Category: South Africa Government

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National Executive is not above the law – President Ramaphosa

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised that members of the National Executive are not above the law and that any credible allegations against Cabinet Ministers should be investigated by the relevant law enforcement agencies.

“If any member of the National Executive is charged with corruption or another serious crime, they will need to vacate their position pending the outcome of any case against them. 

“The fight against corruption must be grounded in the rule of law and due process. Corruption must be rooted out in all its forms in all of our society,” President Ramaphosa said. 

The President was responding to questions for oral reply in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) in Cape Town on Tuesday.

He told the house that the fight against corruption must be grounded in the rule of law and due process, stressing that government remains committed to rooting out corruption in all its forms.

“To overcome the scourge of corruption in our society, we need to uphold and advance the rule of law. We need to ensure that due process is followed without fear, favour or prejudice.

“Since the start of this Presidency in 2018, we have focused on rebuilding our law enforcement agencies, strengthening and resourcing our institutions, and entrenching the independence of the judiciary. The results of these efforts are now plain to see,” he said. 

He said that institutions such as the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), the Hawks, and the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption are registering significant progress in uncovering corruption, making arrests, and recovering stolen assets.

“These bodies have shown that they do not fear to act. As we speak, senior figures in government, state-owned enterprises, and business are standing trial for alleged corruption.”

President Ramaphosa added that a tracking mechanism has been introduced to ensure referrals from the SIU are implemented.

During the session, the President was also asked to clarify his relationship with Hangwani Maumela who alleged to be linked to corruption at theTembisa Hospital and reported to be his nephew.

The President dismissed the claims, saying the allegations were untrue and based on misrepresentations. 
“My spokesperson, Mr Vincent Magwenya, addressed the media yesterday in response to a video and photograph that were circulated. He explained what my relationship, if any, is with this person. 

“Forty-seven years ago, I got married to his father’s sister, we divorced 43 years ago. When I was asked in 2022 whether I knew him, I said I did not know him because I had never encountered him, and that was gospel truth,” he said. 

The President explained that he only met Maumela in 2024 while walking in his neighbourhood.

READ | Presidency dismisses links to corruption accused

The President reiterated his confidence in the SIU, which is investigating the matter, saying law enforcement must be allowed to do its work without interference.

“As I walk past that house, I know that that house was built with money that, as it is alleged, was not properly acquired – money that should have been spent on the health of our people. The SIU has taken action, and we must support and applaud them for the work they are doing,” the President said.

READ | SIU determined to ‘claw back every cent’ taken at Tembisa Hospital
– SAnews.gov.za

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SAPS trainees complete SASSETA training programme

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, October 14, 2025

Over 100 police trainees have graduated with a qualification that will enable them to serve communities with integrity, discipline and professionalism.

The Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA), in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS) on Tuesday hosted a graduation ceremony for the first group of SAPS trainees who successfully completed the Occupational Certificate: Non-Commissioned Police Official programme.

A total of 138 SAPS trainees have officially been found competent in this occupational qualification, accredited by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO). 

As the QCTO’s delegated Quality Partner, SASSETA oversees and manages the implementation of External Integrated Summative Assessments (EISA) for occupational qualifications.

The graduates completed an outcomes-based training programme designed to provide them with the practical skills, ethical foundation and operational competence needed in the field of law enforcement. 

“The qualification aims to ensure that police officials are well-prepared to serve communities with integrity, discipline and professionalism,” said the SASSETA and the SAPS in a joint advisory.

The Non-Commissioned Police Official qualification plays a role in strengthening the foundation of policing in South Africa. These officials are the first point of contact with the public and are crucial to maintaining law and order, ensuring community safety, and promoting justice and accountability.

“We commend each graduate for their perseverance, professionalism, and dedication. Their success reflects the excellent support from facilitators, assessors, and the broader training teams who ensured that learning met national standards.

