Category: South Africa Government

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Transnational organised crime remains a serious threat to peace

Source: Government of South Africa

Acting Police Minister, Professor Firoz Cachalia, says transnational organised crime remains one of the most serious threats to peace, stability and development across Africa and beyond.

“Its manifestations are diverse: drug trafficking, human trafficking, illicit firearms, cybercrime, wildlife crime, money laundering, and terrorism, to name but a few of the most threatening,” Cachalia said on Wednesday.

Speaking at the 27th African Regional Interpol Conference underway in Cape Town, Cachalia said these crimes transcend borders, exploit technological advances and undermine the security of people and the integrity of respective States and economies.

“We are all mindful, particularly, that syndicated crime today is not static. The evolving nature of criminal activities, the emergence of new trends and the use of sophisticated technologies by criminal networks compel us to constantly adapt our responses,” Cachalia said.

Cachalia said dealing with these crimes demands a collective, concerted and focused effort.

“It requires robust strategies, and the concrete implementation of agreed actions at national, regional, continental and global levels.

“We are gathered here to generate solutions that are both strategic and pragmatic; solutions that can be implemented effectively within our countries and within the frameworks of our regional and continental organisations.

“Our deliberations will help to shape a more coordinated African response to transnational organised crime, one that strengthens the security of our borders while protecting the rights and wellbeing of our people.” 

Cachalia said South Africa’s participation in the conference is firmly rooted in the country’s constitutional values and long-term national vision.

“Our Constitution enshrines the right of every person to safety and security, and it compels the State to protect and uphold these rights. 

“Our engagement in regional and global security cooperation is, therefore, not only a matter of international solidarity but also an essential component of our domestic agenda.”

Cachalia said South Africa recognises that transnational organised crime undermines development and corrodes governance.

“By weakening institutions, fuelling corruption, and diverting resources, it impedes our ability to achieve the aspirations of Agenda 2063 of the African Union and the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations.”

In his welcoming address, National Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Fannie Masemola, said the biennial conference is one of INTERPOL’s most significant regional events.

“It offers us the opportunity to assess crime threats and emerging trends, strengthen INTERPOL’s core capabilities, and reinforce the global policing cooperation that links Africa to all 193 member countries of INTERPOL.” 

Masemola said transnational organised crime is evolving with alarming speed.

“Whether it is drug trafficking, human trafficking, cybercrime, firearms smuggling, vehicle theft or illegal mining, these crimes exploit borders, weaken governance, fuel corruption and destabilise communities. Behind every crime statistic lies a story of lives shattered, families broken, and communities robbed of their peace.”

The conference is being attended by the President of INTERPOL, Major General Ahmed Naser Al-Raisi; the Secretary General of INTERPOL, Mr Valdecy Urquiza, and Police Chiefs from INTERPOL member countries, amongst others.

The high-level gathering will underscore South Africa’s commitment to regional and international cooperation in combating transnational organised crime, terrorism and other emerging security threats. 

It is expected to result in concrete agreements on strengthening regional responses, while also serving as a platform for the exchange of best practices and the deepening of law enforcement partnerships. – SAnews.gov.za

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Minister announces appointment of National Education and Training Council Members

Source: Government of South Africa

Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has officially announced the appointment of members to the National Education and Training Council (NETC), marking a significant step in shaping the future of South Africa’s basic education system. 

Speaking at the announcement briefing in Pretoria, the Minister said this month, her ministry has operationalised the National Education and Training Council for the first time – a step taken with the support of Cabinet.

The Council, which was first established in terms of the National Education Policy Act of 1996 and its regulations promulgated in 2009, is being activated for the first time. It will serve as an independent advisory body to the Minister on key education policies and reforms, provide inputs on draft national education policy, and report annually to the Minister on its activities. 

Gwarube explained that just 12 days after her appointment as Minister, she addressed Parliament and committed to operationalise the National Education and Training Council to provide expert advice on education policies and reforms in the country.

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“It has been a year of hard work and significant reorientation. I am pleased to inform South Africans that we have delivered on that promise. Today, the NETC will hold its inaugural meeting at the Department of Basic Education’s head office in Pretoria.

“When I assumed this responsibility, I made it clear that South Africa’s basic education system could not continue on the path of incremental adjustments. It needed a decisive shift in strategy, vision and energy,” Gwarube said. 

