Category: South Africa Government

It is a hive of activity at the Sandton Convention Centre, as delegates arrive for the long-awaited edition of the 2026 South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC).

Inside the venue, companies are exhibiting their products and services, while Cabinet Ministers, business leaders and company representatives gather ahead of the official formalities. More than 1 200 delegates are anticipated to attend the two-day gathering.

South Africa is hosting its sixth Investment Conference, the country’s flagship platform to position itself as a credible, competitive and forward-looking investment destination in a rapidly changing global economy.

Held under the theme: ‘Invest. Partner. Prosper’, the conference brings together government, global investors, development finance institutions and strategic partners to advance investment-led growth and strengthen South Africa’s role as a gateway for investment into the African continent.

The conference aligns with commitments made by President Cyril Ramaphosa during the 2026 State of the Nation Address, with government aiming to set a more ambitious investment target over the medium-term.

Structured as a comprehensive investment platform, SAIC is designed to move from reform credibility to investor confidence, and from deployable opportunities to long-term global partnerships. The approach seeks to align South Africa’s domestic development priorities with international investment interests.

Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said efforts to mobilise investment into the country are ongoing.

“We have international delegations coming to South Africa, with the recognition that South Africa is an investment destination, and that it is a place where they can do business,” Magwenya said on Tuesday.

He emphasised that investment mobilisation is a continuous process.

The 2026 conference marks a shift from high-level planning to a more focused phase of implementation, as government accelerates delivery on existing investment commitments.

Government is targeting an additional R2 trillion in investment commitments over the next five years. This builds on the first five conferences, which secured a combined R1.5 trillion in pledges, with more than R600 billion already invested in the economy.

These investments have supported the establishment of new factories, mines and industrial facilities, contributing to job creation, poverty reduction and efforts to address inequality.

Held under the framework of the “3Ds” – Digitisation, Decarbonisation and Diversification –  the conference highlights opportunities in technology, clean energy and expanded trade partnerships across the African continent.

The event also serves as the launch platform for South Africa’s Second Investment Drive and aligns with the priorities of the 7th Administration, which include inclusive economic growth, employment creation, infrastructure development and economic reform.

The conference takes place amid improved investor confidence, supported by progress in key structural reforms, such as enhanced energy reliability, infrastructure development and broader economic recovery initiatives.

Launched in 2018 by President Ramaphosa, SAIC has become a central platform for attracting both global and domestic investors to explore emerging opportunities in South Africa.

The 2026 conference occurs during a period of significantly improved investor perception. Over the last 18 to 24 months, several critical economic challenges have been addressed, most notably the improvement in the country’s energy reliability. – SAnews.gov.za

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The North West Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism has raised serious concerns over the growing number of illegal mining activities and unauthorised chrome wash plants across the province, particularly in the Bojanala and Madibeng areas.

The concerns emerged during a recent engagement between the committee and the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, where a range of regulatory, environmental and enforcement challenges were highlighted.

The committee expressed concern that provisions of the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) are allegedly being exploited due to regulatory gaps and grey areas in the authorisation and oversight of chrome wash plants. It has requested the department to present a clause-by-clause analysis of the regulations and outline recommendations to address these gaps, including amendments to Section 24G of NEMA or the introduction of new regulations.

Members also highlighted the environmental impact of illegal wash plants, citing water pollution, illegal discharge into rivers, air pollution, land degradation and unsafe excavations, all of which negatively affect surrounding communities and municipal infrastructure.

Concerns were further raised about the persistence of illegal mining activities, despite existing legislation, with the committee noting that enforcement actions seldom result in prosecutions or convictions.

According to the department, approximately 70 chrome wash plants were inspected during the 2025/26 financial year, of which 30 were found to be operating without environmental authorisation. Seven criminal cases have been opened with the South African Police Service (SAPS), and several pre-compliance notices have been issued to operators.

