Category: South Africa Government

The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has confirmed that the affected section of the R563 will remain closed to traffic after geotechnical assessments found the area to be unsafe for public use. 

The decision follows the development of a sinkhole along the R563 near the N14 intersection in recent weeks. Based on the latest assessments, the department has resolved not to open the temporary road as previously considered.

Departmental officials remain on site and are set to begin excavating trenches to physically prevent vehicles from illegally accessing the closed section of the road. This comes amid growing concerns about motorists disregarding road closures and safety barriers.

Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, condemned the continued non-compliance by some road users, warning that such behaviour poses serious risks. 

“The continued lawlessness and blatant disregard for the safety measures is completely unacceptable. Such behaviour places motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, nearby residents and emergency services at serious and unnecessary risk,” the MEC said.

The department is also working to re-site barriers and install additional warning signage. At the same time, it is engaging law-enforcement agencies to intensify enforcement of the road closure, prevent illegal access and curb reckless driving in the affected area.

“Ignoring these safety measures endangers lives and will not be tolerated,” Diale-Tlabela emphasised.

The department has again urged road users to refrain from entering the closed-off section of the R563 and has appealed for patience and cooperation from the public while safety interventions and assessments continue. – SAnews.gov.za 

23 views

President Cyril Ramaphosa has confirmed the nominations to the Steering Committee of the National Dialogue, marking a key milestone in the establishment of a citizen led, inclusive process aimed at shaping South Africa’s long-term social and economic future.

The President, who is convenor of the National Dialogue, confirmed the nominations received from a wide range of social sectors in a statement on Thursday. 

In line with his responsibility in terms of Section 83 of the Constitution to promote national unity, President Cyril Ramaphosa has convened an inclusive National Dialogue to address the challenges confronting the country.  

The Steering Committee will be responsible for setting strategic priorities and coordinating the implementation of the National Dialogue process across the country.

The confirmation gives effect to a resolution of the First National Convention held on 15–16 August 2025, which agreed that all identified social sectors should nominate representatives to serve on the Steering Committee. 

The decision was intended to ensure that the National Dialogue remains inclusive, representative and firmly citizen led.
Over recent months, organisations across 33 identified sectors and six sub-sectors convened meetings to identify nominees. The Presidency said every effort was made to ensure that no sector of society was excluded from the process.

In addition to sectoral representatives, provision was made for the President to nominate two representatives, while the former Preparatory Task Team and Convention Organising Committee nominated additional members. The Steering Committee will also be able to co-opt up to five people with relevant expertise and experience to further strengthen inclusivity.

The National Dialogue has been convened as a society-wide process to reflect on the country’s challenges, develop a shared vision for the coming decades and agree on priority actions across sectors. 

Through this process, South Africa aims to forge a new social compact that will unite all South Africans on the kind of socioeconomic development and transformation the country should undergo in the next decades.

The Eminent Persons Group, appointed as guarantors of the integrity and inclusivity of the process, compiled the nominations from the various sectors and submitted them to the President for confirmation.

The Steering Committee is expected to hold its inaugural meeting and induction early in January 2026.

 Once constituted, it will also assist sectors that have not yet completed their nomination processes.
President Ramaphosa thanked all those who have made themselves available to serve. 

“I wish all Steering Committee members well in undertaking this important task to advance the building of a free, equal, united and prosperous nation,” he said.

