Category: South Africa Government

Justice and Constitutional Development Deputy Minister Andries Nel says the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s Constitution is a historic milestone that will continue to shape the country’s democracy and collective aspirations.

“The Constitution is more than a legal framework and more than just the supreme law of our country. It is the foundation of our democracy, rooted in human dignity, equality and freedom,” Nel said.

The Deputy Minister was speaking at the Milestones of Freedom Campaign panel discussion on Friday night.

Held at the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) offices in Pretoria, the panel discussion came as the country marked the 30th anniversary of the Constitution’s adoption on 08 May 1996, when the Constitutional Assembly formally adopted it.

“This year marks the 30th anniversary of that historic moment, a milestone that continues to shape our democracy and guide our collective aspirations,” said Nel, who, as a member of the Constitutional Assembly, helped draft the Constitution.

He also spoke of the Constitution’s progressiveness, saying it enables South Africans to deliver the future they want.

“The Constitution is progressive because it not only recognises the injustices and inequalities of the past but places an obligation on government and citizens, women and men, young and old – to work to ‘heal the divisions of the past and establish a society based on democratic values, social justice and fundamental human rights,’” he said.

He told those attending the gathering that the commemoration is a national civic renewal campaign: a coordinated, multi-sectoral programme that reaffirms constitutionalism as the cornerstone of national identity.
This as Cabinet has adopted a programme providing for a year-long, whole-of-government and whole-of-society celebration of the Constitution.

Celebrating and reaffirming constitutional values, educating and engaging citizens, especially the youth, promoting the rule of law in everyday life, and fostering national unity and social cohesion are among the seven goals of the celebrations.

Nel spoke of the importance of this year’s national commemoration being an inclusive initiative by involving multiple stakeholders, including government departments, Chapter 9 institutions, civil society, academia, organised labour, business, traditional and religious leaders, youth formations, and educational institutions.

The programme will include public dialogues, civic education, cultural events, youth engagements, symbolic events at historic sites and other community driven initiatives to deepen constitutional awareness and social cohesion.

Milestones of Freedom
“The Milestones of Freedom Campaign is an important part of celebrating and commemorating this historic milestone. The campaign is a year-long, whole-of-government programme designed to honour our past while delivering tangible improvements in people’s lives today.

“Guided by the theme: ‘Honouring the past, delivering the future’, this campaign brings together national, provincial, and local government, working hand in hand with communities and partners across society,” he explained.

The Deputy Minister said the panel discussion hosted by the GCIS in collaboration with the Department of Justice served as a precursor to the official launch later this month. He said it also provides an opportunity to engage deeply with the Constitution as a critical milestone of freedom – a living document that continues to safeguard our rights, strengthen accountability, and inspire our vision of a just, inclusive, and prosperous society.

This year, through the Milestones of Freedom Campaign, the government will also commemorate other defining chapters of the country’s history, including the 50th anniversary of the Soweto Uprising, 60 years since the District Six removals, and 70 years of the Women’s March, amongst others.

“These milestones remind us that our democracy was hard-won, and that its preservation requires active participation, vigilance and continuous commitment from all of government and all of society. Importantly, this campaign is not only about remembrance. It is about action.

“It is about bringing essential services to communities across the country – from IDs and birth certificates to health outreach events, access to housing opportunities, and support for small businesses and youth entrepreneurs, to name but a few,”  Nel said.

In her message of support, the Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, said the anniversary of the Constitution calls on South Africans not only to reflect on where they come from, but also to ask themselves how they are advancing the promise of dignity, equality and freedom for all.

“The Constitution itself laid the foundation for a society based on human dignity, equality and freedom, and it is through initiatives such as this campaign that we give practical meaning to these values.
“Let us therefore use this moment to strengthen our shared commitment to the values that unite us, and to ensure that the gains of our democracy are felt in every community across the country,” the Deputy Minister Letsike said.

Capable youth
In his message of support, Mthembeni Mzobe, President of the Student Chapter of the Black Lawyers Association, said that he appreciates the freedom the country has gained.

He added that many South Africans still experience freedom in part and not in full, stressing that the youth have a role to play in the country’s development.

“South Africa has a capable youth; our voices should not be treated as a threat to older leadership. Involve us, we are capable of bringing solutions to the challenges facing this country,” Mzobe said.

