Category: South Africa Government

Source: Government of South Africa

The Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Lydia Chikunga, has addressed a dialogue where she emphasised the right to equality of each individual and the need to dismantle it across society. 

“We are not only discussing policy; we are renewing a moral covenant — that no woman, no girl, no person should ever have to negotiate their safety, their dignity, or their worth. This is the generation that must make equality irreversible,” she said.

The Minister was addressing the Intergenerational Dialogue on Building Positive Masculinities for a South Africa Free from Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

Monday’s dialogue was an official side event of the G20 Empowerment of Women Working Group (EWWG) and comes ahead of next week’s Ministerial Meeting.

Bringing together voices such as Advocate Joyce Maluleke, Director-General of the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) to advance conversations on building positive masculinities for a South Africa free from gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

“We are gathered to confront a deeply entrenched truth: which is, inequality is sustained at the intersection of belief, custom and power. I am of the view that, the challenge is not faith or culture themselves, but rather how they are sometimes interpreted and practised in ways that legitimise male dominance, silence women and girls, and normalise violence and exclusion,” she said.

The Minister also spoke about the Positive Masculinity Initiative, a partnership between the department and the GBVF Response Fund, United Nations Resident Office and related UN Offices.

The initiative focuses on redefining manhood and transforming social norms engaging men and boys through schools, faith spaces, initiation forums, sports and workplaces and supporting communities to adopt local charters on positive masculinity among others.

“Later this month we will convene the Positive Masculinity Conference to consolidate this national framework and align it with the broader G20 effort,” she said.

She added that across the African continent, patriarchal norms remain deeply embedded in faith and cultural systems and that studies by UN Women and Afrobarometer show that even where women’s equality is recognised in principle, it is often undermined in practice by male-dominated religious and customary leadership structures.

“In South Africa, these dynamics take on painful, visible forms. We have seen girls married off to older men under the cover of religion, from KwaZulu-Natal to the Eastern Cape; we have seen ukuthwala — the abduction of young girls for marriage — misused to justify coercion; and ukungenwa, a custom exercised on widows, which still continue in some communities. Each of these violates the law and the moral core of our traditions. So, let us be clear, under-age and coerced unions are crimes, not culture or faith,” she said.

She added that inequality begins not in policy or legislation but in the household.

“So, distinguished guests, our task today is therefore not theoretical. It is to dismantle the architecture of inequality — in pulpits and in parliaments, in cultural councils and in households— and to replace it with a culture of care, equality, and accountability that gives practical expression to our Constitution’s promise of dignity and freedom for all,” she said. –SAnews.gov.za 
 

Source: Government of South Africa

Over 17 00 suspects have been arrested across the country, with 79 unlicensed firearms confiscated from 13 to 19 October 2025.

“These crime-fighting initiatives and successes are attributed to intelligence-led takedowns, high-visibility patrols and strategic interventions across multiple provinces,” the police said on Monday.

The police’s Operation Shanela has also secured the arrest of 2 124 most wanted suspects linked to heinous crimes, including murder, rape, car hijackings and armed robberies.

Key arrests:

• 117 suspects were arrested for murder. KwaZulu-Natal recorded the highest arrests (40), followed by Gauteng (27).
• 125 attempted murder suspects were arrested across the country.
• 233 suspects were arrested for rape, with the majority of arrests in KwaZulu-Natal with 119.
• 322 suspects arrested for dealing in drugs, with 62 in the Western Cape, 59 in KwaZulu-Natal, 58 in Gauteng, and 50 in the Northern Cape.
• 1 615 suspects were arrested for possession of drugs, with the majority of arrests in KwaZulu-Natal (418), followed by Gauteng (308), Western Cape (291) and the Eastern Cape (195).
• 141 suspects were arrested for illegal possession of unlicensed firearms.
• Police also arrested 760 suspects for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (198 in Mpumalanga, 135 in Gauteng and 132 in KwaZulu-Natal).

Major seizures and recoveries

• 1 275 ammunition were seized during this period.
• 25 169 litres of alcohol were seized, including 9,827 litres in Northern Cape alone.
• Contraband worth more than R7.2 million was confiscated, crippling illicit trade networks.
• 74 stolen vehicles were recovered, ranging from sedans to trucks and motorcycles

Highlights of takedowns 

Gauteng: Police arrested a suspected illegal miner for possession of two AK-47 rifles and ammunition during a disruptive operation conducted in Magaliesburg, West Rand District on15 October 2025. The team also seized 15 tons of gold bearing material.

The Gauteng Counterfeit Unit, in collaboration with brand protectors, confiscated 58 240 counterfeit and illicit items, including cellphone accessories, toys, consumables, clothing and illicit pharmaceutical products worth R8 367 200.

Limpopo: On 14 October 2025, a 30-year-old suspect linked to a series of business robberies, committed in various parts of Mopani District, was arrested. Several appliances were also recovered. 

Two suspects were arrested, and two firearms and ammunition were seized during a shootout with police in Bolobedu, Tzaneen.

Western Cape: Anti-Gang Unit members executed a search and seizure warrant in Langebaan and discovered five rifles, two shotguns, two pistols, one .38 special revolver and a .22 revolver. They arrested an Algerian foreign national, who was linked to the local gang in Kengsington on the scene on 17 October 2025.

Free Sate: On 16 October 2025, police intercepted a suspicious vehicle on the N1 with three occupants and discovered 248 bottles (100ml) of Bronlceer cough syrup medicine inside the vehicle. All three suspects were arrested and charged with contravention of Medicines and Related Substances Act, and possession of suspected stolen property. 

KwaZulu-Natal: A 20-year-old suspect, who was wanted for murder and several cases of house and business robberies, was shot and killed in a shootout with police at Cato Manor in Durban on 16 October 2025. Police seized a firearm and ammunition. 

Two suspected armed robbers were shot and killed in a shootout with police during a takedown in a complex in Durban, in the Waterfall area, on 14 October 2025.

The police said with festive season operations already launched across multiple provinces, Operation Shanela’s impact will be felt nationwide. 

“These arrests send a stark warning to prospective criminal: do not even consider engaging in any form of criminal activity. As the festive season rapidly approaches, these operations will be conducted with intensified force and precision,” said National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola. – SAnews.gov.za 

Source: Government of South Africa

Government extends its best wishes to all matriculants as they commence the 2025 National Senior Certificate examinations tomorrow, 21 October 2025. 

This period marks the culmination of 13 years of learning, commitment and perseverance.

In that regard, learners are encouraged to approach the examinations with focus, confidence, and determination. 

“Your hard work represents not only personal achievement but also a vital contribution to the development and progress of our country,” said Acting Government spokesperson William Baloyi.

“Government further appeals to parents and guardians to provide the necessary support and a conducive environment for learners during this crucial time. A calm, encouraging atmosphere at home helps to reduce anxiety and allows learners to perform to the best of their ability. 

“Families are encouraged to ensure that learners maintain healthy routines, including adequate rest, nutritious meals, light exercise, and regular study breaks to sustain concentration and overall well-being.

“Government salutes the Class of 2025 for their resilience and commitment, and extends its appreciation to teachers, parents, and communities for their continued support. Together, we build a nation of capable and confident young people ready to shape South Africa’s future,” Baloyi said.

Last Wednesday, the quality assurance body, Umalusi, expressed full confidence that the country’s examination system is ready for the conduct, administration and management of the 2025 end of year national examinations. 

According to Umalusi’s audit report, a total of over one million candidates are registered to sit for various national examinations this year, including more than 900 000 learners writing the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams under the Department of Basic Education (DBE). – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, October 20, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

As South Africa readies for the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, government has reaffirmed its call for increased climate finance to support developing economies – emphasising that such assistance should not create new debt burdens.

“Developing-economy nations require scaled-up, predictable, and accessible funding for mitigation, adaptation, and loss and damage. These must be in the form of grants and concessional finance, not new debt,” Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Dr Dion George said on Monday.

Addressing the COP30 National Stakeholder Consultation in Johannesburg, the Minister stressed that climate finance remains central to meaningful action.

“We expect the COP29 and COP30 Presidencies to present a well consulted plan that addresses the barriers developing-economy countries face in accessing climate finance.

“Developed-economy countries have a legal obligation under Article 9.1 of the Paris Agreement to provide this support, and we will continue to uphold that principle,” George said.

He said the New Collective Quantified Goal adopted at COP29 and the Baku-to-Belém Roadmap, which aims to mobilise 1.3 trillion dollars annually by 2035, must be turned into reality.

“We must also continue to press for reform of the global financial architecture so that it is fit for purpose and capable of supporting developing-economy nations to act decisively against climate change while achieving sustainable development.

“The world must move from promises to practice. Every decision in Belém must come with a plan for implementation, financing, and accountability. COP30 must deliver real outcomes for the planet, for vulnerable communities, and for future generations,” the Minister said.

COP30 will take place in Belém, Brazil from 10 to 21 November 2025. This year’s conference will mark ten years since the adoption of the Paris Agreement, a legally binding international treaty on climate change.

“The operationalisation of the Loss and Damage Fund must be completed. It must be capitalised, accessible, and responsive to the needs of vulnerable nations, particularly in Africa. Technical and capacity-building support must accompany the fund so that developing-economy countries can avert and address loss and damage effectively,” the Minister said.

The fund was established to assist developing countries that are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change.
“South Africa, working with the Africa Group, will continue to advocate for recognition of the continent’s special needs and circumstances, its limited historical responsibility for emissions, and the need for tailored support for adaptation and just transitions in line with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities,” the Minister said.

George asserted that the Santiago Network and its technical agencies must be empowered to provide hands-on assistance where it is most needed. 

“For Africa, this means strengthening early warning systems, mapping high-risk zones, and developing social protection systems that can respond quickly when disasters strike. 

“The Loss and Damage Fund will only be meaningful if it reaches communities on the ground, rebuilding lives and livelihoods rather than remaining trapped in bureaucracy,” he said.

South Africa will continue to voice concerns about unilateral trade measures that undermine sustainable development and contradict the principles of the Paris Agreement. 

“Climate ambition cannot be achieved through punitive trade barriers, but through cooperation, innovation, and fairness,” George said.

Just Transition Programme and transparency

The Minister emphasised that the Just Transition Work Programme should evolve into a practical instrument that supports inclusive and equitable transformation.

“We need a work programme that goes beyond energy systems to address the full social and economic dimensions of transition. One that enables green jobs, empowers workers and communities, and aligns with national development plans.

“The Just Transition is not an abstract concept for South Africa. It is about ensuring that the miner in Mpumalanga, the farmer in the Karoo, and the small business owner in the townships all have a stake in a cleaner, fairer future. 

“We are committed to building the skills, industries, and innovation ecosystems that will make this transition real and inclusive. Our partnerships with business, labour, and civil society are central to this effort, and we invite all sectors to contribute to this shared mission,” the Minister said.

He encouraged the support of the Enhanced Transparency Framework under the Paris Agreement.
“Transparent reporting builds credibility, attracts investment, and strengthens policy. Developing-economy countries need the tools and training to meet these obligations, and the Consultative Group of Experts should be made a permanent body to provide this support.

“We will also support the adoption of a Gender Action Plan that ensures gender equality is fully integrated into climate action. Women and youth are at the frontlines of climate impacts and must be at the forefront of climate solutions,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa says overcoming poverty and tackling the cost of living for South Africans is one of the strategic priorities of the Government of National Unity (GNU).

“Access to nutritious food directly affects the physical health and development of individuals and societies,” President Ramaphosa said. 

In his weekly newsletter on Monday, President Ramaphosa said around 15 to 16 million people in South Africa have inadequate or severely inadequate access to food.

“South Africa is amongst 29 countries where the right to food and water is enshrined in the Constitution, and where citizens have resource to the legal system to ensure that this right is enforced,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President said the country’s constitution imposes a duty on the state to take reasonable legislative and other measures, within its available resources, to progressively realise this right.

“Since the advent of democracy in 1994, successive administrations have adopted a multifaceted approach to tackling hunger and food security. 

“This has included legislative and policy reform, nutrition at primary health care level, and programmes that deliver nutrition directly to communities and institutions, such as the school feeding scheme.

“To further bolster food security, the provision of social grants, free basic services, free basic and tertiary education, and free primary healthcare have freed up money in households to buy food,” the President said.

He added that in South Africa, the social wage accounts for approximately 60% of spending by Government before interest payments. 

“This is amongst the highest of upper-middle income countries. A 2021 World Bank report noted that South Africa’s system of programmes were ‘effective, well-targeted and provide sizeable benefits to the poorest households’, and that our social assistance system ‘effectively reduces poverty and inequality rates,’” said the President.

In addition, the country’s School Nutrition Programme has been one of the most far-reaching and transformative policies implemented under democracy to address poverty. The programme provides nutrition to more than nine million learners from poor households on a daily basis. 

“The provision of meals at schools, with nutritious ingredients sourced from school and community food gardens, has had a positive impact on learner attendance, concentration and overall academic performance.

“Supporting communities to grow their own food has been an integral feature of Government’s food security strategy. Provincial agricultural departments run programmes across the country to support school, household and community food gardens, providing implements like seedlings, tools and training,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa said despite a range of interventions by national and provincial governments, a large portion of South African households are food insecure. 

“In a context of high unemployment and poverty and limited economic growth, many households across the country are finding it difficult to afford nutritious food,” he said.

According to Statistics South Africa data, annual inflation for food and non-alcoholic beverages continues to rise. Last month, headline consumer inflation hit a 10-month high. Meat and vegetables are more expensive, putting household food budgets under pressure.

Since 1991, the zero-rating of basic food items has helped low-income households to cope with rising food costs, and at the same time we are working to ensure that there is both fairness and accountability in food markets. 

The President said that food retailers themselves are under pressure as a result of external factors like rising energy and transportation costs, droughts and global supply chain disruptions, practices like price-fixing that inflate food prices are directly contributing to food insecurity for households. 

READ | Call to join efforts to curtail rising food costs

This as the Competition Commission has conducted a number of inquiries to enforce accountability in the food market. 

“Delegates to the 7th Social Justice Summit agreed that improving food security for individuals and households is a society-wide effort. 

“As retailers work to grow their market share among low-income households, they have a responsibility to ensure this includes affordable healthy food choices such as plant and animal proteins, fruits and vegetables,” said the President.– SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

Police in the Northern Cape have arrested 263 suspects during a week-long provincewide crackdown under Operation Shanela II aimed at curbing crime ahead of the festive season.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) said the multi-disciplinary operation, conducted from 13 to 19 October 2025, targeted anticipated spikes in criminal activity linked to increased social events.

“All stakeholders implemented an integrated approach, combining intelligence-led actions with visible patrols to curb crime across all five districts,” SAPS said in a statement.

The operation included stop-and-search actions, vehicle checkpoints, roadblocks, and high-visibility patrols, during which officers searched 7 831 individuals and 3 969 vehicles. Police also inspected numerous premises, including liquor outlets, second-hand dealers, farms, and scrapyards, closing 26 unlicensed liquor premises for non-compliance.

In the John Taolo Gaetsewe District, officers searched long-distance passenger buses to intercept the transport of drugs and other illicit goods.

Suspects were arrested for crimes including drug dealing and possession, illegal liquor trading, robbery, attempted murder, burglary, and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH). Police also seized alcohol, drugs, dangerous weapons, and copper cables.

SAPS said it would continue to focus on preventing the possession of dangerous weapons and substance abuse, both of which fuel serious and violent crimes.

Community engagement and awareness campaigns were held alongside community policing forums and government departments to address local crime trends.

“A safer society can only be realised through cooperative action between the police, stakeholders, and the community,” SAPS said, adding that operations will continue across the province to stabilise identified crime hotspots. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, October 20, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

With just hours to go before the start of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has wished the Class of 2025 well ahead of them putting pen to paper.

“On behalf of the Gauteng Provincial Government, I wish the Class of 2025 all the best in their upcoming final examinations. May your hard work and dedication throughout the year bear fruit as you prepare for these exams, which mark the culmination of your basic education,” the Premier said in a statement on Sunday.

This year, a total of 188,057 candidates have registered to write the NSC exams in Gauteng (144,315 full-time and 43,742 part-time learners).

The NSC exams will begin on Tuesday, 21 October 2025. The first day of the examinations will begin with the Computer Applications Tech P1, Practical exam in the morning session, followed by the Hindi, Gujarati, Tamil, Telegu, Urdu HL P1, Hindi, Gujarati, Tamil, Telegu, Urdu FAL P1  Hindi, Gujarati, Tamil, Telegu, Urdu SAL P1, Hebrew SAL P1, German HL, and SAL P1 in the afternoon session.

The provincial government said that it has consistently maintained its position among the top three performing provinces in the NSC examinations. In 2024, the province achieved an 88.4% pass rate, placing it third nationally behind the Free State (91%) and KwaZulu-Natal (89.5%).

“The examinations will take place at 1,007 centres across the province (741 public schools, 267 independent schools, and 25 designated centres). Throughout the year, the Gauteng Provincial Government has worked tirelessly to support and prepare the matriculants for success.

“All parents and guardians are called upon to support the learners throughout the exam period. Systems have also been put in place to mitigate potential disruptions, such as service delivery protests and operational challenges, ensuring that all learners can write their exams under safe and conducive conditions,” it said.

The provincial government said it remains confident that the Class of 2025 will continue the province’s proud tradition of academic excellence and resilience.

Meanwhile, Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube, will hold a press briefing on Monday, 20 October 2025, to present the state of readiness for the 2025 National Senior Certificate examinations. 

READ | Gwarube to brief media on 2025 matric exams readiness

The annual matric exams are an important milestone in South Africa’s basic education calendar. –SAnews.gov.za