The members of the Steering Committee are:

Sectoral Nominees
1. Valentia Andrews – National NGOs / NPO Networks
2. Michelle Arendse – Khoisan Leaders
3. Ashley Benjamin – Labour and Unions
4. Dumisile Cele – Children
5. Cynthia Chishimba – National NGOs / NPO Networks
6. Rebecca Como – Khoisan Leaders
7. Duduzile Dlamini – Sex Work
8. Scelo Duma – Government Departments
9. Khanyisa Dunjwa – Health / HIV
10. Luyolo Dwesi – Youth
11. Keagen Je-ron Gertse – Represented Political Parties
12. Jimmy Ntobeko Gotyana – National NGOs / NPO Networks
13. Annette Theresa Griessel – Foundations
14. Crispin Hemson – Restorative Justice, Peace & Safety
15. Cheryl Hendricks – Women
16. Josephilda Hlope – Government Departments
17. Lance Joel – Government Departments
18. Howard Johnson – Small Businesses, Stokvels & Informal Economy
19. Moipone Jwayi – Rural & Agricultural / Land Rights
20. Marble Bore Kalembo – LGBTQIA+
21. Luzuko Khohli – Arts, Culture and Creative Industries
22. Steven Thapelo Khunou – Faith Based Organisations
23. Bosa Ledwaba – Women
24. Tebogo Legodi – LGBTQIA+
25. Lawrence Elijah Lekgowane – Transport
26. Gomolemo Lesejane – Faith Based Organisations
27. Siyabulela Lucas – Persons with Disabilities
28. Innocent Madlala – Small Businesses, Stokvels & Informal Economy
29. Mahlatse Martinah Kgaladi Magoro – Persons with Disabilities
30. Bridgemohan Maharaj – Faith Based Organisations
31. Mxolisi President Siphamandla Mahlangu – Persons with Disabilities
32. Realeboga Makgeledise – Youth
33. Thulasizwe Makhanya – Foundations
34. Octavia Thenjiwe Makhubu – Education
35. Malemolla David Makhura – Represented Political Parties
36. Thabo Makwela – Small Businesses, Stokvels & Informal Economy
37. Steve Mashiya – Foundations
38. Loungo Masire – Arts, Culture and Creative Industries
39. Kganki Matabane – Formal Business 
40. Khulekani Mathe – Formal Business 
41. Looks Matoto – Persons with Disabilities
42. Busisiwe Mavuso – Formal Business 
43. Nokuthula Caritus Mazibuko – Academia, Think Tanks & Research
44. Odwa Mbane – Formerly Incarcerated
45. Hussein Mubaarak Mbonambi – Faith Based Organisations
46. Palesa Rosemary Mboweni – Women
47. Buhle Mchunu – Academia, Think Tanks & Research
48. Charles Mcunu – Transport 
49. Promise Memela – Health / HIV
50. Mabalane Mfundisi – Health / HIV
51. Donald Mkhwanazi – Students
52. Shannon Nontobeko Mokoena – Rural & Agricultural / Land Rights
53. Busang Obakeng Molekane – Sports
54. Mzwandile Molo – Faith Based Organisations
55. David Morema – Government Departments
56. Boitumelo Mosenogi – Small Businesses, Stokvels & Informal Economy
57. Keitumetse Fatimata Moutloatse – GBVF
58. Kunene Mpho – Media, Linguistic & Communication
59. Tshilidzi Mulaudzi – Academia, Think Tanks & Research
60. Muriel Mamotala Mumba – Civic Movements & Local Organisations
61. Treasure Ndesi – Men’s Sector
62. Marshall Nelson – Education
63. Nondumiso Ngonyama – Traditional Leaders
64. Beau Nkaelang – Men’s Sector
65. Mbali Nkosi – Youth
66. Matthew Parks – Labour and Unions
67. Letsiri Phaahla – Traditional Leaders
68. Tshegofatso Tebogo Phakisa – Media, Linguistic & Communication
69. Zandile Phiri – Represented Political Parties
70. Romeo Qetsimani – Arts, Culture and Creative Industries
71. Nkanyiso Radebe – Restorative Justice, Peace & Safety
72. Lebogang Ramafoko – Media, Linguistic & Communication
73. Hayley Reichert – Immigration
74. Vanessa Samuel-Chetty – GBVF
75. Edward Saunderson – Sports
76. Fatima Shabodien – Restorative Justice, Peace & Safety
77. Ngaletjang Emily Shilakoe – Media, Linguistic & Communication
78. Shakespeare Mandla Sibanyoni – Rural & Agricultural / Land Rights
79. Thandeka Patience Sibiya – Immigration
80. Tolika Sibiya – Youth
81. Lisa Silwana – Youth
82. Tumi Sole – Civic Movements & Local Organisations
83. Patric Solomons – Children
84. Sandile Soxokashe – Youth
85. Sinesipho Soxujwa – Civic Movements & Local Organisations
86. Qhamisa Tengile – Small Businesses, Stokvels & Informal Economy
87. Mammatli Thakhuli-Nzuza – Arts, Culture and Creative Industries
88. Ntandane Thembelihle – GBVF
89. Gerald Twala – Labour and Unions
90. Riaan Van der Bergh – Education
91. Tanya van Meelis – Labour and Unions
92. Lee-Anne Walker – LGBTQIA+
93. Monica Woodhouse – Children
94. Xolani Benson Xala – Immigration
95. Zwakele Zondo – Rural & Agricultural / Land Rights