Inclusiveness
Meanwhile, Brand South Africa’s Chief Executive Officer, Neville Matjie, said the commemoration of 30 years of the Constitution is a defining milestone in the nation’s journey to freedom, democracy, and human dignity.

“At its core, our Constitution positions our country as inclusive, rights-based, [and] a society founded on human dignity, equality, freedom and social justice,” he said.

Charting the way forward
Speaking during the panel discussion, Chairperson of the Public Service Commission (PSC), Professor Somadoda Fikeni, congratulated the country on reaching the 30-year milestone of the Constitution.

“When we started our journey guided by this aspirational document, our Constitution, we did so well. In the early years, you could see houses where there were no houses, and schools where there were no schools.

“Institutions and the architecture of our democracy are still one of the best and aspirational,” he said in his reflection on developments in the country.

He said that to deal with challenges like corruption, “we have to go back to basics”, including fixing the public sector and fighting inequality.

“If we’ve become the most unequal society in the world, even the ability of a person to feel and exercise that democracy will elude that person. Democracy is not a noun, it’s a verb, it’s what we do,” Fikeni said.
South Africa began the commemoration of 30 Years of the Constitution – a world-renowned document born from negotiation, compromise and public participation on an unprecedented scale in March 2026.

READ | From negotiation to nationhood: SA celebrates 30 Years of the Constitution

The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, led the national launch held at the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg. – SAnews.gov.za

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Marking a key step in the ongoing reform of South Africa’s local government system, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA)Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa, has officially gazetted the Reviewed Draft White Paper on Local Government for public comment.

The publication follows an extensive nationwide consultation process that commenced with the release of a discussion document in April 2025.

Since then, government has undertaken broad engagements with communities, civil society, organised local government, traditional leaders, academics, public institutions, and stakeholders across all spheres of government.

The review seeks to modernise and strengthen the local government system to ensure municipalities are better equipped to respond to the developmental needs of communities. It proposes a range of key reforms aimed at improving governance, strengthening accountability, enhancing financial sustainability, and accelerating effective service delivery.

Hlabisa said the review process represents an important opportunity to reimagine a capable, responsive and developmental local government system that places communities at the centre of governance.

“The review of the White Paper is a necessary and timely intervention to ensure that local government remains responsive to the changing needs of our people. We are calling on all South Africans and stakeholders to actively participate in shaping the future of local government through this public consultation process,” the Minister said.

Hlabisa emphasised that the review is aligned with government’s commitment to cooperative governance and the strengthening of municipalities as the sphere of government closest to the people. The process also reinforces the principles of the District Development Model (DDM), which promotes integrated planning, coordination and collaboration across all sectors of society and government.

Members of the public and interested stakeholders, including civil society organisations, organised local government, state institutions, traditional leadership structures, business formations, labour and all interested stakeholders are invited to submit written comments on the Reviewed Draft White Paper.

The closing date for submissions is 28 May 2026.

Submissions may be sent via email to: WPLG26@cogta.gov.za; RichardP@cogta.gov.za, or MaphutiL@cogta.gov.za  Alternatively, submissions may be posted to: The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, for Attention:  Mr. Thabiso Richard Plank (White Paper Review), Private Bag X802, Pretoria, 0001.

Submissions can also be delivered in person to the  Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs for Attention: Mr. Thabiso Richard Plank (White Paper Review), 87 Hamilton Street, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0001

The Reviewed Draft White Paper is available on: https://tinyurl.com/ycyran3p 

At a post-Cabinet media briefing on Thursday, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said Cabinet approved the gazetting of the Draft White Paper on Local Government for public consultation.

“The Revised White Paper is part of the local government reforms of fixing local government to build a modern, fit for purpose local government system capable of delivering services sustainably.

“The review of the White Paper was initiated to ensure that the local government policy framework remains responsive to current and evolving developmental, economic, spatial and environmental realities. Priority focus areas identified are institutional culture in municipalities, political leadership and accountability, intergovernmental coordination, citizen involvement, financial and fiscal reforms, and traditional leadership,” said Ntshavheni.

The Draft White Paper adopts a phased and sequenced implementation approach to ensure a coherent and sustainable transition in local government reform. 

