Category: South Africa Government

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) will today launch the country’s electoral programme ahead of the general voter registration weekend scheduled for 20 and 21 June 2026.

The purpose of the event is to unveil the IEC’s communication campaign, demonstrate readiness for the upcoming Local Government Elections and raise awareness on key aspects of the electoral process, including operational readiness, important timelines for the elections, and priority electoral information of interest to the public and stakeholders.

Last month, President Cyril Ramaphosa officially announced 4 November 2026 as the date for South Africa’s upcoming Local Government Elections, setting the stage for political parties and voters to begin preparations.

“The 4th of November 2026 is the date that we have set for the Local Government Elections that will have completed a full five years since the 2021 [municipal elections]. This is in line with our constitutional construct [to] keep to those timelines that are clearly set out in our Constitution,” President Ramaphosa said at that time.

The proclamation of the election date followed consultations with the Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister. It signalled the official start of the campaign period, with political parties expected to mobilise support and prepare for the polls. – SAnews.gov.za

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Electricity and Energy Minister, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, says an agreement has been reached between Eskom, the City of Johannesburg (CoJ) and its power utility, City Power, to keep the lights on in the city.

About a week ago, Eskom issued a notice of intent to reduce, interrupt and/or terminate electricity supply to certain bulk supply points in the city due to the R5.2 billion owed by the City and City Power (CP) to Eskom. 

“I’m delighted to say that we have found a path to resolve this problem,” the Minister said, following a meeting with all stakeholders, including Joburg Mayor Dada Morero and Eskom Group Chief Executive Dan Marokane.

Some two years ago, the two parties had reached an Electricity Supply Agreement to address the debt issue. 

“The City… experienced a number of challenges leading up to the end of last year and the beginning of this year, and they were unable to keep up with the provisions of that agreement. Eskom… then issued a notice of either interruption, disruption or discontinuation of bulk electricity supply to the City of Johannesburg.

“What we have agreed to… reaffirms the provisions of the existing agreement, which says we need to keep up with the current account and find a way of servicing the debt that has now grown,” Ramokgopa said.

The Minister said Eskom, the City and City Power will “work out a partnership” because of the sheer magnitude of the City and the residents who are paying for services.

“Johannesburg is just too big to fail. It is the powerhouse of the South African economy and the epicentre of the financial markets in the country and across the continent. As opposed to dealing with Johannesburg at arm’s length…we have accepted that we need to provide some degree of support to City Power. 

“There are a lot of customers who are paying and I think it would be particularly unfair for those customers to be collateral damage, so we need to find a solution,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za

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The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) has extended heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues in the media industry on the passing of respected journalist, Baldwin Ndaba.

“His distinguished career spanned several years across several publications, where he made an outstanding contribution to journalism in South Africa. He will be remembered for his professionalism, commitment to truth, and dedication to telling the stories that shaped public discourse,” the GCIS said on Tuesday.

Government also recognised his commitment to regional and provincial journalism during his time at the Diamond Fields Advertiser, where he contributed significantly to community-centred reporting and amplified local voices and issues.

“Government honours his contribution to the media sector and recognises the important role he played in informing, educating, and shaping democratic dialogue in the country,” the GCIS said. 

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies, Khusela Sangoni Diko, also expressed profound sadness at the passing of Ndaba, highlighting his contribution to the journalism profession and democratic accountability, which left an indelible mark on South Africa’s media landscape.

She described Ndaba as a fearless and principled journalist who understood the critical role of the media in strengthening constitutional democracy.

“Through his incisive reporting, commitment to truth and passion for objective journalism, Ndaba ensured that the voices of ordinary South Africans were amplified while those entrusted with power remained accountable to the people,” Diko added.

She further noted that Ndaba’s distinguished career was characterised by integrity, professionalism and intellectual depth, adding that his work consistently reflected a commitment to ethical journalism and the public interest.

“May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his loved ones find strength and comfort during this difficult period of mourning,” she said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Government has welcomed the findings of the 2025 General Household Survey (GHS) released by Statistics South Africa, showing that household access to improved water, sanitation and electricity has improved significantly over the past 23 years.