“As these newly qualified officials take up their duties, we are confident they will contribute meaningfully to safer communities,” said Eric Tshilimbavhunwa, SASSETA Interim Board Chairperson. – SAnews.gov.za

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Government convenes second DDM meeting in Kimberley

Source: Government of South Africa

Government convenes second DDM meeting in Kimberley

As part of government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen coordination and alignment between the three spheres of government, Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli will convene the Second District Development Model (DDM) Meeting in the Northern Cape.

Taking place at the Frances Baard District Municipality Lecture Rooms on Wednesday.

According to the Presidency, the meeting forms part of government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen coordination and alignment between the three spheres of government, to ensure integrated planning, service delivery and accountability, in line with the DDM’s “One District, One Plan” approach.

“This engagement will review progress on the implementation of the District One Plan, assess catalytic projects under execution, and identify emerging challenges that require multi-sectoral intervention.

“The session will also set out the roadmap towards Imbizos in the district and ensure that government programmes respond effectively to the developmental prior,” the Presidency said in a statement on Tuesday.

The Deputy Minister will be joined by the Northern Cape MEC for Transport, Safety and Liaison, Limakatso Koloi and the Executive Mayor of the Frances Baard District Municipality, Wende Marekwa. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin

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SA to roll out lenacapavir for HIV prevention 

Source: Government of South Africa

SA to roll out lenacapavir for HIV prevention 

Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi revealed that South Africa intends to roll out lenacapavir, a revolutionary long-acting HIV prevention method that could transform public health as early as March 2026.

“The rolling out date of March or April all depends on how smart we work together,” he said in making the significant announcement.

The Minister was speaking at the national roundtable on lenacapavir access and sustainability in South Africa on Tuesday.

This as the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC), together with the Department of Health, are convening a multi-stakeholder roundtable session to discuss the country’s preparedness to roll out lenacapavir. 

Lenacapavir is a revolutionary long-acting injectable drug that offers six months of protection with just two annual doses.

At a national roundtable meeting, Motsoaledi highlighted the drug’s potential to address critical gaps in current HIV prevention methods. 

“We need prevention methods that fit into people’s lives, that address the gaps left by existing tools. This is where lenacapavir comes in as a timely and much-needed innovation to help us overcome the persistent challenges in our HIV/AIDS response, especially when it comes to prevention. Lenacapavir expands the choices within our combination prevention strategy.”

Motsoaledi believes that the jab widens the scope of choices for citizens and is an empowering option and ensures that no one is left behind simply because the existing tools did not fit into their lives.

The new prevention option comes at a critical time, with approximately 149 000 South Africans having acquired HIV in 2022 and 2023 alone. 

According to the Minister, the lenacapavir’s clinical trials have shown remarkable efficacy, with 100% protection among women and 96% protection among men who have sex with men and transgender women.

The Minister announced that the initial rollout will focus on 23 high-incident districts across six provinces, targeting approximately 360 high-performing public clinics within these areas.

The Global Fund has provided a US$29 million grant to support approximately 456 000 initiations over two years, translating into 912 000 doses.

“I want to emphasise, ladies and gentlemen, it is not just a dream that we are intending to end AIDS as a public health threat in our lifetime. We have no choice. We’ve got to do it, and we are going to do it together,” he told delegates. 

The Minister announced that key target populations include pregnant and breastfeeding women, adolescent girls, female sex workers, and men who have sex with men – groups traditionally most vulnerable to HIV transmission.

According to the Minister, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has already recommended lenacapavir as an additional HIV prevention choice, marking a significant milestone in global HIV prevention efforts.

Affordability 

He said government plans to integrate it into domestic financing mechanisms, aiming for routine funding after two years. 

Gilead and six pharmaceutical companies, including one in Egypt, will produce the jab at US US$40 per person per annum, a significant reduction from US$28 000. 

“What revolutions are made of is reducing costs 700 times,” the Health Minister said, highlighting the unprecedented affordability of the treatment.

Pharmaceutical companies like Hetero and partnerships with the Gates Foundation will produce generic versions, while South Africa actively pursues local manufacturing capabilities.

