Category: South Africa Government

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Nasi Ispani 2.0 to provide 45 000 job and training opportunities

Source: Government of South Africa

A new wave of 45 000 job and training opportunities is coming to Gauteng as the provincial government prepares to launch the second round of the Nasi Ispani programme this Saturday.

The initiative, described as a “transformative” tool to combat unemployment, develop skills and deter crime while building state capacity, specifically targets youth not in employment, education, or training (NEET).

“In this year’s State of the Province Address, the Gauteng government reaffirmed its commitment to tackling unemployment as a primary focus. As a key part of this effort, the Nasi Ispani initiative will be relaunched on September 6.

“Originally launched in June 2023, Nasi Ispani has already generated substantial employment through its 13 Special Programmes. This next phase, Nasi Ispani 2.0, aims to create 45 000 new job opportunities. It will specifically target youth who are not in employment, education, or training [NEET]” Premier Panayza Lesufi said during a media briefing on Wednesday.

The training and work opportunities will include internships, work-integrated learning, artisanal development in mining communities, the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative and the filling of vacancies.

“The initiative will also continue programmes from the previous intake, such as the Aga Lerona Road Workers, the Sawubona Mhlali Brigade, and internships,” the Premier added.

The second round of Nasi Ispani will focus on the Unemployed Youth Skills Development Initiative (UYSDI) which is expected to enrol some 2810 participants in training opportunities including:
•    Domestic and municipal plumbing
•    Basic electrical installation and maintenance
•    Construction and plastering
•    Electronics repair
•    Painting and surface furnishing
•    Tiling and floor finishing
•    Landscaping and horticultural maintenance
•    Woodworking and furniture repairs
•    Basic automotive servicing and repairs

The Gauteng City Region Academy will also offer the following training opportunities:
•    Solar photovoltaic system mounter
•    Bricklayer’s assistant
•    Carpentry
•    Plumbing assistant
•    ICT Learnerships and training
•    Skills development in mining communities
•    Paving machine operator
•    Welding

“Nasi Ispani is not a panacea or a magic wand that will solve the problem of unemployment.

“However, its core objective is to build a capable state by hiring residents directly for public service roles, thereby reducing the province’s dependence on external service providers. It also aims to skill the youth to ensure they are in a better position to get jobs in the public or private sectors or to become entrepreneurs or self-employed,” Lesufi said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Durban gears up for Global reSURGEnce conference 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

Durban is once again poised to take centre stage as it prepares to host the highly anticipated reSURGEnce Conference Durban 2025, set for 20–24 September, at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.

Building on the success of last year’s groundbreaking edition, the 2025 conference promises to be bigger, bolder, and more impactful.

Held under the theme: “A Thicker Slice of the Economic Pie: Access. Connect. Thrive,” the programme includes an international exhibition, a two-day conference, and business-to-business engagements aimed at advancing trade and investment.

The event will bring together entrepreneurs, investors, clergy, creatives, and changemakers from across Africa, the United States, the Caribbean, and the global diaspora to foster economic empowerment, collaboration, and opportunity.

The virtual launch on 27 August set the tone with a resounding call to action. United States convener Reverend Dennis Dillon described reSURGEnce as “more than a conference, it is a movement with practical solutions.”

He emphasised the importance of building lasting cross-continental partnerships that drive real economic transformation.

EThekwini City Manager, Musa Mbhele, said Durban is ready to welcome the world as Durban is open for business and investment.

He revealed that more than R100 billion worth of catalytic infrastructure projects are open for investment and partnership. These include the Automotive Supplier Park, Durban’s dual-airport development, the Cornubia and Westown mixed-use precincts, a proposed light rail between the CBD and uMhlanga, and a new inland dry port.

Mbhele also highlighted the success of the city’s Economic Development Incentive Policy, which has already unlocked R18 billion in investment across 54 approved projects and over R80 million in annual rates rebates.

“Durban is fast becoming one of South Africa’s most investor-friendly cities,” he said.

The launch also featured powerful testimonies of impact. New York entrepreneur and celebrity chef Melba Wilson hailed the conference as “a game-changer,” citing her ongoing collaboration with uMhlanga’s Mushroom Lounge and Café, which grew directly from networking at reSURGEnce 2024.

“Our network is our net worth,” she said.

Ndaba Mandela of the Africa Rising Foundation echoed the call for collective progress.

“As Africans, we share a common destiny and must share in the continent’s economic benefits,” Mandela said.

This year’s speaker lineup features prominent global voices, including Dr George Fraser, President of FraserNet Inc. and bestselling author; New York State Senator James Sanders, Chair of Senate Banking; Clayton Banks, Founder of Harlem Silicon Valley; Achumboro Ataanda, CEO of Uplift Communities and angel investor; and civil rights activist Reverend Al Sharpton, among others.