The new Council will be chaired by Ms Penelope Vinjevold, with members drawn from across academia, civil society, and education management. They include:

  1. Mrs Khathutshelo Onica Dederen.
  2. Dr Xolani Khohliso.
  3. Ms Zanele Mabaso.
  4. Ms Madimetja Dina Mamashela.
  5. Prof Judith McKenzie.
  6. Prof Paulus Jacobus Mentz.
  7. Mr Lebogang Stephen Montjane.
  8. Ms Mmatsetsweu Ruby Motaung.
  9. Prof Nicolette Roberts.
  10. Ms Maite Getrude Rammala.
  11. Ms Marie-Louise Samuels.
  12. Dr Selvia Kista (Mona) Singh.
  13. Dr Glodean Qondile Tintswalo Thani.
  14. Ms Penelope Vinjevold (Chairperson).
  15. Dr Gabrielle Wills.

According to the Minister, the NETC will provide expert advice on pressing issues such as the review of the school resourcing model, assessment and progression requirements, reducing administrative burdens on teachers, and strengthening foundational learning.

In addition, the Council’s advice must give guidance on how to ensure a smooth transition from Early Childhood Care and Education into compulsory Grade R, and on progressively strengthening mother tongue instruction in the early grades.

“Without strong foundations in literacy and numeracy, other reforms cannot succeed. With them, every child has a pathway to learning, opportunity and dignity.

“These tasks are urgent, but they are also interconnected. Together, they represent the core of our mission: to inject quality, equity and resilience into South Africa’s basic education system. 

“The appointment of the National Education and Training Council is more than an administrative milestone. It marks the start of a new era for policymaking in basic education in South Africa,” the Minister said. 

The Minister stressed that the Council will not replace statutory bodies like the Council of Education Ministers or Heads of Education Departments Committee but will serve as an evidence-led advisory structure to supplement their work. She added that it is not a decision-making body. Its role is advisory.

“The Council is designed to strengthen our decision-making. It is a sounding board; a source of evidence, and a forum for testing ideas before they are translated into policy. It is, in short, a mechanism to ensure that our reforms are not only bold, but also smart, equitable, implementable and sustainable,” the Minister said.

In closing, the Minister extended her gratitude to the members of the NETC for their willingness to contribute their expertise and time to this important work.  

“We are wishing you all the best as you convene for your inaugural meeting today. You are entrusted with a responsibility to fearlessly provide advice grounded in evidence and aimed at the best interests of learners. Yours is not the task of government, but the task of knowledge, expertise and wisdom.

“I urge you to approach this responsibility with courage, creativity, and the humility that comes from knowing that millions of children depend on our collective choices,” she said. 

The Minister said the Council’s work officially starts today, bringing with it the responsibility to guarantee that every child in every classroom across all provinces not only has a place in school but also a real opportunity to thrive. – SAnews.gov.za

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‘Safety, dignity and futures’ of SA youth are not for sale

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development (DJCOD), Andries Nel, has called for a united approach to fight human trafficking and the exploitation of young women.

This after the circulation of social media videos – through prominent South African influencers – of controversial and possibly illegal job opportunities in Russia.

The videos circulated by the influencers are targeted at young women between the ages of 18 and 22.

“Let me be clear: these offers are not endorsed by the Government of South Africa. Never rely solely on social media promotions or unsolicited social media advertisements. Always cross-check and verify job opportunities through official channels,” Nel said.

The Deputy Minister acknowledged the “desperation created by high levels of youth unemployment, particularly among young women”, which could lead to dangerous situations.

“These vulnerabilities must not be exploited. Government remains committed to creating safe and sustainable employment pathways through initiatives such as the Presidential Employment Stimulus, the National Youth Service, and skills development programmes,” he said.

Nel emphasised that a ‘whole of society’ approach is required to protect young lives.

“We call upon all sectors of society – government, civil society, business and communities – to work together to protect our youth from predators who seek to profit from their hopes and dreams. 

“The safety, dignity and futures of our young people are not for sale. Human trafficking is a scourge that we must confront with unity, vigilance, and unshakable resolve,” Nel said.

Echoing the Deputy Minister’s sentiments on the dangers of human trafficking, the department relayed the example of some 23 South Africans who were rescued and repatriated from Myanmar in March.

“Before leaving South Africa in 2024, they were lured to the Kingdom of Thailand under false pretences by an employment agency that promised them lucrative jobs that were advertised on various social media platforms. These adverts promised the victims good salaries, free accommodation, comprehensive travel expenses and other lucrative benefits. 

“Once in Thailand, they were transported to Myanmar against their will. The victims were held captive for more than four months in a cybercrime compound in Myanmar. They were subjected to brutal treatment, intimidation, physical torture and forced labour. They were also compelled to engage in illicit activities, including online scams that targeted individuals worldwide,” the department said.