The report reflects continued progress in improving the living conditions of millions of South Africans through sustained investment in basic services, infrastructure, housing, education and social development. 

In a statement on Tuesday, the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said the survey confirms that democratic South Africa continues to expand access to essential services and improve the quality of life of households across the country.

The findings show significant long-term progress in access to formal housing, electricity, water, sanitation and digital communication. 

Formal dwellings increased to 84,2%, up 10,7 percentage points from 73,5% in 2002. 

Access to electricity has increased substantially, from 76,7% in 2002 to 90,6% in 2025, accompanied by reduced reliance on traditional fuels. 

More households now have access to improved sanitation and piped water services (flush toilets and pit toilets with ventilation pipes), with data showing an increase from 61,7% in 2002 to 84,0% in 2025. 

The survey further reflects growing household access to internet connectivity and mobile communication, demonstrating progress towards a more digitally connected society.

“Government is particularly encouraged by improvements in household infrastructure and living standards, including increased access to formal dwellings and the continued reduction in the use of unsafe and inadequate sanitation facilities. 

“These gains are the result of sustained public investment and coordinated service delivery efforts across all spheres of government,” the GCIS said.

The survey also highlights the important role of social support measures that the government has in place in protecting vulnerable households and reducing the impact of poverty and economic hardship on communities. 

The report revealed that by 2025, grants reached 39,5% of individuals and 50,6% of households, with nearly one-quarter (23,4%) relying on them as their source of income.

“Importantly, the findings bear testament to a government that is working and provide evidence that enables the government to continuously improve planning, resource allocation and service delivery interventions.

“While progress has been made, government acknowledges that many South Africans continue to face socio-economic challenges and reiterates that it remains focused on addressing these challenges through targeted reforms, infrastructure development, economic recovery measures and partnerships aimed at improving livelihoods and creating sustainable opportunities for all citizens,” the GCIS said. –SAnews.gov.za

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The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Mamelodi Sundowns on their remarkable achievement in securing the CAF Champions League title.

The Minister described the victory as a testament to the club’s dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to excellence. 

He added that Mamelodi Sundowns have once again demonstrated why South African football continues to compete at the highest level on the African continent.

“On behalf of the Government of South Africa and all football-loving South Africans, I congratulate Mamelodi Sundowns on this outstanding achievement. 

“Your success has brought immense pride to our nation and serves as an inspiration to aspiring footballers across the country. You have flown the South African flag high and shown that through hard work, discipline, and teamwork, greatness can be achieved,” McKenzie said on Tuesday.

The Minister further commended the players, the technical team, the management, the supporters, and all stakeholders whose collective efforts contributed to this historic success.

“As champions of Africa, Mamelodi Sundowns have not only written another memorable chapter in their illustrious history but have also strengthened South Africa’s standing in continental football,” he said. –SAnews.gov.za

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The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has confirmed that exceptionally high rainfall totals have been recorded at the Ceres Automatic Weather Station (AWS), highlighting a notably active start to the winter rainfall season over parts of the south-western interior in the Western Cape.

“Climatologically, May marks the transition into the Western Cape winter rainfall season. However, the magnitude of rainfall observed during May 2026 was significantly above normal,” the weather service said on Tuesday.

Rainfall observations extracted on 22 May 2026 indicate that the Ceres AWS has already accumulated a monthly total of 507,0 mm for May to date. 

“This amount far exceeds rainfall totals recorded during the preceding months of 2026. The most significant rainfall event occurred between 10 and 12 May 2026, when two persistent and intense cold fronts affected Ceres and much of the Western Cape,” SAWS said.

During these three days, the station recorded 69,4 mm on 10 May, an exceptional 333,2 mm on 11 May and 75,6 mm on 12 May.

According to the weather service, the May 2026 rainfall total recorded at the Ceres AWS was exceptionally high when compared to the station’s long-term climatological monthly averages.

The station recorded 507,0 mm during May 2026 (to date), while the long-term average rainfall for May is approximately 80,4 mm. 

This means that rainfall during May 2026 was more than six times the average monthly rainfall normally expected for this time of year.