“The draft recognises that previous reform efforts have often faltered at the implementation stage, due in part to insufficient attention to sequencing and transition management. As a primary reform action, the Revised Draft White Paper proposes the establishment of a time-bound Local Government Transition Management Body,” said Ntshavheni. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

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Water users across the country have been urged by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) to register or update their water use information in order to strengthen the management and protection of the country’s water resources.

The DWS said accurate registration allows both the department and Catchment Management Agencies (CMAs) to determine who is using water, where it is being used, how much is consumed, and for what purposes.

“This is critical to ensuring sustainable, equitable and efficient allocation of water, while supporting economic growth, development and social equity,” the department said in a statement. 

The 90-day registration period opened on 24 April 2026, with water users urged to comply within the stipulated timeframe to avoid penalties and ensure compliance.

The department warned that failure to register continues to pose a serious risk to effective water resource management.

“Unregistered users create critical data gaps that undermine planning and decision-making, disrupt fair distribution and place additional strain on already limited water supplies. In a water-scarce country such as South Africa, this not only threatens long-term water security but also has broader implications for economic stability and growth,” the department said.

The department has urged all unregistered users or those with outdated details to come forward. 

This includes individuals and entities who have acquired property from registered water users without updating ownership details; those who obtained land through restitution processes without notifying authorities, and those leasing property where water use has not been formally registered.

It also applies to users who have changed their contact or registration details without informing the department, as well as those operating boreholes for commercial purposes that have not been declared.

Agricultural users who have expanded into industrial activities are also required to ensure that all water uses are properly recorded.

Certain categories of users are exempt from registration. This includes those whose water use falls within the area of operation of a water user association — provided their water use is registered through that structure.

However, any groundwater use for commercial purposes, including boreholes, must still be registered with the responsible authority. 

Users classified under Schedule 1 of the National Water Act, 1998, are also exempt from registration requirements.

Beyond regulatory compliance, the DWS said registration benefits water users directly by strengthening security of access and promoting fair allocation, particularly during periods of scarcity. It also provides greater planning certainty for farmers, businesses and households, while ensuring their water needs are formally recognised in decision-making processes.

“This registration period provides an opportunity for all unregistered water users to disclose their water use, avoid penalties and safeguard their ongoing water use for economic and domestic activities,” the department said.

No fees during registration period

The department confirmed that no fees will be charged for applications submitted within the 90-day registration. However, late applications may incur a fee of R300 per property.

“Non-compliance with this directive constitutes an offence, and any person who fails to register or update their water use information within the stipulated period may, upon conviction, be liable to a fine or imprisonment for a period not exceeding five years.”

The DWS encouraged all water users to act promptly to avoid penalties and to contribute to the responsible management of South Africa’s water resources.

For more information or to register and update water use details, members of the public can visit their nearest provincial Department of Water and Sanitation or Catchment Management Agency offices, or access the online portals on:
https://www.dws.gov.za/Projects/WARMS/Notices.aspx  
https://www.dws.gov.za/Projects/WARMS/contacts.aspx. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber, has gazetted draft amended regulations in terms of the Identification Act of 1997 for public comment until 6 June 2026. 

The draft regulations are designed to create the required regulatory framework for the introduction of a cutting-edge Digital Identity system in South Africa.

According to the Department of Home Affairs, the draft regulations propose the creation of secure Digital Identity credentials that will co-exist alongside the department’s physical products. 

“This will enable citizens to store, access and utilise secure digital versions of their identity document, birth certificate, marriage certificate and other Home Affairs products directly on their smartphone, and introduce the ability for users to remotely confirm their identity using biometric verification,” the department said.

Use of the Digital Identity system will be optional, and physical products like Smart ID cards will continue to exist in parallel to this new digital system.

The draft amendments are intended to:

• Clarify the status of Digital Identity credentials as an additional form of valid identity under the Act, without affecting the continued validity of physical identity cards.
• Prescribe standards for enrolment, biometric capture and identity assurance for Digital Identity credentials.
• Lay the foundation for interoperability with both the public and private sectors, including to enable the delivery of government services in digital format.
• Tighten safeguards for how identity information may be shared with accredited institutions, with access strictly regulated under the Identification Act of 1997, the Promotion of Access to Information Act of 2000, and the Protection of Personal Information Act of 2013.
• Strengthen the population register as the single authoritative record of identity and civic status information.

“The draft regulations propose the creation of a world-class Digital Identity system as the ultimate expression of our vision to leverage digital transformation to deliver Home Affairs @ home. 

