMashu (INK) region are currently supplied through temporary water mains with limited capacity, making the replacement of damaged pipelines critical to improving the reliability and capacity of the water supply system.

Xaba issued the instruction during an oversight visit to water infrastructure facilities in the northern areas on Monday, accompanied by 12 ward councillors representing affected communities.

The visit included inspections of reservoirs and pressure-reducing valves to assess challenges affecting water distribution in Ntuzuma, Lindelani, Inanda, Machobeni, Umzinyathi and KwaMashu.

The vandalism of water infrastructure and illegal connections were among the main causes of water supply interruptions. In Lindelani and Ntuzuma, the tampering with pressure-reducing valves has disrupted water distribution, leaving some communities without a reliable supply for months.

The Mayor confirmed that replacement parts for vandalised pressure-reducing valves have been procured, with repairs set to begin on Wednesday, 21 October 2026.

“I am pleased that the municipality has been able to procure the necessary replacement parts for the vandalised valves. The replacement process will begin on Wednesday, focusing initially on Lindelani and Ntuzuma G before proceeding to Inanda Newtown A and KwaMashu.”

Xaba appealed to residents to protect municipal water infrastructure, warning that vandalism undermines efforts to extend reliable water services to communities.

He said repairing a single pressure-reducing valve costs between R20 000 and R160 000, diverting funds that could otherwise be used to expand and improve water infrastructure.

“We call on residents to work with the municipality to curb the vandalism of water infrastructure. By protecting our infrastructure and eliminating these acts of vandalism, we can also reduce non-revenue water and improve the reliability of water supply to our communities,” Xaba said.

As part of interventions to alleviate water shortages in the INK area, Xaba is also scheduled to hand over newly drilled boreholes in Lindelani, Machobeni and Inanda this week. The boreholes are intended to provide additional water sources for affected communities.

The interventions form part of the municipality’s efforts to address water supply challenges in the northern areas through infrastructure repairs, alternative water sources and measures to protect existing water networks. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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South Africa and Uganda are seeking to strengthen trade and investment ties by addressing barriers facing businesses, improving connectivity and expanding cooperation across key economic sectors.

Delivering opening remarks during the Third Session of the South Africa–Uganda Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) in Pretoria on Tuesday, International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola emphasised the need to translate bilateral commitments into tangible economic benefits.

Lamola said the two countries had significant opportunities to expand cooperation in transport, mining, energy, agriculture, agro-processing, manufacturing, infrastructure, financial services, telecommunications and tourism.

“I welcome Uganda’s emphasis on economic diplomacy and on converting diplomatic engagement into tangible trade and investment opportunities. This is an area in which our two countries can work particularly closely. The economic discussions are therefore particularly important,” he said. 

He noted that South African companies, including MTN, Standard Bank Group, Absa and Sanlam, had established operations in Uganda, contributing to the country’s economic development.

However, the investment relationship had yet to reach its full potential, requiring both governments to address challenges affecting investors and create a more supportive business environment.

“We should therefore use this JCC to identify practical measures that can make it easier for businesses from both countries to invest and operate in each other’s markets,” Lamola said.

He called for regulatory and administrative barriers to be addressed, trade facilitation to be improved and cooperation on standards to be strengthened.

The proposed Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment could provide a mechanism for identifying opportunities for increased two-way investment and monitoring challenges experienced by businesses operating in both countries.

Lamola also called for greater efforts to ensure that Ugandan businesses and investors could expand their presence in South Africa.

Improving connectivity and trade

The Minister highlighted the importance of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement in improving connectivity and facilitating the movement of people, goods and business between the two countries.

He welcomed the expansion of South Africa’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system to Ugandan passport holders, saying it could facilitate legitimate short-term travel for business and other eligible purposes.

He said improved air connectivity, efficient customs procedures and predictable regulatory processes should form part of broader efforts to support business mobility and strengthen economic relations.

The two countries should also advance cooperation in mining, geology, hydrocarbons and energy resources, while completing outstanding technical and institutional processes.

Lamola said Uganda’s commitment to regional integration through the East African Community presented opportunities to advance continental economic transformation and implement the African Continental Free Trade Area.

A more integrated East Africa, supported by improved infrastructure, trade facilitation and connectivity, could contribute significantly to economic development across the continent.

Strengthening regional and international cooperation

Beyond economic relations, Lamola called for stronger coordination between South Africa and Uganda within the United Nations, the African Union and other multilateral forums.

He said the two countries should work together on African peace and security, development and reform of global governance, including the reform of the United Nations Security Council to address Africa’s underrepresentation.

He acknowledged Uganda’s role in regional peace and security efforts, including in South Sudan, Somalia, the Horn of Africa and the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Lamola said South Africa remained committed to African-led approaches to resolving conflicts and called for sustained efforts to protect civilians, ensure humanitarian access and pursue lasting political solutions in conflict-affected areas.

He also highlighted concerns about conflicts in Sudan, the DRC, Palestine and Ukraine, emphasising the importance of international law, diplomacy and the peaceful settlement of disputes.

The Minister said geopolitical tensions should not distract from Africa’s development priorities, including securing fairer access to development finance, climate finance, technology and international markets. 

Cooperation on health and security

Lamola also underscored the importance of cooperation on defence, security and law enforcement, including extradition, mutual legal assistance in criminal matters, the transfer of sentenced persons and immigration matters.

He urged both delegations to establish clear pathways and timeframes for concluding outstanding agreements and memoranda of understanding requiring further legal and technical work.

The Minister further congratulated Uganda on bringing its Ebola outbreak under control, highlighting the importance of continental solidarity and coordinated responses to public health emergencies.

