Category: South Africa Government

The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has confirmed that the opening day of the ISUZU IRONMAN African Championship, held on Saturday, 18 April 2026 at Hobie Beach, was successfully executed without incident.

Municipal officials said all scheduled races were delivered safely, supported by integrated planning, strong inter-agency coordination, and world-class event management standards.

Saturday’s programme featured the ISUZU 5150 Triathlon, the ISUZU Corporate Triathlon Challenge powered by Algoa FM, and the IRONKIDS race. The events drew strong participation and enthusiastic spectator support, activating both the coastline and key urban routes while reinforcing the city’s reputation as a host of international endurance events.

Beyond the racecourse, the championship continues to deliver significant economic and destination marketing value. Current estimates indicate the event injects more than R87 million into the local economy within a single race cycle, with over 20 787 verified overnight stays recorded. 

Visitors are spending an average of R2 500 per day, directly benefiting SMMEs, hospitality establishments and township economies.

The IRONMAN Nelson Mandela Bay route is ranked among the top four run courses globally and second in the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region, further strengthening the metro’s standing as a competitive global sporting destination.

Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe said the successful, incident-free delivery of the opening day reflected the city’s readiness and capability to host events of excellence.

“Nelson Mandela Bay is not just hosting an event, we are demonstrating a proven, high impact model of how sport drives economic growth, tourism and global positioning. We are proud to be Africa’s home of IRONMAN and a destination of choice for world class events,” Lobishe said.

The municipality expressed its appreciation to residents, volunteers, traders, organisers, safety and security personnel, emergency services and media partners for ensuring a seamless experience. It also commended participating athletes for embodying resilience and the spirit of endurance sport.

Sunday’s main event programme included men and women races, merchandise sales at boardwalk grass lawns, and bike and gear check-out.

The municipality reaffirmed its commitment to positioning the city as a leading destination for sport, tourism, and investment. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Cold, wet and windy conditions are expected to continue across large parts of South Africa, with the Western and Northern Cape provinces likely to experience the most severe weather.

Weather forecasters Lehlohonolo Thobela and Tokelo Chiloane said the adverse conditions are expected to continue affecting much of the country through Monday, 20 April 2026.

The forecasters attributed the change in weather to the passage of two consecutive cold fronts making landfall over the western parts of South Africa.

“Initially, these systems are expected to impact the Western Cape and Northern Cape, before spreading eastwards across the central and eastern interior over the weekend,” the forecasters said in a statement.

The weather service predicted that by Sunday, 19 April 2026, cold, wet and windy conditions will have spread to the eastern and southern parts of the country, including the southern and eastern coastline of South Africa.

“Moreover, marine conditions are expected to markedly deteriorate, with wave heights along the coastline forecast to reach between 4 and 5 metres from Sunday into Monday, potentially impacting coastal and beach activities.”

Furthermore, daytime maximum temperatures are expected to drop significantly, with some high lying areas in the western interior and adjacent regions possibly experiencing daytime temperatures between 10°C and 12°C.

“These conditions, combined with strong winds, will result in a pronounced wind chill effect. By contrast, the northern extremities of the country are expected to remain relatively warm during this period,” the forecasters said.

Cold, wet and windy conditions may result in a significant wind chill factor, making temperatures feel colder than measured; localised flooding of low-lying areas and poor drainage systems may occur in region experiencing persistent rainfall; disruptions to outdoor and beachfront activities are possible due to strong winds and rough seas and reduced visibility and slippery roads may impact travel conditions.

The weather service has advised the public to take the following precautionary measures, including:
•    Dress warmly and ensure adequate heating in homes.
•    Use heating devices safely to avoid fire hazards.
•    Exercise caution when travelling on wet and slippery roads.
•    Avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall.
•    Secure loose outdoor objects that may be affected by strong winds.
•    Stay away from the coastline during rough sea conditions.
•    Continuously monitor official weather updates and warnings issued by SAWS.

Members of the public and stakeholders are strongly urged to continuously monitor official SAWS forecasts and warnings. These warnings will be updated regularly as the likelihood and severity of impacts become clearer.

