Category: South Africa Government

Parliament will this afternoon reconvene for a joint sitting of the National Assembly and the National Council of Province to debate last week’s State of the Nation Address (SONA). 

The two-day debate, beginning on Tuesday, will get underway at 2pm and will debate President Cyril Ramaphosa’s SONA, which he delivered on Thursday, 12 February.

“The SONA Debate is a central part of Parliament’s constitutional role in holding the executive to account. During the debate, Members of Parliament from various political parties interrogate, scrutinise and assess the commitments made by the President, raise concerns from communities and question whether government’s plans respond to the country’s social and economic challenges. This process ensures that government programmes are subjected to public accountability and democratic debate,” Parliament said in a  statement.

President Ramaphosa will reply to the debate on Thursday at 2pm.

The SONA Debate and the President’s reply will be held at the Nieuwemeester Dome in Cape Town.
Delivered last week, the SONA is a joint sitting of the two Houses of Parliament and one of the rare occasions that brings together the three arms of state under one roof. 

“It is one of the important moments in South Africa’s democratic calendar. Delivered at the start of the parliamentary year, SONA sets out government’s priorities, plans and policy direction for the year ahead,” said Parliament.

It added that the President’s reply to the debate allows the executive to respond directly to issues raised by Members of Parliament and to provide further clarity on government’s plans. 

“Together, the debate and the reply reinforce transparency, accountability and dialogue between the executive and the representatives of the people,” said Parliament.

In the SONA, President Ramaphosa called on South Africans to draw on the country’s deepest values and collective strength as it confronts challenges including crime and a worsening water crisis, declaring that the nation will stand firm both at home and on the global stage.

READ | South Africa charts path of unity, growth and reform

“To navigate this new world, we must draw on our strength as a nation. Our strength comes from our values. The values of dignity and equality, of non-racialism and non-sexism, diversity and of the inherent worth of every person. It comes from our people. From our tolerance, generosity, kindness and solidarity,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

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The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) has condemned the recent illegal mining activities taking place around the Gugulethu informal settlement in Springs.

This, after the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality reported that it had become aware of illegal excavation at a site believed to contain gold particles.

“The department reiterates that any mining activity conducted without the required permits or mining rights, as prescribed by the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, is unlawful and constitutes a criminal offence. The Act clearly outlines the mandatory application and approval processes that must be followed by any individual or entity intending to undertake mining activities in South Africa.

“Illegal mining undermines the rule of law and poses serious threats to public safety and the environment. Unregulated excavation may result in ground instability, placing nearby communities and particularly children at significant risk of injury or loss of life,” the department warned.

The DMPR emphasised that it provides support for small and artisanal miners who “wish to operate within the legal framework”.

“This includes guidance on the formalisation process, assistance with applications for permits and mining rights, and access to technical support and regulatory information to ensure compliance with the MPRDA.

“Aspirant artisanal and small-scale miners are encouraged to engage directly with the department to explore lawful mining opportunities and to contribute to safe, environmentally responsible, and sustainable mining practices,” the department said.

Last week, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that the SA National Defence Force will be deployed to Gauteng to assist the police in fighting the growing scourge. – SAnews.gov.za

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The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has hailed its military healthcare professionals for their professionalism, dedication, and compassion in delivering life-changing medical services to patients in remote parts of Limpopo through Project OWETHU.

In a statement, the Department of Defence said Project OWETHU is the SANDF’s humanitarian healthcare initiative aimed at extending essential medical services to underserved communities across South Africa. 

The programme seeks to restore dignity, improve the quality of life, and strengthen the bond between the Defence Force and the communities it serves.

On Friday, 13 February, the Surgeon General of the SANDF, Lieutenant General (Dr) Ntshavheni Maphaha, alongside Limpopo Health MEC Dieketseng Mashego, joined military healthcare teams at Elim Hospital in Makhado. The team performed critical eye surgeries, successfully removing cataracts for patients, who had endured long waiting periods for specialised procedures.

“This remarkable initiative, commended by hospital staff for its impressive results, has recorded a total of 89 successful cases, surpassing the weekly target of 75 cases… Project OWETHU continues at the facility to ensure that even more patients can be attended to,” the department said.