While some operators have undertaken to apply for rectification in terms of Section 24G of NEMA, the committee expressed concern over delays in the payment of fines, lengthy appeals processes, and the overall slow pace of enforcement.

The committee also raised limited capacity constraints within the department, noting that only three compliance inspectors are currently deployed in the Bojanala District, which is insufficient to effectively monitor the increasing number of mining and wash plant activities in the area.

A lack of coordination among key enforcement agencies was identified as another major challenge. These include the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, SAPS, Home Affairs, the Department of Water and Sanitation, municipalities, traditional authorities, and other regulatory bodies.

The committee said fragmented enforcement and poor coordination contribute to the continued operation of illegal activities.

Additional concerns were raised about allegations that many wash plant operations are allegedly run by undocumented foreign nationals. The committee called for intensified joint operations involving Home Affairs and the Department of Labour to address both illegal operations and labour compliance issues.

Further issues highlighted include delays in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) application processes, poor-quality submissions by consultants, non-compliance with licence conditions, and allegations of corruption and bribery in licensing and inspection processes.

The committee has requested detailed information from the department on fines issued, operators involved, compliance notices served and clear timelines for ensuring that illegal operations are either brought into compliance or shut down.

Committee Chairperson Mpho Khunou described the situation as “extremely concerning”.

“Communities are suffering environmental damage, water pollution, and unsafe mining activities, while the province is not benefiting economically from these operations. We are particularly concerned about regulatory gaps, lack of enforcement capacity and poor coordination between institutions,” Khunou said.

He added that the committee would continue to push for stronger regulations, improved enforcement, a full audit of mining activities in the province and better coordination among all government departments involved.

The committee has called for a comprehensive audit of all mining and chrome wash plant activities in the province, the establishment of a central database of approved mining rights and environmental authorisations, and the implementation of a coordinated joint enforcement programme involving all relevant government institutions.

He said the committee will convene further stakeholder engagements to address the matter comprehensively and to ensure that mining activities in the province are conducted legally, responsibly and in a manner that benefits local communities while protecting the environment. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane, has visited the family of a Grade 3 learner, who died following a wall collapse at Lerutle Primary School, last week. 

The visit took place on Monday at the family home in Daveyton, days after the tragic incident that claimed the life of the young boy, identified by his family as Lwazi.

The learner succumbed to injuries sustained when a section of the school wall reportedly collapsed during breaktime on Thursday, 26 March, affecting six learners.

Speaking to members of the media during the visit, Chiloane said that an independent investigation would be conducted to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

“We will be bringing in an independent law firm to investigate the incident and provide a full report. In times like these, families want answers, and it is our responsibility to provide them. While we do so as a department, there are instances where families may feel the responses are not adequate. 

“To address this, we appoint independent law firms to conduct a thorough investigation into what happened. The report will include recommendations, which we will review and implement as such,” he said.

The bereaved family described Lwazi as a bright and dedicated learner, who had a deep love for school and reading.

“This feels like a dream. We are deeply heartbroken. We don’t even have words. It is very painful. We will miss him a lot. He was in Grade 3 but was able to read books from Grade 6,” the family said.

According to the Gauteng Department of Education, emergency services responded swiftly following the incident, transporting all six affected learners to various medical facilities for urgent treatment. While five learners continue to receive care, Lwazi later passed away in hospital.

The department has since deployed psycho-social support teams to assist learners, educators, and the grieving family.

Investigations into the cause of the wall collapse are ongoing. – SAnews.gov.za 

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The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has taken a decisive step to advance South Africa’s food security and improve global trade competitiveness through two landmark concession awards at the Maydon Wharf Precinct, in the Port of Durban. 

These transactions will unlock more than R1 billion in private sector investment in modernising port infrastructure, while strengthening Durban’s strategic position as a gateway for agricultural and perishable exports.

African Port Logistics and Infrastructure (Pty) Ltd, trading as KHOLD, has been appointed as the preferred bidder to handle fresh produce and compatible break-bulk cargo with a planned investment of R250 million.