Members of the public are also advised to treat unauthorised or unverified information sources with caution and to refrain from distributing such information further. – SAnews.gov.za

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KwaZulu-Natal Finance MEC Francois Rodgers has raised serious concerns over the poor audit outcomes in several municipalities, following a 2024–2025 Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA) audit outcomes briefing presented to the Provincial Legislature by Auditor-General Tsakane Maluleke.

During the recent presentation, the Auditor-General highlighted ongoing weaknesses in compliance with the Municipal Finance Management Act, identifying this as a primary cause of persistent audit failures.

These include poor financial discipline, weak governance structures, and inadequate consequence management, factors that directly undermine service delivery and erode public trust in local government.

Rodgers condemned the disregard for financial legislation by some municipalities and their leadership.

“The MFMA is not optional—it is a legal and ethical obligation. Poor compliance with the Act leads directly to poor audit outcomes, financial instability, and ultimately the inability of municipalities to deliver basic services to our people. This culture of non-compliance must end,” Rodgers said.

At the same time, the MEC acknowledged municipalities that continue to demonstrate discipline and commitment to good governance, noting that improvement is achievable where leadership takes responsibility seriously.

“We commend municipalities such as Richmond Local Municipality, which have shown that openness to working closely with KZN Treasury, adherence to the MFMA, strong internal controls, and ethical leadership can result in improved audit outcomes. These municipalities prove that clean governance is achievable when there is discipline and political will,” the MEC said.

KwaZulu-Natal Treasury reiterated its alignment with the Auditor-General’s consistent view that political leadership plays a central role in improving local government performance, and that councils, mayors, and municipal managers must account fully for how public funds are managed.

With local government elections approaching, Rodgers called for heightened accountability among political office-bearers.

“Now more than ever, as we head into local government elections, political will is imperative. Politicians must be reminded that they are custodians of public resources, not owners of them. Failure to uphold this responsibility has real consequences for communities,” the MEC said.

Echoing the Auditor-General’s call for a strengthened accountability ecosystem, Rodgers emphasised that accountability is not the responsibility of government alone.

“Citizens must actively exercise their democratic rights. Communities have the power to demand accountability, to ask how their money is spent, and to hold elected representatives to account for poor governance and maladministration,” he said.

KwaZulu-Natal Treasury reaffirmed its commitment to supporting municipalities through technical assistance, capacity building, and oversight, while insisting on firm consequences for persistent non-compliance with financial legislation.

“There can be no sustainable service delivery without accountability. Clean audits are not about pleasing the Auditor-General and Treasury; they are about restoring integrity in local government and improving the lived realities of our people,” Rodgers said. – SAnews.gov.za

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for action “grounded in hope, unity, and progressive change”.

Addressing the Global Progressive Mobilisation Plenary during a working visit to Spain on Saturday, the President highlighted the current global situation, which is increasingly defined by aggression, war, conflict and destruction.

Institutions of global governance, he said, are being undermined or maliciously repurposed.

“The laws and norms that have long defined relations between nations are wilfully violated. The principles of solidarity, cooperation and friendship are being challenged by the resurgence of narrow nationalism, prejudice and intolerance,” President Ramaphosa said in Barcelona.

He linked the resurgence in unlawful wars of aggression and genocide in places like Palestine to enduring global inequalities rooted in historical systems of colonialism and imperialism. These ideologies of superiority, he argued, continue to treat the peoples of Africa, Asia and Latin America as second class global citizens.

Beyond geopolitical tensions, President Ramaphosa highlighted the deepening climate crisis, growing inequality within and between countries, widespread poverty due to no work and skills, and many societies becoming more fragmented and isolated.

He warned that political discourse is being reshaped by algorithms that fuel extremism and hate.

“These are not separate crises, they are connected. They reflect a world that has yet to overcome the severe imbalances of power, opportunity and material well-being that have for so long held back inclusive and sustainable human progress,” President Ramaphosa said.

Despite this assessment, the President said this was not a moment for doubt or despair, but a moment of unique opportunity. “This is a moment for action, for mobilisation, and renewal.”

