Category: South Africa Government

Source: Government of South Africa

The arrival of the Mein Schiff 4 passenger liner at Transnet National Ports Authority’s (TNPA) Port of Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape, is expected to inject approximately R120 million into the local economy, underscoring the growing importance of cruise tourism in the region.

The vessel’s arrival at the weekend, officially marked the opening of the 2025/26 Cruise Season in Nelson Mandela Bay.

Her timely berthing in the Bay sets the stage for a total of 25 confirmed cruise liner call-ins, including nine overnight stays, which are expected to bring more than 40,000 passengers to the city over the course of the season.

Nelson Mandela Bay Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe described the occasion as a proud milestone that reaffirms the city’s growing status as a preferred global cruise destination.

“Every vessel that docks at our port brings new opportunities for our residents and local businesses. The cruise industry contributes millions into our economy each season through visitor spending, local procurement, and job creation, benefiting tour guides, crafters, transport operators, and hospitality workers across the metro.

“Beyond the economic impact, it strengthens our international profile, promotes our cultural heritage, and supports small businesses in communities that supply local products and experiences. Nelson Mandela Bay is truly open for tourism, trade, and shared prosperity,” Lobishe said.

This year’s cruise schedule is set to be the longest on record, concluding with the anticipated arrival of Zhao Shang Di Yun on 9 July 2026.

Commenting on the significance of the season, Nelson Mandela Bay Ports Manager, Pamela Yoyo, said the 2025/26 cruise season promises to further elevate the city’s standing as a must-visit global destination, driving sustainable growth in tourism and reinforcing the port’s role as a catalyst for economic development.

“Beyond the substantial economic impact, this is a valuable opportunity to showcase the city’s vibrant culture and renowned hospitality to the world. We are committed to creating memorable experiences for our guests and driving sustainable economic growth through strategic partnerships,” Yoyo said.

Yoyo also assured that TNPA will continue to work closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety and security of all visitors throughout the season.

“TNPA remains dedicated to supporting the city’s tourism initiatives through ongoing investment in port infrastructure, availability of marine resources to service vessels and collaborative efforts with key stakeholders,” Yoyo said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

As the international community embraces the digital revolution and artificial intelligence (AI), KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, Mntomuhle Khawula, has stressed the importance of safeguarding the intellectual property and moral rights of artists and creative practitioners.

“Cultural and creative sectors are among the fastest-growing in the global economy – contributing significantly to global Gross Domestic Product and employing millions of young people across the world. These sectors are not peripheral to development; they are central to how nations innovate, how communities’ express identity, and how economies diversify,” Khawula said on Monday in Zimbali, KwaZulu-Natal.

While AI has brought boundless opportunities for creativity and innovation, the MEC said it also poses new and complex challenges. 

“But the challenges that confront our nations and our sector may also be looked upon as opportunities for new inroads, new frontiers and new bridges,” he said.

The MEC was addressing the fourth Group Twenty (G20) Culture Working Group (CWG) Meeting, which forms part of the build-up to the G20 Summit taking place in November 2025, under the theme: “Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability.” 

Established in 2020 as a permanent forum within the G20 framework, the G20 Culture Working Group promotes culture as a driver of sustainable development, support the creative economy, and protect cultural heritage globally.

“For South Africa, and for KwaZulu-Natal in particular, the creative and cultural industries represent a new frontier of economic opportunity – a way to build prosperity that is inclusive, sustainable, and rooted in our identity,” the MEC said.

The province is positioning itself as a gateway into Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African continent as a natural meeting point for cultural exchange, investment, and innovation. 

“As global partners look to Africa, we invite you to see our province and South Africa not merely as a destination, but as a dynamic springboard for regional collaboration and creative trade,” he said.

The MEC highlighted that Africa’s diverse cultures and breathtaking tourist destinations serve as a potent lever for investment and trade. 