Nominees of the Convention Organising Committee:
96. Boichoko Ditlhake                             
97. Tessa Dooms

Nominees of the President
98. Mduduzi Mbada
99. Zwoitwaho Nevhutalu

– SAnews.gov.za

 

46 views

The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) has urged women and people with disabilities to remain vigilant against financial abuse during the festive season.

The department raised concern over the increased risk of financial exploitation targeting women and persons with disabilities during this period.

The department explained that financial abuse can take various forms, including controlling access to money, misusing income or social grants, forcing individuals into debt under their names, and exploiting economic dependence.

According to the DWYPD, perpetrators often intensify these tactics during the festive season, leaving women and persons with disabilities financially trapped and burdened with debt.

The department emphasised that economic abuse is recognised as a form of domestic violence under South African law and urged women and persons with disabilities to remain alert.

“We must recognise that financial abuse is not only an economic violation; it is a form of control and intimidation used to silence women and persons with disabilities. During the festive season, when financial pressures increase, so does the risk,” the department said.

The department also called on families and communities to remain vigilant, supportive, and protective of the rights of women and persons with disabilities.

The department noted that many women and persons with disabilities are often denied access to their own salaries, bonuses, savings, and government benefits during this time.

“Many are also pressured to cover holiday expenses while partners or family members misuse household funds.”

To address the growing concern, the department called for:
•    Increased community awareness on recognising and reporting financial abuse.
•    Closer collaboration between government departments, banks, and social services to detect and prevent financial exploitation.
•    Protection of social grants and income from misuse by partners or family members.
•    Strengthened economic empowerment programmes for women, especially women with disabilities.
The department further reminded South Africans that gender-based violence (GBV) is not only physical.

“Financial control is a powerful tool of oppression. Let us work together to ensure women, especially women with disabilities, remain safe, supported, and financially independent,” the department said.

Members of the public who suspect financial exploitation are urged to report it to the relevant authorities and ensure that women, particularly women with disabilities, receive the necessary support to protect their independence and dignity. – SAnews.gov.za
 

53 views

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for unity, dialogue and regional cooperation as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) concluded its virtual Extraordinary Summit on the political and security situation in Madagascar.

Delivering closing remarks at the summit on Wednesday, President Ramaphosa said the engagements by Heads of State and Government reflected a shared commitment to peace and stability in the region.

“The unity of purpose that has governed our engagements on this and other critical matters affecting our region is indeed commendable. We must continue in this vein,” he said.

President Ramaphosa said deliberations on Madagascar had been “substantive, detailed, constructive and most importantly, outcomes based,” underscoring SADC’s resolve to support a peaceful resolution to the country’s political challenges.

He called on the people of Madagascar to seize the moment and pursue national reconciliation.

“We call on all the Malagasy people to take this opportunity to deeply reflect on the challenges facing their country and choose the path of peace, unity, reconciliation and development,” the President said.

