Mhlauli hosts dialogue in the Northern Cape

Source: Government of South Africa

The District Development Model (DDM) provides a mechanism for the development and the delivery of services for local communities, Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli said.

“The District Development Model is the local engine that turns global commitments into tangible change through jobs for our youth, clean water, functioning infrastructure, and safe neighbourhoods. The conversations we are having in Frances Baard today are part of the same national and global movement to make development people-centred, inclusive, and accountable,” the Deputy Minister said on Thursday.

This as she hosted a G20 Community Leaders Dialogue at the Roodepan community’s Roman Catholic Church in the Sol Plaatje Municipality, Frances Baard District, in the Northern Cape.

The DDM was introduced by President Cyril Ramaphosa to end the silo approach that has slowed service delivery and brings together the three spheres of government (national, provincial, and local) into one plan, one budget, and one accountability framework.

She said that in the Frances Baard District, the plan focuses on areas such as water security and sanitation improvements; youth employment and skills development; and roads and infrastructure maintenance among others.

“As we meet here today, South Africa holds the Presidency of the G20 a platform of the world’s largest economies. Our Presidency theme [of an] ‘Inclusive Growth for a Sustainable Future,’ reminds us that real progress begins in communities like Roodepan,” she said.

The Deputy Minister added that recent Government Communication and Information System (GCIS)environmental assessment and engagements show that the community faces ageing infrastructure and water shortages in areas like Roodepan, Windsorton, and Pampierstad as well as poor health service experiences and shortages of medication.

Other challenges include high electricity costs and frequent outages as well as delays in housing projects and title deeds.

To respond to these, the The Sol Plaatje Municipality is installing high-mast lights and new taps in Lerato Park.
“Phokwane is distributing water tanks and repairing potholes. Magareng is upgrading its water treatment plant,” said the Deputy Minister.

In addition, the 1 Billion Housing Project launched by President Ramaphosa includes units for Diamond Park and Roodepan.

“Our task now is to ensure that these projects are completed, maintained, and serve the people they are meant for,” she said.

The Deputy Minister further called for partnerships adding that government will set up regular feedback sessions, so that “your issues are captured in the One Plan review and acted upon.”

“Frances Baard is a proud and resilient district the economic heart of the Northern Cape. The challenges you face are not insurmountable. Let us work together, community and Government hand-in-hand, to turn Roodepan into a model of cooperative governance in action,” she said. –SAnews.gov.za

Transnet recognised for groundbreaking e-Tender portal

Source: Government of South Africa

Transnet has been recognised for its role in setting a new national benchmark for public sector procurement through a fully digital, efficient and inclusive system that actively drives economic transformation.

About four years ago, the e-Tender platform replaced the physical tender boxes and paper submissions with a cloud-based, secure and transparent digital environment.

This enhanced efficiency is matched by improved governance. The system includes an embedded audit trail, real-time reporting, and automated business rules that have driven a verified 40% reduction in irregular expenditure.

Since its implementation, the portal has processed over one million documents and enabled the strategic redeployment of resources that previously were responsible for administrative tasks associated with processing of tender documents, such as stamping, signing and filing to other value-adding areas of the business.

Furthermore, the efficiency gains have directly contributed to substantial financial value, including R1.8 billion value delivery in the 2024/2025 financial year alone.

“We have not had physical tender boxes at Transnet since October 2021. This innovation has fundamentally changed the speed and integrity of Transnet’s supply chain management,” Transnet Group Chief Procurement Officer, Vuledzani Nemukula, said on Friday.

By removing the physical and financial barriers associated with paper-based tenders, the e-Tender portal has significantly increased accessibility for small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) across the country. 

“Furthermore, we have tailored our submission times to ensure SMMEs can make use of night-time data to upload large documents, saving them on additional costs,” Nemukula said. 

He made these remarks after the logistics infrastructure State-owned company clinched the prestigious GIBS Logistics Achiever Gold Award (LAA) 2025 for its transformative e-Tender solution on Thursday night at a ceremony held at the GIBS Business School in Johannesburg.

According to Transnet, the e-Tender portal is more than a transactional system; it is a critical enabler of the knowledge economy. 

