Task team to tackle foot-and-mouth disease established

Source: Government of South Africa

Task team to tackle foot-and-mouth disease established

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has announced the establishment of an Industry -Government Task Team to strengthen South Africa’s response to animal diseases, with a particular focus on foot-and-mouth disease (FMD).

The task team, comprising representatives from government and the red meat industry, will coordinate efforts to improve prevention, management, and control of animal diseases.

Steenhuisen said the task team will report directly to the value chain roundtables, which bring together all stakeholders in the livestock sector.

The Minister made the announcement during a media briefing on Monday, 1 September 2025, where he outlined critical interventions to curb persistent FMD outbreaks across a number of provinces.

“The task team will ensure better coordination, enforcement and accountability in tackling animal disease outbreaks,” Steenhuisen said.

The task team establishment follows a Bosberaad (strategic bush meeting) convened in July by the Department of Agriculture, in partnership with the Agricultural Research Council (ARC).

At the meeting, Steenhuisen noted that current responses are fragmented, with lack of sufficient enforcement and coordination, factors that have contributed to the persistence of outbreaks.

Among the key measures proposed at the meeting included revising control zones, expanding capacity for sampling and diagnostics, increasing access to vaccines, and strengthening livestock identification and traceability systems.

The stakeholder also highlighted the importance of enforcing biosecurity, with experts warning that without it, containment measures will remain compromised.

Vaccine procurement and distribution

Giving an update on the country’s FMD status, Steenhuisen confirmed that 900 000 vaccine doses worth R72 million had been procured from the Botswana Vaccine Institute for the current financial year.

“The first 500 000 doses arrived in June and were used to vaccinate cattle in KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, Gauteng, North West and Free State. Just over a week ago, we received the remaining 400 000 doses of which 50 000 are already distributed,” the Minister said.

He said the remaining doses of the vaccine will go to the provinces currently experiencing active outbreaks, including the Free State, Mpumalanga, North West and Gauteng.

Over 250 unresolved FMD outbreaks

Currently, there are 274 unresolved outbreaks across KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Free State, North West and Mpumalanga.

Positive cases have been confirmed in all cattle farming systems, ranging from commercial beef herds, animal breeding, feedlots, dairy cattle, and communal herds.

In KwaZulu-Natal, outbreaks continue to spread westward, with confirmed cases in municipalities including Dundee, Dannhauser, Newcastle, Alfred Duma, Okhahlamba, uMshwathi, eDumbe and eMadlangeni.

While the disease appears to have abated in the eastern part of the province’s Disease Management Area, 180 outbreaks remain active in KwaZulu-Natal. The virus is believed to have spread from KwaZulu-Natal into Mpumalanga through an auction in February, before spreading to Gauteng, North West, western Mpumalanga and Free State by late May.

According to Steenhuisen, investigations point to both farm-to-farm transmission and “pinpoint” introductions linked to livestock movements where isolation protocols were  not observed. Current outbreak cases stand at 54 in Gauteng, 26 in North West, nine in Mpumalanga and five in the Free State.

The Minister urged farmers to comply with legislation and biosecurity protocols.

“Reports of farmers moving cattle showing clinical signs of the disease, or treating them privately without reporting, are deeply concerning and irresponsible. These actions not only contravene legal directives but risk entrenching FMD as endemic in South Africa,” he said.

“All livestock farmers are urged to cooperate fully with veterinary officials, report suspected cases immediately to state veterinary, and refrain from moving animals showing clinical signs,” Steenhuisen said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

GabiK

109 views

Deputy President Mashatile conducts a three-day oversight visit to the Overberg District Municipality, Western Cape Province, 4 – 6 September 2025

Source: President of South Africa –

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Thursday, 04 to Saturday, 06 September 2025 , conduct an oversight visit the Western Cape Province, in the Overberg District, with the aim of showcasing government efforts to fast-track the Land Reform Programme, supporting community development initiatives, and leading a national initiative launched to promote cleaner and healthier urban and rural environments through community participation. 