The SADC Chairperson welcomed the restoration of calm in Madagascar and noted steps taken by the Transitional Government to initiate national consultations earlier this month, saying these developments provided a foundation for further engagement and dialogue.

President Ramaphosa emphasised that SADC would remain actively engaged in Madagascar’s transition process, reaffirming the regional bloc’s commitment to peace, constitutional order and democratic governance.

He also highlighted the importance of cooperation among SADC Member States, noting that instability in one part of the region has implications for all. 

“Inasmuch as conflict and instability in one part of the region impacts us all, cooperation is key to the region’s stability, peace and progress,” he said.

Turning to organisational matters, President Ramaphosa congratulated Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema on his election as incoming Chair of SADC, expressing confidence in continued collaboration to advance the organisation’s mandate.

“I look forward to working closely with you, my dear brother as we advance the mandate of SADC in pursuit of peace, security and shared prosperity for our region and all its peoples,” he said.

President Ramaphosa concluded by thanking Heads of State and Government, Ministers and senior officials for their participation and preparatory work and extended well wishes to the region. 

He wished leaders and citizens “a blessed festive season and a prosperous new year.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

55 views

The South African National Parks (SANParks) has advised day visitors planning to visit the Kruger National Park (KNP) during the festive season that gate quotas will be in place to prevent overcrowding on the roads and facilities. 

“Once daily quotas are reached, only pre-booked visitors will be allowed entry. Queueing will then apply, and access will be dependent on the number of visitors exiting the park. Wild Card members are reminded that they are not exempt from the pre-booking administration fee,” SANParks said on Wednesday.

To safeguard entry, visitors are advised to book online ahead of their visit at www.sanparks.org, for which a non-refundable administration fee of R59 for adults and R29 is payable. 

This fee is separate from the conservation fee, which remains payable at the gate unless a valid Wild Card is produced.

“Importantly, the quota system does not apply to overnight guests but is specifically relevant to day visitors. Pre-booked day visitors are prioritised at the gate but must arrive within their allocated time slots. Late arrivals will be treated as non-booked and will not receive priority access,” SANParks said.

Special attention is therefore drawn to operational times, as it pertains to entry of pre-booked visitors:

• Time slot 1: 05.30 to 08:00
• Time slot 2: 08:00 to 10:00
• Time slot 3: 10:00 onwards

The conservation fee for South African residents, as well as Zimbabwe and Mozambique nationals, is R134 per adult and R67 per child between ages 2 to 11 years. 

For nationals of Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, the conservation fee is R275 per adult and R137 per child. 

“The standard conservation fee of R602 for adults and R300 for children applies to all other guests. To this effect, South African identity documents or driver’s licences will be required for South Africans, with all other guests having to produce a passport. 

“This applies to both drivers and all passengers. Failure to produce valid identification will result in the payment of the standard conservation fee of R602 for adults and R300 for children,” SANParks said. 

Vehicles without licenCe plates or display of a valid temporary licenCe number will not be allowed to enter or exit the park. 

Any vehicle found inside the park without proper plates will be impounded, and the driver will be charged and fined. 

Ranger Services, the South African Police Service and the South African National Defence Force will be deployed throughout the festive period to ensure compliance and prevent poaching.

Guests are also reminded of the secure and convenient cash-free payment system applied at the gates (i.e., Paul Kruger, Phabeni, Numbi, Malelane and Crocodile Bridge) as well as fuel stations in the southern part of the park. 

This system ensures a smooth and hassle-free entry and exit from the park.

“Visitors are urged to observe the park’s rules, which are primarily intended to ensure safe and pleasant experiences. We also urge visitors to make use of the 24-hour emergency number on their entrance permit to report any incidents (013 735 4064 or 076 801 9679). 

