Category: South Africa Government

Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber says South Africa’s R12.5 billion border infrastructure overhaul will transform the country’s ports of entry into modern, secure and efficient gateways for trade and travel. 

Addressing a media briefing on Tuesday, Schreiber said the redevelopment of six key land ports of entry marks a critical milestone in reforming the country’s immigration and border management system. 

“Today we take the next step on our journey to reform South Africa’s immigration and border management system into a modern, secure, efficient and truly world-class institutional ecosystem.”

The multi-year programme, implemented through a public-private partnership (PPP), will see the demolition and rebuilding of six high-traffic ports: Lebombo (Mozambique), Beitbridge (Zimbabwe), Oshoek (Eswatini), Kopfontein (Botswana), Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg (Lesotho).

“This project, worth an estimated R12.5 billion, constitutes the single biggest investment ever made by the South African government in upgrading our country’s border management system,” the Minister said. 

Schreiber said the six ports account for the majority of cross-border movement and are critical to economic performance.

“Together, they account for over 80% of cross-border trade and passenger flows through South Africa’s land borders,” he said. 

However, he noted that ageing infrastructure and inefficiencies have long constrained operations, in turn, enabling criminal activity.

“Congestion, outdated infrastructure, and fragmented systems have slowed down trade and increased the cost of doing business.

“Weaknesses have been exploited through illegal migration, illicit trade, and fraudulent practices that undermine both revenue collection and the rule of law,” Schreiber said. 

The redevelopment aims to shift border operations from manual and fragmented systems to integrated, technology-driven processes.

“We are moving from fragmented, manual processes to integrated, digital systems; from duplication and delay, to coordination and convenience [and from] vulnerability to control.”

Schreiber said the impact of the upgrades will be felt across the economy.

“Shorter turnaround times. Reduced congestion. More predictable movement of goods and people. These improvements go directly to the heart of economic growth,” the Minister said. 

He cited studies showing that improved efficiency at borders can significantly boost trade.

“Studies estimate that even a 5% reduction in border clearance time can increase intra-regional exports by around 10%,” he said. 

The reforms are also expected to strengthen enforcement and revenue collection.

“Enhanced surveillance, improved infrastructure, and integrated data systems will allow for more targeted and effective enforcement. A further critical outcome is the protection and enhancement of revenue,” the Minister said. 

Schreiber said the project will also create jobs and improve the daily experience of travellers.

“For South Africans, this project means shorter queues, lower costs, and more reliable movement of goods. It means stronger protection against illegal immigration, illicit trade, and criminal activity.” 

He described the initiative as a strategic intervention aligned with government priorities and a catalytic investment for the country. 

Highlighting the focus on high-impact areas, Schreiber referenced the Pareto principle.

“The Pareto principle states that roughly 80% of outcomes are generated by just 20% of inputs.

“In this case, the six ports of entry we are focusing on account for roughly 11% of South Africa’s 53 land ports of entry but they generate 80% of traffic volume – and likely also about 80% of illicit activity.” 

He said targeting these ports would maximise impact.

“This is smart government in action. This is how we unlock trade and economic growth to deliver better lives for the people of South Africa,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Science, Technology and Innovation Deputy Minister, Dr Nomalungelo Gina, has led a Freedom Month community engagement in Mbazwana, under the uMhlabuyalingana Local Municipality, in KwaZulu-Natal.

The engagement highlighted the role of science, technology and innovation (STI) in improving service delivery and expanding opportunities in rural communities.

The engagement, held at Oqondweni Hall on Friday, 24 April, brought together almost 250 community members, including youth and older people. The engagement formed part of national Freedom Month commemorations aimed at reflecting on South Africa’s democratic progress and future development priorities.

The session focused on the intersection between democracy and science, demonstrating how innovation can be used to strengthen governance, promote inclusion and deliver practical solutions to everyday challenges faced by communities.

Partner institutions of the engagement included the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, Department of Social Development, the Electoral Commission of South Africa, and the South African Police Service (SAPS).