With a committed R810 million in capital expenditure, the BAL SA & Africa Global Logistics Consortium has been named the preferred bidder for the development and management of a multi-purpose terminal to handle agricultural dry bulk and other compatible cargo.

These brownfield concessions will grant the two private operators the licence to finance, design, construct, operate, maintain and ultimately transfer the upgraded terminal facilities to TNPA at the end of the 25-year concession tenure. 

These projects will significantly enhance handling capacity for fresh produce and agricultural dry bulk, and strengthen supply chains from local farms to global markets.

Beyond infrastructure upgrades, the concessions are expected to deliver a meaningful economic impact to the SADC region. Both preferred bidders have made firm commitments to promote transformation and ensure inclusive economic growth. 

These commitments include participation of black-owned, small and emerging enterprises, as well as expanded opportunities for previously disadvantaged persons.

“These concessions not only respond to market demands but also advance national priorities that enable the port to transform, as prescribed by Transnet’s Reinvent for Growth Strategy. 

“By unlocking such significant investment, we are ensuring that Maydon Wharf evolves into a modern, efficient, terminalised and automated inclusive logistics hub. These transactions further strengthen Durban’s position as a competitive export platform for agricultural and fresh produce trade,” TNPA General Manager: Commercial Services, Dr Dineo Mazibuko, said.

The preferred bidders will now enter negotiations with TNPA to finalise Terminal Operator Agreements. This governance process will mark the next steps in implementing these strategically significant developments. – SAnews.gov.za

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The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) has called for a more coordinated and youth-focused economic response amid rising global uncertainty and domestic constraints.

The call comes after the latest decision by the South African Reserve Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) to keep the repo rate unchanged at 6.75%, against a backdrop of heightened global uncertainty and emerging economic risks, with policymakers opting for caution amid volatile international conditions.

According to the MPC, the recent outbreak of conflict in the Middle East has triggered a significant global supply shock, leading to higher prices key commodities, including oil, gas, and fertilisers while dampening global growth prospects.

These developments are expected to push inflation upwards in the short term and limit economic activity.

While South Africa has recorded modest economic growth of 1.1% in 2025, the NYDA warns that this level of expansion remains insufficient to address the country’s deep-rooted structural challenges, especially the persistent high rate of youth unemployment.

The agency said the current growth trajectory is neither inclusive nor transformative, with many young people still excluded from meaningful participation in the economy.

“Inflation remains contained at around 3% but is expected to rise temporarily due to higher energy prices, with fuel inflation projected to increase sharply in the coming months. 

“While this reflects external cost pressures, it will have direct consequences for young people, particularly through rising transport and food costs, which disproportionately affect low-income households,” the NYDA said.

The NYDA noted that while the decision to hold interest rates steady reflects a prudent and measured monetary policy stance, it also highlights the limitations of monetary tools in addressing broader structural challenges facing the South African economy.

“The combination of weak economic growth, rising costs, and limited employment prospects risks further deepening the socio-economic vulnerabilities of young people.”

From a developmental perspective, the current economic environment underscores the necessity for a more coordinated and growth-oriented policy response. The NYDA stressed that supply-side shocks, such as those stemming from global conflicts, cannot be resolved solely through interest rate adjustments.

Instead, the agency called for complementary fiscal, industrial and social policy interventions aimed at strengthening domestic resilience and expand productive capacity supporting inclusive growth.

Among its key recommendations, the NYDA is advocating for accelerated public investment, particularly in infrastructure and sectors with strong employment potential. It also called for targeted support for youth-owned enterprises to mitigate the impact of rising input and operating costs.

In addition, the agency highlighted the importance of strengthening of programmes that provide work experience, skills development, and pathways into the labour market, particularly for first-time job seekers.

The NYDA further stressed the need for stronger alignment between macroeconomic policy and youth development objectives, arguing that economic strategies must explicitly address the barriers facing young people.

South Africa’s youth unemployment crisis, the agency noted, is structural and requires deliberate policy action that goes beyond short-term stabilisation.

