Category: South Africa Government

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will, on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa, deliver the eulogy at the funeral of the late former Minister of Defence Mosiuoa Gerard Patrick “Terror” Lekota this weekend.

In honour of his contribution to South Africa’s liberation struggle and democratic development, President Ramaphosa declared that he will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 2. 

Lekota, a veteran of the liberation struggle and former Premier of the Free State and inaugural Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, passed away on Wednesday, 04 March 2026, at the age of 77.

He was also the founding President of the Congress of the People (COPE).

“Lekota dedicated his life to the struggle for freedom and democracy. As a member of the South African Students’ Organisation and a leading figure in the United Democratic Front (UDF), he played a significant role in mobilising communities against apartheid. 

“He was imprisoned on Robben Island for eight years alongside struggle leaders, including Tata Nelson Mandela,” the Presidency said.

In the democratic era, Lekota served as the first Premier of the Free State (1994–1996), the inaugural Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (1997–1999), and Minister of Defence from 1999 to 2008.

The President has directed that the National Flag be flown at half-mast at all flag stations until the evening of the funeral on 14 March 2026. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) will proceed with lifestyle audits for its officials in a phased-in approach.

This was announced by NPA National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) Advocate Andy Mothibi during a media briefing this week.

“The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has made a call for all the entities under the Justice Portfolio and those in the Justice Crime Prevention and Security Cluster to implement lifestyle audits, over and above the financial disclosures framework that is regulated by the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA).

“The NPA has been exploring the implementation thereof for some time and we have now made a firm decision to proceed with lifestyle audits, in a phase-in approach. We will commence with ExCo and ManCo members with immediate effect and other NPA officials, especially those in high-risk work environments, will then follow,” Mothibi announced.

He noted that officials have already been subject to regular integrity checks in terms of the NPA Ethics and Accountability Program which includes some form of lifestyle auditing.

“A lifestyle audit is a proactive integrity measure designed to strengthen trust and accountability. It ensures that declared income and financial interests align with observable standards in line with governance standards.

“As a key institution within the criminal justice system, the NPA has a duty to the public to ensure that its staff can be trusted to deliver justice to the people of South Africa,” the NDPP said.

Ethical prosecutions

Mothibi acknowledged allegations that some prosecutors are interfering in investigations and prosecutions of “certain cases in the commercial crimes environment in the Gauteng Local Division in Johannesburg”.

“We are taking these allegations very seriously. The NPA’s Office for Ethics and Accountability will thoroughly investigate these allegations; and we have already shared the preliminary findings on some of these investigations with the public through the media, and in the more complex cases, the investigations are still underway,” he revealed.

The prosecutions boss committed to full transparency with South Africans once the matters have been fully fleshed out.

“We commit to transparency on these complaints and we will keep the public informed as and when the investigations are finalised.

“Where the findings reveal any malfeasance or misconduct, appropriate consequence management measures will be put in place,” he said.

Civil litigation

Mothibi stated that the prosecutorial body has been the subject of civil litigation stemming from prosecutorial decisions.

“The NPA has through the Legal Affairs Division (LAD) consistently defended these civil litigation matters. This is demonstrated by the 81.3 % success rate in defending claims of malicious prosecution and unlawful detention against the NPA,” he said.

He highlighted that the amount of money paid towards civil litigations has reduced from some R9.7 million in the 2023/2024 financial year down to R5.5 million in 2024/2025.

“Efforts are being made to further reduce these payments during this year, with initiatives or measures meant to empower prosecutors to effectively prosecute and make prosecutorial decisions that are legally sound, with a view to minimise exposure to civil litigation.

“The NPA, through LAD continues to monitor significant issues coming out of the many Commissions of Inquiry and the Ad Hoc Committee, and reflection sessions are undertaken at a management level to consider any interventions to be made where necessary,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za

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Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, on Friday handed over school shoes to learners from nine schools in the Greater Taung and Mamusa Local Municipalities at Uurpan Safari Lodge in Schweizer-Reneke.