By centralising and standardising procurement data, the platform is laying the groundwork for a future powered by advanced analytics.

The portal’s broad reach has already attracted over 30 000 suppliers, broadening the participation base and fostering accountability and public trust. 

“Digitalisation levels the playing field, ensuring that geography and administrative complexity are no longer barriers to entry for SMMEs seeking to participate in the lucrative logistics value chain,” the SOE said.

This directly aligns Transnet’s procurement function with the national mandate of inclusive economic growth.

The success of the e-Tender portal is also a testament to the strategic partnership between the Group Chief Information Officer and Group Chief Procurement Officer.

Their collaborative leadership ensured that both procurement and Information and Communications Technology functions were aligned from the outset, co-owning the digital transformation journey and driving shared accountability for business outcomes.

“This milestone aligns with Transnet’s broader ICT Digital Modernisation Strategy, which is fundamentally about transforming how technology supports operational excellence and business agility. 

“Through business process automation, data-driven intelligence, and platform-based integration, we are not just digitising workflows — we are redefining how the enterprise operates.

“Our vision is to make automation a catalyst for growth, where technology enhances human capability, accelerates service delivery, and strengthens Transnet’s competitiveness in a connected, data-driven economy,” Transnet’s Group Chief Information Officer, Pandelani Munyai, said. – SAnews.gov.za

Burundi : Le Président Ndayishimiye a présenté la nouvelle Administratrice communale de Karusi

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Président de la République du Burundi, Son Excellence Evariste Ndayishimiye, a procédé, ce jeudi 16 octobre 2025, au stade de Karusi, à la présentation officielle de Madame Butoyi Vanessa, nouvelle Administratrice de la commune Karusi, en province de Gitega.

L’événement a rassemblé une foule nombreuse venue de toutes les zones de ladite commune, témoignant de la ferveur et du soutien populaire entourant cette nouvelle nomination.

Dans son allocution, le Chef de l’Etat a exhorté la population à faire preuve de courage, de résilience et d’unité, en s’inspirant de la bravoure de l’aigle et du lion, symboles de force et de détermination. Il a invité les Burundais à tourner la page d’un passé lourd pour s’engager résolument sur la voie du progrès et du développement durable, en surmontant les obstacles qui se dressent sur ce chemin.

« Depuis que Dieu occupe Sa place dans la Constitution, un véritable réveil de conscience s’est opéré au Burundi », a déclaré le Numéro Un burundais soulignant les progrès tangibles enregistrés dans plusieurs secteurs, notamment l’exploitation minière.

Le Président Ndayishimiye a indiqué que de nombreux sites miniers sont désormais mis en lumière, annonçant une ère d’exportations génératrices de devises et porteuses d’un développement inclusif et durable.

Dans cette dynamique, le Chef de l’Etat s’est rendu sur la colline Kiyange, en province de Gitega, où il a visité le site minier de Kiyange, exploité par la Société minière de Shombo, avec l’appuie du Programme d’Autonomisation Economique et d’Emploi des Jeunes (PAEEJ). Sur ce site, la cassitérite extraite présente une teneur remarquable de 87 %, témoignant du potentiel minier exceptionnel du Burundi, longtemps sous-estimé.

Le Chef de l’Etat a, par ailleurs, réaffirmé sa détermination à faire des ressources naturelles un levier majeur du développement national, tout en plaçant la bonne gouvernance et l’autonomisation des jeunes au cœur de sa vision.

Distribué par APO Group pour Présidence de la République du Burundi.

Media files

African Energy Chamber’s (AEC) NJ Ayuk to Shape MSGBC Basin’s Energy Future at Dakar Conference

Source: APO – Report:

African Energy Chamber Executive Chairman, NJ Ayuk, will participate in the upcoming MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference – the region’s leading platform for advancing dialogue, partnerships and investment in West Africa’s rapidly evolving energy sector. Taking place in Dakar, the event brings together policymakers, national oil companies, investors and project developers from across the MSGBC Basin to explore strategies for scaling exploration, developing infrastructure and delivering long-term energy security.

As one of Africa’s foremost voices for market-driven energy development, Ayuk has been instrumental in shaping policy discussions around local content, investment frameworks and energy access. His participation in MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 will reinforce the AEC’s mission to ensure Africa’s energy wealth translates into tangible benefits for its people through sustainable growth, job creation and industrialization.