“Economic recovery must be measured not only by inflation outcomes, but by the extent to which it creates jobs, supports enterprise development, and improves the economic participation of young people,” the NYDA said.

The agency reaffirmed its commitment to advancing evidence-based policy solutions that place youth at the centre of South Africa’s economic response and long-term development trajectory. – SAnews.gov.za

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Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina will on Tuesday release the Green Drop Report, alongside progress reports on the Blue Drop and No Drop programmes, providing a comprehensive update on South Africa’s drinking water quality, service provision, and wastewater management.

The Green, Blue and No Drop Certification programmes are regulatory mechanisms of the Department of Water and Sanitation, as the water sector regulator in terms of both the National Water Act and Water Services Act.

The aim of this uniquely South African regulatory tool is to improve municipal drinking water quality, wastewater management, as well as water conservation and demand management.

The department explained that the Green Drop Report will provide an in-depth evaluation of wastewater management across municipalities, while the Blue Drop and No Drop progress reports will track improvements and ongoing challenges in drinking water quality and water use efficiency.

“Together, these reports will deliver a clear, evidence-based snapshot of how municipalities are meeting their constitutional obligations to provide reliable water and sanitation services. They will also recognise high-performing Water Services Authorities, identify areas of concern, and outline targeted interventions to strengthen regulation and support struggling municipalities,” the department said in a statement.

As the sector regulator under the National Water Act and the Water Services Act, the department said it has steadily strengthened its oversight through these programmes, with the introduction of the Blue Drop and Green Drop Reports in 2008 and later expanded with the No Drop programme in 2014.

“The release of these reports marks a critical moment for transparency, accountability and the ongoing effort to secure safe and sustainable water services for all South Africans,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

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The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a warning for severe thunderstorms in several areas in northern KwaZulu-Natal.

The service warned of localised damage to infrastructure and settlements, localised flooding of roads and bridges and possible minor motor vehicle accidents due to slippery roads and poor visibility.

The thunderstorms may lead to large amounts of hail over an open area and lightening as well as flying debris.

The warning remains in place from 12 noon to around 11pm.

Affected areas include Estcourt, Indaka, Ladysmith, Dannhauser, Dundee, Sobabili, Giants Castle, Mooi River and the Royal National Park. – SAnews.gov.za

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Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela has directed the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) Board to activate its forensic unit immediately to work with the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) on cases already under investigation, and refer identified instances of fraud and misrepresentation to the appropriate authorities.

The Minister, together with Deputy Ministers Mimmy Gondwe and Nomusa Dube-Ncube, took decisive action, following a recent joint meeting with the NSFAS Board, its Acting Chief Executive Officer, and the Auditor-General of South Africa.

The engagement focused on the institution’s 2024/25 audit outcome and ongoing concerns around student service delivery. Following the meeting, the Minister issued a formal directive aimed at stabilising the embattled financial aid body and restoring accountability.

READ | NSFAS clarifies misleading social media claim of R630 000 student payment

NSFAS challenges

NSFAS received a disclaimer of opinion for the 2024/25 financial year — the most serious audit outcome an institution can receive. According to the Auditor-General, the institution is facing deepening breakdown in governance, financial controls and accountability systems. Nine material irregularities were identified, including four newly identified cases.

While the current administration maintains that these failures are the result of longstanding institutional weaknesses, it has committed to fixing them.

Particularly alarming are findings derived from data analytics. The audit revealed that 822 beneficiaries listed as deceased in the Department of Home Affairs database continued to receive funding. Over 14 000 students exceeded the income eligibility threshold yet were funded, while 321 students were found to be receiving both NSFAS bursaries and Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grants.

In addition, tens of thousands of students, who either held prior qualifications or failed to meet academic progression criteria, continued to benefit from funding.

Manamela said these discrepancies point to significant diversion of funds intended for poor and working-class students — whether system failures, misrepresentation or fraud.