The event brought together community leaders, education stakeholders, School Governing Bodies, councillors from Taung and Mamusa Local Municipalities, as well as representatives from government departments and partner organisations committed to supporting learners in rural communities.

During the programme, Morolong reflected on the challenges that many learners in rural areas continue to face and emphasised the importance of restoring dignity in education.

Sharing a story about a young boy who once walked long distances to school without proper shoes, the Deputy Minister reminded the audience that access to basic necessities such as school shoes can make a profound difference in a learner’s life.

“Sometimes what appears small can carry great meaning. A simple pair of school shoes can represent dignity, confidence and the opportunity for a child to walk into a classroom knowing that they belong there,” he said.

The initiative forms part of broader efforts to support education and uplift communities in the North West Province.

Deputy Minister Morolong also took the opportunity to recognise the important role played by educators and school leadership in shaping the future of young people.

Two school principals from the district, who recently retired after many years of service in education, were acknowledged for their lifelong dedication to developing learners and strengthening their communities.

Their contribution, the Deputy Minister noted, extended far beyond the classroom and lives on through the generations of learners they have mentored and guided.

The programme was made possible through collaboration between government and key partners, including Infrastructure South Africa, Brand South Africa and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), with support from private sector partners such as KPMG.

Through this partnership, hundreds of learners received school shoes, ensuring that they can attend school with dignity and confidence.

Deputy Minister Morolong emphasised that nation building requires collaboration between government, business, and communities.

“When government and business work together with purpose, we can create meaningful change in the lives of our people, especially our children,” he said.

He also called on communities to protect and support schools as important spaces for learning and development.

“Our schools must once again become centres of pride for our communities. Education is not only the responsibility of teachers or government. It belongs to all of us.”

Addressing the learners present at the event, the Deputy Minister encouraged them to wear their new school shoes with pride and remain focused on their education.

“Let these shoes remind you that your future is bigger than the streets you walk today. One day, among you, will be doctors, teachers, scientists and leaders who will shape the future of our country.”

The handover programme formed part of ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening communities and ensuring that every child in South Africa has the opportunity to learn and succeed.

“Every journey begins with a step. Today, together, we are making sure that step is taken with dignity,” said the Deputy Minister. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has informed the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces of his decision to deploy 2 200 members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) for service in cooperation with the South African Police Service (SAPS).

This is in line with section 201 (3) (a)(b)(c) and (d) of the Constitution.

According to the Presidency, the deployment serves to prevent and combat crime, and support and preserve law and order under Operation Prosper which is targeting illegal mining and gangsterism. 

“The deployed members of the SANDF will assist the South African Police Service to prevent and combat illegal mining and gangsterism in the Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, North West and Western Cape.

“The deployment is for the period 01 March 2026 until 31 March 2027,” said the Presidency in a statement on Friday.

Section 201(2) (a) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, directs that, “Only the President, as head of the national executive, may authorise the employment of the defence force in co-operation with the police service”.

The Presidency said expenditure for this employment is estimated at R823 153 960.

During the State of the Nation Address 2026, President Ramaphosa announced the intention to deploy the South Africa National Defence to areas afflicted by illegal mining and gang violence. 

President Ramaphosa has called on communities to welcome and work more closely with the South African Police Service and the South African National Defence Force to identify and alienate criminal elements and make neighbourhoods safer in the process. – SAnews.gov.za

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Five undocumented foreign nationals operating spaza shops in Umlazi, south of Durban, were arrested during a three-day multi-disciplinary compliance operation conducted this week.

A total of 34 tuckshops were inspected by eThekwini Municipality’s law enforcement agencies and Environmental Health Officers.

The operation was conducted in partnership with Durban Metro Police, the South African Police Service (SAPS), the City’s Business Licensing Division, and the Supply Side and Area-Based Operations Directorate.

The multi-disciplinary initiative focused on enforcing municipal by-laws, verifying business licence compliance, ensuring adherence to food safety and hygiene standards, and safeguarding public health.

During the inspections, most businesses were found to be operating without valid business licences, raising significant compliance concerns.