Deputy President Mashatile who also chairs the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Land Reform and Agriculture, has prioritised the undertaking of outreach visits to communities and areas which have benefited from the government’s Land Reform programme, to highlight the commitment to fast-track the land restitution and redistribution process, with the overall support for agricultural production and investment in the land.

On Thursday, 04 September, the Deputy President joined by the Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mzwanele Nyhontso will visit the Klein Ezeljacht Farm 126, situated in the Theewaterskloof Local Municipality, Caledon. 

The farm which produces apples, pears, grain and livestock, was funded by government through the Land Development Support Programme and has managed to sustain many previously disadvantaged Farmers to reach their full production capacity, in terms of developing their agricultural enterprises, as well as ensuring that they are commercially viable.  

Deputy President Mashatile will then engage with the farming sector representatives with the aim of assessing the provision of farmer’ support to enhance agricultural productivity. 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 is committed to address the impediments for growth in the sector, such as lack of adequate access to funding and the prevailing impact of climate change on food security.

To further underscore government commitment to support the positive and important role played by Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and their contribution to socio-economic development, Deputy President Mashatile will on Friday, 05 September , attend the Inaugural Charity Gala Dinner organised by Phawu Lethu Skills Development Training organisation, to be held at the Arabella Golf Course, Kleinmond, in 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.      

On Saturday, 06 September, Deputy President Mashatile will lead a Clean Cities and Towns campaign at the Zwelihle Township, in the Overstand Local Municipality, as part of fostering cleaner healthier and more sustainable urban and rural environment.

The campaign led by Deputy President Mashatile, 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.

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 be accompanied by the Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mr Mzwanele Nyhontso, Minister of Tourism, Ms Patricia de Lille, Deputy Ministers of Water and Sanitation, Mr David Mahlobo, and the Mayor of the Overstrand Local Municipality, Cllr Archie Klaas, as well as senior government officials.   

Members of the media are invited to cover as follows:
Date: Thursday, 04 to Saturday, 06 September 2025
Venue: Overberg District, Western Cape Province 
 
Media Programme
Thursday, 04 September 2025 – Land Reform Outreach 
09h00: Arrival of the Deputy President and delegation at the Municipal Council Chambers, Theewaterskloof Municipality in Villiersdorp
10h00: Site visit of the Theewaterskloof Dam
10h50: Farm Visit and Tour of the Klein Ezeljacht Farm near Villiersdorp
11h35: Stakeholder Engagement with the farming sector representatives (on-site at Klein Ezeljacht farm)

Friday, 05 September 2025 – Phawu Lethu Gala Dinner
17h30: Keynote address by the Deputy President at the Phawu Lethu Charity 
Venue: Gala-Dinner Arabella Hotel & Golf Estate, Kleinmond, Hermanus

Saturday, 06 September 2025 – Clean Cities and Towns Campaign (Overstrand Local Municipality)
08h30: Arrival of the Deputy President at Overstrand Local Municipality (Mayor’s Office)
09h30: Deputy President Mashatile leads community cleaning activities at the Zwelihle Township, Ward 05 & 12  
11h15: Deputy President and entourage arrive at Sports Ground and embark on the planting of trees (Ward 06)
11h50: Community feedback session at Zwelihle Community Hall 
13h00: Media Door-stop  

For more information and accreditation, please contact Sam Bopape on 082 318 5251 or Tshiamo Selomo on 066 118 1505.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

dtic to lead SA business delegation to Intra-African Trade Fair

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) will lead a South African business delegation of 30 companies to the fourth Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF), scheduled to take place in Algiers, Algeria, from 4 to 10 September 2025.

The IATF promotes intra-African trade by connecting businesses, investors and policymakers from across the continent and the diaspora.

Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Zuko Godlimpi, said the event offers South Africa an opportunity to showcase its goods and services, attract investment, foster regional integration, and advance the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“Participating in international exhibitions like these is critical to the dtic’s mandate and the objectives of the Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP) 2024-2029 to grow the economy, create jobs, industrialisation, localisation, inclusive growth and growing the domestic market and exports,” Godlimpi said.

He added that Algeria, as the host country, holds strategic importance as Africa’s third-largest economy. “It is of importance that we establish direct trade routes to improve trade between the two countries,” he said.

While South Africa currently enjoys a trade surplus under the AfCFTA, Godlimpi noted that preferential trade with Algeria remains limited. He said both countries need to step up efforts to encourage and support preferential trade under the AfCFTA to fully utilise new market access opportunities.

“The trade fair will also foster small and medium enterprise cross-border partnerships, enabling regional value chain integration, and diversifying exports against the backdrop of volatilities in traditional markets,” he said.

The IATF will focus on sectors such as agriculture, automotive, mining, information and communications technology (ICT) and energy. Alongside the exhibition, the programme will feature trade and investment forums as well as industry conferences.

Following previous editions in Cairo (2018 and 2023) and Durban (2021), the IATF 2025 is expected to attract about 35 000 attendees and 1 600 exhibitors. – SAnews.gov.za

SA steps into Heritage Month

Source: Government of South Africa

As South Africa celebrates Heritage Month this September, Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie has urged that museums, archives and heritage sites be repositioned as active drivers of national identity, social change and development.

“Heritage institutions cannot just be museums of dust and silence. They must become places of action, innovation, and opportunity. Young South Africans should walk into a museum or heritage site and see themselves, feel inspired, and leave empowered to shape a better tomorrow,” McKenzie said on Monday.

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) officially launched Heritage Month 2025 under the theme: ‘Reimagine our Heritage Institutions for a New Era’.

The theme reflects a shift from heritage institutions being custodians of memory to serving as platforms for innovation, inclusion and community development.

“The initiative recognises that South Africa’s heritage is not only a reflection of the past but a powerful catalyst for building a dynamic, socially responsive, technologically innovative, and economically inclusive future built on the democratic values of human dignity, equality and supremacy of the rule of law,” McKenzie said.

South Africa’s museums, archives and heritage sites have long preserved the nation’s diverse narratives, especially in the post-apartheid era. But, with evolving socio-economic and technological challenges, government sees the need for these institutions to take on a more active role in shaping society.

“We are entering a new era. Our institutions must reflect the dreams of a new generation. Through technology, creativity, and the full participation of our people, we can turn memory into momentum. The courage of our past heroes must ignite the fire of future innovation,” McKenzie added.

This year, the national Heritage Day celebration will be hosted in Oudtshoorn, Western Cape, in partnership with the provincial government.

Heritage Month 2025 will also pay tribute to the heroes and heroines of the liberation struggle. In collaboration with the Association for Ex-Political Prisoners (AEPP) and the Robben Island Museum (RIM), the department will host a Reunion of Ex-Political Prisoners on 27 September at Robben Island. The event will be held under the theme, ‘Reuniting with Robben Island as the Stronghold that Fortified Our Resistance to Achieve Our Freedom’.

“This symbolic and emotional gathering will pay tribute to Robben Island based ex-political prisoners, those brave, courageous and selfless combatants who put their lives on the line for the attainment of South Africa’s freedom and democracy.

“This event not only honours the legacy of resistance but reconnects our national consciousness with the lived experiences of those who endured incarceration in the name of justice and equality,” McKenzie said. – SAnews.gov.za

Call for MSMEs to apply for support of up to R23 million

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

The Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) has called on qualifying Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to apply for support of up to R23 million under the Business Infrastructure Support Programme (BISP).

BISP aims to support MSMEs with business enabling machinery, equipment, tools, technology, energy support and infrastructure (newly built or refurbished) and enable market access for MSMEs.

Priority sectors include disaster management, agriculture, manufacturing (food & beverages), medical, automotive, construction, wholesale and retail, mining, services and creative Industries.