The rainfall total also exceeded the climatological monthly averages for the peak winter rainfall months, including the June average of 245,2 mm, the July average of 182,0 mm and the August average of 120,0 mm.

While the substantial rainfall contributed positively to dam levels, groundwater recharge, river flows, and agricultural water availability, the excessive rainfall over this short period had adverse impacts on communities.  

“Much of the impact associated with these extraordinary rainfall amounts was experienced across the Witzenberg, Breede Valley and Langeberg Municipalities, largely due to the Breede River catchment system originating in the Skurweberg Mountains near Ceres. 

“The river flows through Mitchell’s Pass into the Breede River Valley and continues through major agricultural and wine-producing towns such as Worcester, Robertson and Swellendam before reaching the Indian Ocean at its estuary in Witsand. As a result, heavy runoff and rising river levels contributed to widespread impacts across parts of the catchment,” SAWS said. –SAnews.gov.za

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The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Director of Public Prosecutions in Mpumalanga has filed a formal complaint with the Magistrates Commission against Chief Magistrate Tuletu Tonjeni.

The Magistrate presided over the extortion and money laundering case against taxi boss Madoda Johannes Sibanyoni and others in Kwaggafontein earlier this month.

The matter was controversially struck off the roll after the prosecutor failed to appear in court.

READ | NPA exploring options in Sibanyoni matter

“The formal complaint is premised on serious concerns that the NPA has in the manner in which she conducted the court proceedings…that culminated in the two orders that she granted.

“The two orders relate to the conviction of the prosecutor for contempt of court, authorisation of a warrant of arrest against him and striking the criminal case off the roll in terms of Section 342A of the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977.

“In as much as we have filed a notice for leave to appeal against the contempt of court order and the authorisation of a warrant of arrest, we deem it prudent that we consider the filing of a formal complaint with the Magistrates Commission,” the prosecutorial body said.

The NPA said it holds a “firm view” that the conduct displayed during proceedings “raises serious institutional concerns relating to judicial decorum, procedural fairness and the proper administration of justice”.

“Investigation of the complaint to the Magistrates Commission would therefore serve the broader purpose of protecting the integrity of the Magistracy, ensuring accountability, and preventing recurrence of similar irregularities in future proceedings,” the NPA explained.

NPA Head Advocated Andy Mothibi added: “This process will go a long way in protecting the image of the criminal justice system and in setting the records clear”. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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As South Africa navigates an increasingly complex global environment, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau has assured the public that the country remains firmly on course, with government focused on stimulating investment, industrialisation and combating illicit trade.

“The global environment has been deeply unsettled by the ongoing Middle East War and its associated disruptions to supply chains of energy, fertilizers and petrochemicals,” Tau said.

Presenting his department’s Budget Vote in Cape Town on Tuesday, the Minister said that as a net oil importer, South Africa faces real recessionary risks and threats to industrial competitiveness. 

“Amidst these headwinds and as this budget vote will indicate, we are turning the corner as a country, and as the dtic, our work remains central to this momentum,” Tau said.

Tau said South Africa’s policy environment is now consistent and forward-looking and that Cabinet recently adopted the Industrial Development Strategy (IDS), which directs the country’s industrial policy agenda.

“Our pathways of decarbonisation, diversification, and digitalisation anchor the Industrial Development Strategy, thereby reflecting the reality that South Africa cannot compete in the world of the future using the tools of the past. 

“We are reviewing our Automotive Production Development Plan (APDP2), with a view to stimulating new investments in South Africa and supporting the growth of our component manufacturers,” he said.

Tau said the work of the dtic in implementing localisation is evident in the R86.6 billion in locally manufactured goods and services procured in the 2025/26 financial year.

“For this current financial year, our target is R100 billion in localisation. This is possible through collaboration with our social partners,” he said.

In regard to the systemic challenge of dealing with the illicit economy, which costs the South African economy an estimated R700 billion, equating to roughly 10% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Tau said critical intervention is being made by the National Consumer Commission.

“As a measure to protect consumers from illicit trade in the economy, in this financial year, we will publish a Track-and-Trace mechanism on goods. The mechanism will mainly target illicit trade in tobacco, alcohol, food and consumer appliances,” he said.