On the first day of the operation on 9 March 2026, officials inspected 14 tuckshops in Umlazi’s K and H sections.

“None of the businesses had valid licences. One fine and one summons were issued for dirty conditions. Warnings were also issued.

“The operation moved to Q and U sections on 10 March, where 12 tuckshops were inspected. None of the businesses had valid licences,” the municipality said.

Officials issued warnings, and Environmental Health Practitioners are expected to conduct follow-up inspections to ensure that corrective measures are implemented.

Operations on Wednesday, 11 March, focused on sections T and B, where eight tuckshops were inspected.

Of these, one had a pending licence application, while seven were operating without licences.

“Two fines were issued, along with summonses for dirty conditions and expired foodstuffs. Expired goods were confiscated to prevent them from being sold to the public. Warnings were also issued,” the municipality said.

Inspectors also uncovered illegal electricity connections at some premises, posing additional safety risks.

The municipality said the joint operations reflect the city’s commitment to protecting residents, enforcing compliance, and ensuring that businesses operate within the confines of the law.

The city warned that it will not tolerate non-compliance, particularly where public health and safety are compromised.

Similar operations will be rolled out in other communities as the municipality strengthens law enforcement and promotes responsible and compliant business practices.

Businesses are urged to visit municipal Business Licensing Offices to register or renew their licences, as trading without a valid licence is an offence under the Business Licensing Act 71 of 1991.

For licence applications or renewals, businesses can contact the City’s Business Licensing Division on 031 311 4535, email licensing@durban.gov.za, or visit 199 Anton Lembede Street, Embassy Building, 7th Floor. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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The government has returned more than 627 hectares of land in Mpumalanga to its rightful custodians after it was appropriated under the apartheid regime around 1934, reaffirming its commitment to land restitution.

“The return of this land, therefore, embodies the restoration of identity, a sense of belonging, and opportunities for the family that was dispossessed,” Deputy President Paul Mashatile said on Friday.

The significant milestone in the journey of the Mtshoeni/Mtsweni family, also known as the Schulk Marhiqa Communal Property Association (CPA), was marked by the handover ceremony of the land and title deeds. The event was attended by the Deputy President and the Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mzwanele Nyhontso.

The family initiated a claim to restore their ancestral land in 1998 – a process that entailed extensive years of investigation, negotiation, and even personal sacrifice.

The Schulk Marhiqa CPA is already farming 100 hectares of maize and 30 hectares of soybeans, alongside livestock. 

With the support of the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development and partners such as the South African Grain Farmers Association (SAGRA), the Deputy President said this community is positioned to thrive and prosper.

“Government is pleased that post-settlement support has provided tractors, planters, trailers and livestock. More importantly, it has created jobs, built skills, and opened pathways for youth and women to participate in agriculture. This is economic empowerment in action,” he said.

On a broader scale, the government is facilitating community land management through Communal Property Associations (CPAs). 

On October 9, 2024, President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the Communal Property Associations Amendment Bill, which modifies the 1996 Communal Property Associations Act. 

These amendments aim to enhance the rights of community members involved in CPAs and clarify their objectives, establishing that land ownership lies with the residents who are part of these associations, as opposed to the associations themselves.

“Government is leveraging land redistribution to rectify historical injustices while concurrently promoting agricultural production, stimulating rural economies, and generating employment opportunities. 

“By employing rights-based interventions and addressing disparities in ownership and wealth distribution, the Comprehensive Rural Development Programme is striving to improve living conditions and welfare, effectively rectifying past injustices,” the Deputy President said.

In the late 1700s, the family of Mtshoeni settled in Grootvlei in Mpumalanga.

The household of the family was led by Schulk Ngazimbi Marhiqa Mtshoeni, who owned a large portion of land before it was appropriated under the Natives Land Act of 1913 and allocated to the Frans Herbs family.

“Baba Marhiqa was recognised as one of the most successful farmers, cultivating maize, corn, and raising herds of cattle and sheep. Around 1934, the farm was taken from him, and the Herbs family entered into an agreement to cultivate maize and corn, with the profits shared equally.