“So, we wish to thank Gilead for issuing a voluntary licence to make this partnership possible.”

In addition, he announced R2 billion funding from the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for six months to maintain current HIV and AIDS programmes. The CDC is the national public health agency of the United States.

“This is to keep the programmes that were there so that they don’t collapse. I think we should welcome this as much as it is not what we’re expecting, but we must welcome this.” 

Reducing infection

The Minister stressed that the goal is to reduce new HIV infections to below 0.1% by 2032.

“Mathematical modelling suggests that if two to four million people use lenacapavir over 12 to 24 months, South Africa could achieve near-elimination of new HIV infections, marking a potential turning point in the country’s decades-long battle against the epidemic.” 

Government has also committed to a comprehensive approach involving community engagement, civil society participation, and sustainable financing mechanisms. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile

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Progress made in removal of Western Cape abandoned vessels 

Source: Government of South Africa

Government has reported significant progress in clearing sunken and abandoned vessels from Western Cape harbours.

“The removal of these wrecks is a critical step in addressing the environmental and safety risks posed by sunken and abandoned vessels, which constitute approximately 90% of such wrecks in Hout Bay Harbour,” the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Dr Dion George said on Tuesday. 

By clearing these vessels, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment’s (DFFE) is creating additional mooring and berthing space, responding to numerous requests from the fishing industry for access to these facilities. 

This development is expected to stimulate economic activity, including increased demand for vessel building and job creation in coastal communities.

These efforts are part of the DFFE ongoing revitalisation of the Proclaimed Fishing Harbours located in Lamberts Bay, St Helena Bay, Saldanha Bay, Hout Bay, and Gordon’s Bay.

A total of 37 vessels has been identified in these five harbours, comprising 17 abandoned vessels and 20 sunken vessels. To date, six vessels have been attended to or removed by their owners at their own cost, leaving 31 vessels remaining. 

Of these, 17 vessels—most of which are small leisure boats in Hout Bay Harbour—are expected to be removed through lifting and cutting operations before the end of 2025.

“The successful progress in removing sunken and abandoned vessels across our Western Cape harbours is a testament to our dedication to ensuring safe and sustainable fishing harbours. These efforts not only mitigate environmental and navigational risks but also create opportunities for economic growth by freeing up valuable mooring space,” the Minister said.

In Hout Bay, which accounts for the majority of the remaining vessels (25 identified, with 23 still to be addressed and 10 slated for lifting), the salvage operation for the vessels Edelweiss and African Unity has been underway for the past five days.

Despite initial plans to complete the removal within three days, the complexity of the operation, including the discovery of an additional unidentified vessel beneath one of the wrecks, has extended the timeline.

Collaboration

The DFFE, in collaboration with the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA), have expressed thier commitment to overseeing the completion of these operations in accordance with the Wreck and Salvage Act (Act No. 94 of 1996). 

SAMSA will continue to issue directives to vessel owners where necessary to facilitate removals.

“The collaborative efforts of our teams, SAMSA, and vessel owners are driving transformative change in our fishing harbours. We are committed to sustaining this momentum to ensure our harbours remain safe, functional, and economically vibrant,” the Minister said.

Teams have successfully pumped water from the vessels, and a team of divers is actively sealing identified holes to ensure the vessels can be safely floated and moved for salvaging. 

Additional vessels in Hout Bay, such as Merlin, Blue Boat, and Spes Nova, are scheduled for removal by the end of October 2025, while others like Grant and another Spes Nova are targeted for the end of December 2025. 

Several abandoned vessels, including SA 4256, C.Bull, Nico’s, Roly Poly, Royal Duke, Brilliant, Lucky Too, Teal, and two dinghies, are under discussion for lifting with a crane by November 2025. 

The owner of the White Boat has committed to repairing it and donating it to Small Scale Fisheries Co-Operatives.