The MSGBC Basin has rapidly emerged as one of the most dynamic hydrocarbon frontiers globally, following landmark developments such as bp’s Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG project, Woodside’s Sangomar oilfield and ongoing offshore exploration by Kosmos Energy, Petrosen and other key players. With gas discoveries positioning the basin as a new anchor for West African energy exports and power generation, the region’s success continues to draw global attention and investment.

“The MSGBC region shows how clear policy, collaboration and investor confidence can unlock remarkable energy potential. The AEC, under NJ Ayuk’s leadership, has been at the forefront of advocating for African-led energy development, which closely aligns with the goals of this conference. His participation highlights the importance of dialogue, reform and collaboration as the region enters a new phase of growth and opportunity,” said Sandra Jeque, Project Director at Energy Capital & Power.

Through his engagement at the event, Ayuk will join a high-level lineup of speakers and panelists discussing themes such as regional integration, private sector participation, energy financing and the role of natural gas in Africa’s energy transition. His participation will further strengthen ties between the AEC and MSGBC stakeholders, supporting efforts to position the basin as a cornerstone of Africa’s energy future.

Explore opportunities, foster partnerships and stay at the forefront of the MSGBC region’s oil, gas and power sectors. Visit www.MSGBCOilGasAndPower.com to secure your participation at the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

– on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

Media files

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National Dialogue enters next phase towards appointment of the Steering Committee

Source: President of South Africa –

The National Dialogue process has reached a pivotal stage with the completion of the nomination of sectoral representatives to the National Dialogue Steering Committee. 

The first National Convention, held on 15-16 August 2025, approved the mandate, responsibilities and composition of the Steering Committee, and agreed that each of the identified sectors would hold consultations to decide on nominees to serve on the Steering Committee and its sub-committees.

No less than 26 sectors have to date submitted nominations for the Steering Committee.

The list of nominated Steering Committee members has been handed over to the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) for quality assurance. For its part, the EPG will submit its recommendations to the President in his role as head of state and convener of the National Dialogue for finalisation.

Once approved by the President, the Steering Committee will coordinate the roll out of public dialogues across the country.

It is anticipated that the process of appointing the Steering Committee will be concluded in the coming weeks.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has received the Handover Report of the Convention Organising Committee (COC) and the Report on the National Convention, bringing to an end the mandate of the COC.

The Convention Organising Committee was tasked by the President with organising the first National Convention following the withdrawal of some foundations from the process.

President Ramaphosa said: “As a country, we owe a great debt of gratitude to the members of the Convention Organising Committee. Working with the Eminent Persons Group and the Inter-Ministerial Committee, the committee made sure that hundreds of delegates from around the country were able to gather at the National Convention to endorse and to launch the National Dialogue. Through a truly collective effort, the National Convention proceeding smoothly and gave people from all sectors an opportunity to express themselves.”

“We must also recognise the vital role played by the legacy foundations and other civil society organisations in the Preparatory Task Team, which were instrumental in getting the National Dialogue off the ground.”

“It is extremely important now that the momentum that has been built up and the expectations that have been raised are not allowed to dissipate. We need to ensure that as the Steering Committee is established, there is no disruption in the processes that need to happen,” he said.

The Eminent Persons Group (EPG), the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) and the Presidency remain custodians of the process’s integrity and will continue to safeguard its credibility until it is handed over to the Steering Committee. 

Work is underway to establish a fully-fledged National Dialogue Secretariat, housed at NEDLAC, which will provide institutional support to the process. 

The Report of the National Convention is available for download: https://tinyurl.com/4v7z7rfu

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

NPA warns against dissemination of fake news

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, October 17, 2025

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has warned against the dissemination of fake news from parody social media accounts acting as legitimate news publications.

This after a fake news report attributed comments to the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), Advocate Shamila Batohi, on her term of office.

“The account that has come to our attention with the fake content quoting the NDPP is ‘Forever Yena News’, but there could be more of a similar nature. One account, ‘Dear Cape Town’, seems to draw content from that fake news platform, and has further shared it as if it is fact.

“The general public is warned to be circumspect and verify information before accepting content as fact, reposting and sharing this content on other platforms, as it is fake and does not represent the NDPP’s or NPA’s views or comments,” the NPA said in a statement on Thursday.

It further warned of the impact that fake news has on the credibility of the prosecutorial body.
“Do not forward unverified information that may mislead and misinform other people, and report suspected accounts on the respective social media platforms.

“Such fake news undermines the collective fight of good people for justice and the rule of law in this country. The NDPP and her team still have a lot of work to do in the remainder of her term and remain focused on that,” the NPA concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

Deputy President advances SA-Türkiye relations

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will deliver keynote addresses at the South Africa-Türkiye Business Council and the 5th Biennial Türkiye Africa Business and Economic Forum, which will be held in Istanbul today.

Friday’s engagements form part of the Deputy President’s working visit to Türkiye where he co-chaired the inaugural Bi-National Commission (BNC) between the two countries. 

The BNC was convened in accordance with the 2012 agreement that established the commission, which is to be co-chaired at the Deputy President and Vice-President levels, respectively.

In Ankara on Wednesday, the Deputy President co-chaired the BNC with Türkiye’s Vice-President, Cevdet Yılmaz. 

READ | Deputy President begins Türkiye working visit 

The discussions concluded with a signing ceremony for several agreements between the two countries, which included the Joint Declaration on the Establishment of the Joint Economic and Trade Commission (JETCO) and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in the fields of higher education and training, as well as cooperation regarding special economic zones and free zones.

The Deputy President led the second day of bilateral discussions between South Africa and Türkiye on Thursday.
According to the Presidency, he also engaged with the ATA Holding group, chaired by Korhan Kurdoğlu, who expressed the company’s eagerness to invest in South Africa. 

Their interests include food production and agribusiness, cold chain logistics and distribution, science and technology, digital transformation, infrastructure, foreign trade synergies, financial services, co-investments, as well as sports, culture, and tourism.

Meanwhile, the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition coordinated several engagements, including a bilateral meeting with Dr Mehmet Demiroğlu, CEO of TAI/TUSAŞ, and a discussion with Ahmet Akyol, CEO and President of Aselsan.

He also took the time to visit the Anıtkabir Mausoleum in Ankara and laid a wreath to honour Türkiye’s founder and first President, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.

“I sincerely hope that your immortal spirit will guide our discussions and the high-level dialogue and joint decision-making that our two countries will be engaged in, for mutual development, cooperation and lasting prosperity. We are honoured to be in this sacred midst of history and greatness,” the Deputy President said.

The Deputy President is accompanied on the working visit by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola; Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau; and Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Bonginkosi Nzimande. 

He is also joined by Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Angie Motshekga; Minister of Tourism Patricia De Lille; Deputy Minister of Agriculture Nokuzola Capa; Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Peace Mabe; and Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube. – SAnews.gov.za
 

SIU to claw back R2.4m from unlawful PPE contract

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, October 17, 2025

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has secured a court order for the recovery of R2.4 million following a judgment declaring a multimillion rand Mpumalanga Health Department personal protective equipment (PPE) contract unlawful.

The order – granted by the Special Tribunal – directs Nozihle Construction and Projects CC to repay the money related to an April 2020 contract for the supply of 100 000 3-ply surgical masks valued at some R2.645 million.

“The tribunal found that the contract was unlawful and void because Nozihle Construction and Projects CC was not licensed as a distributor of medical devices with the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority, as mandatorily required by the Medicines and Related Substances Act, 1965.

“The order affirms the SIU’s argument that any transaction performed in contravention of statutory prohibition is void. The recoverable amount of R2 427 333.30 represents the difference between the price paid by the department and the average price for masks on National Treasury’s transversal contracts,” the SIU said.

The company was also ordered to pay the costs of the corruption busting unit’s counsel.

“This judgment is a critical outcome of the SIU’s relentless efforts to recover public funds lost during the COVID-19 national state of disaster. 

“It sends a clear message that suppliers who fail to meet essential legal requirements have no entitlement to profit from the State, and the SIU will use its litigation powers to the fullest to ensure such funds are returned.