“The Native Land Act resulted in significant socio-economic consequences for his descendants, who were relegated to the status of farm workers, lost their livestock, and were deprived of their rightful inheritance, reflecting the broader impact of systemic land dispossession on indigenous populations,” the Deputy President said.

He emphasised that each hectare restored is not only a stride toward healing, but a living testament to justice fulfilled. 

“As we hand over these title deeds, we affirm that South Africa belongs to all who live in it. We affirm that dignity denied can be dignity restored. And we affirm that the promise of our Constitution, to heal the divisions of the past and build a united, prosperous future, is alive here in Grootvlei, and it will continue to spread across all corners of South Africa.

“Each title deed handed over is a promise kept by our democratic government, a covenant between the democratic state and its people,” the Deputy President said.

He highlighted that these title deeds are the direct consequence of honouring land restitution rights. 

“For thirty years, the Commission on Restitution of Land Rights has stood as a pillar of transformation, steadfast in its mission to heal the wounds of our past. Today’s celebration is living proof that restitution is practical, that it is empowering, and it is nation‑building.

“We are pleased to note that your story as the Mtshoeni family does not conclude with the event of human rights abuse related to dispossession. Instead, your narrative aligns with the sentiments of many South Africans who assert that our collective story must evolve beyond a history of exclusion, especially now that there exists a democratic dispensation in which there is a mechanism for restoration through land restitution,” Mashatile said. –SAnews.gov.za

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KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has called for stronger collaboration between government, industry and investors to accelerate energy investment and industrial development in the province.

Ntuli made the call at the inaugural KwaZulu-Natal Energy Indaba currently underway at Thembela Venue in Richards Bay.

The two-day indaba, which started on Thursday, is hosted by the Premier, together with Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) MEC, Musa Zondi, in partnership with the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone.

As the province moves to position Richards Bay as a strategic energy hub, the indaba is expected to serve as a platform to address systemic challenges, strengthen intergovernmental coordination and advance the infrastructure development required to support industrialisation and sustainable economic growth.

The event has brought together leaders from national and provincial government, State-owned entities, energy producers, investors, development agencies, and industry specialists to discuss practical measures to improve energy security and unlock catalytic investment opportunities across KwaZulu-Natal.

In his opening address, Ntuli said reliable and affordable energy is essential for economic growth, industrial expansion, and job creation.

He said energy security will remain central to the province’s long-term development strategy, particularly as government advances the KwaZulu-Natal Secondary Cities Programme aimed at establishing new economic growth centres across the province.

The Premier highlighted Richards Bay as a strategic industrial and logistics hub capable of playing a major role in strengthening South Africa’s energy security.

“Through the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone, the province is positioning itself to attract large-scale investment in emerging energy sectors, including gas-to-power, renewable energy manufacturing, green hydrogen and energy storage technologies,” Ntuli said.

According to the Premier, energy projects currently account for more than 77% of the RBIDZ investment pipeline, representing approximately R123 billion of the zone’s R140 billion total investment pipeline.

Ntuli also welcomed the progress on the proposed 3 000MW gas-to-power project planned for Richards Bay, which is expected to contribute significantly to stabilising electricity supply in both KwaZulu-Natal and the country.

He added that the development of the province’s energy economy must be accompanied by strong investment in skills development.

The provincial government, he said, is strengthening partnerships between universities, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges and industry to prepare young people for jobs in emerging sectors such as hydrogen technologies, renewable energy systems, and advanced manufacturing.

Ntuli also reaffirmed government’s commitment to South Africa’s Just Energy Transition, stressing that the shift towards cleaner energy must protect industrial competitiveness, safeguard energy security, and create new economic opportunities for workers and young people.

He concluded by urging investors, industry leaders and development partners to work with government to unlock the province’s energy potential and build a resilient and sustainable energy system that supports long-term economic growth.

Ntuli described the Energy Indaba as an important platform to mobilise investment, strengthen partnerships and position KwaZulu-Natal as a leading energy hub on the African continent.