“By respecting these rules, visitors contribute to the preservation of the park’s natural beauty and the safety of all its inhabitants. Visitors are urged to plan their trips and allow sufficient time to enjoy the bush, relax and arrive safely at their destination,” SANParks said. – SAnews.gov.za

1 view

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) expects partly cloudy and warm-to-cool conditions across much of the country during the Christmas and the New Year period.

Isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers are anticipated mainly over the central and eastern parts of South Africa.

“Thunderstorm activity is expected to occur primarily in the afternoons, although periods of increased moisture may result in morning showers in some areas. 

“Much of the rainfall during this period will be associated with afternoon and evening thundershowers, which may at times be accompanied by heavy downpours, lightning and gusty winds,” SAWS Senior Forecaster Jacqueline Modika said on Thursday, during a media briefing in Pretoria.

The South African Weather Service, through its Disaster Risk Reduction function, has released its latest seasonal climate outlook for the 2025/26 summer season, covering the period from December 2025 to April 2026. 

The forecast indicates a transition toward a weak La Niña state, which is expected to influence rainfall and temperature patterns across the country.

La Niña refers to a climate pattern where the waters in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean become cooler than normal. This cooling changes global wind and weather patterns. 

“It typically brings above-normal summer rainfall to the north-eastern parts of South Africa such as Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, parts of the North West and Free State.

“Climate model predictions suggest an increased likelihood of above-normal rainfall over the central and eastern parts of South Africa, particularly in the north-eastern summer rainfall regions,” Modika said. 

These wetter-than-usual conditions are consistent with the typical impacts associated with La Niña episodes and are expected to persist into mid-to-late summer.

In terms of temperatures, minimum temperatures are forecast to be above-normal over most parts of the country, while daytime maximum temperatures are likely to be below-normal over the north-eastern regions, due to increased cloud cover and rainfall. 

Above-normal maximum temperatures are, however, expected over parts of the south-western regions.

“From a Disaster Risk Reduction perspective, the anticipated rainfall may bring positive impacts for water resources and agriculture, but it also raises the risk of localised flooding, particularly in flood-prone areas, informal settlements, and regions with poor drainage infrastructure.

“Communities are urged to remain vigilant, especially during periods of persistent or intense rainfall. It is of utmost importance for the public, particularly vulnerable communities, to regularly consult credible weather forecast and warnings sources for developments and take appropriate action as part of their daily routine,” she said.

Such sources include radio, television and the South African Weather Service website and social media platforms.

“Yesterday’s impacts clearly demonstrate how quickly weather conditions can deteriorate once thunderstorms intensify. The South African Weather Service will continue to closely monitor evolving weather and climate conditions and will provide weekly updates and early warnings where necessary to support public safety and preparedness,” Modika said.

Residents are encouraged to:

• Seek shelter when thunderstorms approach,
• Move vehicles under cover where possible,
• Avoid driving through flooded roads,
• Report fallen trees, flooding or damage to municipal authorities.
• Avoid crossing flooded bridges,
• Stay informed by following official SAWS weather updates,
• Take necessary precautions during thunderstorm activity,
• Ensure festive travel plans consider changing weather conditions.

– SAnews.gov.za

53 views

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has approved the deployment of a Panel of Elders and a Mediation Reference Group to Madagascar to support efforts aimed at restoring political stability, constitutional order and democratic governance.

This was announced in a communiqué issued following the virtual Extraordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government held on Wednesday.

The summit received a report from the Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, Malawian President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, on the Technical Fact-Finding Mission to Madagascar conducted from 19 to 26 October 2025. 

The mission assessed the political and security situation through consultations with a wide range of stakeholders.

“Summit welcomed the restoration of calm in Madagascar, noted the national consultation processes launched by the Transitional Government on 10 December 2025, and reaffirmed its commitment to remain engaged with the political and security situation in the Republic of Madagascar until an elected government is established through electoral processes,” the Communique said.

The summit urged the Transitional Government of Madagascar, led by Colonel Michael Randrianirina, to initiate an inclusive, Malagasy-owned and led national dialogue during the transitional period. This process is expected to pave the way for fresh elections and facilitate the peaceful return of political exiles.

