Category: South Africa Government

The Motor Industry Staff Association (MISA) has welcomed the latest fuel relief announcement by government wherein the R3 per litre reduction in the general fuel levy for petrol is extended until June.

“The Motor Industry Staff Association welcomes Government’s extension of the R3 per litre fuel levy cut on petrol until 2 June 2026 and the increase in diesel relief to R3.93 per litre effectively reducing the diesel levy to zero for May.

“This means that the general fuel levy on diesel has been suspended. This is a positive step that will ease pressure on workers, businesses and the transport sector,” said the association.

This as on Tuesday, government the National Treasury and Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources announced the extended temporary relief measure.

“The general fuel levy for petrol will remain at R1.10 per litre and the general fuel levy for diesel will decrease from R0.93 per litre to R0.00 per litre,” the two departments said in a statement on Tuesday.

READ | Fuel levy relief extended to June 

MISA which is a registered trade union for employees in the retail motor industry in South Africa,  said it was disappointing that millions of South Africans who rely on illuminating paraffin have been excluded from this relief. 

“Paraffin prices are set to rise by R5 or more per litre in May, leaving the poorest households, who depend on it for cooking, heating and lighting exposed to unbearable costs as winter approaches.

“This relief is welcome, but it cannot ignore the poorest of the poor. Families who rely on paraffin are being left behind. Government must urgently extend relief to paraffin users, or risk deepening inequality and hardship,” said Martle Keyter Chief Executive Officer: Operations.

In April, the price of Illuminating Paraffin (Wholesale) increased by R11.67 per litre while the price of 93 and 95  (ULP & LRP) rose by R3.06 cents a litre. This means that currently a litre of 95 costs R23.36 cents a litre in Gauteng and R22.49 in the coast. 

READ | Petrol, diesel prices announced

The trade union also welcomed progress in the review of the fuel pricing mechanism, but insists this process must be open, transparent and participatory.  

Earlier this month, the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources said it is reviewing the local fuel price mechanism with the process to be completed in March next year.

“Workers, communities and civil society must have a voice in shaping how fuel prices are regulated in future.

At the same time, MISA calls on the private sector to contribute to economic and social relief, by committing to a moratorium on retrenchments. Rising fuel costs cannot be used as an excuse to shed jobs. Protecting workers and households must be the cornerstone of South Africa’s response to global instability,” it said.

Tuesday’s announcement comes ahead of the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources expected announcement of petrol adjustment prices for the month of May. –SAnews.gov.za

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The Germiston Regional Court has sentenced extortionist Ndumiso Bhengu to five years’ imprisonment for an extortion case opened in Bedfordview, Gauteng.

Bhengu’s conviction emanates from a 2025 case, where it was alleged that around January of the same year, he contacted the complainant and falsely informed her that he had been approached by one of her colleagues to arrange her murder. 

Bhengu further claimed to be in possession of a recording as proof of this alleged conspiracy. He then demanded an amount of R5 000 from the complainant in exchange for the said recording. Fearing for her safety, the complainant made an initial cash send payment of R2 500.

Subsequent to receiving the payment, the accused ceased all communication and could not be reached.

“The matter was thereafter reported to the DPCI [Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation] Head Office: Crime against the State (HO-CATS), whcih initiated an investigation into the incident,” the police said in a statement.

An intelligence-driven operation was launched on Saturday, 25 January 2025, in the Vaal District. 

The operation was carried out by members from DPCI HO-CATS, Crime Intelligence Head Office and the Sedibeng K9 unit, resulting in Bhengu’s arrest on 28 January 2025. 

“During the arrest, various items, which were subsequently confirmed to be linked to the commission of the offence, were secured as evidence and were seized.

“Bhengu appeared for the first time at the Germiston Magistrate’s Court on 30 January 2025, where he was formally charged and his bail was successfully opposed, and he remained in custody throughout the court proceedings,” the police said. – SAnews.gov.za

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The temporary reduction in the general fuel levy introduced by government that was due to come to an end in early May, has been extended to June, the National Treasury and Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources said on Tuesday.

“To provide further relief and to address concerns of higher inflation and negative impacts on economic growth due to increasing fuel prices, the following relief measures are proposed for May and June 2026,” the departments said in a joint statement.

On 31 March 2026, the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources jointly announced a temporary reduction in the general fuel levy of R3 per litre from Wednesday 1 April 2026, to Tuesday, 5 May 2026, to provide limited short-term relief to households from rising fuel prices, following the Middle East conflict. 

“The relief measure was designed to be fiscally neutral, and the government will implement mechanisms to recoup the foregone revenue within the fiscal framework approved during the 2026 Budget. Since this announcement, the continuation of the Middle East conflict has resulted in consistent pressure on global oil prices which has led to increases in domestic fuel prices,” the duo said.

READ | How the Basic Fuel Price is calculated: A breakdown

To provide further relief and to address concerns of higher inflation and negative impacts on economic growth due to increasing fuel prices, the following relief measures are proposed for May and June 2026: 

The extension of the temporary reduction in the general fuel levy: 
a. The Minister of Finance proposes that the R3 per litre reduction in the general fuel levy for petrol is extended until Tuesday 2 June 2026. Given the large expected increases in the price of diesel, the Minister of Finance proposes that the temporary relief for diesel is increased by 93 cents to R3.93 per litre, reducing the levy to zero, from Wednesday 6 May 2026 to Tuesday 2 June 2026. 

“The general fuel levy for petrol will remain at R1.10 per litre and the general fuel levy for diesel will decrease from R0.93 per litre to R0.00 per litre.”

b. For the month of June 2026, the Minister of Finance proposes that the level of relief is halved to phase out the relief before July. As a result, the amount of relief from the general fuel levy will be reduced to R1.50 per litre for petrol and R1.96 per litre for diesel, effective from Wednesday 3 June 2026 to Tuesday 30 June 2026. 

“This will increase the general fuel levy for petrol from R1.10 per litre to R2.60 per litre and increase the general fuel levy for diesel from R0.00 per litre to R1.97 per litre.”

c. From 1 July onwards, the general fuel levy for petrol will return to R4.10 per litre and the general fuel levy for diesel will return to R3.93 per litre.

“The estimated cost of the temporary fuel levy relief from April to June 2026 is R17.2 billion in foregone tax revenue. The fuel levy relief measure is designed to be revenue neutral and will be funded through a combination of higher-than-expected tax revenue and underspending and will not have an impact on the fiscal framework adopted by Parliament following the 2026 Budget,” said the departments.

Meanwhile, the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources has initiated a review of the formula whose conclusion will determine how fuel prices are regulated going forward. 

“It should also be noted that according to the Self Adjusting Slate mechanism the under recovery of importers of petroleum products must also be accommodated, and as such the Slate levy on petrol and diesel will also be adjusted for the month of May.”

Earlier this month, the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources said it is reviewing the local fuel price mechanism with the process to be completed in March next year.

READ | Fuel price mechanism under review

–SAnews.gov.za

 

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The Border Management Authority (BMA) has announced the successful bidders appointed to lead the redevelopment of six of South Africa’s busiest land ports of entry, marking a major step towards modernising the country’s border infrastructure and strengthening economic growth. 

Speaking at a media briefing on Tuesday in Pretoria, BMA Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato, said the project represents a turning point in how South Africa manages its borders.

The redevelopment, to be implemented through public-private partnerships (PPPs), forms part of government’s broader efforts to enhance border security, improve the movement of goods and people, and support regional economic integration.

The process to appoint the bidders followed a rigorous and transparent procurement process.

“Following the publication and the subsequent closure of the Request for Proposals in search of public-private partners for these projects in 2024, a fair, transparent and competitive Supply Chain Management processes ensued during the course of 2025,” he said. 

In addition, a multidisciplinary team of financial, legal and technical experts was assembled to ensure compliance with governance standards and ensuring value for money.

The successful bidders, made up of concessionaires and consortia combining multiple companies, will oversee the redevelopment of the six ports:
•    Beitbridge Port of Entry ( Limpopo) – Baobab Concession. 
This concessionaire is expected to conduct the construction work in a phased approach for an approximated period of about three years. The Baobab Concession is made up of Yakani Group, Wendra Infraco, Matla Integration, Tau Capital, Navigator Holding & Baobab Community Trust.

•    Lebombo Port of Entry (in Mpumalanga) – Raulux Consortium. 
This consortium is expected to do the construction work in a phased approach for an approximated period of about three years. The Raulux Consortium is made up of Luxus Developments, Raubex, Exhantini Investments, Vulindlela Concessions, and Harith General Partners.

•    Oshoek Port of Entry (Mpumalanga) – Baobab Concession.
This concessionaire is expected to do the construction work in a phased approach for an approximated period of about two years. The Baobab Concession is made up of Yakani Group, Wendra Infraco, Matla Integration, Tau Capital, Navigator Holding & Baobab Community Trust.

•    Maseru Bridge Port of Entry (Free State) – Kgorong Consortium.
This consortium is expected to do the construction work in a phased approach for an approximated period of about two years. The Kgorong Consortium is made up of Motseng Concessions, IDEAS Infrastructure, Crowie Concessions & Thebe SPV.

•    Kopfontein Port of Entry (North West) – Kopfontein Consortium.
This consortium is expected to do the construction work in a phased approach for an approximated period of about two years. The Kopfontein Consortium is made up of Talis Property Fund, Unik Civil & Construction Engineers, and SSG Facilities.

•    Ficksburg Bridge Port of Entry (Free State) – Imbani Consortium.
This consortium is expected to do the construction work in a phased approach for an approximated period of about two years. The Imbani Consortium is made up of Imbani Projects, Reaga Infra Border Holdings, M&M Capital and Russet Trading & Investments.

Phased approach

Masipato explained that construction is expected to be rolled out in phases over two to three years depending on the site.

“Based on the current projections, we anticipate that construction will begin later this year or early next year for some ports with a phased rollout of the construction work for about a two-to-three-year period,” Masiapato said.

He said the BMA is confident the appointed bidders have the capacity to deliver on the projects.

“As the Border Management Authority, we have full confidence in them that they will deliver on these key national infrastructure projects within our border environment,” he said. 

The redevelopment will also involve extensive stakeholder engagement, including communities, municipalities, business chambers and cross-border traders.

“Although engagements have started over time, we just want to confirm that within the next few weeks, we will be amplifying our conversations with all critical stakeholders around the affected ports and that includes engagements with communities, municipal leadership, traditional leaders, Business Chambers, freight associations, and cross-border traders to appreciate their pressure points before construction starts,” the Commissioner said. 

Improving efficiency and tackling vulnerabilities 

Masiapato said the upgrades will pave the way for the implementation of the One-Stop Border Post model and smart border systems aimed at improving efficiency and coordination with neighbouring countries.

“All these infrastructure upgrades would allow us to implement the One-Stop Border Post (OSBP)… including the activation of smart borders with nonstop model for the movement of freight,” he said. 

He emphasised that the PPP model would also help address vulnerabilities in procurement systems.

“In fact, given the complexities and the vulnerabilities of the Supply Chain Management process, this public-private partnership model is seen as a critical strategy to close the vulnerabilities and shun any opportunities for any corrupt tendencies,” the Commissioner said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber says South Africa’s R12.5 billion border infrastructure overhaul will transform the country’s ports of entry into modern, secure and efficient gateways for trade and travel. 

Addressing a media briefing on Tuesday, Schreiber said the redevelopment of six key land ports of entry marks a critical milestone in reforming the country’s immigration and border management system. 

“Today we take the next step on our journey to reform South Africa’s immigration and border management system into a modern, secure, efficient and truly world-class institutional ecosystem.”

The multi-year programme, implemented through a public-private partnership (PPP), will see the demolition and rebuilding of six high-traffic ports: Lebombo (Mozambique), Beitbridge (Zimbabwe), Oshoek (Eswatini), Kopfontein (Botswana), Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg (Lesotho).

“This project, worth an estimated R12.5 billion, constitutes the single biggest investment ever made by the South African government in upgrading our country’s border management system,” the Minister said. 

Schreiber said the six ports account for the majority of cross-border movement and are critical to economic performance.

“Together, they account for over 80% of cross-border trade and passenger flows through South Africa’s land borders,” he said. 

However, he noted that ageing infrastructure and inefficiencies have long constrained operations, in turn, enabling criminal activity.

“Congestion, outdated infrastructure, and fragmented systems have slowed down trade and increased the cost of doing business.

“Weaknesses have been exploited through illegal migration, illicit trade, and fraudulent practices that undermine both revenue collection and the rule of law,” Schreiber said. 

The redevelopment aims to shift border operations from manual and fragmented systems to integrated, technology-driven processes.

“We are moving from fragmented, manual processes to integrated, digital systems; from duplication and delay, to coordination and convenience [and from] vulnerability to control.”

Schreiber said the impact of the upgrades will be felt across the economy.

“Shorter turnaround times. Reduced congestion. More predictable movement of goods and people. These improvements go directly to the heart of economic growth,” the Minister said. 

He cited studies showing that improved efficiency at borders can significantly boost trade.

“Studies estimate that even a 5% reduction in border clearance time can increase intra-regional exports by around 10%,” he said. 

The reforms are also expected to strengthen enforcement and revenue collection.

“Enhanced surveillance, improved infrastructure, and integrated data systems will allow for more targeted and effective enforcement. A further critical outcome is the protection and enhancement of revenue,” the Minister said. 

Schreiber said the project will also create jobs and improve the daily experience of travellers.

“For South Africans, this project means shorter queues, lower costs, and more reliable movement of goods. It means stronger protection against illegal immigration, illicit trade, and criminal activity.” 

He described the initiative as a strategic intervention aligned with government priorities and a catalytic investment for the country. 

Highlighting the focus on high-impact areas, Schreiber referenced the Pareto principle.

“The Pareto principle states that roughly 80% of outcomes are generated by just 20% of inputs.

“In this case, the six ports of entry we are focusing on account for roughly 11% of South Africa’s 53 land ports of entry but they generate 80% of traffic volume – and likely also about 80% of illicit activity.” 

He said targeting these ports would maximise impact.

“This is smart government in action. This is how we unlock trade and economic growth to deliver better lives for the people of South Africa,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Science, Technology and Innovation Deputy Minister, Dr Nomalungelo Gina, has led a Freedom Month community engagement in Mbazwana, under the uMhlabuyalingana Local Municipality, in KwaZulu-Natal.

The engagement highlighted the role of science, technology and innovation (STI) in improving service delivery and expanding opportunities in rural communities.

The engagement, held at Oqondweni Hall on Friday, 24 April, brought together almost 250 community members, including youth and older people. The engagement formed part of national Freedom Month commemorations aimed at reflecting on South Africa’s democratic progress and future development priorities.

The session focused on the intersection between democracy and science, demonstrating how innovation can be used to strengthen governance, promote inclusion and deliver practical solutions to everyday challenges faced by communities.

Partner institutions of the engagement included the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, Department of Social Development, the Electoral Commission of South Africa, and the South African Police Service (SAPS).

Addressing the gathering, Gina emphasised that since the advent of democracy in 1994, South Africa has increasingly invested in science and innovation as key tools for transformation, inclusion and socio-economic development.

She noted that democracy is not only defined by political rights, but also by equitable access to knowledge, innovation and practical solutions that address everyday community challenges.

“All the institutions that you see here today are using science, technology and innovation to improve service delivery to communities countrywide. For example, South Africa uses digital technology to manage social grants for millions of citizens because digitalisation increases efficiency and financial inclusion.

“Access to scientific knowledge and innovation is essential for meaningful participation in our democracy and for building a more equal and prosperous society,” the Deputy Minister said.

The engagement featured practical demonstrations and information-sharing sessions aimed at showcasing how STI is applied in real-world contexts.

A drone demonstration by SAPS drew significant interest, with a live display of how technology is used in policing, particularly in search-and-rescue operations.

Warrant Officer Owen Howard demonstrated a Matrice M30 drone equipped with advanced imaging capabilities, including thermal cameras and a laser rangefinder.

“Years ago, SAPS did not have this technology to locate a missing person in the bush, for example. Now we can use thermal imaging to help find missing persons without immediately deploying a helicopter,” Howard explained.

Exploring careers in tech

The HSRC also used the platform to engage with the community on the role of research in shaping public policy and improving service delivery.

Information technology expert Nqubeko Mbhele highlighted how research findings have informed government interventions in areas such as health, education, safety, employment and social support.

“By engaging directly with households and communities, the HSRC ensures that people’s lived experiences inform decision-making processes, helping to strengthen democracy,” Mbhele said.

Mbhele also promoted the HSRC’s internship programme, which has provided workplace experience and research skills to more than 7 000 unemployed graduates since 2005. The programme spans fields such as science, engineering, technology, humanities and social sciences.

Mbhele encouraged local youth to pursue further education in order to such opportunities created through democracy.

Community members welcomed the engagement, describing it as informative and empowering.

Lindiwe Mabika said the session had provided valuable insights that would help shape her future ambitions in the health sector.

“The information I received today will help me plan for a better future. I am also encouraged by the opportunities available through programmes like the HSRC internships. Hopefully, I will be one of its beneficiaries in the future,” Mabika said.

Senamile Khumalo, 36, representing Heifer Project South Africa, said the engagement demonstrated the importance of access to information in rural communities. Heifer is a non-profit, public benefit organisation dedicated to ending hunger and poverty in rural South Africa.

“I am particularly hopeful that the youth in the area stand to benefit the most from initiatives like these. It was also encouraging to learn about government programmes that can assist in protecting the young and the elderly in our community,” Khumalo said.

She encouraged local youth to participate in agricultural development initiatives offered by her organisation, which provides training in livestock management and supports small-scale farming enterprises.

Assessing the DDM

The engagement also provided an opportunity for Deputy Minister Gina to assess how science, technology and innovation are being applied locally to improve service delivery, as well as to demonstrate the impact of the District Development Model (DDM).

As the DDM champion for the uMkhanyakude District Municipality, Gina is responsible for ensuring alignment between national, provincial and local government plans. The model seeks to accelerate development through integrated planning, with a focus on infrastructure, job creation and rural development.

The uMhlabuyalingana Local Municipality remains largely rural, with many residents dependent on subsistence farming. Key economic activities include fruit processing and livestock farming aimed at alleviating poverty.

According to municipal data, approximately 18% of the population has no formal education, while 57% did not complete Grade 12. Only about 8% have completed matric or higher, underscoring the need for increased access to education and skills development.

Officials said initiatives that integrate science, technology and innovation with community development are critical to addressing these challenges and building more inclusive, resilient local economies.

The engagement formed part of ongoing efforts to bring government services and opportunities closer to communities, while reinforcing the role of innovation in advancing democracy and improving lives. – SAnews.gov.za

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Industry leaders, corporates, government institutions and SMMEs are set to convene for the Durban Business Indaba on 29 April at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.

Wednesday’s engagement, hosted by eThekwini Municipality, will focus on addressing key barriers and unlocking opportunities for small, medium and micro enterprises (SMME) growth in the city.

The high-level session will tackle critical issues, including access to funding, tax compliance, market entry, and business sustainability amid a challenging economic environment.

Held under the theme: “Enabling SMME Growth through Funding, Compliance, Market Access and Strategic Partnerships”, the Indaba will feature speakers from organisations, including Proudly South African, the South African Revenue Service (SARS), the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency, and Illovo Sugar, among others.

The programme will focus on practical solutions to support business growth, expand market access through corporate partnerships, strengthen localisation, and improve the competitiveness of South African products.

The Indaba forms part of the broader Durban Business Fair Exhibition, scheduled to take place from 30 April to 2 May, at the Durban Exhibition Centre. The event marks 28 years of connecting SMMEs with markets and economic opportunities.

The exhibition will be officially opened by Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni, underscoring government’s ongoing support for enterprise development.

City Economic Development and Planning Committee chairperson, Themba Ntuli, said hundreds of businesses are expected to showcase their products and services, creating opportunities for trade, networking and investment.

“This platform equips SMMEs with the insights, tools, and connections needed to enable meaningful economic participation,” Ntuli said.

The Durban Business Fair continues to serve as a flagship empowerment initiative, supporting entrepreneurs to expand market access, gain critical knowledge, and connect with investors and key stakeholders.

Businesses are encouraged to RSVP and participate in shaping the future of SMME development in eThekwini. Attendance can be confirmed via email at zamani.shezi@durban.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

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KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has reiterated his call for intensified community involvement in the fight against crime following the murder of seven members of the Moonsamy family.

The Premier made the call while addressing a mass funeral for the family over the weekend, describing the killings as a devastating tragedy that has shaken the conscience of the province.

According to preliminary reports, the victims were allegedly kidnapped and robbed at their home in Newtown, Newark, under the Mandeni Local Municipality, on Tuesday, 21 April, before being transported to Melmoth, where they were murdered.

It is further alleged that some of the victims were sexually assaulted in what authorities believe was a calculated and merciless act of violence.

Among the deceased was a 20-year-old woman and an 83-year-old woman.

Delivering an emotional address, Ntuli extended condolences on behalf of the provincial government and the people of KwaZulu-Natal, stressing that the victims were not mere statistics but members of a family whose lives were violently and senselessly cut short.

Condemning the kidnappings, sexual assault and murders, the Premier described the attack as an assault on humanity and the core values underpinning South Africa’s democracy.

He also noted the painful irony that the killings occurred during Freedom Month, a period dedicated to celebrating human rights, dignity and equality.

Ntuli commended the swift response of the South African Police Service, confirming that three suspects have been arrested, a stolen vehicle recovered and critical evidence secured.

“These developments send a clear and unequivocal message that perpetrators of violent crime will be pursued and brought to justice,” he said.

The Premier urged communities to play a more active role in combating crime by rejecting silence and reporting criminal activity to law enforcement agencies.

“Communities must work collectively to isolate criminal elements and strengthen cooperation with law enforcement agencies,” the Premier said.

Ntuli warned that criminality thrives in environments of fear and division, calling for greater unity as a critical weapon against lawlessness.

He reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to strengthening crime prevention through enhanced collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the Department of Community Safety and Liaison.

The three suspects appeared before the Stanger Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 28 April 2026.

Ntuli, who also attended the court proceedings, said community members had been mobilised to support petitions opposing bail for the accused, reflecting a united stance against those allegedly responsible for the heinous crime.

He assured the Moonsamy family of government’s continued support in their pursuit of justice.

“The memory of the victims must serve as a catalyst for renewed efforts to build safer, more resilient communities across KwaZulu-Natal,” Ntuli said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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By: Andrea Naicker 
Every year on 24 March, South Africa joins the global community in commemorating World Tuberculosis (TB) Day, a day that calls for reflection and recommitment to ending one of the world’s most severe, yet curable diseases.

This year’s theme, “Yes! You and I Can End TB,” is a powerful reminder that ending TB is within our reach, if we act together and without delay.

TB remains one of the most infectious and deadly diseases worldwide, and despite our hard-won progress, it continues to pose a serious public health challenge in South Africa. Our country remains among the 30 high burden nations that collectively account for the majority of global TB cases, and adding to this burden is the challenge of TB/HIV co infection, and drug resistant TB. 

These realities require not only medical solutions, but strong leadership, social action and commitment.

The human cost of TB is stark, with an estimated 56 000 South Africans losing their lives to TB every year, more than half of whom are also people living with HIV. These statistics represent families torn apart, communities weakened, and futures cut short. World TB Day reminds us that complacency is not an option, and that investments in prevention, early diagnosis, treatment, and psycho social support must be strengthened and sustained.

Through deliberate government action, strong partnership and dedicated health workers across the country, we are working to change the trajectory and bring renewed hope.

South Africa has made significant and measurable progress in the fight against TB. Since 2015, we have reduced TB incidences by 61%, surpassing the World Health Organisation’s target of a 50% reduction by 2025, and there has been a 17% reduction in the number of TB related deaths since 2015.

Furthermore, the incidence rate for TB has dropped significantly from 988 per 100 000 people in 2015 to 389 per 100 000 in 2024, while treatment coverage has improved to 74%.

These gains did not occur by chance but is tangible evidence that through collective action, we can transform the situation. Moreover, our large antiretroviral programme has improved TB treatment outcomes and reduced mortality, while the introduction of new and repurposed TB medicines has increased cure rates for drug‑resistant TB. 

More than 2 000 patients are already benefiting from a treatment called DR‑TB (BPAL-L) regimen. This is a short, all-oral treatment used for drug-resistant tuberculosis taken over a period of six months.
 
These advances are guided by the TB Strategic Plan 2023–2028, aligned to the National Strategic Plan for HIV, TB and STIs, which provides a clear, people‑centred roadmap to expand equitable access to care and eliminate TB as a public health threat by 2030.

It underscores our commitment to equitable access to care, integrated health systems, and the protection of the health and well being of all. 

World TB Day is a call to everyone to take charge of their health and for collective action. Anyone with a persistent cough, or who has been in contact with a person diagnosed with TB, should undergo screening and testing.

TB is not a death sentence, it is curable, however treatment must be started early and completed fully. Failure to do so can lead to multidrug resistant and extensively drug resistant TB, which is far more difficult, costly, and life threatening to treat.

Public health facilities across the country offer free services, including TB screening and testing, HIV counselling, and screening for non communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. Utilising these services is both a personal responsibility and an act of solidarity with our communities.

Equally important is the fight against stigma and discrimination. TB thrives in silence and fear. We must say no to stigmatisation, uphold the human rights of people affected by TB, and create environments where individuals feel safe to seek care without judgement.

As we mark World TB Day 2026, let us acknowledge how far we have come, but also recognise how much remains to be done. Ending TB is not the responsibility of government alone and requires leadership at all levels, informed communities, resilient health systems, and the active participation of every citizen.

Yes, you and I can end TB. The choice to act, care, and protect each other rests with all of us.

*Naicker is Assistant Director at the Government Communication and Information System.

 

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