Category: South Africa Government

Source: Government of South Africa

The future of the renewable energy sector is female and Electricity and Energy Deputy Minister, Samantha Graham-Maré, is doubling down to make it happen. 

In an exclusive interview with SAnews on the sidelines of the Empowering Women in Energy breakfast, Graham-Maré revealed plans to review the department’s gender strategy to make it better equipped to shatter barriers and catapult women into leadership roles across electricity, renewables and previously uncharted fields like green hydrogen.

The event was held as part of the third G20 Energy Transitions Working Group (ETWG) in the North West.

“[The review is] giving us an opportunity to look at what worked and what didn’t work in the past, and then obviously to formulate a strategy that’s going to focus on the things that we need to do better while bringing women in,” she said on Friday.

Finding parity

The International Energy Agency (IEA) reports that the sector is one of the least gender diverse, with women making up less than 20% of the workforce worldwide, while also earning at least 15% less than their male counterparts.

Meaningfully changing that, according to Graham-Maré, begins with getting young women enthusiastic about science, technology, engineering and mathematics with a view of entering the sector.

“We have got to start instilling some sort of understanding in young girls that this is an opportunity and that they have opportunities in the energy space. There are girls in villages in South Africa that have never heard of nuclear science, that have never heard of renewable energy and that don’t even know jobs like this exist. 

“We have to find ways… to reach particularly the rural youth and get that message out to them,” Graham-Maré said.

Bridging the awareness gap

The department will be partnering with organisations to reach those youth and conduct roadshows at universities.

“We’re going to speak to some of the students there because we believe a lot of them are feeling a bit demoralised… They’re not sure that there are going to be jobs for them when they finish studying.

“We’re partnering with a lot of our IPPs [Independent Power Producers], with some of the department members to go out to universities and have those conversations.

“We’re also developing a youth strategy. The focus will be both on women and youth, and making sure that they understand that there is space for them,” she said.

However, Graham-Maré emphasised that for the industry to grow and create new jobs, government must do its part.

“What we have to do is make sure that our IRP [Integrated Resource Plan] gets properly implemented and that we’re creating the pipeline of projects that will create the jobs.

“We also have the South African Renewable Energy Masterplan that we’ve launched, which is focusing on two things: industrialisation… looking at ways we can build manufacturing capability in the country, and we’re looking at how we can build the service industry around the renewable energy sector,” she said.

A “very strong focus” will also be placed on skills development in the sector.

“There are new skills required in the new industries and we need to make sure that people are ready for that. 

“The just energy transition is looking at how we transition people from a coal economy… into the renewable sector and the green economy. There’ll be a lot of focus on… reskilling, upskilling, and also new opportunities within the renewable sector that didn’t necessarily exist within the coal economy,” Graham-Maré told SAnews.

Crushing barriers

Reflecting on her own journey over the past year as Deputy Minister in a male dominated sector, Graham-Maré told SAnews that she has been enthralled by the “incredible women” already working in the energy space. 

“We are talking about women engineers. We’re talking about PhDs. The women in the energy space are absolutely mind blowing. 

“Another very interesting thing is that green hydrogen is… a sort of new development within the energy space. And because it didn’t exist before, women are not having to elbow their way in… It’s a space that’s opened up completely. Women are owning the green hydrogen space,” she said.

The Deputy Minister acknowledged that there is “always room for improvement”.

“But I can assure you, women are owning this energy space and they’re doing it with class… They are looking fabulous. They are owning the space and we’re looking at ways that we can support them to make sure that they continue,” Graham-Maré concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

As South Africa joins the international community to celebrate Marine Protectors Day, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has called on all South Africans to protect the nation’s oceans.

“Whether through reducing plastic waste, supporting sustainable seafood choices, or participating in coastal clean-up initiatives, every action counts. Together, we can ensure that our oceans remain vibrant and thriving for generations to come,” the Minister said on Friday.

This day serves as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to protect the nation’s oceans, which are vital to biodiversity, food security, and the livelihoods of coastal communities.

The Minister paid tribute individuals, communities and organisations dedicated to safeguarding South Africa’s rich marine ecosystems.

“South Africa’s oceans are a cornerstone of our natural heritage, supporting millions of lives and driving economic growth through sustainable fisheries, tourism, and conservation initiatives. On Marine Protectors Day, we celebrate the rangers, scientists, enforcement officers, and community members who work relentlessly to preserve our marine resources for future generations,” the Minister said.

Under his leadership, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has made significant strides in marine conservation. 

Recent achievements include a 36% increase in fishing allocations for small-scale fishers on appeal, robust anti-poaching operations to combat illegal abalone harvesting, and the development of draft management plans for the Benguela Muds and Cape Canyon Marine Protected Areas. 

These efforts underscore the department’s commitment to balancing environmental protection with socio-economic development.

“Our Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are sanctuaries for marine life, providing safe havens for species like the African Penguin and supporting the resilience of our coastal ecosystems,” George said.

The Minister reaffirmed his commitment to expanding and strengthening these protected areas, in line with South Africa’s obligations under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

The DFFE, in collaboration with partners such as the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) and the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA), will continue to drive innovative policies and enforcement measures to combat marine pollution, overfishing, and environmental crime. –SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Professor Firoz Cachalia sworn in as Minister of Police

DikelediM
Fri, 08/01/2025 – 11:05

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) has announced a set of measures in response to the tariff hike on South African exports to the United States, which comes into effect this month.

“The dtic has announced a set of measures in response to the imminent 30% tariff hike on South African exports to the United States, which comes into effect on 1 August 2025.

“These urgent interventions are part of the dtic’s ongoing commitment to protecting jobs, preserving market access in the United States, and promoting export diversification to alternate markets in Africa, the EU [European Union], Asia, Latin America, and other strategic partners,” Minister Parks Tau said in a statement ahead of the start of the implementation of the tariff.

In Thursday’s statement, Tau said key among the interventions is the establishment of an Export Support Desk, which will serve as a direct point of contact for companies affected by the US tariff hike.

“The Desk will provide updates on developments and tailored advisory services to exporters on alternative destinations, guidance on market entry processes, insights into compliance requirements and linkages to South African Embassies and High Commissions abroad.”

READ | SA reaffirms commitment to US trade deal

In July, President Cyril Ramaphosa noted the correspondence from the United States (US) President Donald Trump on the unilateral imposition of a 30% trade tariff against South Africa.

In a letter addressed to President Ramaphosa, President Trump announced that he would subject imports from South Africa to new 30% tariffs, that would take effect from 1 August 2025.

On Thursday, the dtic said the tariff hike poses a “direct threat” to the country’s export capacity, particularly in strategic sectors such as automotive, agro-processing, steel and chemicals, amongst others.

“As government, we are fully committed to supporting our exporters through this challenging time. We are working with urgency and resolve to implement real and practical interventions that defend jobs and position South Africa competitively in a shifting global landscape.

“The stakes are high and we must respond decisively to ensure our export industries remain resilient, competitive, and globally integrated into diversified markets.

“Exporters are encouraged to engage directly with the Export Support Desk and also to visit the dtic website regularly for updates and support mechanisms. The dtic remains steadfast in its mission to assist local producers and safeguard South Africa’s trade interests amid growing global uncertainty,” the Minister explained.

The contact details of the Export Support Desk are as follows:

Exporters to the United States and Market Enquiries related to the Americas can contact:
•    Ms. Nthatisi Moraloge 
NMoraloge@thedtic.gov.za 
(012) 394-1125
Or 
•    Mr. Karabo Modimokwane
KModimokwane@thedtc.gov.za
(012) 394-1164

Market Enquiries related to other markets:

In the African region exporters can contact: 
•    Ms. Zamaswazi Nkosi 
ZPNkosi@thedtic.gov.za 
(012) 394-3533

Or

•    Mr. Mncedisi Madela
MMadela@thedtic.gov.za 
(012) 394-5659

Or

•    Ms. Sithembile Shongwe 
SLShongwe@thedtic.gov.za 
Or

•    Ms. Sibongimpilo Mashatola
SMashatola@thedtic.gov.za
(012) 394-5507

In ASEAN and Asia, exporters can contact:

•    Ms. Meresina Ranphabana 
MRanphabana@thedtic.gov.za 
(012) 394-5918

Or 
•    Ms. Mundzhedzi Mahosi
MMahosi@thedtic.gov.za 
(012) 394-5645

Or 
•    Ms. Ledile Bambo  
LBambo@thedtic.gov.za 
(012) 394-1997

Or 
•    Mr. Kenneth Malatsi 
MMahosi@thedtic.gov.za 
(012) 394-1061

In the Europe region, exporters can contact :

•    Ms. Hloniphile Nkiwane
HNkiwane@thedtic.gov.za 
(012) 394-3496

Or

•    Mr. Seth Pule 
SPule@thedtic.gov.za 
(012) 394-3087

In the Middle East, exporters can contact :
•    Mr. Waseem Rinquest 
WRinquest@thedtic.gov.za 
(012) 394-5863

Or

•    Ms. Mpho Sebatana
MSebatana@thedtic.gov.za 
(012) 394-3415

– SAnews.gov.za 

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, August 1, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Health, in collaboration with various stakeholders, is joining the global community to celebrate World Breastfeeding Week (WBW), which runs from 1 – 7 August.

This initiative aims to raise awareness about the long-term health benefits of exclusive breastfeeding for both mothers and children, as part of ongoing efforts to increase breastfeeding rates in the country.

WBW is a global initiative celebrated in more than 120 countries. 

This movement aims to promote breastfeeding and foster a supportive environment for mothers, ultimately enhancing the well-being of both mothers and their babies.

According to the department, exclusive breastfeeding provides several benefits, including optimal nutrition for the baby’s first six months of life, protection against infections and illnesses, and reduced risks of various conditions, including obesity, asthma and type 1 diabetes. 

“Lack of exclusive breastfeeding contributes to susceptibility to common infections, developmental issues and chronic diseases,” the department said.

While global exclusive breastfeeding rates have seen a slight increase in recent years, the department stated that South Africa is still lagging, with a concerning decline in exclusive breastfeeding rates from 32% in 2016 to 22% in 2024. 

The department believes that the current trend means the country is unlikely to achieve the World Health Assembly’s breastfeeding target of at least 50% by the end of the year 2025, and 70% in 2030.

This decline can be attributed to several factors, including the rising normalisation of formula feeding, which is often driven by aggressive marketing practices by the infant formula industry, particularly on digital platforms. 

“Simultaneously, the country faces an escalating malnutrition crisis, particularly among children under the age of five, marked by worrying increases in stunting, wasting and overweight prevalence,” the department said.

According to the department, exclusive breastfeeding is a shared responsibility, extending beyond just the role of mothers, with families, communities, healthcare systems, and employers having important roles to play. 

“Breastfeeding is not just about reaching country and global targets, but also about supporting infant health and development, as well as maternal well-being.” 

The department, working with the World Health Organisation (WHO), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the South African Breastmilk Reserve (SABR), and other partners, will launch awareness activities for WBW 2025. 

These activities aim to engage individuals and organisations to enhance collaboration and support for breastfeeding. 

This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen breastfeeding support systems and create a nurturing environment for mothers to breastfeed their babies.

“This is part of a series of activities to raise awareness about this annual campaign.”

The interventions align with the 2025 WBW theme: ‘Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems’, which highlights the need for long-term, equitable support structures for breastfeeding mothers.

“It also highlights the connection between breastfeeding and environmental sustainability, recognising breastfeeding as a key factor in climate resilience,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has applauded the launch of a research project investigating how private renewable energy investments in South Africa contribute to equitable social development.

“Projects like Communities and the Private Renewable Energy Sector: Distributing Social Development Benefits in South Africa (COM-PRES),which support South Africa’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP), are not only welcome, but are encouraged as the knowledge that will be generated will contribute to driving innovation and investment that bolsters South Africa’s renewable energy capacity,” George said on Friday.

COM-PRES is a four-and-a-half-year research project, which was launched on 31 July 2025, led by Danish-based social researcher, Dr Marianne S. Ulriksen from the University of Southern Denmark. 

It will be implemented locally, in partnership with the Centre for Social Development in Africa, at the University of Johannesburg and the Centre for Social Science Research at the University of Cape Town.

The South African government strongly focuses on integrating renewable energy projects with social development initiatives, particularly through the REIPPPP, which is also part of the country’s ambitious just energy transition agenda.

“COM-PRES aims to understand how private-sector renewable energy projects can address inequality in affected and surrounding South African communities through novel mandatory community trusts and social development interventions,” Ulriksen said.

According to Ulriksen, the knowledge and ideas generated at the community level – working collaboratively with community members, local stakeholders and independent power producers – will feed back to national stakeholders, with the aim of providing practical recommendations for designing and managing renewable energy investments to enhance socio-economic outcomes and relations between communities, the industry and government.

“South Africa can develop a resilient, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable energy sector that also supports our efforts to drive sustainable economic growth, job creation and poverty reduction,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Africa Joint Group has concluded an on-site assessment visit to South Africa, which was aimed at verifying the implementation of reforms to address money laundering and the financing of terrorism.

The on-site assessment took place on Tuesday and Wednesday in Pretoria, completing the last step before the October 2025 FATF Plenary can consider whether to remove South Africa from its greylist.

The FATF Joint Group held meetings with South African government officials and representatives of financial institutions and Designated Non-Bank Financial Institutions. 

“At the conclusion of the meetings, the FATF Africa Joint Group held a meeting with Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr David Masondo and Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Andries Nel, who both assured the FATF of the South African government’s political commitment to continue to sustainably improve the country’s Anti-Money Laundering and the Combating of the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) system,” National Treasury said on Thursday.

The on-site visit followed the announcement by the June 2025 FATF Plenary that South Africa had substantially completed all the 22 action items that were contained in the Action Plan that was adopted when South Africa was greylisted in February 2023.

Following the completion of the 22 action items in the Action Plan, the June 2025 FATF Plenary noted that South Africa’s progress warranted an on-site assessment to verify that critical AML/CFT reforms have been implemented, and that the necessary political commitment remains in place to sustain progress.

“After the conclusion of the onsite visit, the FATF Africa Joint Group will submit a report to the October 2025 FATF Plenary, which will consider any recommendations from the report on whether South Africa can be delisted from the FATF greylist.

“Deputy Ministers Masondo and Nel thanked the FATF Africa Joint Group for its collegial working relationship with the South African government delegation since the country’s greylisting in February 2023, and further assured the FATF Africa Joint Group that the South African government will continue actively partnering with the FATF Global network in preserving and advancing the integrity of the South African and global financial systems,” National Treasury said.

Treasury will not be issuing further media statements or conducting interviews until the FATF Plenary concludes its next Plenary Meeting on 24 October 2025 and issues its post-plenary outcomes media statement. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Mandela Month ended on a high note when communities and learners in the North West province receives blankets and school shoes from the Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong.

The action-packed day for Morolong and his entourage started in Tlapeng Ward 19, near Taung, where 200 elderly women received the blankets from the Deputy Minister.

During the handovoer on Thursday, Morolong said former President Nelson Mandela was a global man, whose spirit of ubuntu was celebrated throughout the world.

“Nelson Mandela taught us that education is the only weapon we can use to fight poverty.

“Today, as we are wrapping up  Nelson Mandela Month. The United Nations General Assembly resolved that 18 July will be celebrated as  International Nelson Mandela Day. We are here to celebrate the life of an icon, a global icon, the only man referred to as the father of the nation,” Morolong said.

Nelson Mandela, the Deputy Minister said, made significant strides in the struggle against apartheid.

“We are celebrating the life of Mandela by spending time with those that he loved most — the elderly and the kids.”

Morolong said Nelson Mandela encouraged people to take care of those who are less privileged.

“We are proud today that we are tempting to follow in his big footsteps and we are proud that we are upholding to his values and teachings.”

Morolong encouraged the community to take care of children and the elderly.

One of those who received a blanket, Mme Bettina Seloko from Tlapeng, spoke to SAnews.

“It is very cold. One cannot sleep well because it’s cold. With the blanket I have received today, I am going to sleep well, as I will be feeling warm.

“Government must continue to provide for the poor and those who are unemployed.”

From Tlapeng village, the Deputy Minister proceeded to Anvonster informal settlement, where he handed over school shoes to learners. From there, he proceeded to Mmabana Cultural Centre, where he also handed over school shoes to learners from different schools.

Morolong said giving learners shoes was a way of encouraging them to attend school.

“Our former President Nelson Mandela has taught us that we should look after each other,” Morolong said.

The Deputy Minister also visited Kamogelo Primary School, where he also handed over school shoes.

This year’s Nelson Mandela International Day on 18 July was celebrated under the theme: ‘It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity’.

During the month of July, government encourages citizens to donate their time to make a difference in their communities.

Earlier this year, Morolong received 470 pairs of school shoes from Capital Centric, on behalf of the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), which were donated to learners.

Nelson Mandela International Day has enjoyed years of global support and solidarity since it was launched in 2009. – SAnews.gov.za