Tau said the 2026 South African Investment Conference (SAIC) secured the highest-ever value of investment commitments since its establishment in 2018.

“Domestic firms led the charge, with two-thirds of investments coming from South African companies, which signalled a strong confidence in the local economy. The conference formally launched South Africa’s second investment mobilisation drive, targeting R3 trillion in new investment by 2030.       

“Despite the challenging global trading environment, the country’s Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Programme continues to make a meaningful contribution towards attracting fixed capital investments. To date, spatial transformation efforts have resulted in 224 operational Investments to the value of more than R31 billion, resulting in 28 821 active jobs created,” he said.

The dtic and its entities have been entrusted with consolidated resources amounting to approximately R130.6 billion over the medium term to advance South Africa’s industrialisation, economic transformation, and investment agenda. – SAnews.gov.za

  

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Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister Sello Seitlholo has noted visible operational improvement at the Percy Stewart Wastewater Treatment Works in Mogale City, Gauteng, although more work is still required to ensure treated wastewater meets required national standards.

Seitlholo made the remarks during a working visit to Mogale City Local Municipality on Monday, where he met with municipal leaders and inspected wastewater infrastructure affecting the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, due to poor effluent discharged to the Blougatespruit, Bloubankspruit tributaries and the Crocodile River from their wastewater systems.

According to the latest Green Drop Report, Mogale City’s wastewater systems continue to perform poorly overall, with scores below 30%. 

Percy Stewart Wastewater Treatment Works recorded a performance score of 68%, while the Flip Human Wastewater Treatment Works achieved 64% and the Magaliesburg Wastewater Treatment Works performed dismally at 49%.

The Deputy Minister held a stakeholder engagement with the executive mayors of Mogale City Local Municipality, Rand West City Local Municipality and Merafong City Local Municipality to discuss pollution concerns linked to wastewater discharged into the Blougatspruit, Bloubankspruit tributaries and ultimately the Crocodile River.

Seitlholo’s engagement formed part of the department’s ongoing programme to monitor municipal water and wastewater systems, strengthen regulatory compliance, and support municipalities in addressing the problem of water pollution caused by untreated waste released in the water courses in the Rand West region.

During the engagements, mayors expressed their commitment to improve the standard of effluent released into the water courses, as well as the operational improvement of the wastewater infrastructure in their municipalities.

Following the meeting, the Deputy Minister conducted an oversight inspection at the Percy Stewart Wastewater Treatment Works, which is currently undergoing refurbishment, to assess the operational status and performance of the infrastructure.

While acknowledging significant improvement in the operations at the plant, he said critical work still needed to be completed, including the refurbishment of non-operational pump stations.

Seitlholo warned that failure to resolve these issues will continue to affect downstream water users, including the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site and the Crocodile River system, which feeds into the Hartbeespoort Dam.

The Hartbeespoort Dam serves as a water source for Madibeng Local Municipality and supports irrigation activities managed by the Hartbeespoort Irrigation Board.

“There are major improvements that have been made in most parts of the Wastewater Treatment Works, but there is more to be done to bring the treated effluent to the required standards. In the coming months, the municipality will conclude the dosing of the effluent to remove E. coli bacteria from the treated effluent.

“However, there are other municipalities such as Merafong Local Municipality, which is still in a critical stage as far as the Green Drop assessment is concerned. The Department of Water and Sanitation will continue to work with the municipality to bring a turnaround to the municipality’s wastewater treatment works,” Seitlholo said.

Over the past five years, the department has supported Mogale City through the Water Services Infrastructure Grant (WSIG) to help address water and sanitation challenges, including refurbishment work at the Percy Stewart plant.

The municipality has benefited from the WSIG funding for the refurbishment of the Percy Stewart plant, which discharges its effluent into the Blougatespruit and Bloubankspruit.

Executive Mayor of Mogale City, Lucky Sele, acknowledged that although improvements had been made at the wastewater treatment facility, the municipality had regressed in recent Green Drop assessments.

“We have worked tirelessly to bring the plant to functionality, and we hope that in the next Green Drop evaluations, we will be able to do better as the city,” Sele said. –  SAnews.gov.za
 

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