Addressing the gathering, Gina emphasised that since the advent of democracy in 1994, South Africa has increasingly invested in science and innovation as key tools for transformation, inclusion and socio-economic development.

She noted that democracy is not only defined by political rights, but also by equitable access to knowledge, innovation and practical solutions that address everyday community challenges.

“All the institutions that you see here today are using science, technology and innovation to improve service delivery to communities countrywide. For example, South Africa uses digital technology to manage social grants for millions of citizens because digitalisation increases efficiency and financial inclusion.

“Access to scientific knowledge and innovation is essential for meaningful participation in our democracy and for building a more equal and prosperous society,” the Deputy Minister said.

The engagement featured practical demonstrations and information-sharing sessions aimed at showcasing how STI is applied in real-world contexts.

A drone demonstration by SAPS drew significant interest, with a live display of how technology is used in policing, particularly in search-and-rescue operations.

Warrant Officer Owen Howard demonstrated a Matrice M30 drone equipped with advanced imaging capabilities, including thermal cameras and a laser rangefinder.

“Years ago, SAPS did not have this technology to locate a missing person in the bush, for example. Now we can use thermal imaging to help find missing persons without immediately deploying a helicopter,” Howard explained.

Exploring careers in tech

The HSRC also used the platform to engage with the community on the role of research in shaping public policy and improving service delivery.

Information technology expert Nqubeko Mbhele highlighted how research findings have informed government interventions in areas such as health, education, safety, employment and social support.

“By engaging directly with households and communities, the HSRC ensures that people’s lived experiences inform decision-making processes, helping to strengthen democracy,” Mbhele said.

Mbhele also promoted the HSRC’s internship programme, which has provided workplace experience and research skills to more than 7 000 unemployed graduates since 2005. The programme spans fields such as science, engineering, technology, humanities and social sciences.

Mbhele encouraged local youth to pursue further education in order to such opportunities created through democracy.

Community members welcomed the engagement, describing it as informative and empowering.

Lindiwe Mabika said the session had provided valuable insights that would help shape her future ambitions in the health sector.

“The information I received today will help me plan for a better future. I am also encouraged by the opportunities available through programmes like the HSRC internships. Hopefully, I will be one of its beneficiaries in the future,” Mabika said.

Senamile Khumalo, 36, representing Heifer Project South Africa, said the engagement demonstrated the importance of access to information in rural communities. Heifer is a non-profit, public benefit organisation dedicated to ending hunger and poverty in rural South Africa.

“I am particularly hopeful that the youth in the area stand to benefit the most from initiatives like these. It was also encouraging to learn about government programmes that can assist in protecting the young and the elderly in our community,” Khumalo said.

She encouraged local youth to participate in agricultural development initiatives offered by her organisation, which provides training in livestock management and supports small-scale farming enterprises.

Assessing the DDM

The engagement also provided an opportunity for Deputy Minister Gina to assess how science, technology and innovation are being applied locally to improve service delivery, as well as to demonstrate the impact of the District Development Model (DDM).

As the DDM champion for the uMkhanyakude District Municipality, Gina is responsible for ensuring alignment between national, provincial and local government plans. The model seeks to accelerate development through integrated planning, with a focus on infrastructure, job creation and rural development.

The uMhlabuyalingana Local Municipality remains largely rural, with many residents dependent on subsistence farming. Key economic activities include fruit processing and livestock farming aimed at alleviating poverty.

According to municipal data, approximately 18% of the population has no formal education, while 57% did not complete Grade 12. Only about 8% have completed matric or higher, underscoring the need for increased access to education and skills development.

Officials said initiatives that integrate science, technology and innovation with community development are critical to addressing these challenges and building more inclusive, resilient local economies.

The engagement formed part of ongoing efforts to bring government services and opportunities closer to communities, while reinforcing the role of innovation in advancing democracy and improving lives. – SAnews.gov.za

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Industry leaders, corporates, government institutions and SMMEs are set to convene for the Durban Business Indaba on 29 April at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.

Wednesday’s engagement, hosted by eThekwini Municipality, will focus on addressing key barriers and unlocking opportunities for small, medium and micro enterprises (SMME) growth in the city.

The high-level session will tackle critical issues, including access to funding, tax compliance, market entry, and business sustainability amid a challenging economic environment.

Held under the theme: “Enabling SMME Growth through Funding, Compliance, Market Access and Strategic Partnerships”, the Indaba will feature speakers from organisations, including Proudly South African, the South African Revenue Service (SARS), the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency, and Illovo Sugar, among others.

The programme will focus on practical solutions to support business growth, expand market access through corporate partnerships, strengthen localisation, and improve the competitiveness of South African products.

The Indaba forms part of the broader Durban Business Fair Exhibition, scheduled to take place from 30 April to 2 May, at the Durban Exhibition Centre. The event marks 28 years of connecting SMMEs with markets and economic opportunities.

The exhibition will be officially opened by Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni, underscoring government’s ongoing support for enterprise development.

City Economic Development and Planning Committee chairperson, Themba Ntuli, said hundreds of businesses are expected to showcase their products and services, creating opportunities for trade, networking and investment.

“This platform equips SMMEs with the insights, tools, and connections needed to enable meaningful economic participation,” Ntuli said.

The Durban Business Fair continues to serve as a flagship empowerment initiative, supporting entrepreneurs to expand market access, gain critical knowledge, and connect with investors and key stakeholders.

Businesses are encouraged to RSVP and participate in shaping the future of SMME development in eThekwini. Attendance can be confirmed via email at zamani.shezi@durban.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

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KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has reiterated his call for intensified community involvement in the fight against crime following the murder of seven members of the Moonsamy family.

The Premier made the call while addressing a mass funeral for the family over the weekend, describing the killings as a devastating tragedy that has shaken the conscience of the province.

According to preliminary reports, the victims were allegedly kidnapped and robbed at their home in Newtown, Newark, under the Mandeni Local Municipality, on Tuesday, 21 April, before being transported to Melmoth, where they were murdered.

It is further alleged that some of the victims were sexually assaulted in what authorities believe was a calculated and merciless act of violence.

Among the deceased was a 20-year-old woman and an 83-year-old woman.

Delivering an emotional address, Ntuli extended condolences on behalf of the provincial government and the people of KwaZulu-Natal, stressing that the victims were not mere statistics but members of a family whose lives were violently and senselessly cut short.

Condemning the kidnappings, sexual assault and murders, the Premier described the attack as an assault on humanity and the core values underpinning South Africa’s democracy.

He also noted the painful irony that the killings occurred during Freedom Month, a period dedicated to celebrating human rights, dignity and equality.

Ntuli commended the swift response of the South African Police Service, confirming that three suspects have been arrested, a stolen vehicle recovered and critical evidence secured.

“These developments send a clear and unequivocal message that perpetrators of violent crime will be pursued and brought to justice,” he said.

The Premier urged communities to play a more active role in combating crime by rejecting silence and reporting criminal activity to law enforcement agencies.

“Communities must work collectively to isolate criminal elements and strengthen cooperation with law enforcement agencies,” the Premier said.

Ntuli warned that criminality thrives in environments of fear and division, calling for greater unity as a critical weapon against lawlessness.

He reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to strengthening crime prevention through enhanced collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the Department of Community Safety and Liaison.

The three suspects appeared before the Stanger Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 28 April 2026.

Ntuli, who also attended the court proceedings, said community members had been mobilised to support petitions opposing bail for the accused, reflecting a united stance against those allegedly responsible for the heinous crime.

He assured the Moonsamy family of government’s continued support in their pursuit of justice.

