Category: South Africa Government

President Cyril Ramaphosa has used his weekly newsletter to call for African health sovereignty, warning that the recent Ebola outbreak is a stark reminder that the continent cannot afford to let down its guard or rely on others to safeguard its people and their livelihoods.

The President reflected on the devastating human and economic toll of the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that it took the lives of more than 100 000 South Africans and cost some two million jobs.

Furthermore, while that pandemic feels like a “distant memory” to many, recent outbreaks across the continent serve as a critical wake-up call for South Africa to build its State capacity, and protect the people and livelihoods.

“[The] recent outbreak of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda serves as a stark reminder that we should not let down our guard.

“More than that, it reminds us that we must be better prepared for health emergencies in our country, on our continent and across the world,” President Ramaphosa warned.

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, South Africa was elected as African Union Champion on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response and has set about working with other nations to strengthen the continent’s health security.

“The Ebola outbreak reminds us that when a dangerous disease breaks out anywhere on our continent, it does not stay in one place. It can easily cross borders, affect communities and disrupt economies.

“These diseases cost both lives and jobs. Health security is therefore not only about hospitals and medicines. It is also about our economy, our development and the safety of our continent as a whole.

“We learned this the hard way during COVID-19. In those early days, Africa stood at the back of the queue. Vaccines and treatments went first to wealthier countries, while our people waited. We cannot allow that to happen again,” he said.

Africa for Africans

President Ramaphosa expressed appreciation for the “help of international partners”, while emphasising that Africa cannot “keep depending on others to supply us during a health emergency”.

“We must be able to protect ourselves.

“That is why we have been working towards stronger health systems at home. Every country needs a proper public health institute. It needs centres ready to manage emergencies, well-supported community health workers and the ability to track new diseases early.

“Importantly, we must make our own medicines, tests and vaccines here on the continent. We are working to strengthen the African Medicines Agency and to set up shared systems for buying supplies, so that African producers have steady customers and African countries can get what they need when an emergency strikes,” the President explained.

He said the continent must also set aside funding for emergencies, with leaders having already agreed to the creation of an African Epidemic Fund.

The continent must also be participants on writing rules on global pandemic response.

“It is encouraging that African countries are already contributing money towards tackling the current Ebola outbreak. South Africa has pledged $13.5 million to the Africa CDC to treat and limit the spread of Ebola. As a continent, we are taking responsibility for ourselves and not waiting for others.

“Africa needs to be part of writing the global rules on fighting pandemics. We need to stand together and make sure our people are treated fairly. We continue to call for a fair global agreement on pandemics, built on equal partnership rather than charity,” President Ramaphosa stated.

Turning to the continent’s response to the outbreak of Ebola, the President noted that the Africa CDC has “led with skill and speed”.

Furthermore, there has been collaboration between governments to develop common approaches, while business, donors and partners have also lent a hand.

“This shows that we have the people, the knowledge and the leadership to succeed.

“But we mustn’t wait for the next outbreak or pandemic to get us to act. We must do the hard work now to secure the health of the people of our continent. The effort we put in today will spare us far greater suffering and cost tomorrow.

“We must act with urgency to achieve the health security that is so vital for the growth and development of our country and our continent. Health security saves lives, protects jobs and helps to safeguard our future,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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The South African Weather Service (SAWS) says a surface high-pressure system is expected to dominate the eastern parts of the country this week, while a cold front is forecast to make landfall along the southern coastline between Tuesday and Wednesday.

Later in the week, a surface trough is expected to develop along the west coast.

Together, these weather systems are expected to bring isolated to scattered rain and thundershowers over the western, central and eastern parts of the country.

According to Monday’s outlook, partly cloudy and cool conditions are expected, with isolated showers and thundershowers over the central, western and eastern parts of South Africa.

On Tuesday, partly cloudy and cool conditions are expected to persist, with isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers possible over the central and western parts of the country.

Temperatures are expected to improve over the central and eastern parts of the country.

“There are no weather warnings currently, but the South African Weather Service will continue to monitor weather conditions and issue alerts when there is a need to. Below is a weather outlook that outlines the possibility of risk associated with severe weather conditions across the country for the week,” SAWS said. –SAnews.gov.za

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The relocation of vulnerable Malawian nationals — including women, children and people with health challenges — to the newly established Drive-Inn site is currently underway as government intensifies efforts to expedite the repatriation process.

This is part of measures to reinforce legal migration in a manner that upholds constitutional imperatives, while observing the principles of ubuntu.

Speaking during a media briefing on Saturday, eThekwini Municipality Mayor Cyril Xaba emphasised that the Drive-Inn facility had been secured as a temporary staging area to support the orderly and humane return of Malawian nationals who have been staying at the Sherwood site for extended periods.

Xaba said the relocation of vulnerable groups had already begun, while the Sherwood site would remain operational during the transition.

“The Drive-Inn site will serve as a temporary staging area to help fast-track the deportation and repatriation process,” Xaba said.

According to the mayor, one of the key advantages of the new site is that access can be effectively controlled, which will help minimise the movement of people and enable us to conduct an accurate headcount of those requiring assistance.

He commended the Ward 26 community, including residents and businesses, for their support in establishing the facility and reiterated that the site was not intended to become a permanent settlement.

“Government has made it clear that it has no intention of establishing refugee camps. This situation required urgent intervention, and government acted to provide a practical and sustainable solution,” the mayor said.

To improve humanitarian conditions at the site, a range of services has been deployed. Non-governmental organisations have donated two marquees with a combined capacity of 5 000 people, meals, and other basic necessities.

The municipality has provided water, electricity, waste skips, ablution facilities, a medical facility staffed by healthcare workers and buses to transport people between Sherwood and the Drive-Inn site.

Law enforcement officials continue to maintain order at the Sherwood facility and provide escorts for buses transporting people to court and to the new site.

Xaba praised officials from the Department of Home Affairs and the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development for accelerating the processing of individuals in recent days.

He revealed that close to 4 000 people have already been deported or repatriated, with authorities recording a significant improvement in the pace of departures.

“[On Friday] alone, we were able to dispatch eight buses carrying 784 people returning to Malawi,” he said.

The mayor said government had shifted its focus from deportation to repatriation, a move aimed at streamlining the process.

“This process is less bureaucratic as it is implemented through cooperation with the Malawian government and it does not require court processes. The South African government has made available 20 busses to expedite repatriation,” Xaba explained.

He expressed gratitude to all stakeholders involved, including government departments, non-profit organisations, faith-based organisations and community members, for their role in helping authorities find what he described as a “sustainable and humane solution” to the situation. – SAnews.gov.za

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The Office of Health Standards Compliance (OHSC) has warned the public of individuals impersonating OHSC inspectors and soliciting money from unsuspecting healthcare practitioners.

This after the OHSC received reports of an individual attempting to schedule an inspection at a healthcare facility.

“It is alleged that the impersonator asserted that payment would resolve any non-compliance findings.

“This is contrary to the OHSC ethical standards and core values because real inspectors will not accept cash, gifts, or any form of personal payment from facilities, staff, or members of the public in exchange for inspection results or regulatory outcomes,” the regulator said.

The OHSC confirmed that no “authorised inspection had been scheduled and that the individual was not acting on behalf of the organisation”.

“Healthcare establishments and practitioners nationwide are urged to remain vigilant of bogus or suspicious inspectors and verify the identity of anyone claiming to represent the OHSC. Authorised inspectors carry a valid OHSC identification card or official documentation signed by the Chief Executive Officer.

“Lawful and authorised inspection outcomes cannot be influenced by payment or any personal benefit. 

“The OHSC remains committed to safeguarding the integrity and credibility of healthcare regulation and appreciates the continued cooperation of healthcare practitioners, facilities and the public in combating fraud,” the statement continued.

Report any suspicious and unethical conduct, including impersonation, fraud, bribery or corruption by inspectors to the OHSC Fraud and Ethics Hotline on 0800 003 231 or by email at office@thehotline.co.za. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Deputy President Paul Mashatile has presented South Africa’s value proposition to leading Chinese and international supply chain companies at the Fourth China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE).

“We invite Chinese and international partners to work with us to position Africa not merely as a consumer market but as a competitive production base, a sourcing destination, and an important node in global supply chains,” the Deputy President said on Monday in China during his working visit.

Addressing leading Chinese and international supply chain companies, Mashatile said South Africa sees significant opportunities for collaboration in three priority areas: agriculture and food systems; critical minerals and the green economy; and advanced manufacturing, logistics and automotive value chains.

“Our presence here today reflects South Africa’s unwavering commitment to deepening our comprehensive economic partnership with China, aimed at advancing trade, investment, and long-term industrial cooperation.

“An important pillar of our engagement is the implementation of the Framework Agreement on Economic Partnership for Shared Prosperity, or CADEPA, signed earlier this year by our respective trade ministers,” the Deputy President said.

The implementation of the agreement is supported by the zero-tariff preference scheme that came into effect on 1 May 2026, allowing qualifying South African exports to enter the Chinese market duty-free.

“First, South Africa is an attractive investment destination, supported by sophisticated industrial capabilities, a world-class financial sector, and well-established logistics infrastructure. 

“We remain committed to reforms aimed at improving the ease of doing business, accelerating infrastructure development, and strengthening industrial competitiveness, through the use of Artificial Intelligence (Al),” the Deputy President said.

Mashatile said South Africa is also a reliable source of high-value products and critical inputs required for modern industries and the global energy transition.

“We are endowed with significant mineral resources, including platinum group metals, manganese, and chromium, while also offering world-class agricultural products, advanced manufacturing capabilities and growing strengths in services and digital trade.

“Third, South Africa serves as a gateway to the African continent. Through the African Continental Free Trade Area, investors located in South Africa gain access to a market of more than 1.3 billion people. This presents significant opportunities for regional value chain development and industrial expansion across Africa,” the Deputy President said.

CISCE, the world’s first national-level exhibition dedicated to supply chains, brings together governments, businesses and industry players to build stronger global industrial and supply chain partnerships.

The expo links upstream, midstream and downstream sectors, while encouraging collaboration between large and small enterprises, industry, academia, research institutions and application partners.

“South Africa is therefore positioning itself as a reliable supply base for critical inputs, a destination for industrial beneficiation and an ideal partner for co-production.

“South Africa produces high-quality citrus, avocados, stone fruits, wines, and macadamia nuts, which now benefit from zero customs duties under the CADEPA framework. 

“We encourage Chinese importers and distributors to establish long-term sourcing partnerships with South African producers,” Mashatile said.

Mashatile called on Chinese enterprises to explore opportunities for joint ventures, local beneficiation and downstream manufacturing in South Africa.

“South Africa possesses substantial reserves of platinum group metals and other strategic minerals required for fuel cells, renewable energy technologies, and energy storage solutions. 

“South Africa’s industrial base offers attractive opportunities for component manufacturing, machinery production and export-oriented partnerships serving both domestic and African markets,” the Deputy President said.

He stressed that economic cooperation should support job creation, skills development, industrial growth and environmental sustainability, while delivering tangible benefits for people.

“As we shape the future of global supply chains, we must ensure that our partnerships remain inclusive and sustainable.

“South Africa reaffirms its commitment to strengthening economic cooperation with China. We are determined to position our country as both a preferred destination for investment and a reliable source of value within global supply chains,” Mashatile said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia is this morning meeting with the management of the South African Police Service (SAPS) to receive a comprehensive briefing on the SAPS’s state of operational readiness ahead of the planned demonstrations scheduled for 30 June 2026.

The Acting Minister was accompanied by the Acting National Commissioner, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane.

He received detailed presentations on national and provincial operational plans aimed at ensuring that all demonstrations take place in a safe, secure and peaceful manner.

The meeting was attended by Deputy National Commissioners, Provincial Commissioners and Divisional Commissioners from the operational and intelligence environments.

Following the briefing, the Acting Minister expressed satisfaction with the measures put in place by the SAPS.

In the coming week, the Acting Minister, together with the Deputy Ministers of Police, will meet with the Minister of Defence and the Premiers of all nine provinces to reinforce effective coordination and monitoring among all relevant security role players, and to ensure adequate support ahead of the planned demonstrations.

In addition, they will meet with representatives of the private security industry, recognising their important role as force multipliers in enhancing safety and security.

The Ministry of Police will also conduct visits to identified areas that have experienced heightened levels of instability to assess operational readiness and reinforce policing efforts.

The Acting Minister, however, expressed confidence that the SAPS is operationally prepared to uphold and enforce the law.

“While the constitutional right to peaceful protest will be respected, no acts of lawlessness, violence, intimidation or criminality will be tolerated. Weekly enforcement operations remain ongoing to verify the legal status of foreign nationals in the country.

“These operations are aimed at ensuring that all foreign nationals residing in South Africa are in the country legally and are in possession of valid documentation. Where violations of the law are identified, appropriate action will be taken in accordance with the law,” said Minister Cachalia.

The Acting Minister urged all Provincial Commissioners to enforce the law without fear or favour and to respond swiftly and decisively to any acts of incitement, violence, intimidation or criminality.

He assured all South Africans that their safety and security remain a priority and that the SAPS remains fully committed to protecting all people in the Republic and upholding the Constitution by maintaining law and order while safeguarding the rights of everyone.

Daily operational monitoring and assessments will continue throughout the week to ensure stability across the country and to enable law enforcement agencies to respond swiftly to any emerging threats. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Free State says the past voter registration weekend was conducted successfully across the province, with no major security incidents reported.

“The peaceful and orderly conduct of the registration process is a testament to the commitment of Free State residents to democracy, responsible citizenship and respect for the rule of law.

“Communities throughout the province conducted themselves with discipline and dignity, contributing significantly to the success of this important electoral process,” the police said in a statement.

The Provincial Commissioner of the Free State, Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia, extended his sincere appreciation to community members, political parties, electoral officials, community structures and stakeholders who played a role in ensuring a peaceful environment at voter registration stations.

“We are grateful to the people of the Free State for their exemplary behaviour and cooperation throughout the registration weekend. Their commitment to peaceful participation in the democratic process made our task much easier and contributed to the overall success of the operation,” said Lieutenant General Lesia.

The Provincial Commissioner also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to SAPS members who worked tirelessly over the weekend to safeguard communities, registration stations and election-related activities across the province.

“The SAPS remains committed to working closely with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), government departments, community organisations and all stakeholders to maintain peace and stability as the country moves towards the upcoming elections.

“The Free State SAPS will continue to uphold its constitutional mandate of protecting all people, securing communities and ensuring that democratic processes are conducted in a safe and peaceful environment,” the police said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Parliament has entered a crucial week as the National Assembly (NA) and National Council of Provinces (NCOP) prepare to conclude key legislative and oversight work before members break for their constituency period.

The National Assembly is expected to wrap up its second-term programme on Tuesday with the consideration of the 2026 Appropriation Bill, a critical piece of legislation that allocates funding from the National Revenue Fund for government departments and programmes during the 2026/27 financial year.

The Bill also sets conditions for spending, ahead of the next financial cycle and is regarded as one of the most significant items on Parliament’s annual agenda.

In addition to the budget legislation, the Assembly will consider a report from the Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities recommending candidates to fill vacancies in the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE). 

The appointments follow a Constitutional Court injunction and form part of Parliament’s constitutional responsibility to ensure the commission remains fully functional.

Lawmakers will also decide on two draft resolutions arising from mini plenary debates held last month. 

One proposal, raised by Member of Parliament (MP) Sihle Lonzi, calls for a parliamentary inquiry into the capacity of South Africa’s post-school education and training sector to accommodate prospective students. The second, introduced by MP Vuyo Zungula, seeks stronger parliamentary oversight to address the non-recognition of certain traditional and indigenous communities as legitimate kingships.

Meanwhile, the NCOP faces a packed schedule that includes policy debates on several departmental budget votes, legislative deliberations and a question-and-answer session with President Cyril Ramaphosa.

On Tuesday, delegates will debate Budget Votes for the Departments of Trade, Industry and Competition, as well as Land Reform and Rural Development. Further discussions on Higher Education are scheduled for Wednesday.

One of the week’s most anticipated events will take place on Thursday when President Ramaphosa appears before the NCOP to respond to questions from permanent delegates. 

Issues expected to dominate the session include illegal immigration, criminal infiltration and government efforts to disrupt illicit economic activities.

Parliament’s oversight role will also be in focus throughout the week. On Wednesday, the Impeachment Committee conducting the Section 89 inquiry is expected to consider its draft terms of reference and discuss the appointment of evidence leaders.

On Thursday, chairpersons of Parliament’s peace and security oversight committees will brief the media and stakeholders as part of a broader initiative aimed at strengthening public accountability. 

The engagement will bring together committee leaders responsible for correctional services, justice and security matters to discuss issues that cut across multiple portfolios.

Members of the National Assembly will begin their constituency period on 29 June, followed by NCOP delegates on 8 July, marking a temporary pause in parliamentary sittings as representatives return to engage communities across the country. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Transnet has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to two shortlisted bidders for the establishment of a rolling stock Leasing Company (LeaseCo), marking a key milestone in South Africa’s rail reform programme.

This follows the successful conclusion of the Request for Qualification (RFQ) process, which was launched in April 2025 and received 14 submissions.

In a statement on Monday, Transnet said the RFP marks another step towards a more competitive, inclusive and efficient rail ecosystem that supports growth and improves logistics performance.

LeaseCo will acquire, manage and lease rolling stock to domestic and regional markets, helping address shortages in reliable rail equipment.

The company is a cornerstone of the rail reform agenda, aimed at modernising freight operations, attracting private investment and widening participation in rail operations.

By improving asset use and access to rolling stock, LeaseCo will support established and emerging Train Operating Companies (TOCs), while strengthening regional supply chains.

It will operate as a commercially viable, independently governed leasing entity.

Transnet will contribute a ring-fenced fleet of rolling stock assets as equity, as well as Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) capabilities through Transnet Engineering.

The private sector majority partner will provide capital, technical expertise and operational capability to revitalise and expand the fleet.

“Significant unmet freight demand, driven by a shortage of available rolling stock, presents a compelling opportunity for a dedicated leasing entity. LeaseCo represents a transformative initiative primed to modernise Africa’s rail system, mobilise private capital, and enhance the reliability of freight logistics.

“With the significant demand from TOCs, LeaseCo is well positioned as an appealing investment opportunity,” Transnet Group Chief Executive Michelle Phillips said. 

Transnet is engaging newly licensed TOCs to assess their rolling stock needs and has secured five TOCs for LeaseCo’s services. Demand is expected to grow as the Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) allocates more network slots to operators. –SAnews.gov.za

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Eskom’s load reduction eradication campaign has now reached more than half of its intended targets, with more than 880 000 households returned to normal supply.

The power utility launched a phased programme to eliminate load reduction by 2027.

“About 886 717 customers across South Africa are no longer impacted, representing about 52% of targeted households, with full elimination achieved in the Northern and Western Cape.

“The programme targets 971 feeders and will benefit approximately 1.69 million customers across all provinces, out of Eskom’s total customer base of 7.2 million,” Eskom said.

The programme’s key interventions include:

• Rollout of smart meters.
• Integration of Distributed Energy Resources.
• Expansion of Free Basic Electricity (FBE) support. 

Eskom has already deployed 1 798 091 smart meters nationwide since inception.

“Of these, 409 011 meters have been installed on load reduction feeders, representing approximately 23% of deployments in high-priority areas.

“This targeted rollout is helping to ease grid pressure, while enabling customers to access real-time consumption data and exercise greater control over their energy usage.

“The rollout is deliberately focused on high-loss areas affected by illegal connections, meter bypassing, overloaded infrastructure and widespread electricity theft,” the power utility said.

Some 484 feeders have been removed from load reduction against Eskom’s planned target of 97, with the bulk of those in Gauteng.

In terms of the Free Basic Electricity (FBE) expansion programme, 571 589 customers have been registered.

“The FBE beneficiaries figure fluctuates monthly. The 571 589 figure reflects an 18% increase from the baseline of 485 000 customers and represents about 27% of the 2.1 million eligible customers.

“Eskom calls on communities to report illegal connections, use electricity responsibly, and protect infrastructure. Any illegal activity affecting Eskom’s infrastructure can be reported to the Eskom Crime Line on 0800 112 722 or via WhatsApp on 081 333 3323,” Eskom said.

Strong results

Meanwhile, the power utility continues to sustain improvements in the performance of the electricity system, despite increased winter demand.

“Since 16 May 2025, South Africa has recorded 399 consecutive days without interruptions to electricity supply, reflecting 100% system availability in meeting electricity demand.

“Continued gains in energy availability, together with a decline in unplanned outages and targeted network interventions, are reinforcing system stability and supporting consistent electricity supply to customers across the country,” the power utility stated.

Gains in the financial year-to-date include increased Energy Availability Factor, which has risen to 63.54%, a significant increase from the 58.08% recorded over the same period last year. 

“This reflects sustained progress under Eskom’s turnaround strategy, including a 9.49% improvement [4.8GW] compared to the same period three years ago.

“These gains are underpinned by reduced unplanned outages and more consistent, reliable performance across the generation fleet,” Eskom said. – SAnews.gov.za

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