“This system can greatly enhance our ability to combat identity theft, financial crimes, corruption and illegal immigration, while delivering efficient services to citizens in the comfort of their own homes, and improving privacy protections and data management,” Minister Schreiber said.

“We are already working closely with a number of partners in government, including The Presidency, to ensure that the foundational system we are building supports the Digital Transformation Roadmap’s goal of digitalising government services. 

“Technical work is well underway, and the finalisation of these regulations will enable us to complete our digital service delivery revolution by bringing services right onto your smart device,” the Minister said.

Members of the public, civil society organisations, industry and other stakeholders are invited to review the draft regulations and submit written comments by 6 June 2026, before the regulations are finalised for promulgation.

Submissions should be addressed to the Chief Director: Legal Services and be forwarded to the department in any of the following ways:

• By hand to the department at the 10th Floor, Hallmark Building, 230 Johannes Ramokhoase Street, Pretoria, 0001.

• By post to the Department at Private Bag X114, Pretoria, 0001.

• By e-mail to Moses.Malakate@dha.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

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The Department of Agriculture, in partnership with the Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs, will commemorate the 2026 International Day of Plant Health (IDPH) in Mbombela.

The International Day of Plant Health is observed annually on 12 May to raise global awareness on how protecting plant health can end hunger, reduce poverty, protect the environment, and boost economic development.

The event will take place at the Ehlanzeni District Office Disaster Management Centre and forms part of global efforts to promote plant health and biosecurity.

The International Day of Plant Health was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly to raise global awareness on how protecting plant health can help end hunger, reduce poverty, protect biodiversity and the environment, and boost economic development.

This year’s commemoration will be held under the theme “Plant Biosecurity for Food Security”, highlighting the importance of safeguarding crops and natural vegetation from pests and diseases.

The initiative also supports the objectives of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly Goal 2, which aims to achieve zero hunger.

The department said the event seeks to increase awareness among policymakers, industry stakeholders and the public about the need to protect plant resources, especially in the context of growing international trade in plants and plant products.

“The IDPH is further envisaged to assist in minimising the risk of spreading plant pests as a result of international trade in plants and plant products and foster the implementation of the International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPM),” the department said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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As South Africa marks 30 years since the South African Constitution was adopted by the National Assembly, Deputy Minister in the Presidency Nonceba Mhlauli said the milestone “invites all of us, especially young people, to reflect on where this country comes from and where it is going”.

Speaking during the handing over of Cyber Lab at Paballelo Senior Secondary School, Mhlauli told the learners that the day reminded the country of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom, dignity, equality and justice so that future generations could enjoy opportunities that many were once denied.

“It is for this reason that the ongoing review of the history curriculum by the Department of Basic Education is so important,” she said.

Mhlauli said South Africa must ensure that young people understand the full story of the nation, its struggles, its triumphs and the lessons of the past.

“History is not only about remembering where we come from, it is also about shaping the kind of future we want to build together as South Africans,” the Deputy Minister said.

The Department of Basic Education has published the draft new History Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statements for Grades 4 to 12 for public comment.

The current publication forms part of a curriculum review process that has been under way for several years. It provides for the study of ancient and modern pasts, the use of historical and archaeological sources and the development of historical thinking, historical consciousness and historical culture.

Mhlauli told the learners that the handover ceremony was more than just an official event. “It is a meaningful investment in the future of the young people of this community,” she said.

She extend her sincere appreciation to HUAWEI for partnering with government and the school in support of education and development.

“Partnerships such as these demonstrate the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in creating opportunities for our learners. 

“Education remains one of the most powerful tools we have to transform lives, fight inequality, and build a capable generation that can contribute meaningfully to our country’s development,” she said.

The Deputy Minister also told the learners that their circumstances do not define their destiny.

“I stand before you today as proof that greatness can emerge from this very school and this very community. Remain disciplined, work hard, respect your educators and parents, and never stop believing in your potential. South Africa needs your energy, your ideas, your innovation, and your leadership.

“To the educators and staff, thank you for the critical role you continue to play in shaping young minds, often under difficult circumstances. Your commitment does not go unnoticed,” she said.

Mhlauli said also encouraged all the learners who are 16 years and older to register to vote.

