Category: South Africa Government

Government has congratulated Professor Vukosi Marivate on the recommendation by the United Nations Secretary-General to appoint him as a member of the Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence.

In a statement on Thursday, government said Professor Marivate of the University of Pretoria was recommended alongside 40 leading experts from across the world, drawn from diverse disciplines and recognised for their significant expertise in artificial intelligence and related fields.

“The panel will be the first global, fully independent scientific body dedicated to closing the AI knowledge gap and assessing the real-world impacts of artificial intelligence across economies and societies,” said the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).

It added that the panel will play a critical role in helping the global community distinguish fact from fiction, and science from misinformation, by providing an authoritative, unbiased reference point.

According to the United Nations, the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI serves as the first global scientific body on Artificial Intelligence (AI), bringing together leading experts to assess how AI is transforming lives. 

“The 40 nominees recommended by the Secretary-General were identified from among applicants to an open call that resulted in over 2,600 applications from more than 140 countries, ensuring world-class expertise,” said the United Nations.-SAnews.gov.za

 

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The eThekwini Municipality has intensified its efforts to combat cable theft, leading to the successful conviction of perpetrators involved in crimes targeting municipal infrastructure.

The municipality said the convictions highlight the Energy Management Directorate’s continued commitment to protecting municipal infrastructure and ensuring reliable service delivery to residents.

In a recent case, a 53-year-old man, who was employed as a contractor staff member, was convicted in the Durban Magistrate’s Court for possession of suspected stolen property, including electricity cables and a streetlight belonging to the municipality.

The arrest occurred in 2023 during a coordinated operation that involved an inspection of a scrap dealer’s premises where stolen municipal property was discovered.

Further investigations led to additional inspections, which uncovered two rolls of eThekwini Municipality cables, additional streetlight components, and evidence of illegal cable processing at the suspect’s residence.

Director of the Energy Management Directorate, Philani Shange, expressed disappointment at the involvement of a contractor staff member in such criminal activities.

“It is disheartening to witness individuals who are contracted to assist the Municipality in delivering essential services choosing to engage in theft instead. Their actions not only undermine the integrity of our workforce but also hinder our efforts to improve service delivery to our communities,” Shange said.

In addition to this recent conviction, two other individuals were sentenced late last year for related offences. A 44-year-old man was found guilty of possessing suspected stolen electricity cables and received a three-year prison sentence, wholly suspended for five years.

In a separate case, a 32-year-old man was convicted of tampering with essential infrastructure and sentenced to six years’ imprisonment, with half of the sentence suspended for five years.

“The Energy Management Directorate continues to work closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure that perpetrators of infrastructure theft are brought to justice, reinforcing the message that such criminal activities will not be tolerated,” Shange said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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The Electoral Commission (IEC) on Thursday announced its countrywide Online Voter Registration Campaign, marking a key milestone in preparations for the upcoming 2026 local government elections and expanding access to voter registration for millions of South Africans.

The campaign went live this week across media platforms, calling on eligible South Africans to register online, update their voter details and verify their registration status ahead of election day later in the year.

In 2021, the Electoral Commission introduced the online portal, a self-service voter registration system – which has proven effective among eligible South Africans. 

It enables citizens to register, update and verify their details remotely, significantly improving the accessibility, efficiency and integrity of the voter registration process.

This year alone, the portal recorded 26,743 newly registered voters, bringing the total number of registered voters to 27,718, 204. 

The highly sought-after youth demographic now accounts for 7,756,911 registered voters, underscoring the urgent need to intensify efforts to mobilise young people ahead of the 2026 local government elections.

Acting Chief Electoral Officer, George Mahlangu, says the Electoral Commission is stepping up efforts to empower all voters, particularly young people, to actively participate in South Africa’s democratic and electoral processes.

“We urge all eligible South Africans to register online, and those already registered to verify and, where necessary, update their address details. In the 2026 municipal elections, you register where you live and vote where you are registered. 

“This ensures voters can continue to shape the affairs of their communities by participating in elections in the wards where they ordinarily reside,” Mahlangu said.

Furthermore, the Electoral Commission is intensifying voter registration and civic education initiatives at institutions of learning nationwide, reinforcing civic and democracy drives aimed at young people.

Eligible South Africans aged 16 years and older, with a valid identity document, can register to vote or update their details on the online portal.

Go to www.registertovote.elections.org.za – the process is quick, safe and easy. Voters will only be permitted to vote at the voting station where they are registered. It is therefore essential that voters ensure their registration details, including their voting district and voting station, are correct and up to date ahead of Election Day. – SAnews.gov.za

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By Themba Thobela

Beijing, China – South Africa’s Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, is leading a high-level delegation to Beijing, China, for the Joint Economic Trade Commission (JETC), where he is meeting with his Chinese counterpart, Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao.

The move underscores the importance of the strategic economic relationship between the two nations. 