The main conference will take place on 22–23 September, offering a platform for businesses to engage with influential leaders, gain access to high-level networks, and position themselves for growth and investment.

Registration is now open at via https://rb.gy/0q3coy or RSVP to email at meetings@magagamedia.co.za – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Police rescue kidnapped businessman

Source: Government of South Africa

Police rescue kidnapped businessman

The South African Police Service (SAPS) Anti-kidnapping Task Team has safely reunited a businessman with his family following a shootout with the alleged mastermind behind the kidnapping. 

The businessman was found in Alexandra in a shack shortly after midnight on Thursday.

His rescue follows a shooting in which the alleged mastermind behind the kidnapping was shot and killed during a confrontation with police officers near the R21 in Kempton Park, on Wednesday evening. 

“The suspect, who goes by the nickname, Dollarman, is a wanted kidnapping kingpin in both SA and Mozambique. He is on SERNIC, which is Mozambique’s wanted persons database, where he was wanted for several kidnappings for ransom cases,” the South African Police Service said in a statement. 

In South Africa, he was also linked to at least five kidnappings for ransom cases, as well as other cases of housebreaking, carjacking and possession of unlicensed firearms. 

“From July 2021 to date, more than 337 kidnappers have been arrested by the SAPS Anti-Kidnapping Task Team, and more than 146 illegal firearms were seized in all these crime scenes,” the police said. 

In the past week alone, police have arrested more than 14 773 suspects for various crimes ranging from murder to rape, and at least 163 illegal firearms have been seized during Operation Shanela. – SAnews.gov.za

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Deputy Minister in the Presidency Nonceba Mhlauli to deliver remarks at the National Day Reception of Malaysia

Source: President of South Africa –

The Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Ms Nonceba Mhlauli, will represent the South African Government and deliver remarks at the National Day Reception of Malaysia, marking the 68th National Day and the 62nd Malaysia Day.

The reception will take place on Wednesday, 4 September 2025 at the High Commission of Malaysia, 1007 Francis Baard Street, Arcadia, Pretoria.

The celebration underscores the strong and enduring relations between South Africa and Malaysia, and reaffirms the commitment of both countries to deepen cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including trade, investment, education, and cultural exchange. The Deputy Minister’s participation reflects South Africa’s appreciation of Malaysia’s role as a strategic partner and a valued member of the international community.

Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, 4 September 2025
Time: 12:00
Venue: High Commission of Malaysia, 1007 Francis Baard Street, Arcadia, Pretoria
 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Deputy President Mashatile meets representatives of the Griqua Royal House

Source: President of South Africa –

In his capacity as Chairperson of the Presidential Task Team on Matters raised by Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile has this morning, 02 September 2025, met with Representatives of the Griqua Royal House at OR Tambo Official Residence in Pretoria.

In June this year, the Office of the Deputy President received a letter from The Griqua Royal House requesting a meeting with the Deputy President to discuss the Traditional Leadership recognition of the Khoi and San communities, among other things.

Today’s meeting provided an opportunity for Deputy President Mashatile to brief the Representatives of the Griqua Royal House on progress on the process of the recognition of the Khoi and San communities by the Commission on Khoi-San Matters.

The Commission on Khoi-San Matters (Commission) is a statutory body established in terms of section 51(1) of the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act of 2019.

In terms of section 57 and 58 of the Act, the Commission has the following functions:
• To receive applications for the recognition of Khoi-San communities, branches, senior Khoi-San leaders and Branch Heads.
• To investigate the applications received.
• To prepare comprehensive reports with recommendations on each application that has been received and investigated.
• To submit the report and the recommendations of each received and investigated application to the relevant Premier for comment and give the Premiers a period of 60 days to provide the comments.
• After receiving the comments from the relevant Premiers, the Commission must finalise and submit its report containing its recommendations to the Minister on the possible recognition of Khoi-San communities, branches, and leaders.

In this regard, Mr Cordney Mangale led the presentation by the Representatives of the Griqua Royal House after which the meeting was assured that all processes for recognition are being followed accordingly and that the Commission would make an announcement on the outcome of the application for recognition before the end of its term in August 2026.

Deputy President Mashatile thanked the Commissioners and  Representatives of the Griqua Royal House for attending to the matters raised in the most cordial fashion and for their commitment to promoting and preserving institutions of Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership in South Africa.

The meeting was also attended by Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Prince Zolile Burns-Ncamashe and Senior Government Officials.

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 066 195 8840

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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NYDA and NSFAS forge strategic partnership to empower SA’s youth

Source: Government of South Africa

The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) has forged a new strategic partnership with the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) to combine resources and redirect young people toward opportunities in institutions of higher learning.

The collaboration, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marks a significant commitment to expanding educational and development opportunities for young people across South Africa, with a dedicated focus on those in rural areas, townships, and informal settlements.