“We are not in a position yet to determine the exact proportion attributable to each cause. What we can do is investigate, recover and prevent recurrence,” Manamela said.

To address these issues, the Minister has instructed NSFAS to immediately deploy its forensic unit and collaborate with the Special Investigating Unit. All identified cases of fraud and misrepresentation are to be referred for legal action.

Officials emphasised that legitimate beneficiaries have nothing to fear, as the investigations are targeted at those who have misrepresented their circumstances, and at the system failures that allowed incorrect payments to continue.

Outrage at student accommodation crisis

The Auditor-General’s report also highlighted accommodation conditions that are unsafe and undignified living conditions, including housing near taverns, lack of reliable transport, and harassment from landlords due to delayed payments by NSFAS. Students had their belongings confiscated.

“These are not audit findings. These are violations of the basic dignity of young people who came to study, not to survive a housing crisis created by the State’s own dysfunction,” Manamela said.

The Minister has ordered an urgent audit of all accredited accommodation providers, and to suspend any provider found in breach of contract standards.

The department is also working with NSFAS to finalise a revised student accommodation policy framework aimed at strengthening accreditation standards, enforcement mechanisms, and student recourse channels. This work is expected to be concluded before the end of April 2026.

Progress amid setbacks

Despite the grim audit outcome, some progress has been recorded. The current NSFAS administration has, for the first time in several years, cleared its backlog of financial submissions and is on track to meet reporting deadlines for the 2025/26 cycle.

Four of the existing material irregularities are reportedly at a stage where the Auditor-General is satisfied with management actions.

A Loan Management and Recovery Strategy has been approved, and the South African Revenue Service has committed to reinstate data-sharing with NSFAS, a move expected to significantly strengthen eligibility verification going forward.

The CEO appointment process is also underway, including a legal review of Board appointment, which is before the courts.

The meeting established a joint accountability framework between the Department of Higher Education and Training, NSFAS, and the Auditor-General. The Board is required to submit a comprehensive remedial report to the Minister and Director-General by 30 April 2026, detailing corrective actions, consequence management plans, and system upgrades.

Quarterly oversight meetings will follow, with progress reports presented to Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Higher Education.

Focus on student experience

The Minister has also prioritised student concerns, particularly delays in appeals processing. Of the 7 805 outstanding appeals, 98.8% are attributed to system failures.

NSFAS has been instructed to implement a resolution plan within three weeks and ensure that appeals are finalised within 70 days.

Students living in unsafe and substandard housing have been assured that enforcement action will be taken against non-compliant accommodation providers.

“NSFAS is being directed to audit and enforce those contracts. Any provider who cannot meet the required standards will be removed from the accreditation list,” the Minister said.

A system under repair

Addressing nearly 800 000 students who rely on NSFAS, the Minister reaffirmed that legitimate funding will not be disrupted by ongoing investigations. Instead, the focus is on building a system that is accurate, efficient and fair.

“NSFAS is not beyond repair. It is an institution that carries a mandate of enormous national importance to ensure that poverty is not a barrier to education, and that South Africa can build the skilled, capable, and educated society that its people deserve. That mandate is worth fighting for.

“We are committed to NSFAS. We are committed to the students, and we are committed to building an institution that can be trusted,” Manamela said. – SAnews.gov.za

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The South African government will pursue its commitment to fiscal discipline and reform implementation as the upcoming South African Investment Conference (SAIC) provides a pivotal moment to translate recent economic gains into tangible investment outcomes.

This according President Cyril Ramaposa’s weekly newsletter, released ahead of the conference, to be held at the Sandton Convention Centre on Tuesday.

The gathering is South Africa’s premier and high-level platform to mobilise investment, showcase opportunities and to translate investments into tangible outcomes such as employment.

This year, more than 1 000 delegates will attend the SAIC, representing some 50 different countries.

“This year’s investment conference stands at the crossroads of opportunity and ambition. 