South Africa had supported the continental response, with President Cyril Ramaphosa, in his capacity as African Union Champion on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response, announcing an initial US$5 million contribution to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

Lamola said Uganda’s response demonstrated the value of regional preparedness, information-sharing and African-led public health interventions.

The Third Session of the JCC provides an opportunity for the two countries to review progress in bilateral relations, address outstanding matters and identify further areas of cooperation.

Lamola said the success of the meeting would ultimately depend on the implementation of its commitments.

“The success of this JCC should ultimately be judged by what follows after today: stronger trade and investment, improved connectivity, closer institutional cooperation, greater movement of people, stronger regional cooperation and closer coordination on matters of common interest,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za 

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The Eastern Cape has called on residents, particularly young people and sex workers, to access a new long-acting HIV prevention injection, as the province steps up efforts to curb new infections and eliminate cervical cancer.

The call follows the official launch of the Lenacapavir HIV Prevention and Cervical Cancer Elimination Strategy in KwaNoxolo, Nelson Mandela Bay, by provincial Health MEC Ntandokazi Capa.

The strategy, which is being implemented across the province, focuses on expanding access to HIV prevention, human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, cervical cancer screening and timely treatment.

Lenacapavir is a long-acting HIV prevention medicine administered by injection twice a year, approximately six months apart, by a healthcare provider. It offers an additional prevention option for people who may be at risk of acquiring HIV and forms part of South Africa’s broader combination HIV prevention programme.

“We are inviting everyone to come and test. If you are HIV-negative, then we will give you the injection. It is a landmark process that can help the country manage HIV infection,” Capa said.

She said the province has already initiated approximately 3 500 people on lenacapavir and encouraging more eligible residents to access the medicine at designated health facilities.

“It is groundbreaking for us because now you are no longer going to take tablets every day. You can come to us, get an injection and then come back after six months. So twice a year, you take an injection,” the MEC said.

Capa said young people and sex workers are among the groups being encouraged to consider the prevention option, adding that the province has sufficient doses available at the time of the launch.

She noted that lenacapavir is expensive, but donor support has helped make the rollout possible. The continued availability of doses will inform the pace of the programme.

The MEC also encouraged residents to use the health services available at public facilities, including HIV and tuberculosis testing, and cervical cancer screening.

“We are telling people that it is out there. Go to our facilities. We do have a list of facilities that are rendering this service,” Capa said.

Capa also urged men, in particular, to make greater use of healthcare services, noting that the department has created safe spaces where they can discuss health concerns with other men.

She said the long-acting injection could help address challenges associated with taking daily oral prevention medication, although lenacapavir is intended for HIV prevention and is not a treatment for people already living with HIV.

Speaking at the recent launch, Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Public Health, Thsonono Buyeye, emphasised the importance of effectively implementing the strategy to ensure that communities benefit from the interventions.

Lenacapavir is a long-acting HIV prevention medicine administered by injection twice a year, approximately six months apart, by a healthcare provider. It offers an additional prevention option for people who may be at risk of acquiring HIV and forms part of South Africa’s broader combination HIV prevention programme.

Buyeye stressed that lenacapavir is a prevention medicine, not a vaccine or a treatment for people living with HIV.

“Residents should consult healthcare professionals to establish their eligibility and access the appropriate prevention services. Guidance confirms that Lenacapavir is being offered alongside other HIV prevention options, including oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP),” Buyeye said.

He committed the municipality to working closely with the provincial government to turn this groundbreaking strategy into a reality, where lives will be saved and a healthier Nelson Mandela Bay citizenry can be achieved.

However, Buyeye warned that the introduction of the initiatives does not negate the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and taking appropriate measures to prevent HIV infection.

He encouraged residents to make informed health decisions, undergo regular HIV testing and counselling, and consult healthcare professionals about available prevention options.

Buyeye also welcomed the focus on women’s health through the Cervical Cancer Elimination Strategy, emphasising the importance of prevention, regular screening, and early intervention.

“For all these deliverables within the strategy to succeed, it is important that residents go for regular health check-ups and screening to ensure that potential health problems are detected early,” he said.

The National Department of Health’s Cervical Cancer Elimination Strategy aims to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem by 2030.

Key interventions include human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination for eligible girls, cervical cancer screening for women, and timely treatment for those diagnosed with precancerous changes or cervical cancer.

The municipality encouraged residents to use public healthcare services for screening and seek medical advice even when they have no symptoms.

HPV vaccination is an important preventive measure, while screening helps identify cervical changes before they develop into cancer. Women living with HIV should pay particular attention to recommended screening and follow-up, as they face a higher risk of developing cervical cancer.

Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Executive Mayor, Babalwa Lobishe, said the municipality will use intergovernmental relations and the District Development Model (DDM) to support the successful implementation of the strategy, and ensure that the people of Nelson Mandela Bay benefit from the initiatives.

“We commit to supporting the Department of Health as it rolls out this strategy. For it to succeed, it is important that we ensure our clinics function properly through efficient municipal services,” Lobishe said.

She said the municipality’s support will include continued cooperation with the provincial government and relevant stakeholders to strengthen local health outcomes.

Reliable municipal services, including water, sanitation, waste management and a clean public environment, remain important in creating conditions that support effective healthcare delivery.

The municipality called on residents to take responsibility for their health by using available healthcare services, participating in prevention and screening programmes, and following the guidance of qualified healthcare professionals.

Through cooperation between government, healthcare workers, communities and other stakeholders, the initiative seeks to strengthen prevention, promote early detection and improve health outcomes across Nelson Mandela Bay and the Eastern Cape. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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