He called for a “global progressive revival”, reinvigorated movement rooted in its values, clear in its purpose and united in its resolve.

“This moment of severe crisis is at the same time a moment of unique opportunity. It is an opportunity to galvanise the forces of progressive change to forge a new path of peace, democracy, and social justice. It is an opportunity for a new generation of progressives to emerge and to develop a vision of a better, more justice and more inclusive world.

“This is an opportunity to confront the forces of reaction, who have gained much ground by offering people easy answers to complex problems. They have exploited legitimate grievances — about jobs, about security, about identity — and they have redirected people’s fears and anger toward the most vulnerable,” the President said.

Building a global movement

President Ramaphosa emphasised the building of a global movement that enables countries to undertake just and inclusive transitions that drive social and economic development while protecting affected communities, workers and businesses.

“We must build a world of genuine multilateral cooperation, with global institutions that are representative, democratic, and capable of meeting the challenges of the present and the future. We must restore the United Nations to its position at the centre of international relations.

“We must advance peace through dialogue and diplomacy, through the consistent application of international law and adherence to the principles of the UN Charter. 

“We must address the debt burden that holds back many developing economies [and] reform the financial architecture and close the financing gap for development,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

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The Department of Agriculture has announced the immediate and permanent withdrawal of accreditation for Animal On the Move as a recognised dog import agent.

This follows the confirmed use of fraudulent import permits in contravention of the Animal Improvement Act, 1998 (Act No. 62 of 1998).

“The department enforces a zero-tolerance stance on fraud to safeguard the integrity and traceability of South Africa’s canine population,” the department said in a statement on Friday.

The department urged members of the public and industry stakeholders to engage only with authorised import agents to ensure compliance with national regulations.

For enquiries related to animal improvement permits, the department advised the public to contact the Office of the Registrar of Animal Improvement at AnimalImp@nda.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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National Treasury has published the draft Capital Flow Management Regulations of 2026 for public comment.

The regulations appeared in Government Notice No. 54520 in Government Gazette No. 7375, published on 17 April 2026. 

The draft regulations, which will replace the Exchange Control Regulations of 1961, can be accessed on the National Treasury website at www.treasury.gov.za. 

The due date for submitting public comments is 10 June 2026.

According to National Treasury, since the abolition of the financial rand in 1991, South Africa has adopted “a prudent approach to managing cross-border capital flows by gradually recalibrating exchange controls to reflect the macroeconomic policy stance”.

“In recent years, National Treasury and the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) have been reviewing the country’s exchange control framework under the Exchange Control Regulations of 1961. 

“These reviews aimed to refine policies and support South Africa’s growth and global integration, while also acknowledging the economy’s susceptibility to volatile capital flows and exchange rate swings. 

“Global integration drives foreign investment growth and technology exchange, while also developing human capital and knowledge and mitigating investment risks through diversification,” said Treasury in a statement at the weekend.

In this context, the Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana announced in the 2026 Budget Speech that amendments to the Exchange Control Regulations of 1961, under the Currency and Exchanges Act 9 of 1933, would be published for public comment.

Treasury said the amendments signal South Africa’s readiness to modernise and adopt a “positive bias” approach to managing cross-border capital flows through fewer transaction pre-approvals, a focus on reporting, the surveillance of high-impact and high-risk cross-border transactions, and the combating of illicit financial flows. 

This shift will align South Africa with international best practice, while also managing various risks using a risk-based approach and existing macroprudential tools.

These amendments address gaps in the current regulations, including in relation to cross-border crypto asset transactions, which will complement existing regulation by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority and Financial Intelligence Centre. 

They also provide for new and amended definitions; transitional arrangements; administrative sanctions on regulated entities; increased penalties; the removal of any ambiguity with regard to the declaration of foreign assets; and the removal of restrictions on dealing in securities belonging to non-residents. 

The amendments also address uncertainty regarding local businesses controlled from outside of South Africa.