SADC further called on the Transitional Government to ensure that reform processes are timely, inclusive of all stakeholders, and create a conducive environment for meaningful participation, including by political exiles.

As part of its decisions, the summit approved the deployment of the SADC Panel of Elders by March 2026, to be led by former Malawian President Dr Joyce Banda, together with the Mediation Reference Group and supported by the SADC Secretariat. The structures will facilitate and support ongoing efforts to restore political stability, democracy and peace in Madagascar.

The summit also directed the Panel of Elders to engage former Mozambican President Dr Joaquim Chissano, SADC’s Special Envoy to Madagascar, to provide context on previous interventions and outstanding issues, particularly regarding constitutional reforms, electoral processes and the rule of law.

In reaffirming the region’s stance, the summit emphasised SADC’s strong commitment to protecting constitutional rule and democratic governance, and to restoring peace and democracy in Madagascar.

Madagascar was directed to submit a dialogue readiness report and a draft National Roadmap by 28 February 2026, with further progress updates scheduled for May, August and November 2026.

On organisational matters, following the appointment of President Cyril Ramaphosa as Chairperson of SADC, the summit appointed Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema as the Interim Incoming Chairperson of the regional body.

The summit further directed the SADC Secretariat to coordinate with the African Union and international partners to mobilise financial, technical and logistical resources to support reforms and ensure coordinated interventions.

Leaders expressed appreciation to President Mutharika for his leadership as Chairperson of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, as well as to President Ramaphosa for his leadership and contribution to advancing SADC’s regional agenda.

The Extraordinary Summit concluded with a reaffirmation of collective commitment by SADC Heads of State and Government to peace, security and regional integration in Southern Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

 

7 views

President Cyril Ramaphosa says the Southern African Development Community (SADC) will consider a report on the political and security situation in Madagascar.

Speaking at a virtual Extraordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government convened on Wednesday, President Ramaphosa thanked regional leaders for responding to his invitation, saying the meeting was convened to consider a report from the Chairperson of the Organ on the political and security situation in the island nation of Madagascar.

He recalled that the region had met recently to address urgent organisational matters. 

“As you will recall, we convened a similar session during the past month to attend to an urgent issue pertaining to the leadership of our organisation,” he said. 

The President said Madagascar experienced political challenges in September 2025 that led to the formation of a transitional government. Following these developments, an Extraordinary SADC Organ Troika Summit was held on 16 October 2025 to assess the situation.

“The Organ Troika Summit resolved to urgently deploy a Technical Mission to undertake a fact-finding mission to Madagascar. The outcome of this mission is contained in the report we will be considering today,” he said.

President Ramaphosa said the developments in Madagascar highlighted the need to accelerate the implementation of regional development objectives under SADC Vision 2050, which seeks to achieve “a region whose peoples live in peace and harmony and can realise their economic potential.”

He reaffirmed SADC’s commitment to peace and stability through the SADC Protocol on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, which aims to promote peace, security, democracy and political stability, while fostering solidarity among the peoples of the region.

“Over the past years, we have made progress towards achieving these goals, notably with respect to consolidating democracy, promoting good governance, ensuring electoral integrity and deepening a culture of human rights,” President Ramaphosa said.

However, he cautioned that political and security challenges persist in parts of the region.

“The situation in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo remains of grave concern. We also stand in solidarity with the government and the people of Mozambique in their quest for stability and security in the Cabo Delgado province,” he said. 

Reflecting on Madagascar’s history, President Ramaphosa said the country has faced systemic political and security challenges, recalling SADC’s support in 2009 for a democratic and peaceful future. While progress had been made, he noted that recent developments showed that “much more work needs to be done to foster sustainable peace.”

“Like all peoples in our region and our continent, the people of Madagascar yearn for durable peace and development. We have a collective responsibility to make this a reality,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

41 views