“The memory of the victims must serve as a catalyst for renewed efforts to build safer, more resilient communities across KwaZulu-Natal,” Ntuli said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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By: Andrea Naicker 
Every year on 24 March, South Africa joins the global community in commemorating World Tuberculosis (TB) Day, a day that calls for reflection and recommitment to ending one of the world’s most severe, yet curable diseases.

This year’s theme, “Yes! You and I Can End TB,” is a powerful reminder that ending TB is within our reach, if we act together and without delay.

TB remains one of the most infectious and deadly diseases worldwide, and despite our hard-won progress, it continues to pose a serious public health challenge in South Africa. Our country remains among the 30 high burden nations that collectively account for the majority of global TB cases, and adding to this burden is the challenge of TB/HIV co infection, and drug resistant TB. 

These realities require not only medical solutions, but strong leadership, social action and commitment.

The human cost of TB is stark, with an estimated 56 000 South Africans losing their lives to TB every year, more than half of whom are also people living with HIV. These statistics represent families torn apart, communities weakened, and futures cut short. World TB Day reminds us that complacency is not an option, and that investments in prevention, early diagnosis, treatment, and psycho social support must be strengthened and sustained.

Through deliberate government action, strong partnership and dedicated health workers across the country, we are working to change the trajectory and bring renewed hope.

South Africa has made significant and measurable progress in the fight against TB. Since 2015, we have reduced TB incidences by 61%, surpassing the World Health Organisation’s target of a 50% reduction by 2025, and there has been a 17% reduction in the number of TB related deaths since 2015.

Furthermore, the incidence rate for TB has dropped significantly from 988 per 100 000 people in 2015 to 389 per 100 000 in 2024, while treatment coverage has improved to 74%.

These gains did not occur by chance but is tangible evidence that through collective action, we can transform the situation. Moreover, our large antiretroviral programme has improved TB treatment outcomes and reduced mortality, while the introduction of new and repurposed TB medicines has increased cure rates for drug‑resistant TB. 

More than 2 000 patients are already benefiting from a treatment called DR‑TB (BPAL-L) regimen. This is a short, all-oral treatment used for drug-resistant tuberculosis taken over a period of six months.
 
These advances are guided by the TB Strategic Plan 2023–2028, aligned to the National Strategic Plan for HIV, TB and STIs, which provides a clear, people‑centred roadmap to expand equitable access to care and eliminate TB as a public health threat by 2030.

It underscores our commitment to equitable access to care, integrated health systems, and the protection of the health and well being of all. 

World TB Day is a call to everyone to take charge of their health and for collective action. Anyone with a persistent cough, or who has been in contact with a person diagnosed with TB, should undergo screening and testing.

TB is not a death sentence, it is curable, however treatment must be started early and completed fully. Failure to do so can lead to multidrug resistant and extensively drug resistant TB, which is far more difficult, costly, and life threatening to treat.

Public health facilities across the country offer free services, including TB screening and testing, HIV counselling, and screening for non communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. Utilising these services is both a personal responsibility and an act of solidarity with our communities.

Equally important is the fight against stigma and discrimination. TB thrives in silence and fear. We must say no to stigmatisation, uphold the human rights of people affected by TB, and create environments where individuals feel safe to seek care without judgement.

As we mark World TB Day 2026, let us acknowledge how far we have come, but also recognise how much remains to be done. Ending TB is not the responsibility of government alone and requires leadership at all levels, informed communities, resilient health systems, and the active participation of every citizen.

Yes, you and I can end TB. The choice to act, care, and protect each other rests with all of us.

*Naicker is Assistant Director at the Government Communication and Information System.

 

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With the due date fast approaching, the Western Cape Mobility Department is calling on eligible candidates to apply for its Traffic Officer Cadet Bursary Programme.

The programme offers the opportunity for applicants to complete a Further Education and Training Certificate in Road Traffic Law Enforcement.

The closing date for applications is 5 May 2026, with the 12-month training programme set to commence on 8 June 2026 at the Gene Louw Traffic College in Brackenfell, Cape Town.

Successful applicants will be trained and prepared for deployment as Traffic Officers across various traffic centres in the Western Cape.

“This bursary programme offers a valuable opportunity for young people to build a career in law enforcement while making a real impact on road safety in the Western Cape. We encourage all eligible candidates to apply before the closing date of 5 May. 

“We also caution residents about the various scams targeting applicants. There are no fees required for this programme. If you are passionate about road safety and keen to help make a difference on Western Cape roads, please submit an application,” said Chief Director Traffic Management, Maxine Bezuidenhout.

Residents are strongly cautioned that:
•    No payment is required to apply for this bursary programme.
•    Applications can only be submitted through the official Western Cape Government Jobs webpage.

The provincial department encouraged disciplined, committed, and physically fit individuals aged 35 and under to apply.

For more information and to submit an application, please visit the official Western Cape Government Jobs webpage. – SAnews.gov.za

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The eThekwini Municipality has adopted a new set of measurable targets for the 2026/27 financial year aimed at strengthening coordination, improving accountability, and accelerating crime prevention and safety services across the city.

The targets form part of a structured roadmap endorsed during a Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster strategic session held recently at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

The roadmap outlines clear priorities, timelines and performance indicators designed to enhance service delivery across key workstreams, including crime prevention, law enforcement, case management, disaster resilience and the management of community protests. 

The Presidential eThekwini Working Group (PeWG), comprising municipal departments, law enforcement agencies, and other government institutions, used the session to assess current performance and identify critical gaps requiring urgent intervention.

Lieutenant-Colonel Phiwayinkosi Ngcobo, a senior officer at the Durban Metro Police Unit, reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to its collaboration agreement with the South African Police Service, signed in Inanda, north of Durban, with various law enforcement stakeholders.

Ngcobo was speaking on behalf of the Metro Police Commissioner, Sibonelo Mchunu, at the strategic session.

“The PeWG Workstream 3 deliverables are currently ahead of schedule, in line with agreed action items,” Ngcobo said, adding that the city is benefiting from significant infrastructure investments.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has recently highlighted eThekwini as a leading municipality, encouraging other municipalities to benchmark against its progress and initiatives.

Progress was highlighted in several areas, including increased law enforcement visibility, improved case tracking, enhanced disaster preparedness, and more coordinated responses to community protests.

Representing the Municipal Safer Cities Directorate, acting senior manager Pumla Jingxi said the city will continue supporting initiatives aimed at improving safety and service delivery.

“We will continue to support government initiatives aimed at safeguarding communities, strengthening intergovernmental relations, accelerating service delivery, and providing adequate shelter solutions for the homeless,” Jingxi said.

A key outcome of the session was the formal adoption of the JCPS Cluster Terms of Reference, establishing clear governance framework to define roles and responsibilities, reduce duplication, strengthen oversight and improve decision-making.

The meeting also prioritised outstanding District Development Model JCPS matters, including resolutions from political and technical hubs, as well as Cabinet Day engagements under the One Stop Shop programme.

With these frameworks in place, the municipality will now focus on implementation, ongoing monitoring and regular reporting against the newly adopted targets.

Officials said the overall objective is to build safer, more resilient communities through a more integrated, coordinated and responsive JCPS system. – SAnews.gov.za

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The National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), in collaboration with the Gauteng Department of Health, National Priority Programmes, and the Wits Diagnostic Innovation Hub (DIH), has developed South Africa’s first National Diabetes (HbA1c) Dashboard — a major step forward in tackling one of the country’s leading causes of death. 

The NHLS on Tuesday said the dashboard, which was developed through a multidisciplinary effort, integrates expertise from the NHLS Corporate Data Warehouse (CDW), National Priority Programmes, and the Department of Chemical Pathology at the University of the Witwatersrand. 

NHLS CEO, Professor Koleka Mlisana, said that it leverages NHLS laboratory data from across the country to deliver a near-real-time nationwide view of diabetes control.  

“This platform transforms how we use laboratory data from retrospective reporting to real-time action. It equips healthcare workers with the information needed to respond faster and improve patient outcomes,” Mlisana said. 

The NHLS said this comes amid growing calls from civil society for urgent, coordinated action to address diabetes, now widely recognised as a national health crisis. 

For the first time, the dashboard provides a near-real-time, nationwide view of diabetes control, using NHLS laboratory data refreshed within 48 hours. This enables clinicians and programme managers to identify high-risk patients earlier, monitor and control, and intervene more rapidly to prevent complications. 

“This dashboard represents a significant leap forward in how we use laboratory data to improve patient care. Innovation is central to the NHLS strategy and values, and this platform demonstrates our commitment to leveraging data to strengthen the health system,” the CEO said. 

The dashboard transforms how diabetes data is accessed and used. Previously, data was shared via monthly Excel-based reports, which required manual analysis and distribution across provinces, districts, and facilities, delaying timely intervention. 

The new dashboard eliminates these inefficiencies by offering live, continuously updated data, refreshed within 48 hours. 

This innovation also provides healthcare practitioners with immediate access to critical patient information, enabling faster clinical decision-making and more targeted interventions. 

Beyond clinical care, the dashboard strengthens accountability and system performance, allowing health authorities to monitor trends across provinces and target interventions where they are most needed This innovation positions the NHLS as a key partner in building a coordinated, data-driven, evidence-based national response to diabetes. 

It also supports the National Strategic Plan for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (2022–2027), with a target to ensure that 50% of diabetics on treatment achieve control. For the first time, South Africa has a dedicated diabetes surveillance system to assess levels of control in the public sector. 

“By providing near-real-time insights, we are empowering healthcare workers to respond faster, intervene earlier, and ultimately improve outcomes for patients living with diabetes across South Africa,” the CEO added.

The dashboard is accessible to healthcare practitioners across South Africa, ensuring that those on the frontlines of care have the tools they need to respond effectively and efficiently. 

This initiative reinforces the NHLS’ role as a leader in diagnostic innovation and its ongoing commitment to supporting the public health sector with cutting-edge solutions that enhance patient care and health system performance. – SAnews.gov.za

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The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities has reaffirmed that expanding meaningful employment opportunities for persons with disabilities in both the public and private sectors is fundamental to the realisation of freedom, dignity, and equality in South Africa.

In a statement, the department said that while the right to work remains central to inclusive development, enshrined in the Constitution and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, representation of persons with disabilities in the public service remains at about 1.2%, underscoring persistent systemic barriers.

To address this gap, government has introduced a Practice Note aligned with Circular 19 of 2026. The directive provides clear and enforceable measures aimed at progressively increasing employment of persons with disabilities in the public sector to 7% by 2030.

“The Practice Note requires departments to integrate targets into planning and budgeting, strengthen accountability of Heads of Department, and report on progress quarterly,” the department said.

It further directs departments to remove barriers to entry through accessible recruitment processes, ring-fence entry-level opportunities, and ensure workplace accessibility and reasonable accommodation. This includes dedicated budgets and defined turnaround times for support measures.

The department has called on all spheres of government, including State-owned entities, as well as the private sector, to intensify efforts by accelerating the implementation of employment equity targets towards 7% by 2030; embedding accountability and reporting mechanisms in institutional systems; ensuring accessible workplaces and the provision of reasonable accommodation; expanding inclusive skills development, internships and career pathways, and addressing discrimination, while shifting societal attitudes.

The department emphasised that the public sector must lead by example, with inclusion embedded in planning, budgeting, and performance systems, while the private sector is encouraged to recognise disability inclusion as a driver of innovation and sustainable growth.

“Employment is a key enabler of independence and dignity. Through the implementation of the Practice Note, government is moving from commitment to measurable action that will transform opportunities for persons with disabilities,” the department said.

The department added that it remains committed to working with all stakeholders to build an inclusive economy in which persons with disabilities can fully participate and thrive. – SAnews.gov.za

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