Zondi said the indaba comes at a critical time, as the province works to build a resilient and sustainable energy future under the theme “Driving KwaZulu-Natal’s Energy Future.”

He said the provincial energy agenda will prioritise availability, accessibility, affordability, and sustainability while addressing poverty and inequality.

“Energy is not simply an input into production; it is the backbone of manufacturing, logistics, value-addition industries and every component of our modern economy. For communities, access to energy unlocks dignity, safety, education, health, and entrepreneurship,” Zondi said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Water is a fundamental component of human dignity and a constitutional right rather than a service, writes Deputy Government Spokesperson, William Baloyi.

Water serves as a vital economic facilitator because small enterprises, mining activities, tourism, agriculture, and construction cannot survive without reliable water. Water is an essential part of life, and no one can survive without it.

As a water-scarce country, receiving about half the global average rainfall, unevenly distributed across regions and seasons, South Africa requires a coordinated and sustainable approach to water resource management.

In its efforts to ensure water security, the government continues to adopt an integrated approach to maintaining existing water resource infrastructure. This includes supplying bulk water to strategic users such as large industrial companies through the Water Trading Entity and supporting the long‐term sustainability of water resources.

These efforts coincide with a month of landmark observance, including National Water Month and Human Rights Month. This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the adoption and signing of South Africa’s Constitution into law. This supreme law enshrines the right to sufficient water and a healthy environment, alongside socio-economic rights such as housing, education, and healthcare, serving as a reminder to reaffirm the strength of democracy and freedom.

Government is cognisant that water access is central to dignity, equality and socio-economic development, hence it is prioritising reliable and sustainable water supply nationwide. In the State of the Nation Address, President Cyril Ramaphosa articulated that government is in the final stages of establishing a National Water Resource Infrastructure Agency to effectively manage and mobilise funding for the country’s water infrastructure. In addition to this, a National Water Crisis Committee was announced as part of government efforts to address water shortages, infrastructure failures and municipal performance challenges across the country.

Government is prioritising the completion of delayed water infrastructure projects by also taking steps to reprioritise funding to ensure delayed projects are finalised and water systems are stabilised. Significant progress has been made in the construction of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, the Ntabelanga Dam in the Eastern Cape and Gabosch Damin Mpumalanga.

Progress is realised at the St George’s Park Wellfield, which forms part of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality’s strategy to ensure a reliable and sustainable water supply through the development of alternative water sources.

The project focuses on groundwater extraction and treatment, reducing reliance on rainfall-dependent dams. This approach aims to strengthen the resilience and sustainability of the metro’s water system, stabilise supply to key areas, mitigate drought-related shortages, and reinforce the bulk water network that supports communities across the metro.

Minister of Water and Sanitation Pemmy Majodina recently handed over a newly completed borehole to the community of Bronkhorstspruit in the City of Tshwane in Gauteng. This forms part of government’s ongoing commitment to expanding reliable access to water and advancing women’s empowerment through sustainable Water, Sanitation and Hygiene initiatives.

In the North West province, government efforts to enhance water supply systems in the Bojanala Platinum District Municipality are being intensified, particularly in Rustenburg and Moses Kotane. Recently government convened a meeting with local municipalities and Magalies Water at Rustenburg Civic Centre to assess and determine ways to stabilise water supply. This initiative coincides with National Water Month, emphasising the significance of water resource protection. The meeting addressed the status of key infrastructure such as the Kortbegrip Reservoir System and Bospoort Plant, with plans to boost their operational capacity for better reliability and efficiency in water distribution.

Communities are encouraged to support government’s clarion call to use water sparingly. As a water scarce country, saving water begins with the small choices we make every day. Simple actions such as turning off taps when not in use, fixing leaks, and using water responsibly can significantly reduce water loss and help protect the country’s supply.

Members of the public are also encouraged to report water leaks, burst pipes, and illegal connections to the relevant water authorities, as this can go a long way in safeguarding water resources. Ultimately, water conservation must become an embedded way of life to protect water as a shared national resource and work together to secure water for current and future generations. 

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