“Your voice matters, your future matters, and your participation in our democracy matters. Young people must play an active role in shaping the future of our country. Do not wait until others make decisions on your behalf. Register, participate, and make your voices heard,” said the Deputy Minister. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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As the Perishable Products Export Control Board (PPECB) prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary in June, Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has congratulated and welcomed the organisation’s newly appointed board members.

Established in June 1926, the PPECB is entering its second century of service as a linchpin of South Africa’s export and trade infrastructure, particularly in the agricultural sector.

Agriculture continues to play a central role in the country’s economy, serving as an engine for job creation and source of foreign exchange.

As the world’s trade landscape shifts, the role of the PPECB in providing independent, internationally recognised quality certification and cold chain management has never been more crucial.

The newly constituted board brings together a wealth of expertise and knowledge across the agricultural, agro-processing, and marine value chains. Their collective experience is a strategic asset as the country pursues new market access and seeks to expand existing international markets.

“I want to congratulate our new board members on taking up this mantle. They are stepping into leadership roles at an institution that has spent a century building trust in the South African export certificate,” Steenhuisen said.

With global trade becoming increasingly complex, the Minister emphasised that the calibre of the new board is a direct response to the need for high-level technical and strategic expertise.

The PPECB Board of Directors comprises the following members:
• Anton Kruger (Ministerial Representative): Former Fresh Produce Exporters’ Forum CEO, with 14 years of executive experience;
• Jill Atwood-Palm (Processed Products): SA Fruit and Vegetable Canners Export Council General Manager, with 25 years’ experience in agro-processing;
• Albert Coetzee (Citrus Industry): Agricultural economist focusing on international sustainability regulations;
• Jacques du Preez (Pome and Stone Fruit): Expert in market access and negotiating international trade protocols;
• Lindie Stroebel (Subtropical Fruit): Senior executive with a focus on global supply footprints;
• Michael Vorster (Table Grape Industry): Experienced producer and chairperson within the table grape sector;
• Werner van Rooyen (Pome and Stone Fruit): Chief Operations Officer (COO) of the Fresh Produce Exporters’ Forum and logistics specialist;
• Jolanda Andrag (Exporters’ Representative): COO of AgriSA, bringing extensive experience in public policy and development finance;
• Bonga Mavume (Marine Industry): Founder of Nalitha Fishing Group with 20 years’ experience in food manufacturing; and
• Pheladi Tlomatsane (Citrus Industry): Compliance and governance specialist with over 15 years’ experience in the sector.

“The Ministry is confident that this board will provide the needed steady and innovative vision to bolster South Africa’s reputation as a world-class exporter of premium perishable goods,” Steenhuisen said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

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Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called for an end to the dualistic rural economy, where a few commercial farmers dominate output while millions of smallholder farmers remain excluded from sharing in the gains of the economy.

“We must link subsistence farmers to markets, foster partnerships, and build value chains that unite rather than divide so agriculture becomes a driver of shared prosperity,” the Deputy President said on Friday in Bloemfontein.

Mashatile was addressing rural development and land reform stakeholders at the National Rural Development Indaba, where he stressed that transforming and integrating the agricultural sector requires a shared responsibility approach.

He urged the sector to work together with the government in building rural communities that are safe, productive, connected, and fully integrated into the economy.

“At the heart of many rural economies lies agriculture. But we must be frank: subsistence farming alone cannot lift rural communities out of poverty. 

“Our task is to build a productive, competitive, and transformed agricultural sector that creates jobs; supports agro-processing and rural industrialisation; integrates emerging farmers into value chains; and strengthens food security while growing the economy,” the Deputy President said.

This requires secure land tenure, post-settlement support, access to inputs and finance, and real market participation.

“It is within this context that the work of strategic coordinating departments such as the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development, the Department of Small Business Development, and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition assumes strategic national importance.

“These departments, along with the various institutions and partners they collaborate with, remain essential in ensuring that the country capitalises on its competitive advantages and the growth opportunities it presents,” the Deputy President said.

He added that 30 years of the country’s development-based democracy have shown that South African cannot develop rural and urban economies separately. 

“Our rural areas supply food, labour, energy, and natural resources. Our urban centres provide markets, technology, finance, and services. These are bound together in a single economic system.

“We must therefore abandon the false choice between rural and urban development and embrace integrated spatial planning, aligned infrastructure investment, and regional value-chain development. 