In other harbours:
•    Gordon’s Bay (4 vessels identified, 1 remaining): The sunken Dolphin is set for removal by a diving school as part of a training programme, with a date to be confirmed by the end of October 2025. The abandoned vessels Sea Quest, Feelin Naughty, and Illusions – 29504 are also noted.
•    Lamberts Bay (2 vessels identified, 1 to be removed): The sunken Getruide ADF 549 and abandoned James Archer are pending, with SAMSA to issue a directive for Getruide ADF 549.
•    St Helena Bay (2 vessels identified, 2 to be removed): The sunken Arizon II and Anna SH1451P are pending SAMSA directives.
•    Saldanha Bay (4 vessels identified, 4 to be removed): The sunken Benguela Pride 350390, Petrie Hein –350553, OosterDAM 350481, and Angie V are pending SAMSA directives.

In May the Minister called for the urgent removal of wrecked and abandoned vessels that pose significant risks to navigation, marine ecosystems, and the safety of coastal communities.

READ | Efforts to remove wrecked and abandoned vessels
–SAnews.gov.za

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Alleged cop killers to appear in court 

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, October 14, 2025

Three alleged police killers are expected to appear before the Johannesburg Magistrates Court today on charges of murder, attempted murder, possession of unlicensed firearms, possession of ammunition, and possession of suspected stolen property.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) said the trio were arrested on Monday night in Berea, Selby and Eloff Extension. The arrests are in connection with the murder, attempted murder and armed robbery that occurred on 8 September 2025 in Benrose.

“On the day of the incident, it was reported that the deceased warrant officer Jabulani Mabuza’s girlfriend had a vehicle mechanical failure as she drove up the Benrose west on-ramp. The complainant then called the Warrant for assistance, and he came through. Just as the tow truck driver arrived to assist with the vehicle, they were accosted by unknown suspects who pointed them with a firearm as they disarmed the tow truck driver and shot warrant officer Mabuza. They went to the other side and pulled out Mabuza.  

“As they [did] do so, the tow truck driver managed to flee to his truck and drive to Jeppe police station for assistance,” said the Hawks.

Mabuza and his girlfriend managed to cross the freeway and were taken to Brenthurst Hospital for medical attention where he succumbed to his injuries.  

“Last night, 13 October 2025 an integrated multi-disciplinary team composed of the members of the Hawks’ Tactical Operational Management Section, Serious Organised Crime Investigation based in Johannesburg, Head Office Crime Intelligence’s Modus Operandi Centre, DPCI’s National Priority Violent Crime Investigation based in Head Office, BadBoyz Security and Vision Tactical Security acting on information, executed warrants of arrest at three addresses in the Johannesburg area. 

“The operation resulted in all three wanted suspects being arrested. The team also recovered three unlicensed 9mm firearms (two Barrett pistols with serial numbers and a Norinco pistol with its serial number filed off), ammunition for the pistols, a laptop, a cellphone and a silver grey BMW suspected to have been used in the commission of crime,” said the Hawks. – SAnews.gov.za 
 

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MoU to aid SA’s infrastructure plans

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, October 14, 2025

The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will see the United Kingdom provide expertise and capacity support worth nearly R10 million to South Africa’s infrastructure development efforts.

This as Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson and the United Kingdom (UK) Minister of State at the Department for Business and Trade, Chris Bryant signed the MoU for infrastructure collaboration in London.

Monday’s signing follows the announcement of collaboration by Macpherson and UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves in Durban earlier this year to capacitate the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) as it works towards using public assets for the public good and turning South Africa into a construction site.

The partnership will see the United Kingdom provide expertise and capacity support worth nearly R10 million across three focus areas:
•    Project Capstone, which will support the effective operationalisation of the DPWI’s Special and Strategic Delivery Unit (SSDU). This unit will accelerate infrastructure delivery by focusing on high-impact, high-priority projects and addressing systemic process inefficiencies that hinder effective implementation.
•    Project Speed, which will enhance the management of public assets through more effective and efficient public sector asset management, including improved resource efficiency.
•    Infrastructure South Africa’s Adopt-a-Municipality Programme, which will strengthen infrastructure delivery at a municipal level in selected focus municipalities.