“From the majestic Victoria Falls to the timeless pyramids of Egypt, these attractions draw millions of visitors each year, creating opportunities for economic growth and cross-border collaboration. 

“It is imperative that our Ministers weave a collective synergy that harnesses multilateral relations. By doing so, we can translate our potential into tangible outcomes, creating a platform where Africa engages in fair trade with all G20 member countries. Cultural and heritage tourism is one of our key drivers in this journey,” he said.

The MEC emphasised that cultural and heritage tourism is not just about preserving history – it is about translating heritage into opportunity.

“Across KwaZulu-Natal, we are reimagining historic and sacred sites – some of which are world heritage sites: from the Valley of the Zulu Kings, where seven Zulu Kings of the first initial order are buried,  and the Drakensberg Mountains to the Ohlange Institute and Sibhudu Cave – we are transforming these into centres of learning, innovation, and sustainable tourism.

“The potential that our great continent holds are immense, a treasure trove of resources waiting to be unlocked by equitable trade partnerships. With the establishment of the African Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), we are at the doorstep of a new era of economic collaboration,” he said.

AfCFTA is a free trade agreement that aims to create a single, integrated continental market for goods and services across 55 member states of the African Union.

“Let us unite in our efforts to create a future where our continent thrives, not just for ourselves, but for generations to come. Together, we can build a prosperous Africa that is open for business and rich in opportunities.

“Through strategic partnerships, may this meeting of ministers and all critical stakeholders integrate our creative industries into global value chains – from film co-productions and music collaborations to fashion, gaming, and digital storytelling. No one should be left behind,” the MEC said. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness is calling on all parents and caregivers to ensure their children are fully immunised as the province prepares to launch its National Immunisation Catch-up Drive from 1 to 30 November 2025.

During this period, the department aims to close the immunity gap caused by missed vaccinations.

This follows a decline in infant immunisation coverage below the provincial 95% target, leaving many children vulnerable to measles, polio, tuberculosis (TB), diphtheria, whooping cough, and tetanus. 

The department is currently responding to a measles outbreak in Khayelitsha and providing a mass immunisation service at schools, preschools, and healthcare facilities to prevent the spread of the disease within the community. 

The provincial department announced that healthcare teams are conducting contact tracing in response to a rise in diphtheria cases in the Cape Metropole.

“These diseases are preventable by ensuring that we improve our immunisation coverage in the province and provide herd immunity for the protection of our loved ones who are more vulnerable to getting sick,” the statement read. 

From 1 to 30 November 2025, all public health facilities across the Western Cape will offer free catch-up immunisation services for children who may have missed routine doses.

“No appointment is needed to access the service during the catch-up drive. Local outreaches are planned in your community. Contact your local clinic for the schedule of these outreach visits. Immunisations are also available at private providers at a cost.”

The teams will also visit schools and preschools for immunisations and health checks. 

“Parent or caregiver consent is required to immunise your child, so we encourage you to sign and return the consent form provided by your child’s teacher.” 

Expanded Programme on Immunisation

The Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) ensures that children receive life-saving vaccines at key stages of their early development. 

From birth through adolescence, these vaccines protect against tuberculosis, polio, diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, hepatitis B, Haemophilus influenzae type b, which causes meningitis and pneumonia, rotavirus diarrhoea, pneumonia, and measles.

As children grow older, the department said they receive boosters to maintain protection against these diseases. 

Meanwhile, girls aged nine years and older are also offered the HPV vaccine with parent consent, which helps prevent cervical cancer later in life. 

“By ensuring every child follows the full EPI schedule, parents protect not only their own children but also their communities from preventable diseases.”

Senior Specialist in Infectious Disease at Tygerberg Hospital, Dr Heather Finlayson, states that the South African EPI protects children from diseases that may lead to school absence, hospitalisation, or death.

She said vaccines are safe, well-studied, and essential for building healthy children and communities.  

“Even a small drop in vaccination coverage can undo years of progress. We urge all parents and caregivers to make sure their children are fully immunised. Vaccines save lives and are provided free of charge at all public health facilities,” Finlayson added.

Parents are advised to visit their nearest clinic to check if their child’s Road-to-Health Booklet is up to date, and no appointment is needed. 

They are also encouraged to make sure that all vaccinations are current, and children who have missed any doses should catch up on their immunisations.

“Vaccination protects individual children and entire communities. By ensuring your child is fully immunised, you help prevent outbreaks and keep everyone safer.

“The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness calls on all parents, caregivers, and community leaders to be advocates for immunisation. Together, we can protect our children and build a healthy, safe, and resilient society.”

Services part of the immunisation catch-up drive include: 

• Checking the child’s Road-to-Health Booklet.  
• Routine and catch-up immunisations.
• Vitamin A supplementation.
• Deworming.
• Nutrition check.
• Health screening and education. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, October 28, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

The African Union (AU) has called on the Group of Twenty (G20) members to support inclusive financing frameworks for the cultural and creative industries.

Addressing the fourth G20 Culture Working Group Meeting, AU Head of the Culture Division, Angela Martins, noted that Africa’s creative industries, ranging from film, music, fashion and design to digital arts are among the fastest-growing sectors in the economy. 

“Culture is not only our identity; it is a driver of innovation, employment, and sustainable growth,” Martins said on Monday in Zimbali, KwaZulu-Natal.

She emphasised the importance of integrating culture into national development strategies, and empowering women and youth to fully participate in global value chains.

“Through initiatives like the AU Plan of Action on Cultural and Creative Industries (AU-POA) and the Creative Africa Nexus (CANNEX), we are fostering partnerships, expanding markets, and ensuring fair remuneration for our creators,” Martins said.

Martins recognised the role that technology can play in empowering the youth and ensuring that Africa’s rich cultural tapestry reaches every corner of the globe.

“Technology offers a unique opportunity to showcase Africa’s culture to the world. Through the AU Digital Transformation Strategy 2020–2030, we are developing digital infrastructure, training, and innovation hubs that allow African creators to protect, share, and monetise their work globally,” Martins said.

She highlighted that people’s values, beliefs, traditions, and ways of life play an important role in how societies understand, respond to, and adapt to climate change.

“Culture is also critical in addressing the challenges of climate change. Through platforms like the Group of Friends for Culture-Based Climate Action (GFCBCA), which the African Union actively supports, we promote culture-based climate action, integrating heritage, traditional knowledge, and creative expression into strategies for environmental resilience.

“We urge the G20 members to invest in climate-smart cultural infrastructure and support communities whose heritage is at risk. South Africa’s priority on disaster resilience and culture aligns with Africa’s vision that culture is not only our identity but also a tool for adaptation, resilience, and hope,” Martins said.

The G20 Culture Working Group was established in 2020 as a permanent forum within the G20 framework to foster dialogue and collaboration among member states on cultural matters. 

Its objective is to promote culture as a driver of sustainable development, support the creative economy, and protect cultural heritage globally.

As part of the build-up to the G20 Summit taking place in November 2025, the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, convened a three-day meeting with government Ministers and senior officials from across the African continent and other G20 member states under the theme, “Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability.” –SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

With the 2025 Africa Kaizen Annual Conference (AKAC) underway, delegates have consistently emphasised the need to develop regional value chains to industrialise the African continent and enable businesses to compete globally.

“While we have observed an improvement in the manufacturing sector, its contribution to the economy has stabilised around 12-13% over the years, up from 11-12%. 

“That is an indication that we have done better with regards to improvements, necessitating enhancements in quality, productivity and the adoption of new technologies, such as the electric vehicle programme in the auto industry, aimed at producing cars for export,” said Acting Deputy Director-General of Sectors at the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), Dr Tebogo Makube, on Monday.

Makube was setting the tone for a panel discussion at AKAC, which is being held in Boksburg, Gauteng, under the theme ‘African Industrialisation through Fostering Competitive Firms and Value Chains on the Continent’.

READ | Kaizen Conference to boost productivity and growth in Africa

This year’s conference brings together leaders and practitioners of Kaizen Institutions and National Productivity Organisations on the African continent, including a network of entities that promote quality and productivity improvement activities across the country, known as the National Quality and Productivity Network (NQPN).

Kaizen is a Japanese philosophy of continuous improvement that involves making continuous small changes to increase efficiency and quality. The term is a combination of the Japanese words “kai” (change) and “zen” (good). The philosophy forms an integral part of lean manufacturing and is based on the idea that every employee has a role to play in making manufacturing processes more efficient. 

In the context of South Africa, it holds significant importance for efficiency improvements in the different sectors of the economy, including the Black Industrialists Programme of the dtic and other South African transformation initiatives. 

Makube said Kaizen is crucial for supporting supplier development and integrating emerging suppliers into Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) value chains. 

Moreover, Makube said Kaizen can be replicated across various economic sectors, particularly those targeting exports like agro-processing, plastics and textiles.

By using the Kaizen philosophy, Makube said suppliers are bound to deliver quality products, which in turn builds trust and is fundamental to effective brand management. This, he said, is key to business survival.

AKAC is an opportunity to accelerate Quality and Productivity Improvement (QPI)/Kaizen activities through mutual learning and combining African wisdom to improve industry capabilities and competitiveness.

The Africa Kaizen Annual Conference was first launched in 2017 by the African Union Development Agency and the Japan International Cooperation Agency [JICA] under the Africa Kaizen Initiative (AKI). This year’s gathering builds on the growing momentum of the QPI movement, which now spans more than 10 African countries.

Sharing perspectives from the continent

Esther Marie Renee, the Head of Human Capital Development at the Ministry of Economy and Finances in Burkina Faso, said while African industrialisation fundamentally requires increased productivity, sustained innovation and the resilience of companies, Africa must take advantage of the digital economy.

She described the digital economy as essential for teasing out accurate information on Kaizen’s impact, enabling evidence-based policy development, and improving operational efficiency through enhanced productivity, cost reduction, waste reduction, and reduced absenteeism.

The Executive Director of National Productivity and Competitiveness Council (NPCC) in Mauritius, Dr Vinaye Ancharaz, concurred with Renee’s views, saying that artificial intelligence is the future of smart manufacturing, which is greatly enhanced by the Kaizen approach.

The conference was also a platform to cast the spotlight on geopolitical tensions and stiff tariffs, which have led to significant negative impact on business, including component manufacturer closures and job losses. 

Kaizen was highlighted for its significant role in promoting localisation, developing black industrialists, and driving transformation in the automotive value chain, in line with the South Africa’s Automotive Master Plan objectives. 

Given rapid technological advancements, delegates agreed that digitalisation must be infused into the implementation of Kaizen.

Today, the South African National Productivity Awards, hosted by Productivity SA, will be held as the conference draws to a close.  The awards will recognise organisations and productivity practitioners that have demonstrated excellence in Kaizen and productivity improvement across the continent. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

As the country continues to mark Transport Month, an initiative aimed at demonstrating the viability of electric vehicles (EVs) for long-distance travel in South Africa has been launched.

The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), in collaboration with the South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI), the Uyilo e-Mobility Programme at Nelson Mandela University (NMU), and Volvo Cars South Africa, have launched the e-Mobility Energy Drive. 

The landmark initiative began over the weekend and culminates at the Uyilo e-Mobility Innovation Summit in Gqeberha which begins on Tuesday, 28 October 2025.

The summit, which is being held in the Eastern Cape, is a flagship event celebrating Transport Month which is commemorated annually in October and highlights South Africa’s progress toward a sustainable mobility future.

This as a fully equipped Volvo XC40 Recharge Twin Motor Ultimate is being driven from Johannesburg to Gqeberha, passing through Gauteng, the Free State, and the Eastern Cape. 

Along the route, the vehicle is collecting real-world data on EV performance, charging efficiency, and energy consumption. 
This data will contribute to ongoing research by the DSTI and SANEDI regarding infrastructure readiness and user experience.

“This initiative proves that clean mobility is not just a vision for the future; it is happening now,” said Acting Chief Director for Hydrogen and Energy at DSTI, Mandy Mlilo. 

“Through strategic partnerships with SANEDI, Uyilo and Volvo, we are building public confidence in electric mobility, advancing our just energy transition goals and reducing our national carbon footprint.”

The Energy Drive aims to raise awareness about clean mobility, featuring DSTI and SANEDI branding and messaging as it travels through various communities.

Through public engagements and media events, the initiative showcases the advantages of EVs, the growth of public charging infrastructure, and the role of innovation in transforming South Africa’s transportation sector.

In addition, the goals include promoting the reliability and practicality of EVs for interprovincial travel, informing policy and infrastructure planning with the data collected, and fostering collaboration among public institutions, universities, and private sector leaders.

The Uyilo e-Mobility Summit and Energy Drive serve as a significant platform to foster collaboration among government, academia, and industry. 

The summit aims to establish South Africa as a rising leader in the global transition toward smart and sustainable mobility.

CEO of SANEDI, Dr Titus Mathe, added: “This partnership reflects our nation’s growing capacity and commitment to cleaner transportation. By aligning research, innovation and public engagement, we are driving tangible progress toward a low-carbon, energy-efficient future.”

The EV will be on display throughout the summit at NMU before returning to Johannesburg to continue its awareness and data-gathering mission.

The e-Mobility Energy Drive underscores South Africa’s efforts in building a resilient and sustainable transport ecosystem that supports economic growth, environmental stewardship and energy justice. 
 

The summit will conclude on Thursday, 30 October 2025. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

The National Research Foundation (NRF) is co-hosting the annual OR Tambo Africa Research Chairs Initiative (ORTARChI), focussing on evaluating the initiative’s impact and discussing strategies for the future of Research Chairs in Africa. 

The gathering began on Monday and will conclude on Friday at the Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda.

ORTARChI, which was launched in December 2018, aims to enhance research and innovation capacity across Africa. It is an innovative collaborative research funding initiative led by the NRF in partnership with the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), the Oliver and Adelaide Tambo Foundation (OATF), and Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC).

This year, the partner organisations are hosting the ORTARChI Annual Gathering, which focuses on the theme “Advancing Africa’s Future-Ready Generation: Leveraging Science, Collaboration, and Research Partnerships for Self-Sustainability and Aligned Growth”.

The foundation announced that the theme honours the legacy of Oliver Reginald Tambo, the late anti-apartheid leader for whom it was named.

After earning a BSc degree in mathematics and science in 1941 from the University of Fort Hare, Tambo taught science and mathematics at St Peter’s College in Johannesburg for 10 years before switching to law and a lifelong career of political struggle until his passing in 1993. 

“The theme draws on Tambo’s deep belief in education as a tool for liberation and self-reliance, as well as his unwavering commitment to pan-African collaboration, exemplified by his efforts to work with liberation movements and foster cross-border solidarity,” the statement read. 

It aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa 2024, promoting institutional capacity building, skills development, and excellence in research.

The foundation has announced that it complements the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) in sub-Saharan Africa and has established 10 Research Chairs across seven countries. 

These Chairs address critical challenges such as climate change, public health, and food security. The seven countries involved are Botswana, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Mozambique, Tanzania, Zambia, and Uganda.

During the meeting, the Uganda Research Chair, held by Professor David Bisagaya Meya and focused on infectious and neurological diseases, will be formally launched.