The two Ministers have signed the China-Africa Economic Partnership Agreement (CAEPA), a landmark deal set to grant South African exports duty free access to the Chinese market while boosting investment into South Africa’s economy. 

The engagement comes at a time when South Africa is seeking to deepen its trade partnerships, expand market access for local products, and attract investment to support economic growth and industrial development. 

China remains South Africa’s largest trading partner, and the JETC provides a vital platform for both countries to review progress, address challenges and identify new opportunities for collaboration.

The visit signals a renewed focus on strengthening bilateral trade ties, particularly in sectors that are key to South Africa’s economic recovery and long-term development agenda. 

Discussions between the two Ministers are centered on advancing deeper economic cooperation, enhancing trade flows, and promoting value-added exports from South Africa.

The South African delegation includes senior government officials and senior managers from the Industrial Development Corporation and the South African Bureau of Standards, reflecting the significance of the commission and the breadth of issues under consideration. 

The talks covered areas such as industrialisation, infrastructure development, agricultural trade, green energy, and technology exchange.

In recent years, trade between South Africa and China has grown steadily, with China serving as a major destination for South African minerals, agricultural products and manufactured goods. 

At the same time, South Africa imports a wide range of machinery, electronics and consumer goods from China. While the relationship has delivered substantial economic benefits, South Africa has been working to address trade imbalances and to promote greater diversification of exports.

Minister Tau’s visit is therefore focused not only on maintaining strong trade volumes but also on ensuring that the partnership supports South Africa’s industrial policy goals. 

A key priority is expanding access for value-added South African products in the Chinese market, including processed foods, manufactured goods and high-quality agricultural produce.

The Joint Economic Trade Commission provides an important forum for resolving trade-related issues and ensuring that agreements reached at previous meetings are implemented. It also allows both countries to identify new sectors for cooperation and to strengthen institutional ties between their respective trade and industry departments.

During the engagement, Tau emphasised the importance of collaboration that supports inclusive growth and sustainable development. 

South Africa is seeking partnerships that will boost local manufacturing, create jobs and contribute to skills development, while also encouraging Chinese investment in sectors that have strong potential for expansion.

China’s role as a major investor in infrastructure and industrial projects across Africa makes it a critical partner for South Africa. 

Discussions at the JETC are expected to explore opportunities for increased investment in logistics, energy and industrial parks, as well as cooperation in emerging sectors such as renewable energy and digital technology.

The meeting also reflects the broader strategic relationship between South Africa and China, which extends beyond trade to include political, cultural and educational exchanges. As members of BRICS, both countries share an interest in promoting cooperation among developing economies and strengthening South-South partnerships.

Minister Wang Wentao welcomed the South African delegation, noting the longstanding ties between the two countries and the importance of maintaining open and constructive dialogue. 

He highlighted China’s commitment to expanding trade and investment cooperation with South Africa, particularly in areas that support economic transformation and development.

For South Africa, the visit represents an opportunity to reinforce its position as a key trade partner on the African continent. 

By strengthening economic ties with China, the country aims to enhance its role as a gateway for trade and investment into Africa, while also ensuring that local industries benefit from increased cooperation.

Stakeholders back home will be watching closely for outcomes that can translate into tangible economic gains. Increased market access for South African products, new investment commitments and progress in addressing trade barriers could all have a positive impact on economic growth and employment.

The commission also serves as a platform to promote collaboration between businesses in both countries. Strengthening links between South African and Chinese companies can lead to joint ventures, technology transfer and expanded production capacity, all of which are essential for building a more resilient and competitive economy.

As global economic conditions continue to shift, strengthening strategic partnerships has become increasingly important. The engagement in Beijing demonstrates South Africa’s commitment to proactive economic diplomacy and its determination to secure new opportunities for growth through international cooperation.

Minister Tau’s leadership of the delegation underscores the government’s focus on advancing trade relations that deliver real benefits for the country. 

By engaging directly with Chinese counterparts and strengthening institutional partnerships, South Africa is positioning itself to take full advantage of one of its most important global economic relationships.

The outcomes of the Joint Economic Trade Commission are expected to lay the groundwork for future collaboration, deepen trust between the two countries, and support South Africa’s broader vision of inclusive economic development. 

Through sustained engagement and targeted cooperation, both nations stand to benefit from a partnership that continues to evolve and expand in scope and impact. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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The Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, has unveiled the state-of-the-art Umphakathi Mall Smart Driver’s Licensing Testing Centre (DLTC) in Randfontein, within the Rand West City Local Municipality.

The launch of the centre marks a significant milestone in the Gauteng Provincial Government’s ongoing programme to modernise Driver’s Licensing Testing Centres across the province.

The facility is designed to redefine vehicle and driver licensing services by enhancing customer experience through the use of smart technologies, improved infrastructure, and streamlined operational processes.

“The opening of the Umphakathi Mall Smart Licensing Centre demonstrates our commitment to building a capable, responsive, and people-centred transport system.