Before accepting any international offer, use the following channels to verify its authenticity:

  • The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO).
  • The Department of Employment and Labour (DoEL).
  • The Department of Home Affairs (DHA).
  • The South African Police Service (SAPS).

“It is also imperative that any person taking up a job offer or opportunity overseas must first enquire from the country where the employment is offered as to what the legal travel and legal working requirements are, in respect of that country.

“Trafficking in persons is a reality, with South Africa being regarded as a source, transit and destination country for trafficking in persons. Recent data from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime has documented a 25% global increase in detected trafficking of victims, with children accounting [for] 38%.

“The department… working with the National Intersectoral Committee on Trafficking in Persons (NICTIP), provincial task teams, and rapid response units established under the Prevention and Combating of Trafficking in Persons Act, 2013 (Act 7 of 2013), continues to strengthen South Africa’s collective response to trafficking in persons.

“Our work includes enhancing investigations and prosecutions of trafficking offences, building cross-border partnerships with international counterparts and expanding public awareness campaigns to alert communities to the methods used by traffickers,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Mashatile to launch Just Energy Transition initiatives in Johannesburg

Source: Government of South Africa

In his role as Chairperson of the Human Resource Development Council, Deputy President Paul Mashatile will officially launch the Just Energy Transition (JET) Skills Desk, the National JET Skills Advisory Forum and the Multi-Donor Initiative (MDI). 

This event will take place on Friday, 29 August 2025, at the Gallagher Convention Centre, in Johannesburg. Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela will also be at the launch.

 According to the Deputy President’s Office, these initiatives represent strategic milestones in advancing South Africa’s transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient and inclusive economy.

“The launch also forms part of the broader JET skills portfolio, which underscores the country’s commitment to coordinated, multi-sectoral action, involving government, organised labour, business, civil society and development partners. 

“Inclusion of these structures is for the purposes of ensuring that the energy transition is inclusive, equitable and anchored in a demand-driven approach to skills development,” a statement read. 

The upcoming event aims to introduce the key components of the JET Skills governance structure, which includes the JET Skills Desk and the National JET Skills Advisory Forum.

The JET Skills Desk will function as the main coordination hub, located within the Department of Higher Education and Training. Its purpose is to drive integrated skills planning and implementation in line with the country’s energy transition objectives.

On the other hand, the National JET Skills Advisory Forum will serve as a multi-stakeholder platform. It will provide guidance, encourage alignment across various sectors, and promote accountability in delivering the skills necessary for a just transition.

The Presidency said these structures will support the roll out of Skills Development Zones (SDZs), which are localised hubs for focused training and skills development in areas most affected by the energy transition. 

“The SDZs will aim to equip individuals with relevant, demand-responsive skills, while promoting local economic resilience and inclusion.” 

Mashatile will launch the Multi-Donor Initiative (MDI) on that day, which supports the JET Skills Desk. 

This initiative is co-financed by the European Union, Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), and the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO). It is implemented under BMZ’s flagship Career Path Development for Employment (CPD4E) programme. 

The MDI exemplifies strong international cooperation and South Africa’s commitment to mobilising global and domestic partnerships that support reskilling, upskilling and workforce development to avoid massive job losses.

The official launch also signals South Africa’s readiness to deliver a just, inclusive and demand-responsive energy transition, underpinned by the development of relevant and sustainable skills required by the labour market. – SAnews.gov.za

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Over 18000 arrested in police operations 

Source: Government of South Africa

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested 18 634 suspects over the past week – signaling reaffirmation of public safety and the rule of law.

Among those arrested were 3 087 wanted individuals linked to serious and violent crimes, including murder, rape, hijacking and armed robbery. According to the police, 131 suspects were arrested for murder 140 for attempted murder and 157 for rape.
Meanwhile, 722 suspects were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, while 1714 suspects were nabbed for illegal migration offences.

A total of 106 suspects were arrested for illegal possession of firearms.  KwaZulu-Natal led with 32 arrests; Eastern Cape followed with 21 arrests and Gauteng secured 19 arrests. 

Police also arrested 232 suspects for drug trafficking.

The week’s operations also led to the seizure of high-value contraband and dangerous goods,  including 18,882 units of abalone, 180 firearms, and 2 921 rounds of ammunition.  

Meanwhile, SAPS National Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, led a drug destruction process worth more than R 400 million in Gauteng.

In a separate enforcement operation, on Friday, 22 August 2025, the National Tracking and Tracing Task Team, under Operation Buyisa, seized 226 firearms from a registered private security company after uncovering serious contraventions of the Firearms Control Act, 2000 (Act 60 of 2000).

Additionally, a coordinated Inter-Provincial Operation led to the arrests of 116 suspects across Frances Baard, Namakwa, and Pixley Ka Seme in the Northern Cape. Major seizures in Colesberg included illicit cigarettes and a truck worth R7.5 million, plus stolen goods and a maroon VW Polo linked to criminal activity. 

Recovered items spanned firearms, ammunition, counterfeit goods, drugs, alcohol, weapons, and cash. – SAnews.gov.za

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Mpumalanga makes final call for learner admission for 2026 academic year

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, August 27, 2025

The Mpumalanga Department of Education has reminded all parents and guardians that only three days remain before the deadline for the admission of learners into schools for the 2026 academic year.

Parents are urged to make use of the remaining days to register their children before the deadline of 31 August 2025, at nearby schools. 

Early admission ensures that schools are able to plan adequately for the new academic year and allows teaching and learning to commence smoothly on the very first day of reopening in 2026.

“Education is a fundamental right. Every child deserves a place in school, regardless of their circumstances. I call upon parents to take responsibility and register their children within the set deadline so that together, we can guarantee access to quality education for all,” the MEC for Education, Lindi Masina, said on Wednesday.

The department has issued clear guidelines to schools to ensure that the admission process is fair, transparent and inclusive.

All learners of school-going age must be duly admitted and registered before the closing date.

“No learner may be denied admission at a public school on the grounds that their parents cannot afford school fees or because of differences in religious beliefs. Learners without official documents (such as birth certificates, IDs, study permits or proof of residence) must not be turned away.

“Principals are required to accept alternative proof, such as an affidavit or sworn statement by a parent, caregiver or guardian, and assist families in securing the necessary documents through the relevant government departments,” the department said.

All schools are expected to establish functional admission committees to oversee and manage the process fairly and professionally.

Parents are advised to prioritise admission at schools closest to their homes to minimise travel distances for learners. –SAnews.gov.za

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Deputy Minister Gina to address SA-Tunisia Women’s Day celebration

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy Minister Gina to address SA-Tunisia Women’s Day celebration

The Deputy Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina, will deliver the keynote address at the South Africa-Tunisia Women’s Day celebration in Pretoria on Thursday.

This event, hosted by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) — in collaboration with the Embassy of Tunisia — will focus on the theme: ’The Role of Science Diplomacy in Women Empowerment: The South African-Tunisian Experience’.

Supported by the Science Diplomacy Capital of South Africa (SDCfA), an initiative of the DSTI, the programme will include two thematic discussions on how science diplomacy can advance women’s empowerment and gender equality.  

The department believes that science diplomacy is a powerful tool for advancing gender equality in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and beyond. It promotes education, policy change, global networking, and innovative partnerships that strengthen women’s leadership and participation in STEM fields.  

Key speakers include Dr Maurine Musie, a 2025 South African Women in Science Award winner, and Professor Zohra Lili Chaabane, President of Tunisia’s Institution of Agricultural Research and Higher Education, alongside Tunisian professionals based in South Africa.

According to the department, South Africa and Tunisia have collaborated on science, technology, and innovation for over a decade. 

“With strong systems in STI, this reinforces their commitment to building knowledge- and innovation-driven economies.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile

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DCS to lead overdose and drug awareness day in Limpopo

Source: Government of South Africa

DCS to lead overdose and drug awareness day in Limpopo

The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) is expected to host the annual International Overdose Awareness Day on Friday.

The event will be held in partnership with the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA) Limpopo at Mmakgabo Secondary School in that province.

“This year’s event is focused on empowering learners with knowledge, life skills, and emotional resilience to guard against the dangers of drugs and substance abuse – one of the most pressing social challenges facing young people today,” the department said in a statement.

The day is expected to kick off with a march led by learners at the school, stakeholders and a brass band.

“[Following that] the main programme will commence, featuring parolee testimonies sharing first-hand experiences on the devastating effects of substance abuse, and engagements with learners on mental health and prevention strategies.

“By working closely with schools and community partners, Correctional Services seeks to raise awareness, spark dialogue and inspire action against substance abuse,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB

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Case against controversial businessman, Matlala, postponed

Source: Government of South Africa

Case against controversial businessman, Matlala, postponed

The attempted murder case against controversial businessman Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala has been postponed in the Alexandra Magistrates’ Court.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority, Matlala, as well as four co-accused, including his wife, are facing a raft of charges relating to a shooting incident in Sandton in 2023.

“Matlala, along with his wife Tsakane Matlala and co-accused Musa Kekana, Tiego Floyd Mabusela and Nthabiseng Nzama, faces charges of conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder and money laundering, as well as attempting to defeat [the ends of] justice. 

“The case stems from an alleged incident in Sandton between 12 and 17 October 2023, where Tebogo Thobejane’s vehicle was allegedly shot at. Matlala is scheduled to appear alone [next] Tuesday for a bail application and will remain in custody until his next court appearance,” the NPA said.

The prosecutorial body said it requested a postponement to “allow for the finalisation of centralising” at least seven other dockets against Matlala. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB

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Panel calls on women to support each other 

Source: Government of South Africa

Panel calls on women to support each other 

A panel session has called on women not only to support each other, but to embrace innovation and safeguard the truth in an era defined by artificial intelligence (AI) and digital disruption.

Hosted by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) in partnership with Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) on Tuesday, the Women in Media and Communication discussion formed part of Women’s Month celebrations.

The gathering was held under the theme: “Leveraging the use of AI in Education, Media and Communication.” 

The event brought together leaders in government communication, mainstream media, community media and digital innovation for a robust exchange with TUT students in media, journalism and integrated communication.

Panel moderator and news anchor at the SABC, Bongiwe Zwane stressed that the spirit of community should begin among students themselves, encouraging them to support one another as they prepare for the workplace. She urged young women to see each other not as rivals but as colleagues who can uplift and inspire one another.

“You see a woman whose crown you can fix. You see a woman who is feeling down and doesn’t believe in herself, and you realise that I can lift you up, because today, my cup is full,” she said.

“So, I always want you to be cognisant of each other. Everywhere you are, somebody could use your motivation, and I hope that you are going to take everything that we’ve shared with you today, mull over it, and think of what kind of professionals you want to be,” she said. 

The panel featured Pamela Madonsela from the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA); Director for GCIS Parliamentary Office, Liezil Cerf; Head of Digital Communication in the Presidency Athi Geleba and Managing Editor at Code For Africa’s iLAB which trains newsrooms to adapt to the challenges of generative AI Athandiwe Saba.

It also featured Dr Maria Mushaathoni, the Head of Department for Journalism/ Integrated Communication at TUT.
Madonsela highlighted the critical role of community media in telling authentic stories and connecting with citizens but warned that sustainability remains a pressing challenge. 

“Sustainability is a challenge to community media, so we’re trying to also offer training that is non-financial support to say, how do you make yourself sustainable? We want to see you being able to stand on your own, being able to get ads and being able to run a business,” she said.

Cerf reflected on her career shift from journalism to government communication, saying her passion lies in simplifying complex policy and parliamentary processes for the public. 

“Our role is to interpret technical government information in ways that empower ordinary South Africans,” she explained.

Saba warned of the risks of AI-powered disinformation and stressed the importance of training journalists to verify online content.

Meanwhile, Geleba emphasised the Presidency’s role in countering fake news and building public trust. 
“I think that as communicators, it becomes quite critical for us to be able to provide information that is accurate; to be able to position ourselves as a primary source for credible government information. With fake news, it’s becoming more difficult to be able to detect because of AI and these other technologies.

As communicators, we should be able to educate our various audiences in terms of how to interact with information that they get across platforms,” she said.

Mentorship 
 

The conversation also touched on women’s leadership with Cerf calling for structured mentorship networks. 

“Without other women we are not able to reach the full potential of our womanhood within a professional environment. We can’t do it with men; we have to do it with each other. 

“I think one of the biggest structural barriers that we have at the moment in our industry, is that we do not have our own network of mentorship and coaching amongst ourselves to share the generational knowledge and wisdom of being in an industry of public communication like myself for more than 25 years. 

“When are we going to get together as women and create our own association of women in media? It is time, in those situations that you find yourself in, nothing stops you from creating and formalising networks of encouragement and sharing wisdom. We as the elders would love to connect with you,” Cerf told the audience.

Madonsela urged women to stop with the “pull her down syndrome” and to instead, uplift each other. 

“I think as women, the day we stop seeing each other as competition, is the day where we’ll be able to hold each other’s hands and elevate together. We need to fix each other’s crowns as women; let’s grow together,” she said. 

Meanwhile, Geleba encouraged students to identify mentors and bring their full identities into the workplace.
“I think that it’s important for women to really be there for each other, whether it’s by way of mentorship and providing support, and as young people who are going into the workplace. I think that it’s important to identify women that resonate with you, maybe whose careers you know, career paths that you’d like to follow and build relationships with them.

“There’s literally nothing that should stand in the way of young women reaching their full potential. And another thing in the workplace is to bring yourself in your fullness,” she said. 

The panel concluded with a call to action for young communicators to use technology responsibly, champion credible information, and support one another in the pursuit of excellence. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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