NYDA Executive Chairperson, Dr Sunshine Myende, said the partnership is a direct response to the critical skills gap and persistent inequality that hinder youth advancement.

“Data from the NYDA’s Jobs Programme highlight that the majority of young people reside in rural areas and many do not possess a matric qualification. In response, the NYDA has initiated this partnership with NSFAS to align efforts, combine resources, and redirect young people toward opportunities in institutions of higher learning,” Myende said.

Key pillars of the collaboration

The agreement establishes a framework for action built on several key pillars:
•    Decentralised access: To bring services closer to young people, NSFAS will leverage the NYDA’s national footprint. NYDA offices, particularly those in rural, township, and informal settlement areas, will serve as walk-in support centres for NSFAS applications, ensuring vital funding services are accessible to all.
•    Bridging the digital divide: Recognising that connectivity should not be a barrier to education, the NYDA and NSFAS are exploring partnerships with telecommunications providers. This initiative aims to ensure reliable online application processes, even in the most remote locations.
•    Expanding educational pathways: To address the current imbalance in applications, the partnership will actively promote greater awareness and support for funding opportunities at Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, creating a more diverse and skilled future workforce.
•    Solving student accommodation: The organisations will collaborate on developing sustainable, innovative solutions to the student accommodation crisis, with the NYDA contributing directly to ongoing policy development in this critical area.

Myende highlighted that the partnership reflects the current NYDA Board’s unwavering focus on inclusivity and equitable access to essential youth services.

By working closely with NSFAS, he said the agency aims to ensure that financial aid, development support, and educational access extend beyond urban centres, and “reaches every young person, no matter where they live.”

“This partnership marks a pivotal moment in building a more inclusive and prosperous future for all South African youth. This MOU is more than a formal agreement; it is a commitment to ensuring that no young person is left behind, regardless of their location.

“Through this collaboration, we are opening doors not just to funding, but to opportunity, development, and ultimately dignity,” Myende said.

The NYDA reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to building a South Africa where every young person can thrive, noting that the partnership with NSFAS is a cornerstone of “our strategic mission to foster holistic youth development.” – SAnews.gov.za

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Operation Shanela nets over 800 suspects in Limpopo

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, September 3, 2025

A joint multi-disciplinary Operation Shanela executed in Limpopo has led to the arrest of 837 suspects for various offences committed across the province.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the operation also led to the confiscation of 65,613 kilograms of dagga.
Amongst the offenses committed include rape, illegally dealing in liquor, possession of illegal cigarettes, possession of dangerous weapons and possession of drugs.

The operations which ran from 25-31 August were positively conducted in collaboration with other agencies, including the South African Defence Force (SANDF), Traffic Police, Community Policing Forum (CPF).

In a statement on Tuesday, the police said the operation was executed through high visibility patrols, roadblocks, stop and searches, vehicle check points and the tracing of wanted suspects.

Among the arrests, six people were arrested for the illegal possession of firearms, while 18 were cuffed for the possession of dangerous weapons, among others.

Meanwhile, police recovered 180 counterfeit goods, six handguns, 20 cellphones and 10 vehicles, among others.

Some of the arrested suspects have already started to appear before their local Magistrate’s court.

“This province will continue to combat any criminal activities and our men and women in blue will stop at nothing in ensuring that it remains safe for the inhabitants without any prejudice of race and gender,” said the Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe. – SAnews.gov.za

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Limpopo beefs up police service ahead of festive season

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, September 3, 2025

Police in Limpopo are getting their ducks in a row ahead of the festive season, with 132 newly recruited police constables being deployed to various districts to boost operations across the province.

The new constables have recently completed rigorous training and pass-out parades conducted at various South African Police Service (SAPS) training academies.

Limpopo Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, on Tuesday officially deployed the constables at an event held at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane. 

The constables were placed in different investigation units in the five districts and Forensic Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC). 

Hadebe urged the constables to put shoulder to the wheel, as the fight against crime requires sheer dedication.

“Do your work diligently and respect the rights of the individual. At your respective stations that you are attached to, you will find negative people. Choose what you listen to and avoid the wrong groups. Attitude determines altitude,” Hadebe said.

She emphasised the critical role the constables will play in ensuring that residents, holidaymakers and businesses in the province are and feel safe. 

Hadebe once again reiterated the importance of professionalism and integrity in the line of duty. She reiterated the importance of respect, especially for the communities the police serve. 

The responsible use of firearms, Hadebe said, is key. She called for discretion, cautioning the constables to use their firearms “when absolutely necessary and justified”.

“Criminals are not playing outside (sic). They are daring. Do not be generous to them, make sure you arrest them for the right reasons. When leaving your home, invite God to protect you and thank Him when you return safely,” she said.

Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Crime Detection, Major General Samuel Manala, advised the constables to remain true to their core responsibility, which is to serve and protect. – SAnews.gov.za

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Deputy President to conduct oversight visit to the Western Cape

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will conduct an oversight visit to the Western Cape, specifically the Overberg District Municipality, this week.

The Deputy President is set to visit the province from Thursday to Saturday (4-6 September). 

The visit aims to showcase government efforts to expedite the Land Reform Programme, support community development initiatives, and lead a national initiative designed to promote cleaner and healthier urban and rural environments through community participation.

The Deputy President, who chairs the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Land Reform and Agriculture, has made it a priority to conduct outreach visits to communities and areas that have benefited from the government’s land reform programme. 

These visits aim to emphasise the commitment to expedite the land restitution and redistribution process while supporting agricultural production and investment in the land.

On Thursday, the Deputy President will visit the Klein Ezeljacht Farm 126 in the Theewaterskloof Local Municipality, Caledon, accompanied by the Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mzwanele Nyhontso.

The farm produces apples, pears, grain, and livestock. It was funded by the government through the Land Development Support Programme, which has helped many previously disadvantaged farmers reach their full production capacity. 

The programme focuses on developing their agricultural enterprises and ensuring they become commercially viable.

“Deputy President Mashatile will then engage with the farming sector representatives to assess the provision of farmer support to enhance agricultural productivity,” the advisory read. 

The Office of the Deputy President believes that these engagements provide a platform for government to play a meaningful role in providing support to emerging farmers in areas of training, mentorship, and financial assistance.  

Through the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development, government said it is committed to addressing the impediments to growth in the sector, such as a lack of adequate access to funding and the prevailing impact of climate change on food security. 

To highlight government’s commitment to supporting the significant role of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in socio-economic development, Deputy President Mashatile will attend the inaugural charity gala dinner organised by Phawu Lethu Skills Development Training. 

This event will take place on Friday at the Arabella Golf Course in Kleinmond, located within the Overstrand Local Municipality.

“Deputy President Mashatile, as champion of Social Cohesion and Moral Regeneration initiatives in South Africa, has accepted Phawu Lethu’s invitation, in view of their commitment to support vulnerable communities affected by hunger, natural disasters, and poverty, thus restoring hope and dignity to those impacted by hardship.”

Clean Cities and Towns campaign

On Saturday, Deputy President Mashatile will lead a Clean Cities and Towns campaign at the Zwelihle township, in the Overstrand Local Municipality, as part of fostering a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable urban and rural environment.

The campaign led by the Deputy President supports the country’s developmental objectives by enhancing public health, safety, and infrastructure, and it encourages investments in green energy and innovative technologies to address environmental degradation.

The key focus of the campaign is to promote shared responsibility for clean, healthy spaces, encourage friendly competition among municipalities and mobilise community participation and ownership of public spaces.

READ | Mashatile takes the Clean Cities and Towns Campaign to Free State

Overstrand is home to one of the world’s best land-based whale watching destinations in Hermanus, drawing thousands of local and international tourists each year. 

The region also boasts Blue Flag beaches, marine conservation areas, and renowned fynbos biodiversity, forming part of the Cape Floral Kingdom. Ecotourism, adventure tourism, and wine tourism are all strong contributors to the Overberg local economy.

Deputy President Mashatile will also be accompanied by Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille, Deputy Ministers of Water and Sanitation David Mahlobo, and the Mayor of the Overstrand Local Municipality Archie Klaas, as well as senior government officials. – SAnews.gov.za

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NPA welcomes court decision in Senzo Meyiwa case

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, September 3, 2025

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has welcomed the dismissal of the S174 applications brought by accused number four, Mthokozisi Maphisa, in the Senzo Meyiwa case.

Such an application requests the court to find that there is no case to be answered by the accused.

In the judgement handed down in the Pretoria High Court, Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng found that there is prima facie evidence that Maphisa must answer to.

Maphisa, along with four other accused, are facing charges of murder, attempted murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, possession of firearm and possession of ammunition related to the 2014 murder of Meyiwa.

“In his application through his legal representative, the accused said the state had no case against him, thus lacking evidence to link him to the offences [he is] charged with. The state, however, opposed their applications and submitted that there was sufficient evidence that could lead to the conviction of the accused. 

“The state relied on the testimony of constable Zungu who was with the five accused on the day of the incident. The state also relied on other pieces of evidence, including ballistic evidence that was put before the court by other witnesses in the case,” the NPA said in a statement.

The prosecutorial body insists that it will continue its pursuit for justice for the former Bafana Bafana captain’s family.
“This court outcome is encouraging as the state overcomes a second hurdle presented in this case. The state will continue to put forward a formidable case to ensure that justice is served for the Meyiwa family,” the statement concluded. 

Following the dismissal of the application, the case was postponed to 22 September to allow the defence to prepare its case. – SAnews.gov.za