Applicants may apply for built Infrastructure – refurbished or new (e.g. MSME hubs, Industrial Parks, market stalls etc) from R1 million up to R23million; equipment, tools, technology and machinery from R 1 million up to R5 million and energy support solutions from R1 million up to R10 million.

Eligible applicants include municipalities; municipal and provincial entities; traditional authorities and registered legal entities (e.g cooperatives, private companies, informal traders).

The programme covers applicants who fall within the category of micro enterprises with a maximum turnover of R10 million, as well as small enterprises with an annual turnover of not more than R10 million.

Applicants are required to complete the BISP application form and submit it together with all required supporting documents as listed in the form, including but not limited to:

  • Financial statements and or management accounts signed by an accountant (where applicable).
  • Compliance documentation (Permits from relevant authorities where applicable e.g. ElA or Land Use -N.B built infrastructure applications).
  • Central Supplier Database (CSD) compliance for suppliers.
  • Technical designs and cost breakdowns.
  • Executive Authority approvals.

Applications must be submitted online by 19 September 2025. The website for applications can be found on https://vcmasa.dsbd.gov.za/. Alternatively, download and complete the official BISP Application form on https://vcmasa.dsbd.gov.za/ and submit the completed application and supporting documents via email to: BISP@dsbd.gov.za.

Applicants will receive an automated response with a reference number confirming receipt of your application. –SAnews.gov.za

New head of Independent Power Producers Office announced

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Electricity and Energy (DEE) has announced the appointment of experienced power generation executive, Precious Mmabakwena Edward, as the new Head of the Independent Power Producers Office (IPPO).

The appointment is effective from this month with Edward adding some 20 years of experience in the sector to the office.

“She currently serves as the Chief Executive of ENGIE Kathu Solar Facility, one of the first multibillion-rand Concentrated Solar Power [CSP] projects successfully developed under the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producers Procurement Programme [REIPPPP],” the DEE said in a statement.

In this role, Edward oversaw the “stabilisation of operations and delivered strong returns for shareholders” as well as “exemplified the qualities of a servant leader placing people at the centre of her leadership”.

“She has championed career development and skills growth for the workforce, created pathways for small businesses to participate in the energy value chain, and ensured that surrounding communities benefit through meaningful jobs, training, and enterprise opportunities. 

“Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to shared prosperity, inclusivity, and sustainable development in the regions where the facility operates,” the DEE said.

She also worked at Eskom where she served as Head of Fuel Sourcing.

“[She] directed procurement strategies under tight governance controls, and as a Contracts Lead on the Medupi Power Station project, managing multi-billion-rand commercial and contractual frameworks.

“Ms Edward holds a BTech in Electrical Engineering, a Master’s in Business Leadership (MBL) and an LLB[Bachelor of Law] degree. This unique combination of technical, business, and legal expertise equips her to navigate complex operational, financial, and governance challenges at the highest level,” the statement read.

Transforming the IPPO

The DEE explained that Edwards’ appointment comes at a “pivotal moment” for the IPPO as it marks 15 years since establishment.

“Looking forward, the IPPO will be transformed into a more agile, efficient, and impactful institution that responds to modern energy challenges,” the statement said.

Furthermore, under her leadership, the office will:
•    Advance transformation and inclusivity by ensuring greater participation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in the energy sector
•    Drive local manufacturing and industrialisation opportunities, aligned with the South African Renewable Energy Masterplan (SAREM)
•    Maximise socio-economic development benefits in future procurement rounds;
•    Introduce innovative procurement models that strengthen security of supply, affordability, and alignment with South Africa’s just energy transition priorities.

“Ms Edward is widely recognised for her principled, resilient, and values-driven leadership, having received numerous accolades throughout her career. Her appointment marks more than a change in leadership it is a renewal of purpose.

“For the past 15 years, the IPPO has been the engine room powering South Africa’s entry into large-scale renewable energy procurement. Today, under her stewardship, we turn the page to a new chapter: one where the IPPO becomes not only a procurement office, but a catalyst for transformation, industrialisation, and socio-economic inclusion,” the department explained.

Her appointment is in line with the department’s Strategic Plan 2025–2030 which advances priorities including:
•    Achieving Universal Access to Electricity by 2030
•    Promoting industrialisation and localisation
•    Driving a just energy transition with jobs and skills at the centre
•    Strengthening governance, efficiency, and accountability in energy procurement

“As the department advances its Strategic Priorities of achieving universal access to electricity by 2030, accelerating localisation and manufacturing, and driving a just energy transition, Ms Edward’s leadership will be instrumental in steering the IPPO from being a pioneering institution into becoming a symbol of national renewal. 

“Like a bridge built on strong foundations, her role will connect the lessons of the past to the opportunities of the future ensuring that secure, affordable, and transformative energy continues to power South Africa’s development,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

Condolences for jazz musician, Ernest "Stompie" Manana

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Matome Chiloane has extended his condolences following the passing of legendary jazz musician, Ernest “Stompie” Manana.

Manana passed away on Friday, 29 August at the age of 89.

“Manana was a giant in South African Jazz, whose impact is immeasurable. His contributions shaped South African jazz music beyond being a talented artist performing on global stages, but as a mentor and teacher to others. With the late-great Hugh Masekela as one of his many mentees, Manana’s work will be felt for generations to come. Deepest condolences go to the Manana family, friends and all jazz music players and lovers. We have truly lost a pioneer in the genre,” the MEC said in a statement on Monday.

Manana was a trumpeter and flugelhorn player, who played an instrumental role in revival and preservation of township jazz as a Sophiatown native. 

According to the provincial government, over the course of his 60-year career, Manana recorded music and performed all over the world in revered bands such as the Savoy Havanas, The Cliffs, the Transvaal Jazz Stars, the African Swingsters and the African Jazz Pioneers, of which he was a founding member.

“May his soul rest in eternal peace,” said the MEC. –SAnews.gov.za

Former Eskom contractor sentenced for fraud and money laundering

Source: Government of South Africa

The Mpumalanga Specialised Commercial Crimes Court has sentenced a former Eskom contractor to some 16 years imprisonment, wholly suspended, after she pleaded guilty to charges of fraud and money laundering at Thuthuka Power Station.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Phindile Jessie Kubheka – director of Umnandi Catering and Accommodation and Ronny Grass Cutting (Pty) Ltd – was contracted by the power utility to supply it with a customised oil storage container and two weighbridge information storage containers at a cost of some R2.5 million.

“However, she only delivered one standard container valued at approximately R60 000, while submitting an invoice for three containers, which Eskom paid in full. Investigations later revealed that Kubheka had inflated the costs by R939 550. 

“In aggravation of sentence, Senior State Advocate Derrick Mashego, argued that the offence was carefully planned, motivated by greed, and caused significant financial prejudice to Eskom and the fiscus,” the NPA said.

The prosecutorial body said Khubeka “expressed remorse” during mitigation – citing her “retirement status, personal tragedies”, as well as admitting to “using proceeds of the crime to purchase a luxury vehicle”.

“The court imposed an effective sentence of 12 years for fraud and four years for money laundering, wholly suspended for five years. In addition, under Section 300 of the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977, Kubheka was ordered to repay R1 656 000 to Eskom within five years, in monthly instalments of R30 000 until the amount is fully settled.

“The NPA reiterates that serious commercial crimes threaten South Africa’s economic stability and compromise Eskom’s ability to provide reliable electricity. The NPA remains resolute in adopting an aggressive stance in prosecuting those who undermine the country’s resources through corruption and fraud,” the prosecutorial body said.

Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, vowed to continue the crackdown on any wrongdoing at the power utility.

“Our commitment to eliminating corruption remains unwavering and these developments send a clear message: fraud and corruption will not be tolerated.