“Sustainable rural development depends on strong, connected urban centres just as urban prosperity depends on strong rural producers,” the Deputy President said.

He mentioned that the Government’s 30-Year Review emphasises that South Africa’s strategy should integrate agriculture, tourism, mining, natural resources, and forestry while being backed by strong economic infrastructure, including roads, water and sanitation, public facilities, and telecommunications. 

“By prioritising the vibrancy of rural economies, the government aims not only to improve local livelihoods but also to curb the increasing migration pressures on urban centres,” Mashatile said.

The Deputy President made the point that the slow growth of rural economies leads to migration towards cities, as rural communities struggle with limited access to infrastructure, economic opportunities, and essential services, driving people to urban centers for better prospects.

 “While urbanisation is a global trend, in our context it often reflects uneven development and limited economic prospects in rural regions. Addressing these spatial and economic imbalances requires a shift toward an integrated, multi-sectoral approach to development,” he said.

To address migration towards cities, Mashatile advocated for targeted, coordinated action by civil society, government, and private partners to rebalance urban and rural development.

Safety and security 

The key to rural development is security, specifically rural safety and social cohesion, as development cannot take root where people live in fear, Mashatile said.

“Rural crime, stock theft, gender-based violence, and insecurity discourage investment and weaken the bonds of our communities.

“Safety must never be treated as an afterthought. It is an integral pillar of rural development. Without safety, there is no stability; without stability, there is no investment; and without investment, there is no renewal,” the Deputy President said.

Addressing rural safety requires a comprehensive strategy beyond policing. 

“Key actions include strengthening rural policing through specialised units, empowering community safety structures (like neighbourhood watches and youth forums), and fostering collaboration among SAPS, traditional leaders, and local government.

“The strategy should also leverage technology for rural communication and surveillance while prioritising social cohesion programmes to combat gender-based violence and restore confidence in rural communities,” Mashatile said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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The Department of Water and Sanitation has assured the public that the Kouga Dam remains structurally safe and fully operational despite water levels exceeding capacity following heavy rainfall in its catchment area.

This comes amid growing public concern as the current water levels at Kouga Dam reached approximately 120.6% following recent high inflows.

According to the department, peak outflows recorded on the morning of 7 May 2026 were estimated at 2,491 cubic metres per second, equivalent to a one-in-50-year flood event.

Department spokesperson Wisane Mavasa said these outflows remain well within the dam’s design limits.

“Kouga Dam is performing exactly as designed and remains structurally safe,” Mavasa said.

She explained that Kouga Dam is a 72-metre-high double curvature concrete arch dam with an uncontrolled spillway and two radial gates. 

The spillway alone can discharge more than 6 100 cubic metres per second of water, before overtopping the non-overspill crest, which is more than double the current outflow.

“The reservoir provides flood attenuation, allowing large volumes of inflow to be temporarily stored, thereby reducing downstream flood peaks,” she said.

Mavasa added that even in the unlikely event of overtopping, the structural integrity of the dam would not be compromised.

The department confirmed that the radial gates are currently not in operation as a precautionary measure due to the presence of Alkali–Aggregate Reaction (AAR), a condition that causes concrete to expand.

“Operating the gates under these conditions may create challenges in safely closing them, potentially resulting in permanent loss of storage capacity. The uncontrolled spillway is adequate to safely pass current and anticipated flows, making gate operation unnecessary, which is about 15% of the overall discharge capacity,” Mavasa said.

Residents and communities living downstream of Kouga Dam have been urged to remain cautious, as river levels may rise above normal flood lines during periods of spillage.

“The department continues to closely monitor inflows, reservoir levels and the dam’s structural behaviour,” Mavasa said, adding that all necessary precautions are in place to safeguard communities.

Algoa water supply system upsurge

Meanwhile, the Algoa Water Supply System has seen a sharp recovery over the past 48 hours, with dam levels rising significantly following the recent rainfall.

As of Thursday afternoon, the Churchill Dam stood at 115%, Impofu Dam at 92%, Loerie Dam at 119%, and Groendal Dam at 72%.

This marks a dramatic turnaround from just days earlier, when overall system storage had dropped to 35.6% on 4 May 2026.

The department said the improved dam levels bring much-needed relief to water security in the region, following a prolonged period of declining surface water storage. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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