Government leaders and communities in the province have also expressed their profound appreciation to the healthcare professionals, who distinguished themselves through acts of goodwill in serving patients who have endured prolonged challenges in accessing specialised care 

Project OWETHU underscores the importance of collaboration between national defence healthcare services and provincial health authorities, reaffirming the SANDF’s commitment to contributing meaningfully to public health and the well-being of citizens. 

The project visited Sekhukhune District (Mashoanyaneng Village) from 26 – 30 January 2026. It was in Waterberg District (Ga-Matlou) from 2 – 6 February. Project OWETHU also served the community in Vhembe District (Basani Village) from 9 – 13 February. – SAnews.gov.za 

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Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth has urged young people in Sundays River Valley to actively pursue employment opportunities in the agricultural sector, describing it as a key driver of economic growth and job creation in the region.

Meth delivered this message during a community outreach campaign in Addo, within the Sundays River Valley Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape, on Monday. Meth led efforts to expand access to employment opportunities and essential labour services.

Engaging directly with residents and jobseekers, the Minister encouraged the youth to take advantage of opportunities within the farming and agricultural value chain, noting the sector’s significant contribution to the local economy.

The outreach forms part of government’s ongoing commitment to bringing services closer to communities, particularly those in rural and farming areas, ensuring that workers and employers can access support without travelling long distances.

“Residents of Addo benefited from a range of on-site services, including employment counselling, processing of Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) applications and claims, resolution of enquiries, handling of Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases claims, as well as inspection and enforcement services to promote compliance with labour laws,” the department said. 

The Minister emphasised that taking services directly to communities reduces barriers to access and strengthens government’s responsiveness to the needs of communities.

The Department of Employment and Labour will continue rolling out similar service delivery initiatives across the province to widen access to government services and support economic participation. – SAnews.gov.za

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Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth is calling on employers in Gqeberha and surrounding areas to actively participate in the upcoming Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) Commissioner’s Breakfast Session. 

The breakfast session is scheduled for Wednesday, 18 February, at the Southern Sun – The Marine – in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape. 

The Commissioner’s Breakfast Session is a strategic engagement platform designed to deepen cooperation between government and business, strengthen compliance, and enhance the efficiency of UIF service delivery. Through this initiative, employers are afforded a direct channel to raise operational challenges, seek clarity on regulatory obligations, and resolve UIF-related matters in real time.

Meth emphasised that the engagement reflects government’s broader economic recovery and labour market stabilisation agenda, anchored in social protection, compliance, and partnership with the private sector.

“[The] UIF remains a cornerstone of social protection for workers and a vital support mechanism for employers navigating economic pressures. I urge employers in Gqeberha and surrounding areas to seize this opportunity to engage directly with Acting UIF Commissioner Dr. Malebo Mabitje-Thompson, raise concerns, and strengthen compliance. 

“Sustainable economic growth requires active collaboration between government and business. Together, we can ensure that the UIF continues to serve workers, support employers, and protect livelihoods,” the Minister said.

The event is hosted in partnership with the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality to further strengthen intergovernmental collaboration, improve access to UIF services at local level, and promote inclusive economic participation. – SAnews.gov.za

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Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, has expressed deep concern following a serious road crash involving a scholar transport vehicle, which occurred at approximately 7am this morning, on the N4 eastbound, near Atteridgeville, Tshwane.

“The reckless conduct displayed in this incident is unacceptable, particularly when it involves the lives of our children. Scholar transport operators carry a sacred responsibility to ensure the safety of learners. Lawlessness on our roads will not be tolerated,” the MEC said on Monday.

According to reports, a nine-seater Toyota Condor – transporting 17 school children – collided with a Mercedes-Benz after the driver allegedly attempted to evade law enforcement by diverting onto an old dirt road before re-entering the highway.

It is believed that the driver was operating the vehicle without a valid driver’s licence.

All 17 learners were transported to a hospital with varying degrees of injuries. No fatalities have been reported.

The MEC has reiterated her call for intensified law enforcement operations to root out illegal and unroadworthy scholar transport vehicles and to ensure full compliance with road safety regulations.

She further emphasised that the driver must be held accountable for endangering the lives of innocent children through irresponsible behaviour.

The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening oversight and enforcement to safeguard learners and restore discipline on the province’s roads. –SAnews.gov.za

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KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has welcomed the possible withdrawal by the Prudential Authority (PA) and the Repayment Administrator, Johan Kruger, of their court application seeking the liquidation of Ithala SOC Limited and Ithala Bank.