The promulgation of the final Capital Flow Management Regulations of 2026, and their replacement of the Exchange Control Regulations of 1961, will enable the implementation of the capital flow management framework announced by the Minister of Finance. 

“The relevant manuals will be updated, and various exemptions will be considered and granted to enable the transition. Certain measures that are common in other countries could still be retained in the interest of supporting South Africa’s economy,” said the department.

Written comments on the draft regulations must be sent to National Treasury at Commentdraftlegislation@treasury.gov.za by close of business on Wednesday, 10 June 2026.

Following the deadline, National Treasury and the SARB will consider the written comments and make appropriate revisions where necessary. – SAnews.gov.za

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South Africa has announced plans to table a landmark draft resolution at the United Nations aimed at tackling one of the world’s most persistent challenges, inequality.

Speaking at the Plenary on Extremism and Inequality at the In Defence of Democracy initiative, during a working visit in Barcelona, Spain, on Saturday, 18 April 2026, President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed that South Africa will present a draft resolution on the establishment of the International Panel on Inequality for adoption by the United Nations General Assembly, during its 80th resumed session in 2026.

He said the proposed panel, inspired by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, will monitor global trends and assess drivers and consequences of inequality.

It will evaluate alternative policies for addressing inequality to inform governments, policy makers and the international community.

President Ramaphosa said placing inequality firmly on the global agenda was essential for strengthening democracy and advancing social justice.

“We are gathered not merely to defend democracy but to build democracy [and] more importantly to advance democracy. We have come together because we believe fervently in the right of every person, without exception, to determine their own destiny.

“At the heart of democracy lies the principle that all people must have equal opportunities and equal means to contribute to decisions about their lives, their communities and their environment,” President Ramaphosa said.

The initiative stems from South Africa’s G20 Presidency, during which it commissioned the first-ever global inequality report from a committee of independent experts led by Nobel Laureate Joseph Stiglitz.

The report concluded that inequality is neither inevitable nor permanent and can be addressed through deliberate policy choices.

The committee made the important observation that inequality is neither inevitable nor interminable and can be addressed through the policies adopted and the actions taken.

The President noted that the proposal has received the endorsement of the African Union.

He called on UN member states and all leaders across society to lend their support to “this initiative to ensure that we take forward the struggle to end inequality”.

“If we are to build democracy, to strengthen democracy across the world, if we are to empower people to take charge of their lives, it is essential that we intensify the struggle for equality and social justice,” President Ramaphosa said.

He acknowledged that South Africa is possibly the most unequal society in the world, inherited from a history of Apartheid.

“We are committed to this endeavour and hope you will join us in it. We have the determination and the means to end inequality. Now we must act. This is the time for us to lead the world to address inequality,” The President said. – SAnews.gov.za

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South Africa and the Kingdom of Lesotho will next week officially unveil the completed Senqu Bridge, marking a major milestone in Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project.

In a significant boost for regional integration and water security, the bridge will be declared ready for use by motorists on 22 April 2026 in Mokhotlong District, Lesotho.

Constructed at a cost of approximately R2.4 billion, the Senqu Bridge is the largest of three major bridges being developed as part of Phase II, alongside the Mabunyane and Khubelu bridges. 

These crossings are designed to ensure continued access across the Polihali Reservoir once water levels rise following the dam’s completion.

Measuring about 825 metres in length and standing roughly 90 metres high, the Senqu Bridge will provide a vital transport link across the reservoir, maintaining connectivity to the national road network via the A1 route, which links Mokhotlong to Maseru.

According to the Department of Water and Sanitation, the bridge is a “legacy infrastructure asset” that will ensure uninterrupted access to key areas such as Mokhotlong and surrounding communities, even after existing routes are submerged by the Polihali Dam. 

Strengthening a flagship regional project

The Senqu Bridge forms part of the broader LHWP, a multi-phased, treaty-based partnership between South Africa and Lesotho established on 24 October 1986 to address water security, energy generation and socio-economic development.

The project harnesses the Orange–Senqu River system through a network of dams and transfer tunnels, supplying water to South Africa’s Integrated Vaal River System, which supports the economic hub of Gauteng. 