“The clear message we will be delivering is that we remain committed to staying the course on fiscal discipline, to accelerating the momentum of the reform agenda – and to leveraging investment to build an economy that is inclusive, transformed and that benefits all,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President laid out the case for South Africa as an investment destination of choice in the face of “increasingly volatile global financial conditions”.

“We are Africa’s largest economy with a diversified industrial base. Since we began our first R1.2 trillion investment mobilisation drive in 2018, we have secured investment pledges in mining, healthcare, automotive, food and beverage and others, reflecting the sophistication of our economy. 

“South Africa is also the leading destination for renewable energy investment on the continent, with these investments making up a considerable share of the total pledges made at previous conferences.

“We have a sound policy and regulatory environment, offering certainty to investors at a time when we are just one of many emerging markets across the globe vying for capital,” he said.

A growing economy

President Ramaphosa said that the 2026 SAIC, as well as those preceding it, is aimed at building “even greater confidence in our country as an investment destination” as well as demonstrating government’s commitment to reforms, policy certainty and execution.

He added that the “green shoots of economic recovery we are experiencing” further bolster South Africa’s position.

“The macroeconomic outlook has improved. We experienced four consecutive quarters of growth by the end of 2025, national debt has stabilised and more jobs are being created. Last year, our sovereign rating was upgraded for the first time in 17 years, and we were removed from the Financial Action Task Force grey list.

“The structural reform agenda being driven through Operation Vulindlela has unlocked progress in electricity, freight logistics, water, telecommunications, and the visa system. 

“We have brought load-shedding to an end and are creating a new, competitive electricity market that will ensure energy security and attract investment,” he highlighted.

The logistics sector is also undergoing modernisation and private investment in port and rail operations is also being enabled.

“Among the projects for which we have initiated a Private Sector Participation [PSP] process are the Ngqura Manganese Export Corridor in the Eastern Cape and the Richards Bay Dry Bulk Terminal in KwaZulu-Natal.

“Last year, we also signed a 25-year concession for the Durban Container Terminal Pier 2, representing R11 billion in private investment. A system for third-party access to the freight rail network is in place and 41 freight rail slots have been allocated to private companies,” President Ramaphosa said.

Additionally, reforms to the visa regime have also been implemented to attract skills and promote tourism.

“These include operationalising the Remote Work Visa, introducing a Trusted Employer Scheme to support major investors, and piloting an Electronic Travel Authorisation system.

“By showcasing the progress and durability of the reform agenda, our goal is to grow the pool of inward investment from businesses and countries that will ultimately be a bridge to new markets, technologies and networks for South Africa,” he said.

From pledges to projects

The first five-year investment mobilisation of the SAIC exceeded its target of R1.2 trillion in commitments – reaching some R1.57 trillion.

Some 300 projects were initiated and to date, 161 of these are now either finalised or still under construction.

“The pledges have not been merely vague commitments and promises, but have materialised as tangible, brick-and-mortar projects that are creating jobs for our people. 

“Last year, I opened the Platreef Mine in Mokopane in Limpopo, that is positioned to play a leading role in the production of sought-after critical minerals for the energy transition. This facility that employs more than 2 000 workers from the local community and is partly owned by a community trust, emanated from a R2,8 billion investment pledge by Ivanhoe Mines at the South Africa Investment Conference in 2022.

“Last year, I also visited the BMW plant in Rosslyn in Tshwane, where the automotive giant has invested R4,2 billion for electrification of its only plant on the continent that will be producing the BMW X3 Plug-in Hybrid electric vehicle. This was also an investment pledged at the SAIC,” President Ramaphosa highlighted.

As South Africa puts on the final preparatory touches ahead of the conference on Tuesday, the administration is placing its emphasis on execution over announcements.

“By showcasing our unique and favourable proposition as an investment destination of choice, we have set ourselves the goal of mobilising R2 trillion in new investments by 2028.

“As we strive to achieve growth that creates jobs for our people, this next phase will move from pledges towards implementation,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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