Minister Macpherson said the partnership demonstrates how international collaboration can help unlock South Africa’s infrastructure potential and improve the state’s capacity to deliver. He said this will help to realise his vision of using public assets for the public good and turning South Africa into a construction site.

“The MoU marks an important step forward in our efforts to turn South Africa into a construction site and ensure that public assets are used for the public good. By partnering with the United Kingdom, we are creating a foundation for stronger project preparation, improved delivery, and the upskilling of our public sector teams.

“This MoU shows that we are delivering on reform within the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, ensuring that every project we undertake contributes meaningfully to job creation, local economic development, and the building of modern, resilient public infrastructure. 

“Our aim is to turn previously derelict buildings into assets for communities and ensure that construction projects are delivered on time and within budget. By working with all partners, we are well on our way to building a better South Africa,” said the Minister.

READ | SA to sign MoU on infrastructure collaboration
– SAnews.gov.za

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President Ramaphosa extends SIU probe into NLC

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed an amendment to the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) proclamation, broadening the scope of the Special Investigating Unit’s (SIU) ongoing investigation into the affairs of the commission.

The extension has been extended to include procurement contracts and extends for a five-year investigation period. 

In a statement on Monday, the SIU said Proclamation R293 of 2025 amends the original investigation mandate (Proclamation R. 32 of 2020) in two ways.

These are: 
•    It extends the investigation’s timeframe, allowing the SIU to probe allegations of serious maladministration from the inception of the original proclamation in November 2020 up to 10 October 2025, effectively extending the investigation period by five years.
•    It adds 21 new categories of procurement and contracting to the investigation. These include a wide range of services in which it is alleged that procurement processes were flouted, and public funds were misused.

The appointment of a panel of attorneys’ firms and legal practitioners, in terms of Bid NLC/2020-05, and the appointment of a service provider for a Comprehensive Employee Wellness Programme for the Employees of the NLC, in terms of RFP/2021-15, are among the newly added matters under investigation.

The amendment is a result of the allegations the SIU received during its investigation and the investigation’s findings, which necessitated an extension of the scope and time.

The initial investigation was divided into three phases, valued at approximately R2 billion. The SIU is concluding the third phase and will proceed with civil litigation. 

In addition, the following added matters under investigation include, but are not limited to the procurement of or contracting for:
•    The extension of the appointment of Metrofile for the off-site storage of documents and delivery thereof from 1 January 2021 to 31 March 2021.
•    The appointment of a service provider for the Procurement of Electronic Board Pack in terms of RFP/2020-06, RFQ NLC/2019-006 and Bid NLC 2020-006.
•    The appointment of a service provider for advertorial on Back to Basics Magazine.
•    Submission for approval: deviation from the normal procurement process, Independent Media, Arena Holdings, Media 24.
•    An education and awareness broadcast campaign related to the purchase order dated 29 October 2020; and
•    accommodation and travel services rendered by Regency Apartment Hotel and Ndila Transfers.

“The SIU is now authorised to investigate whether the procurement of, or contracting for, these services was conducted in a manner that was not fair, equitable, transparent, competitive, or cost- effective, as well as contrary to applicable legislation, Treasury instructions, or the NLC’s own policies and procedures.”

The unit added that the investigation will also cover any related unauthorised, irregular, fruitless and wasteful expenditure incurred by the NLC or the State. 

In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during its investigation to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action.

Under the SIU Act, the SIU is also authorised to initiate a civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to address any wrongdoing identified during its investigation resulting from acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration.

Beyond investigating maladministration, corruption, and fraud, the SIU is committed to identifying systemic failures and recommending measures to prevent future losses. –SAnews.gov.za 
 

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Call to use water resources for development

Source: Government of South Africa

Water resources should be used as a bridge for cooperation rather than a tool of conflict, Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahloba has said.