At the same time, Lesotho benefits through hydropower generation, infrastructure development and long-term economic opportunities.

Phase II of the project is currently under construction and includes the Polihali Dam, a concrete-faced rockfill structure approximately 165 metres high, as well as a 38-kilometre transfer tunnel that will connect the Polihali and Katse reservoirs.

Once completed, this phase will increase water supply capacity from 780 million cubic metres per annum to 1 270 million cubic metres per annum, significantly strengthening long-term water security for South Africa.

Engineering achievement and economic impact

Beyond its strategic importance, the Senqu Bridge represents a major engineering accomplishment in one of Southern Africa’s most challenging terrains.

It is the first extradosed bridge in Lesotho, combining cable-stayed and prestressed girder design, and was constructed using an incremental launching method to improve safety and reduce environmental disruption. 

The project has also delivered tangible economic benefits. It created approximately 250 000 person-days of employment, with a peak workforce of around 1 200 workers, the majority of whom were Basotho. 

In addition, procurement processes were structured to promote inclusivity, with significant expenditure directed towards local enterprises in both countries, including South African black-owned firms.

Phase I: Laying the foundation

Phase I of the LHWP, completed in 2003, laid the foundation for the current expansion. It comprised two sub-phases and included the construction of major infrastructure such as the Katse and Mohale dams, as well as the Muela Hydropower Station.

The Katse Dam, completed in 1997, is one of the highest dams in Africa and serves as the main storage reservoir of the project. It is connected to the Mohale Dam through a transfer tunnel, forming an integrated system that delivers water to South Africa via an extensive network of tunnels.

Phase I currently delivers approximately 780 million cubic metres of water annually to South Africa, significantly enhancing water security for Gauteng and surrounding areas, while enabling Lesotho to generate hydropower and earn revenue through water royalties.

Phase II: Expanding capacity and impact

Phase II, which commenced in 2022 following earlier delays, builds on this foundation and is estimated to cost around R42 billion.

Key components include the construction of the Polihali Dam, a 165-metre-high concrete-faced rockfill dam, and the 38-kilometre transfer tunnel linking Polihali to Katse. Additional infrastructure includes bridges, feeder roads, accommodation facilities, power lines and telecommunications.

Once completed, Phase II will increase water transfer to South Africa by an additional 490 million cubic metres per year, raising total supply to approximately 1 270 million cubic metres annually into the Integrated Vaal River System.

Progress on major components is advancing steadily, with the Polihali Dam over 50% complete and tunnelling work nearing the halfway mark.

Build-up event to spotlight tunnel construction

Ahead of the official launch, Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina and Lesotho’s Minister of Natural Resources Mohlomi Moleko will on 20 April unveil the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) at the Polihali construction site.

The TBM is a critical piece of equipment that will be used to drill the 38-kilometre tunnel connecting the Polihali and Katse reservoirs, a central feature of Phase II aimed at increasing water transfer capacity to South Africa.

Advancing regional integration and development

The LHWP continues to stand as a flagship example of regional cooperation, demonstrating how shared natural resources can be managed through rules-based collaboration for mutual benefit.

Through joint governance structures and coordinated implementation, the project reflects a high level of trust and interdependence between South Africa and Lesotho.

As Phase II progresses, infrastructure such as the Senqu Bridge is expected to play a critical role not only in supporting construction and connectivity, but also in enabling long-term development outcomes, including improved mobility, access to services and expanded economic opportunities. 

The launch of the bridge signals continued progress in one of Africa’s most ambitious water infrastructure projects, reinforcing the role of regional partnerships in addressing shared development challenges. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Deputy Director-General Michael Currin has urged government communicators to uphold ethical communication, integrity, honesty and professionalism at all times.

“We are not merely conveyors of information; we are the bridge between government and the citizens we serve,” he said on Friday.

Currin was addressing participants of the Mastering the Art of Government Communication course, hosted jointly by GCIS and the National School of Government at the GCIS head office in Pretoria.

He emphasised that the work of government communicators plays a critical role in shaping public understanding, building trust and supporting effective service delivery.