Ntuli described the development as a significant breakthrough following months of intensive engagements and negotiations led by the Provincial Government to safeguard the historic institution.

“This matter has never been merely about a financial entity; it has always been about protecting the economic aspirations of the people of KwaZulu-Natal, particularly the rural poor, small businesses and historically marginalised communities who rely on Ithala,” Ntuli said.

Ntuli has led engagements to resolve the impasse, working with Members of the Provincial Legislature, including Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC Reverend Musa Zondi and Finance MEC Francois Rodgers.

The matter was elevated to the national leadership level, including discussions with President Cyril Ramaphosa, as part of efforts to secure a sustainable and lawful resolution.

The Premier emphasised that while the possible withdrawal of the liquidation application is a positive and encouraging step, it does not mark the end of the journey.

“There is still a substantial amount of work that lies ahead. Our focus now shifts decisively to revitalising and stabilising Ithala so that it can stand firmly on its feet again and operate as a well-oiled, fully compliant, and sustainable financial institution,” he said.

The Premier acknowledged that the process has not been smooth sailing, describing it as a complex and, at times, difficult journey that required patience, discipline, and constructive engagement across different spheres of government and regulatory authorities.

“We remain committed to ensuring that Ithala emerges stronger, more resilient and properly structured to fulfil its developmental mandate. This institution has played a critical role in extending financial services to communities that were historically excluded from mainstream banking. That legacy must be preserved and strengthened,” he said.

The Provincial Government will continue working collaboratively with regulators, National Treasury, and other relevant stakeholders to ensure full compliance with regulatory frameworks, while safeguarding the interests of depositors and the broader provincial economy.

Ntuli called on residents of KwaZulu-Natal to continue placing their trust in the Provincial Government as it steers Ithala through what he described as a critical phase.

“We understand the anxiety and uncertainty that this matter has caused. We assure the people of our province that their government remains fully seized with the task at hand. We ask for continued patience and confidence as we work diligently to secure Ithala’s long-term stability and growth,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety has welcomed the deployment of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers to the province to support police in the fight against illegal mining.

The deployment was announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa during the State of the Nation Address in Cape Town last week.

“This firm intervention…underscores the gravity of the crisis and the urgent necessity for a coordinated, robust response to dismantle highly organised criminal syndicates that have terrorised communities and undermined the rule of law,” the committee said in a statement.

The committee noted that it has consistently “raised concerns about the devastating impact of illegal mining” in the province.

“During a recent unannounced oversight visit to the Bekkersdal Police Station, the committee received deeply disturbing reports of zama zamas [illegal miners] intimidating residents, perpetrating violent crimes and holding entire communities hostage through fear and lawlessness.

“Equally alarming are reports that more than 600 families were allegedly forced to flee their homes in Randfontein as a result of escalating violence linked to illegal mining activities, with displaced residents compelled to seek refuge in community halls.

“The committee reiterates that illegal mining is not a minor or isolated offence. It is an entrenched, organised criminal enterprise that endangers lives, destroys infrastructure, destabilises communities and erodes public confidence in the state’s ability to protect its citizens,” the statement said.

The committee said a “more aggressive, integrated, multi-agency approach is required to decisively confront and eradicate this criminal menace”.

“In this regard, the deployment of the SANDF represents a critical and long-overdue intervention – one that the committee has repeatedly recommended. 

“The committee is confident that this decisive action will significantly strengthen law-enforcement operations, restore safety and stability in affected areas as well as send a clear and unequivocal message that criminality will not be tolerated in Gauteng.

“The [committee] will closely monitor the implementation and impact of the SANDF deployment and remains committed to working with all spheres of government to ensure that Gauteng is decisively reclaimed from illegal mining and that communities are able to live free from fear, violence and intimidation,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has advised that on Monday the country will experience partly cloudy, warm-to-hot conditions over the western interior, with isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers possible from the afternoon.

“There is a yellow level 2 warning of severe thunderstorms over the central and southern parts of the Northern Cape for today, expected to result in a high likelihood of minor impacts of damaging winds, hail, and heavy downpours that may lead to localised floods, with the likelihood expected to decrease to medium by Tuesday afternoon,” SAWS Meteorologist Lehlohonolo Thobela said.

Possible flooding due to heavy downpours:

• Monday: low chance (40%) – Northern Cape (central and western parts).
• Tuesday: low to medium chance (40%) – Northern Cape (central and southern parts).
• Wednesday: Low to medium chance (40% – 60%) – Northern Cape (western parts), Eastern Cape (eastern half), and southern parts of KwaZulu-Natal.
• Thursday: Low chance (40%) – KwaZulu-Natal and Highveld of Mpumalanga.
• Friday: Low chance (40%) – Northern Cape.
• Saturday: Low to medium chance (40% – 60%): Free State, Northern Cape, Eastern Cape, Mpumalanga, and the southern parts of North West.
• Sunday: Low chance (40%) – Northern Cape, eastern parts of Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, and Free State.

Possible severe thunderstorms:

• Monday: low chance (40%) – Northern Cape (central and western parts).
• Tuesday: low to medium chance (40% – 60%) – Northern Cape (central and southern parts).
• Wednesday: Low to medium chance (40% – 60%) – Northern Cape (western parts), Eastern Cape (eastern half), and the southern parts of KwaZulu-Natal.
• Thursday: Low chance (40%) – KwaZulu-Natal and the Highveld of Mpumalanga.
• Friday: Low chance (40%) – Northern Cape.
• Saturday: Low to medium chance (40% – 60%) – Free State, Northern Cape, Eastern Cape, Mpumalanga, and the southern parts of North West.
• Sunday: Low chance (40%) – Northern Cape, eastern parts of Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, and Free State.

Winds (not associated with thunderstorms):

• Monday: Low to medium chance (40% – 60%) – east and south coast of South Africa.
• Tuesday: Low to medium chance (40% – 60%) – east coast of South Africa.
• Wednesday: Low chance (40%) – south-west coast and east coast in the evening.
• Thursday: Low chance (40%) – West Coast of South Africa and southern parts of the Northern Cape.
• Friday: Low to medium chance (40% – 60%)- south coast of South Africa.
• Saturday: Low chance – south coast of South Africa.
• Sunday: Low to medium chance (40% – 60%) – east coast of South Africa and the interior of the Eastern Cape province.

“Members of the public and stakeholders are strongly urged to continuously monitor official SAWS forecasts and warnings, as warnings will be updated as the likelihood and severity of impacts become clearer. 

“The public is also advised to remain cautious of unauthorised or unverified information sources and refrain from distributing such information further,” Thobela said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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The East London Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit have launched an intensive, coordinated manhunt for suspects involved in the fatal shooting of serving police sergeant, Ndodomzi Dion Tengile (42), at Zizamele Township, in Butterworth. 

The member was attached to Visible Policing at Port St Johns South African Police Service (SAPS) and was off duty at the time of the incident. The Hawks have been seeking public assistance in order to bring the perpetrators to justice. 

The attack allegedly occurred during the early hours of 2 February 2024, at approximately 02:05 at the said place. 

“Preliminary findings indicated that Tengile was travelling with his spouse from Port St Johns to Msobomvu,” the Hawks said in a statement.

It is alleged that after withdrawing business-related funds from First National Bank (FNB) in Butterworth, the couple returned to their residence at Zizamele Township.

Shortly thereafter, while Tengile remained seated inside his motor vehicle, two unidentified armed suspects reportedly approached him. Gunshots were ostensibly fired, fatally wounding the officer. 

“The suspects allegedly robbed the spouse of cash and personal belongings before fleeing with the Toyota Fortuner of the deceased. A murder case docket was opened, and the matter was handed over to the Hawks for intensive investigation. The vehicle was later recovered abandoned not far from the crime scene,” the Hawks said.

A multidisciplinary team was activated comprising seasoned detectives, forensic experts, and crime intelligence operatives to ensure that the perpetrators were traced and apprehended without delay. 

However, no arrest has been effected at the moment, hence the police are seeking public assistance. 

The Hawks are appealing to any person, who may have witnessed suspicious movements at Zizamele Township during the specific date, to come forward. 

Information may be shared anonymously to the investigating officers, Colonel Raymond Buys on 082 301 1135 and Warrant Officer Sandisile Zenzile on 082 772 3664, or via Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or through the MySAPS App. 

All information will be treated with the strictest confidentiality, and callers may remain anonymous. The investigation continues with priority status. – SAnews.gov.za

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