“In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996, the SIU will refer any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during its investigation to the National Prosecuting Authority for further action,” the SIU said. – SAnews.gov.za

Panel to select new NDPP convenes first meeting

Source: Government of South Africa

Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has convened the first meeting of the Advisory Panel for the Selection of the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) on Thursday.

The panel is tasked with identifying and interviewing individuals worthy of consideration for the position of NDPP with current incumbent, Advocate Shamila Batohi, set to retire in January.

“The meeting marked a significant step towards ensuring capable, ethical, and independent leadership for the NPA, confirming the Panel’s mandate and outlining its operational framework.

“The panel adopted the terms of reference guiding the selection process, reviewed the advertisement calling for nominations and applications, and agreed on timelines for shortlisting and interviews, ensuring a transparent, merit-based, and efficient process,” the department said in a statement.

Members of the panel – which is chaired by the Minister – are:

  • Chairperson of the South African Human Rights Commission, Andrew Christoffel Nissen.
  • Chairperson of the Commission for Gender Equality, Nthabiseng Sepanya-Mogale.
  • Auditor-General of South Africa, Tsakani Maluleke.
  • Chairperson of the Public Service Commission, Professor Somadoda Fikeni.
  • President of the Black Lawyers Association, Nkosana Mvundlela.

Nominations and applications will be sought through the following timeline:

  • 18 – 19 October 2025: Advertisement placed in the media.
  • 07 November 2025: Closing date for applications and nominations.
  • 17 – 21 November 2025: Shortlisting and screening of candidates.
  • 22 November – 06 December: Public comments on shortlisted candidates.
  • 07 – 11 December: Interviews of shortlisted candidates.

“This transparent and merit-based approach follows the precedent set during the appointment of the current NDPP, Advocate Shamila Batohi, whose term concludes in January 2026.

“The panel will ensure that all candidates meet the requirements set out in Section 9 of the National Prosecuting Authority Act, 1998, and are capable of acting independently, free from improper influence, and without fear, favour, or prejudice.

“Members of the panel acknowledged the significance and gravity of the task before them and committed to diligently ensuring that a fit and proper candidate is appointed to this important position,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

Beni : la Mission de l’Organisation des Nations unies en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO) renforce les capacités judiciaires face aux défis de la cryptomonnaie et du financement du terrorisme

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Dans un contexte marqué par l’évolution rapide des technologies numériques et financières, la MONUSCO intensifie son appui aux institutions judiciaires congolaises. Depuis le 13 octobre, une formation spécialisée se déroule à Beni à l’intention d’inspecteurs de police judiciaire ainsi que de magistrats civils et militaires.

Organisée par la section d’Appui à la justice, cette session de deux semaines sur le thème « La cryptomonnaie et les échanges chiffrés : nouveaux défis pour la lutte contre le financement du terrorisme » réunit dix participants, dont deux femmes, et s’achèvera le 24 octobre 2025.

Le commandant Rhafer Ahnouche, expert en investigation numérique, précise que cette initiative vise à « renforcer les capacités des acteurs judiciaires face aux mutations technologiques et financières qui complexifient la traçabilité des flux monétaires. Ces outils peuvent être détournés pour financer des activités illicites, notamment le terrorisme et la criminalité organisée ».

Les travaux portent sur la compréhension des mécanismes de la cryptomonnaie, l’identification des risques liés à son utilisation, la collecte et l’analyse de preuves numériques, ainsi que la coopération entre institutions judiciaires et sécuritaires.

La magistrate Deborah Mabondani, substitut du Procureur près le Tribunal de paix de Beni, salue cette initiative : « Cette formation prolonge celle que nous avions suivie sur le financement du terrorisme. Elle nous permet d’approfondir nos connaissances des technologies employées dans les transactions suspectes et les échanges chiffrés. Ces compétences renforceront notre capacité à détecter et à poursuivre les cas de financement illicite ».

Cette activité s’inscrit dans la stratégie de la MONUSCO visant à appuyer la justice congolaise dans la lutte contre l’impunité, le crime organisé et le terrorisme à travers le renforcement des compétences techniques et opérationnelles des acteurs judiciaires.

Distribué par APO Group pour Mission de l’Organisation des Nations unies en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO).