Category: South Africa Government

Cabinet has condemned the viral circulation of fake videos and images claiming to be of attacks on foreign nationals in South Africa. 

“The fake videos and images… are intended to undermine the good reputation of South Africa internationally and undermine South Africa’s pursuit of a better Africa agenda.

“South Africans are within their right to protest against the spiralling illegal immigration challenge, but violence linked to those protests in the past is not acceptable and law enforcement must deal with the instigators of such violence,” said Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni on Thursday at a post Cabinet briefing in Cape Town.

This as demonstrations against undocumented immigrants have spread across several major cities in South Africa.

Cabinet, Ntshavheni said, condemned the opportunistic attempts to “hijack the genuine concerns of South Africans about high unemployment and limited economic opportunities by mobilising South Africans to destabilise the country, including mobilising attacks on foreign nationals and tribal mobilisation”. 

The Minister reiterated that there is ongoing work to address the problem of illegal immigration, which includes strengthening border management through the work of the Border Management Agency (BMA), speeding up deportations, dealing with criminality within the émigré communities, and protecting jobs and opportunities for South Africans.

Cabinet has directed the Department of Employment and Labour to intensify inspections of workplaces to ensure compliance with employment laws across vulnerable sectors such as hospitality, farms, trucking and construction, amongst others.

“Cabinet further directed municipalities to ensure the enforcement of municipal by-laws, with priority on trading by-laws. South Africans must also play their part by refraining from sub-leasing their business licences.

“On a policy level, the Revised White Paper on Immigration addresses constraints with current immigration laws by introducing provisions of ‘first country of safety’ principle, moving refugee reception centres nearest to the border, and a clause to enable relevant departments to designate certain trades, professions, and businesses only for South Africans and refugees,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Advancing rural infrastructure development and building an inclusive economy will take centre stage as Land Reform and Rural Development Minister Mzwanele Nyhontso, presides over the National Integrated Rural Development Indaba in Bloemfontein.

The two-day Indaba, held from 7 to 8 May 2026 at Lemo Green Park in the Free State, brings together a broad spectrum of stakeholders to shape strategies aimed at transforming rural economies and improving livelihoods through targeted infrastructure investment and inclusive growth.

The indaba seeks to ensure meaningful participation from grassroots rural communities alongside government, traditional leaders, the private sector, civil society, academia, and development practitioners.

The engagement is designed to encourage shared ownership of local economic transformation initiatives and rural infrastructure developmental initiatives tailored to address their specific needs and contexts, for an integrated and inclusive rural economy, leading toward sustainable development.

The event is expected to attract between 2 500 and 3 000 delegates representing various sectors.

Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Seiso Mohai, is also participating in the indaba. His participation underscores the department’s mandate to promote integrated planning, monitor the implementation of government priorities and evaluate the impact of government programmes and interventions.

The Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation emphasised that rural development remains a key cross-cutting priority requiring coordinated planning, effective implementation, and strong intergovernmental collaboration to achieve meaningful developmental outcomes.

“The engagement is consistent with the priorities of the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) and the National Development Plan (NDP), both of which emphasise the importance of inclusive economic growth, reduced inequality, improved livelihoods, spatial transformation, and the development of capable and responsive institutions. 

“Accelerating rural development remains central to government’s efforts to build an inclusive, equitable and prosperous South Africa,” the department said in a statement.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile is expected to deliver the closing address on Friday. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

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The South African Police Service (SAPS) is mourning the tragic loss of two Tactical Response Team (TRT) sergeants, who lost their lives in a single motor vehicle accident in Witbank, Mpumalanga.

At the time of the accident, the members were travelling to Pretoria on Tuesday evening to testify in cases before court when the State vehicle they were travelling in reportedly lost control, resulting in the fatal crash.

At the time of their passing, both members were deployed as part of the eManguzi Task Team in KZN, where they were actively involved in combating cross-border crimes.

The Acting National Commissioner of SAPS, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, has extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, friends and colleagues of the deceased members.

“The loss of these dedicated officers is a devastating blow to the organisation. They served the country with commitment and courage. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and loved ones during this painful time.” said Dimpane.

SAPS also extended sympathy to the colleagues of the fallen members, particularly those within the eManguzi Task Team, who worked closely with them in the fight against crime.

The names of the deceased will be released once all immediate family members have been informed. 

The SAPS Employee Health and Wellness unit has been dispatched to provide psychosocial services to the families and colleagues of the members. – SAnews.gov.za

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Ahead of the Local Government Elections to be held in November, the  Electoral Commission in partnership with the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa (EISA) have launched the inaugural Special Issue of the Journal of African Elections.

Launched in Johannesburg on Wednesday, the special issue is a continuation of the national dialogue on political funding framework. 

The publication tackles key challenges in political finance, including tensions between public and private funding, risks of undue influence, and regulatory gaps. 

It also underscores the need for stronger institutional capacity and sustained political will. 
The Commission said the edition brings together nine double blind peer-reviewed academic articles, each contributing to a richer and more nuanced understanding of political funding in South Africa.

Collectively, they are organised around four interrelated themes: 
• The first theme explores the theoretical foundations of political financing engaging with key conceptual questions. 
• The second theme focuses on public funding of political parties. 
• The third theme examines private financing an influential yet often less transparent area. 
• The fourth theme provides a comparative analysis of political funding approaches. 

Speaking at the launch, the Electoral Commission’s Chairperson Mosotho Moepya, said: “Democracy is expensive. But the cost of authoritarianism is higher and comes at the cost of personal freedoms and in economic stagnation resulting in harsh living standards for the majority in society.” 

Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Sy Mamabolo who is also one of the co-editors of the special edition said the publication is intended to serve as both a scholarly resource and a catalyst for ongoing debate, policy innovation, and the strengthening of democracy. 

“What emerges from this collection is not a single, unified conclusion, but rather a textured and dynamic conversation. The strength of this special issue lies in its diversity of perspectives, methodological, theoretical and normative,” Mamabolo said.

In his remarks Mamabolo said political financing remains one of the most consequential and contested dimensions of democratic governance. 

“It shapes the competitiveness of elections, the accountability of political actors, and ultimately the trust that citizens place in democratic institutions. Yet it is also an area marked by complexity, opacity, and persistent reform debates. It is precisely for this reason that sustained scholarly engagement is both necessary and urgent,” he said.

He added that “that democracy is never a finished project.”

“The regulation of political finance will continue to evolve, shaped by legal reforms, political realities, and societal expectations. It is our hope that this special edition will serve not only as a scholarly resource but also as a catalyst for ongoing debate, policy innovation, and democratic strengthening,” he said.

The launch coincided with the 15th anniversary of EISA, marking a moment of reflection on its role in strengthening electoral integrity, advancing research and promoting democratic practice and dialogue across the region. 

The print edition Journal of African Elections Special Issue will made available at institutions of higher education, libraries, community libraries, community centres and an online version is available and can be accessed through the Electoral Commission’s official platforms as well as EISA website. 

It can also be accessed here: https://tinyurl.com/37b3366n 
Members of the public, researchers and stakeholders are encouraged to engage with the publication to deepen their understanding of political funding and its impact on democratic governance. 

President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially announced 4 November 2026 as the date for South Africa’s upcoming Local Government Elections, setting the stage for political parties and voters to begin preparations.

The Commission has welcomed the announcement of the date for the country’s upcoming Local Government Elections, describing it as a key milestone in preparations for the polls. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Disaster Management Centre has urged residents, motorists, and pedestrians to exercise extreme caution as heavy rainfall continues to cause widespread flooding and hazardous conditions across various parts of the metro.

In a statement on Thursday, the municipality reported that multiple roads have been affected, with law enforcement and traffic officers deployed across affected areas to monitor the situation, manage traffic flow, and assist residents where required.

Several incidents and road closures have been confirmed, including, among others:
• A motor vehicle accident was reported at 4:43pm on 6 May 2026, on the M4 Albany Road. No injuries were recorded.
• The Third Avenue Dip remains closed due to flooding and unsafe driving conditions.
• The N2 freeway between John Tallant Road and the M4 East and West interchange remains closed as a result of flooding. Traffic is currently being diverted via Old Grahamstown Road, with traffic officers assisting on the alternative route to alleviate congestion.
• Several roads across the metro remain flooded, with traffic and law enforcement officers currently assessing affected areas and monitoring conditions.

Motorists have been advised to avoid flooded roads, bridges and low-lying areas; reduce speed and maintain safe following distances; use alternative routes where possible and adhere to all instructions issued by traffic officers and emergency personnel.

Authorities have also cautioned against unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall.  

“Pedestrians are advised to avoid crossing flooded roads, streams and stormwater channels; exercise caution near bridges, drains and waterlogged areas; and keep children away from fast-flowing water and flooded zones,” the municipality said.

The municipality said emergency and disaster response teams remain on high alert as they continue to monitor weather conditions and infrastructure impacts.

Residents have been encouraged to continue monitoring official Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality communication platforms for verified updates, emergency notices and safety information.

Cyler bridge overflowing

Meanwhile, residents in Kariega must take caution as the Cyler Bridge is currently overflowing due to heavy rains.

Motorists have been advised to use these alternative routes:
Algoa Road (R368), which connects to the R75 and passes through Despatch. From Despatch towards Kariega: traffic is diverted off the R75 at the Botha Street off-ramp, directed to proceed via Algoa Road (R368) into Kariega, and can rejoin the R75 at the Union Street on-ramp. From Kariega towards KwaNobuhle/Rocklands: use Melbrookes Avenue or Matanzima Road to access Rocklands Road.

“Do not underestimate the depth of water,” added the municipality  – SAnews.gov.za

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An intelligence driven operation has resulted in the arrest of five suspects, including a police officer, in connection with an ATM bombing reported in the early hours of the morning in Dinokana, Zeerust in the North West.

The arrests follow a multidisciplinary operation that tracked the suspects and lead to a confrontation at Magogae Village, Mmabatho. During the shootout, three suspects were fatally wounded.

Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo welcomed the swift arrests, highlighting the dedication and coordination of the teams involved in bringing the suspects to book.

At the same time, Naidoo strongly condemned the alleged involvement of a police officer in such serious criminal activities.

“The actions of any member of the SAPS who engages in criminality are a betrayal of the oath to serve and protect. Such conduct will not be tolerated and those found on the wrong side of the law will face the full might of the law,” said the Major General.

The dedicated team consisted of members of National Intervention Unit (NIU) working for Illicit mining operations in the North West, Tactical Response Team (TRT) Mahikeng, K9 Lichtenburg and Mahikeng, Mmabatho Visible Policing (VISPOL), Mmabatho Detectives, Local Criminal Record  Centre, DPCI,  Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management ( CR & CSM), District Detective Coordination, Emergency and Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) and Provincial Traffic.

The arrested suspects are expected to appear in court soon, facing charges related to ATM bombing, possession of explosives and other related offences. 

The team is currently tracking further suspects in this matter. – SAnews.gov.za

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Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya says President Cyril Ramaphosa expects law enforcement to take action against violent protesters, while emphasising that South Africans are not xenophobic. 

The remarks come as demonstrations against undocumented immigrants have spread across several major cities in South Africa.

At a media briefing on Wednesday, Magwenya said the protests were discussed between President Ramaphosa and his Mozambican counterpart, President Daniel Chapo during the latter’s recent working visit to South Africa.

“The matter was discussed yesterday between President Chapo and President Ramaphosa and they both agreed that…South Africans are not xenophobic. What you have [are] pockets of protest [which] is permissible within our constitutional framework.

“You also have the reality that the issue of immigration is a pressure point, not only here in South Africa but throughout the world where protests are held on these issues.

“What is important from our perspective is obviously, respecting the rights of everybody that is within our borders and, when we protest, to do so peacefully without causing harm to anybody,” he explained.

Magwenya added that President Ramaphosa expects law enforcement to “play its role to prevent any acts of violence against any individual.”

Furthermore, the two Presidents agreed that the African continent must collaborate to tackle the challenges that cause migration.

“Yesterday, both President Chapo and President Ramaphosa also agreed that the continent needs to work together to address the issues that are behind these levels of migration that we see across our continent.

“Issues of conflict, issues of instability and in some areas, if we’re being honest, the misgovernance that causes people to migrate in large numbers and seek refuge in different parts of the continent including South Africa.

“They both agreed that there has to be that genuine, open and frank conversation across the continent. But the President did emphasise that South Africa is a welcoming country, that South Africans are open, friendly and warm people. We will reject any notion that seeks to characterise this country or its people as being xenophobic,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

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The National Council of Provinces (NCOP), led by Chairperson Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, will roll out its flagship public participation and oversight programme, Taking Parliament to the People (TPTTP), to the Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality in the North West next week.

The programme will run from 12 to 15 May 2026, under the theme: “Celebrating 30 Years of the Constitution: Deepening Participatory Democracy for Service Delivery.”

TPTTP forms part of the NCOP’s constitutional mandate in terms of Section 72, which requires Parliament to facilitate public participation and conduct its business in an open and transparent manner.

Parliament’s spokesperson Moloto Mothapo said the NCOP, as the House representing provincial and local interests at national level, plays a unique and critical role in strengthening South Africa’s democracy.

“Its core functions include oversight over local and provincial government; cooperative governance and protecting provincial interests. The NCOP acts as a bridge, ensuring that provincial and local concerns inform national policy and legislation,” Mothapo said.

He added that the TPTTP programme creates a direct platform for collaboration by bringing together all three spheres of government to the same table, with the same communities.

“Through the TPTTP, delegates to the NCOP assess service delivery challenges first-hand and hold government leaders accountable. The programme, therefore, is not merely a public dialogue but a constitutional exercise in participatory democracy, accountability and cooperative governance. It brings democracy to life at the grassroots level by enabling citizens to voice their concerns and contribute directly to decision-making processes,” Mothapo explained.

It also provides a unique platform for all three spheres of government, including national, provincial and local, to engage collectively on service delivery challenges and policy matters affecting communities.

The programme will enable communities in the Kenneth Kaunda District and surrounding municipalities to engage directly with government leaders on key service delivery issues.

These include local economic development and job creation; infrastructure maintenance, covering water and sanitation, roads, electricity, human settlements, health, and mining; as well as financial management and governance.

Activities will include public hearings, oversight visits to service delivery hotspots, and direct engagements with permanent delegates to the NCOP, Ministers, Members of Provincial Legislatures (MPLs), and local councillors.– SAnews.gov.za

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Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has called on the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to take decisive prosecutorial action following the completion of the South African Police Service (SAPS) investigation into the George building collapse.

The appeal comes as the country marks the second anniversary of the tragedy, which claimed 34 lives and left 28 people injured.

On 6 May 2024, a five-storey apartment block under construction in George collapsed in what remains South Africa’s deadliest building disaster in recent years.

Macpherson said the incident continues to serve as a stark reminder of the work still required to prevent similar disasters from taking place in future.

“With SAPS having completed its investigation, the responsibility now rests with the National Prosecuting Authority to take the necessary prosecutorial decisions and, where warranted, bring those responsible to court for this avoidable tragedy,” the Minister said.

Since assuming office shortly after the collapse, the Minister has engaged with those affected and victims’ families. He has also visited George to share findings from an investigation into the engineer who signed off on the building plans. The engineer was subsequently found guilty of five legal contraventions and suspended.

Macpherson has also met with Human Settlements Minister Thembisile Simelane to strengthen building regulations and oversight mechanisms aimed at preventing future incidents.

Reflecting on the anniversary, the Minister paid tribute to those affected and reiterated the need for accountability.

“Today, we remember every life lost, every family still grieving, and every survivor who continues to live with the consequences of this tragedy. The George building collapse remains one of the most painful construction disasters in our country’s recent history,” the Minister said.

He stressed that accountability must apply to all parties involved.

“It was a disaster that should never have happened and must never be allowed to happen again. No one should be above the law — not an engineer, not a developer, not an official, nor anyone whose actions or failure may have contributed to this disaster. Justice delayed only deepens the pain of families who have already waited too long for answers,” Macpherson said.

The Minister assured that his department will continue to cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies and relevant departments to support the pursuit of justice.

“On this second anniversary, we once again express our deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. We stand with the survivors, honour the rescue workers, and renew our commitment to ensuring accountability is enforced, and that a tragedy like the George building collapse never happens again,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

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