“The vast majority of Eskom employees act with integrity and dedication. We will pursue those who betray the organisation and the country with our law enforcement partners and seek prosecutions wherever possible,” Marokane said. – SAnews.gov.za

Petrol, diesel prices to decrease from Wednesday

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

Some relief will be felt at the pumps this month when all grades of petrol and diesel record decreases from Wednesday.

The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) has announced the following price adjustments:
•    Petrol 93 (ULP & LRP): 4 cent decrease.
•    Petrol 95 (ULP & LRP): 4 cent decrease.
•    Diesel (0.05% sulphur): 56 cent decrease.
•    Diesel (0.005% sulphur): 57 cent decrease.
•    Illuminating Paraffin (wholesale): 37 cent decrease.
•    Single Maximum National Retail Price for Illuminating Paraffin: 49 cent decrease.
•    Maximum Retail Price of LPGas: R1.32 decrease and R1.51 decrease in the Western Cape

“The average Brent Crude oil price decreased from $69.06 US Dollars [USD] to $67.01 USD during the period under review. The main contributing factors are increasing production by OPEC+ and non-OPEC [Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries] producers, slower global economic growth outlook as well as uncertain trade tariffs.

“The average international prices of all petroleum products decreased in line with the decrease in crude oil prices. This led to lower contributions to the Basic Fuel Prices [BFP] of petrol by 1.88 cents per litre [c/l], diesel by 54.35 c/l and illuminating paraffin by 35.54 c/l, respectively. The prices of Propane and Butane also decreased during the period under review,” the DMPR explained.

The decrease means that a litre of Petrol 95 (ULP & LRP) will cost R 21.55 cents a litre in Gauteng while a litre of Petrol 95 (ULP & LRP) in the coast will now cost R20.72 a litre as of Wednesday.

Furthermore, the Rand appreciated slightly against the USD during the period under review – cushioning “prices by close to 2.00 cents per litre on all products”. – SAnews.gov.za

KZN taxi and e-hailing operators commended for peace efforts

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, September 1, 2025

KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma has commended e-hailing drivers, taxi drivers, and members of the KwaDabeka and Clermont Taxi Association for their commitment to peace and stability in the area.

“This will not only strengthen the public transport system but will also ensure that they co-exist,” Duma said.

Duma’s remarks come after last week’s shooting and assault of e-hailing drivers, allegedly by taxi operators, in KwaDabeka, west of Durban.

In response, Duma dispatched a team from the Public Regulatory Entity to meet with the KZN E-Hailing Council, the KwaDabeka and Clermont Taxi Association, and the South African Police Service (SAPS).

The meeting, held at KwaDabeka Police Station, on Friday, sought to ensure peace and stability and reflect on the state of readiness for the implementation of the e-hailing industry encompassing Uber and Bolt drivers.

Key agreements included:
•    Harmonising relations and ensuring co-existence between e-hailing drivers and taxi-operators and taxi drivers; 
•    Working together to ensure long-lasting solutions in order to achieve, peace and stability within the public transport sector in the KwaDabeka and Clermont;
•    Traffic enforcement of law in order to strengthen the transport system and ensure its safety;
•    Rollout of Multidisciplinary Roadblocks involving KZN E-hailing Council, KwaDabeka /Clermont Association, SAPS, Road Traffic Inspectorate and Metro Police to root out illegal operators. (Drivers who do not have an app and taxi operators who do not have permits).
•    Updating all stakeholders about the implementation of e-hailing regulations contained in the amended National Land Transport Act.
Duma also thanked Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi for deploying the National Intervention Unit to ensure stability in the area.

“We have agreed to work together to stabilise other areas where there is harassment and extortion of e-hailing drivers by criminal elements. We want e-hailing drivers and taxi drivers to live comfortably and have access to our housing schemes such as First Home Buyer scheme for households with an income of between R3 000 and R22 000,” Duma said.

He reiterated the provincial government’s stance that “nothing should come between the people of KwaZulu-Natal and prosperity.” – SAnews.gov.za