Mahlobo who is leading South Africa’s delegation to the 8th Cairo Water Week, currently underway in Egypt, delivered a message of peace, unity, and collaboration.
 

He joined global water leaders, scientists and policymakers to explore innovative solutions for climate resilience and water sustainability, in line with the event’s theme: “Innovative Solutions for Climate Resilience and Water Sustainability.”

Speaking during the plenary session on Cooperation for Sustainable Water Management, Mahlobo emphasised an urgent need to end ongoing conflicts that threaten global and regional stability, saying water must never be used as a weapon of war, but as a source of life, peace and solidarity among nations.

“Water connects us all. It is the lifeblood of humanity and the foundation of peace. Our shared responsibility is to ensure it sustains life, not conflict,” the Deputy Minister said.

Reaffirming South Africa’s role in regional water diplomacy, he highlighted the country’s commitment to cooperative governance, guided by the National Water Act of 1998 and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Revised Protocol on Shared Watercourses, as key frameworks enabling the cooperative management of transboundary rivers, such as the Orange–Senqu and Incomati.

“South Africa stands ready to work hand in hand with every African nation to secure our shared water future. No country can thrive in isolation. Our rivers flow across borders, so must our cooperation.

“The Government of South Africa remains fully committed to deepening partnerships, strengthening basin institutions and investing in technologies that guarantee water security, peace and prosperity for all Africans. Together, we can turn every drop of water into a symbol of hope, resilience and unity,” the Deputy Minister said.

Mahlobo also highlighted the importance of inclusivity and participation in water governance, calling for the greater involvement of women, youth and local communities in decision-making processes.

“The right to water is about equity, dignity and participation. Women and youth must not only benefit from our policies, [but] they must also help shape them,” he said.

He pointed to South Africa’s initiatives such as the Women in Water Diplomacy Network under the Orange–Senqu River Commission (ORASECOM) and the Department’s Youth Strategy, which continue to lead transformative efforts that empower marginalised groups and build a new generation of water sector leaders.

Looking ahead, Mahlobo expressed optimism that Africa’s shared water resources can serve as a foundation for peace, prosperity and resilience. He urged global leaders to strengthen transboundary cooperation, invest in climate-resilient infrastructure, and expand public-private partnerships to meet the continent’s growing water demand.

“Our collective hope is that water becomes not a source of conflict, but a catalyst for unity and progress. Governments must leave no one behind. This is both a moral duty and a developmental imperative,” Mahlobo concluded.

The 8th Cairo Water Week, which began on Sunday, 12 October 2025, continues to serve as a vital platform for knowledge exchange, policy dialogue and cross-border collaboration, reaffirming South Africa’s commitment to leading an inclusive, peaceful, and sustainable water agenda for the continent and beyond. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Deputy Minister Mhlauli to co-chair 2nd District Development Model meeting in the Northern Cape

Source: President of South Africa –

Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Ms Nonceba Mhlauli, together with the Northern Cape MEC for (MEC) for Transport, Safety and Liaison, Ms Limakatso Koloi, and the Executive Mayor of the Frances Baard District Municipality, Cllr Wende Marekwa, will convene the Second District Development Model (DDM) Meeting on Wednesday, 15 October 2025 at the Frances Baard District Municipality Lecture Rooms.
 
The meeting forms part of Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen coordination and alignment between the three spheres of Government to ensure integrated planning, service delivery, and accountability in line with the DDM’s “One District, One Plan” approach.

This engagement will review progress on the implementation of the District One Plan, assess catalytic projects under execution, and identify emerging challenges that require multi-sectoral intervention.

The session will also set out the roadmap towards Imbizos in the district and ensure that Government programmes respond effectively to the developmental priorities of local communities.

Details of the Meeting:
 
Date: Wednesday, 15 October 2025
Time: 09h00 – 13h00
Venue: Frances Baard District Municipality Lecture Rooms, Northern Cape

Media enquiries: Ms Mandisa Mbele, Office of the Deputy Minister in The Presidency, on 082 580 2213 or mandisam@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria