Category: South Africa Government

Parliament will this week focus on key budget legislation and oversight work as Members of Parliament return from the constituency period to resume committee activities.

The National Assembly will hold its only plenary sitting of the week on Tuesday afternoon to consider the 2026 Special Appropriation Bill and the Division of Revenue Bill.

The Special Appropriation Bill provides for additional funding requirements for the 2025/26 financial year and proposes an allocation of R5.778 billion to the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa for its rolling stock fleet renewal programme. This includes R1.8 billion to meet contractual obligations under an agreement with Gibela requiring a minimum order of 35 locomotives annually.

The Bill also proposes R889 million for Sentech, made up of R189 million for dual illumination costs and R700 million for operations. 

In terms of Section 16 of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), the legislation allows government to allocate funds outside the normal annual budget process.

The Division of Revenue Bill sets out the equitable distribution of nationally raised revenue across national, provincial and local spheres of government, with emphasis on strengthening local government capacity.

Meanwhile, delegates of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) will convene virtually on Tuesday morning for a strategic planning session aimed at assessing implementation of committee plans, identifying gaps and refining priorities for the year ahead.

NCOP select committees will also undertake oversight visits in the North West province from 20 to 24 April to assess service delivery, governance and municipal functionality. 

This is ahead of the Taking Parliament to the People programme scheduled for 11 to 15 May in the Matlosana Municipality and Dr Kenneth Kaunda District.

Committees participating in the oversight programme include those responsible for agriculture, economic development, cooperative governance, public infrastructure, education, social services, security, justice, petitions and executive undertakings.

The Select Committees on Finance and Appropriations have been excused from the North West oversight visits as they will brief provincial legislatures on the Division of Revenue Bill during the week.

The National Assembly’s Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans will also conduct oversight visits to Johannesburg and Durban.

Parliament said oversight remains a core constitutional function and the main mechanism through which the legislature holds the Executive accountable and evaluates whether government programmes are delivering services effectively.

This week’s programme forms part of the 7th Parliament’s rotational model, which divides parliamentary work into committee oversight, constituency engagement and plenary sittings.

A total of 15 committee meetings are scheduled between Tuesday and Friday, covering issues such as transport, agriculture, education, public accounts, home affairs, water and sanitation, electricity and energy, higher education and correctional services. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Over 1000 suspects across the various parts of Gauteng were nabbed in Operation Shanela II operations this past weekend, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said on Monday.

Conducted from 17-19 April, the operation resulted in the arrest of 1031 suspects for various crimes.

The arrests were made across all five districts in the province, namely: Johannesburg, Tshwane, Ekurhuleni West Rand and Sedibeng. 

According to police, 307 of the arrests were effected by visible policing and they include 103 illegal immigrants. Fifty-four individuals were nabbed for dealing in /possession of drugs, while 72 others were nabbed for drunk and driving. A further 32 individuals were nabbed for dealing in liquor and 724 wanted suspects were arrested for serious and violent crimes.

Operation Shanela is multidisciplinary integrated operation through concerted efforts of various units within the SAPS, Metro Police Departments, Gauteng Traffic, Department of Home Affairs, Department of Community Safety, Community Policing Forums and private security companies through the Eyes and Ears Initiative (E2).

Gauteng Police Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, praised the multidisciplinary teams for the concerted efforts. 

“Operation Shanela demonstrates that much can be achieved when law enforcement and the community work together in the fight against crime. Criminality will not be tolerated in Gauteng, and we remain resolute in our fight against crime,” Mthombeni said.

The police thanked members of the community for their ongoing support and providing tip-offs to the police. The public is encouraged to continue reporting criminal activities by contacting Crime Stop on 08600 10111, their nearest police station, or via the MySAPS App.

Operation Shanela remains a standing weekly operation across Gauteng, with deployments adapted based on crime pattern analysis and community concerns. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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A 33-year-old alleged gang leader is expected to appear in the Parow Magistrates’ Court after he was arrested for the possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said.

Members of Operation Lockdown III arrested the suspect in Ravensmead in the Western Cape last week.

“The team seized an R5 rifle, a shotgun, three pistols, more than 160 rounds of ammunition, and several magazines. Four out of the five illegal firearms’ serial numbers were filed off.

Acting swiftly, the team operationalised intelligence on the suspect, who allegedly controlled the gang’s firearms,” the SAPS said in a statement on Sunday.

The suspect led police to a cache of firearms and ammunition concealed near a block of flats in Ravensmead.

“All seized firearms will be subjected to ballistic testing, to determine whether they were used in the commission of other serious and violent crimes. The suspect is expected to appear before the Parow Magistrates’ Court soon, while investigations continue,’” said police. –SAnews.gov.za

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Government will provide the fourth update on Phase II of Operation Vulindlela during a briefing on Wednesday in Johannesburg, reflecting on the progress of the structural reforms being implemented to support more rapid and inclusive economic growth.

The briefing will provide an overview of progress made to date, highlight key reform milestones, and facilitate discussions on the economic implications and opportunities arising from the reform agenda.

Operation Vulindlela is a joint initiative of the Presidency and the National Treasury to accelerate the implementation of structural reforms.

Phase II of Operation Vulindlela builds on the momentum created since 2020, when the initiative was established. 

The focus remains to transform the electricity sector; to modernise the freight logistics sector; to ensure reliable access to safe drinking water; to attract skills, investment and tourism; and to improve the delivery of basic services and infrastructure. 

Additionally, the initiative is supporting the creation of dynamic and integrated cities by addressing spatial inequality and promoting affordable housing, and harnessing digital tools to improve government efficiency, enable inclusion, and support economic transformation. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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The Gauteng Department of Health has urged residents to remain vigilant and seek immediate medical attention if they experience Malaria-like symptoms.

This after the department reported an uptick in cases of the potentially life-threatening disease in the province.

“Recent surveillance data indicate a worrying rise in both malaria infections and fatalities, underscoring the urgent need for strengthened surveillance, early detection and prompt treatment to prevent loss of life.

“The department urges residents to remain vigilant and seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms such as fever, chills, headache and fatigue, particularly if they have recently travelled to malaria-endemic areas such as Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi.

“Preventive measures, including the use of insect repellent and wearing protective clothing, remain essential to reduce the risk of infection,” the department said in a statement.

The department noted that between January and December 2025, some 666 cases of malaria were recorded with seven deaths occurring as a result.

“During the first quarter of 2026 [January to March], the department has already recorded 414 confirmed cases and 11 deaths. This represents a significant increase compared with the same period in 2025, which recorded 230 cases and one death.

“This upward trend signals heightened transmission risk, particularly in the early months of the year after the festive season, when many residents travel to malaria-endemic regions, increasing their exposure and risk of infection upon their return,” the department noted.

Malaria is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito and while preventable and treatable, delay in diagnosis and treatment can lead to severe illness and death.

“As the global community prepares to observe World Malaria Day on 25 April 2026, the DoH urges residents to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their families.

“The department continues to closely monitor the situation and is strengthening public health interventions to control the spread of malaria and reduce mortality across the province,” the statement said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for the deepening of democracy and advancement of human rights for all.

The President noted that as South Africa prepares to commemorate Freedom Day next Monday, the country remains “grounded in a culture of human rights, the rule of law and the expression of people’s will through regular elections” as set out in the Constitution.

“What we have built and continue to build in this country is distinct.

“This places a responsibility on South Africa as an active member of the international community to advance our constitutional values beyond our borders,” he said in his weekly newsletter on Monday.

He highlighted that at the 4th meeting of the ‘In Defence of Democracy’ initiative held in Barcelona, Spain, South Africa proudly took its place among the democratic governments of the world.

“At the gathering in Barcelona, I said that we cannot allow ourselves to be bullied into silence when the dignity and human rights of others are being trampled on. 

“We made a call for the United Nations [UN] to reassert itself in global affairs. For democratic values to thrive, all institutions of global governance need to be reformed so that all the countries and peoples of the world are represented. It has become clear that bodies like the UN Security Council are powerless to intervene in conflicts and prevent genocide,” President Ramaphosa stated.

He warned that in many places, “democracy is under threat” with “narrow nationalism, prejudice and intolerance” posing a challenge to solidarity and cooperation.

“The gulf of inequality within and among nations is [another] serious challenge to democracy. The laws, rules and institutions that support democracy must ensure that people’s lives are improved. All people must have an equal opportunity to contribute to decisions that affect them. 

“That is why we called on leaders to support the establishment of an International Panel on Inequality, which will evaluate alternative policies for addressing inequality to inform governments, policy makers and the international community. 

“The establishment of the panel was one of the recommendations of the groundbreaking global inequality report produced by a committee of independent experts that South Africa commissioned during its G20 Presidency,” the President said.

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President Ramaphosa noted that the ‘In Defence of Democracy’ initiative aligns with South Africa’ foreign policy.

“[We] are committed to supporting its work. The erosion of democracy in other parts of the world affects South Africa too. Our economy and society feel the effects of conflicts beyond borders, intensified geopolitical tensions and the weaponisation of trade, foreign direct investment and aid. 

“The erosion of democracy has contributed to mistrust of the very values of equality, human rights and freedoms that characterise progressive societies. This mistrust is evident even in our own country. 

“As we mark Freedom Day next week, let us recommit ourselves to defend and strengthen our democracy,” he said.

He called on South Africans to come together to overcome challenges including poverty, inequality and underdevelopment which “undermine our democratic gains”.

“We must not go the way of societies that have lost faith in democracy and that are increasingly anchored in the rule of the strong and the erosion of human rights. 

“Our experience with building a united nation from a deeply fractured past means that we must cherish our democracy and be part of the struggle to defend democratic values across the globe.

“The defence of democracy is gathering momentum. It is gaining more and more support as leaders, governments, social movements and citizens realise what is at stake – and, like us, demonstrate that they are prepared to do something about it,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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President Cyril Ramaphosa will travel to Lesotho this week to join King Letsie III and Prime Minister Samuel Matekane for the official opening of the Senqu Bridge in Mokhotlong.

The Presidency said the event on Wednesday marks a major milestone under Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project and reflects the strong partnership between South Africa and Lesotho.

The bridge replaces the existing crossing, which will be submerged when the Polihali Dam is impounded, and is expected to ensure continued access to Mokhotlong, Sani Pass and surrounding areas.

Government said the broader project will support the transfer of high-quality water to South Africa, generate hydropower for Lesotho and improve access to potable water, irrigation, fisheries and tourism opportunities.

As part of Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, water transfer volumes are expected to increase from 780 million to 1 270 billion cubic metres per year, while Lesotho’s hydropower generation capacity will also be expanded.

Constructed at an estimated cost of R2.4 billion, the Senqu Bridge is the largest of three major bridges being built across the Polihali Reservoir. It measures about 825 metres in length and stands 90 metres high.

Ahead of the launch, South Africa’s Minister of Water and Sanitation Pemmy Majodina and Lesotho’s Minister of Natural Resources Mohlomi Moleko are set to unveil a Tunnel Boring Machine on Monday.

The machine will be used to drill the 38-kilometre tunnel linking the Polihali and Katse reservoirs.

President Ramaphosa will be accompanied by Majodina, Deputy Minister David Mahlobo and Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Alvin Botes.

The launch programme will begin with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and walkabout at 11:00, followed by a formal event at 12.45 at a sports field near the bridge in Mokhotlong. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina, Deputy Minister David Mahlobo, and Lesotho’s Minister of Natural Resources, Mohlomi Moleko, are set to unveil state-of-the-art equipment today at the Polihali Construction Site in Mokhotlong, Lesotho.

The event marks the launch of the second Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM), a significant milestone in Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP). 

The development signals the transition from preparatory work to full-scale tunnelling along one of Southern Africa’s most ambitious water transfer routes.

The first TBM was commissioned at Katse Dam in February 2025 and has started tunnel drilling at the Katse site.

Each machine measures approximately 423 metres in length and is equipped with a 5.38-metre cutterhead, designed to operate continuously under challenging underground conditions. 

The two TBMs will excavate through the Maluti Mountains from opposite ends, ultimately connecting the Polihali and Katse reservoirs via a 38.5km tunnel.

Water and Sanitation spokesperson, Wisane Mavasa, said during the process, the machine will also install precast concrete lining segments, seamlessly transforming raw rock into a completed structure in one uninterrupted process.

“Once completed, the Polihali Tunnel will facilitate the transfer of significantly larger volumes of water, thereby enhancing regional water security and bolstering hydropower generation in Lesotho,” Mavasa explained.

The Polihali Tunnel is one of the major components of LHWP Phase II, which is currently under construction. 

Other major elements include a 165-metre-high concrete-faced rockfill dam at Polihali, located downstream of the confluence of the Khubelu and Senqu-Orange rivers, as well as the 800-metre-long Senqu Bridge. 

Additional works include access roads, resettlement initiatives, and environmental, social, and public health programmes.

The LHWP aims to harness the Orange–Senqu River system through a network of dams and transfer tunnels to augment water supply to South Africa’s Integrated Vaal River System, which supports the country’s economic hub in Gauteng. 

The project also contributes to hydropower generation in Lesotho.

Mavasa noted that the Polihali reservoir will have a storage capacity of approximately 2 322 million cubic metres. 

Phase II is expected to progressively increase the current water supply rate by adding 490 million mᵌ/a to the existing 780 million cubic metres per annum (mᵌ/a) to 1 270 billion mᵌ/a transferred to South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

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The South African Weather Service (SAWS) says a typical autumn weather system will dominate the country this week.

“This consists of a surface trough over the western and central interior, with the Atlantic High extending its ridge over the southern and eastern parts of the country, supported by upper-air troughs resulting in isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers in places,” the weather service said.

The forecast for Monday is partly cloudy and cool to warm with isolated showers and thundershowers, but scattered in the north-eastern parts, where a yellow level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms has been issued.

The warning for severe thunderstorms shows strong, damaging winds, hail, excessive lightning, and possible heavy downpours leading to localised flooding and damage to susceptible formal/informal settlements and infrastructure.

There could also be disruption of port/small harbour activities for a short period of time, and difficulty navigating at sea due to damaging winds.

A warning for a storm surge has been issued for some coastal areas, which could lead to localised damage to coastal infrastructure, localised disruptions to beachfront activities and localised flooding of some coastal areas.

Meanwhile, the extended weather forecast for Tuesday and Wednesday indicates that partly cloudy and cool to warm with isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers but widespread in places in the north-eastern parts. – SAnews.gov.za

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The eThekwini Municipality has officially opened nominations for its inaugural eThekwini Sports Awards, calling on the public to recognise outstanding sporting talent and achievement across the city.

The awards programme is aimed at recognising and celebrating athletes, coaches, administrators, teams, and individuals who have excelled in sports and contributed significantly to the development of sport within the city.

As part of this exciting initiative, the municipality is officially opening the call for nominations for outstanding sports personnel within eThekwini municipal area. 

Nominations are now open and will close on 15 May 2026.

The municipality has invited residents, sports organisations, schools, clubs, and community structures to submit nominations for deserving individuals and teams who have demonstrated excellence, dedication and exceptional performance in their respective sporting codes.

Nominees must either be based in eThekwini or have made a significant impact within the city’s sporting landscape.

The Sports Awards will consist of Sport Federation of the Year, Technical Official of the Year, District Sport Confederation, Recreation Program of the Year, Grass Root Program of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Coach of the Year, Junior Sportsperson of the Year, Sportsperson of the Year with Disability, and the Sportsperson of the Year.

The municipality said the initiative forms part of an ongoing commitment to promote sports as a powerful tool for social cohesion, youth development, healthy lifestyles, and economic growth.

Nomination forms are available at Delta Towers, 6th Floor, Dr Pixley ka Seme Street or they can be accessed via the municipality’s official website at www.durban.gov.za.

The eThekwini Sports Awards are expected to become a flagship event on the city’s calendar, further strengthening Durban’s position as a leading destination for sport and excellence. – SAnews.gov.za

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