“We are operating in a time where communication can either stabilise a nation or deepen uncertainty. We have seen this both locally and globally,” Currin said.

He pointed out that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the spread of misinformation created confusion and, at times, resistance to life-saving interventions.

“False claims about vaccines, treatments, and government interventions circulated widely, demonstrating how quickly unverified information can influence public behaviour.

“On the global stage, we continue to witness how communications shape geopolitical realities. The Russia-Ukraine war is not only being fought on the battlefield but also in the information space where narratives, propaganda and information influence international opinion and police decisions,” Currin said.

Currin explained that the purpose of the programme is to professionalise government communications across all spheres and to equip communicators with the skills and tools needed to navigate complex and often volatile environments.

“It is about strengthening our ability to plan strategically, craft meaningful messages and ensure alignment with broader government priorities. These are not just technical skills, they are essential capabilities that enable us to communicate with clarity, confidence and purpose,” he said.

Currin stressed the importance of recognising the growing challenge of misinformation and disinformation.

“As communicators, we carry the responsibility of ensuring that the public receives accurate and verified information. This requires us to be proactive, vigilant, and responsive.

“It also calls on us to use platforms effectively to counter false narratives and to build public trust through transparency and consistency,” he said.

Speaking to SAnews, Craig Jansen from the National School of Government (NSG) said the development of the course started in 2021.

“In 2024-25, we ran a pilot programme at the GCIS, and it was successful,” Jansen said.

Four groups have been trained so far.

“To date, we have trained approximately 100 officials in various capacities, these include Media Liaison Officers (MLOs) and Heads of Communication in various government departments. Invitations were extended to managers in the public sector,” Jansen said. 

The programme will be officially launched in May this year by the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Solly Malatsi. 

It marks a significant milestone in strengthening the government communication system.

It is designed to equip communicators and managers with the requisite skills and knowledge to effectively communicate government programmes, achievements, and opportunities to the people of South Africa.

The course also aims to equip communication practitioners and managers in the public sector and state-owned enterprises (SOEs) with knowledge, skills and capabilities to foster a service-oriented culture and ethos.

This includes enhancing understanding of communication processes in government, producing useful information about departmental operations, encouraging professional, honest, and considerate behaviour, and implementing government policies and programmes to improve service delivery. 

The NSG is mandated with the responsibility of ensuring that public servants comply with the provisions of established legislation, regulations and systems, and can exercise proper discretion and innovation in solving routine and complex delivery problems. – SAnews.gov.za

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Police have launched a manhunt for the suspect or suspects involved in a quadruple murder that took place in Walmer in the early hours of Friday.

Police officers responded to a shooting complaint at approximately 12:34am on Friday via radio control.

According to the police, upon arrival at a residence on Ndlovu Street in Airport Valley, Walmer, officers were met by the complainant outside the premises, who led them to a shack on the property. 

Inside the shack, police discovered the bodies of four victims who had sustained fatal gunshot wounds. They were two brothers, aged 20 and 22, as well as two young women aged 19 and 17.

Police have since launched a manhunt for the suspect or suspects involved and investigations are ongoing.

Eastern Cape MEC for Transport and Community Safety Xolile Nqatha has strongly condemned the incident, describing the killings as a “heinous crime”.

“We are confident that the police will find and arrest the perpetrator(s) linked to this heinous crime. We urge all community members to collaborate with the police and other law enforcement agencies to support the collective efforts to eradicate crime in the Nelson Mandela District. We believe that strong collaboration is essential for this initiative to succeed,” Nqatha said.

Four linked to mob justice arrested 

Meanwhile, Nqatha commended police in the OR Tambo District for progress in a case involving mob justice.
Four suspects were arrested in connection with an incident in Empa Locality in Bityi last week, where three men accused of stealing electricity cables were allegedly attacked by a group of community members.

The arrest comes after an angry mob accused three African males of stealing electricity cables in the area. The victims were then assaulted and set alight on the roadside.

Police have indicated that further arrests are expected as investigations continue. – SAnews.gov.za

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