According to the NRF, the launch of the Research Chair at Makerere University marks a significant milestone.

ORTARChI is based on the South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI), which was established in 2006 by the NRF and DSTI.

SARChI is a national initiative focused on strengthening South Africa’s research capacity.

The NRF is an independent statutory body that supports and promotes research by providing funding, developing human resources, and offering necessary research facilities. 

Its goals include fostering knowledge and innovation across all scientific fields, enhancing public engagement with science, maintaining national research facilities, and aligning with government priorities to improve the quality of life for all South Africans. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

South Africa’s delisting from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) greylist bodes well for the integrity and reputation of the country’s financial system, status as an investment destination and for the economy as a whole, says President Cyril Ramaphosa.

South Africa has officially exited the greylist after successfully implementing key reforms to combat money laundering and the financing of terrorism.

“This milestone is a boost for South Africa’s international reputation and global standing. Greylisting results in a country being seen as risky for investors,” the President said on Monday in his newsletter.

Just over two years since the FATF identified deficiencies that had rendered South Africa increasingly vulnerable to financial crimes, the dedication of a multidisciplinary team, led by the National Treasury, has culminated in the formal exit from the greylist.

“Exiting the greylist demonstrates that our anti-money laundering system is beginning to act against corruption and other financial crimes. It lays the basis for further improvements. It is a signal of our collective determination to ensure that the malfeasance of the past is well behind us,” President Ramaphosa said.

The decision was taken at the conclusion of meetings of the FATF Plenary, which took place over 22 – 24 October 2025 in Paris, France.

“The practical implications are that countries have greater difficulties obtaining credit and access to international financial services. There is reduced foreign direct investment and even capital outflows, and restrictions on cross-border transactions.

“International investors seeking to do business in any country need assurance that its financial system is clean, transparent, robust and compliant with global standards,” the President said.

He noted that the perception of increased risk affects citizens and businesses financially. 

“The cost of living and doing business can increase as a result of a weakened currency. As international borrowing becomes more expensive for businesses and governments, there is less fiscal space for social spending and tax pressures increase. 

“Investor hesitancy leads to less foreign direct investment, which in turn impacts job creation and sustaining existing jobs,” he said.

The impact of South Africa’s exit from the FATF greylist will reduce pressure on citizens, businesses and government. 

Ultimately, the return of international financial confidence and a reduced risk perception will attract more foreign direct investment. 

“As our currency strengthens, the cost of living for citizens and doing business will improve. The far-reaching regulatory and institutional reforms we have instituted, as part of the FATF process, are a clear demonstration of South Africa’s commitment to improving the business and investor climate, and to ongoing reform.

“Legislative amendments have been made to enable for more stringent reporting regulations around beneficial ownership. This is so we know who ultimately owns, controls and benefits from a company, not just those who are listed as shareholders on paper,” the President said.

These changes will make it much more difficult for individuals and syndicates to funnel the proceeds of their corrupt activities through complex webs of shell companies, trusts and companies owned by friends and relatives.

“To close high-risk loopholes around terrorism financing, we have introduced regulatory amendments to enable the investigation and prosecution of such cases. We are committing more government spending to countering money laundering and terrorism financing.

“The State Capture era led to a near hollowing out of State capacity and the weakening of key institutions involved in upholding the integrity of our financial system. But we are steadily rebuilding them.

“Exiting the greylist demonstrates that our anti-money laundering system is beginning to act against corruption and other financial crimes. It lays the basis for further improvements. It is a signal of our collective determination to ensure that the malfeasance of the past is well behind us,” the President stressed.

He recognised that much work remains to be done to reduce and prevent financial crimes, and ensure speedier investigations, prosecutions and convictions of those committing such crimes.

“With the necessary regulatory frameworks in place, our focus must now be on improving and strengthening implementation. We will also sustain enforcement within both public and private institutions and deepen international collaboration,” the President said. –SAnews.gov.za