“We are modernising our DLTCs to ensure that residents can access dignified, efficient, and reliable services closer to where they live, while strengthening road safety and regulatory compliance across Gauteng,” the MEC said on Thursday.

Gauteng currently operates a network of DLTCs across all five corridors of the province, playing a critical role in road safety, regulatory compliance, and efficient service delivery.

The Department of Roads and Transport has prioritised the upgrading and expansion of these centres to address persistent challenges such as long waiting times, limited accessibility, and ageing infrastructure.

Smart Licensing Centres form part of this broader reform agenda, introducing modern, secure, and customer-centric environments that improve turnaround times while safeguarding the integrity of licensing systems.

The establishment of the Umphakathi Mall Smart Licensing Centre also advances the province’s commitment to expanding access to quality public services, particularly in townships, informal settlements, and hostels (TISH).

By locating licensing services within a community-based commercial hub, the department aims to bring services closer to residents and reduce the cost and inconvenience associated with long-distance travel to traditional DLTCs.

As part of ongoing service delivery improvements, the department has planned the rollout of additional Smart Licensing Centres across key development corridors in Gauteng.

This initiative seeks to further reduce waiting times, clear service backlogs, and improve overall accessibility to licensing services, particularly in high-demand areas.

The centre operates from Monday to Saturday from 08h00 to 17h00 and on Saturdays, from 9 am to 3pm. – SAnews.gov.za

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Deputy President Paul Mashatile has paid tribute to Bishop Dr John Bolana for being a pillar of strength within communities and a valued social partner in the collective effort to build a united and compassionate nation.

Bolana, the fifth Bishop of the Bantu Church of Christ (Ibandla Lika Krestu LaBantu), passed away on Tuesday, 03 February 2026, in Gqeberha, in the Eastern Cape.

Since his appointment by President Cyril Ramaphosa to champion social cohesion and nation-building initiatives, the Deputy President has engaged positively and constructively with the Bishop, working closely with interfaith leaders to strengthen unity, moral regeneration, and social solidarity across the country.

“With profound sorrow and a deep sense of both personal and national loss, I wish to extend, on behalf of the Government and the people of South Africa, our heartfelt condolences on the passing of a spiritual giant and a committed nation builder.

“Bishop Bolana provided unwavering spiritual guidance, moral clarity, and compassionate service to the church and broader society for many decades. His leadership reflected faith in action, rooted in love, dignity, and service to others,” the Deputy President said on Thursday.

He further acknowledged that Bolana’s counsel and ecumenical leadership were widely respected and sought after, not only by his congregation, but by leaders across South African society.

“We once again convey our deepest condolences to the Bantu Church of Christ. You have lost a devoted shepherd whose vision and dedication shaped the lives of many families and communities. May Bishop Bolana’s soul rest in eternal peace,” the Deputy President said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Limpopo Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, says preliminary assessments indicate that the province may require close to R10 billion for comprehensive recovery efforts following the recent floods.

The provincial government has allocated R800 million towards recovery while it awaits a response from the National Disaster Management Centre.

Speaking in Polokwane on Thursday during a media briefing, the Premier said the provincial government, in collaboration with the disaster management teams and relevant stakeholders, is actively assessing and responding to the needs of affected communities.

“Our primary focus remains the safety and well-being of residents, which involves ongoing damage assessments, relief interventions and urgent restoration of essential services,” Ramathuba said.

Over the past weeks, members of the Executive Council have visited several flood-affected areas.

“Just yesterday, we were in Blouberg, Old Longsine and Inveran where the #DikgerekgereWednesdays team begun the process of restoring access to the road and regravelling parts that were not accessible.

“Whilst there we also mourned the loss of five lives. Many households have been displaced.The crisis extends to critical infrastructure. For instance, the R521 highway from Polokwane to Mogwadi (Dendron) reflects the severe impact of the rains, riddled with hazardous potholes,” Ramathuba said.

Consequently, the provincial government is actively engaging with the South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) to expedite repairs on this road and other critical routes to ensure the safety of communities.

The Premier said Limpopo requires a comprehensive overhaul to restore normalcy to the lives of residents.

“We welcome the national declaration of these floods as a disaster, which has enabled access to much-needed assistance from the national departments. Many have already initiated processes to support our recovery efforts,” the Premier said.

Since December 2025, the province has experienced tragic losses, with 27 fatalities reported thus far, alongside approximately 3 194 houses affected and around 439 roads rendered unusable, measuring an estimated 600 kilometres.

“We remain hopeful that we will successfully rebuild Limpopo from this disaster with the resources we are beginning to mobilise while we await further intervention from the National Disaster Management Centre,” Ramathuba said. 

Last month, President Cyril Ramaphosa visited the flood-stricken parts of the province to assess the extent of the damage and the response of government. 

The President’s thoughts are with families who have lost loved ones, people who have been injured and individuals, businesses and organisations who have lost property. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

 

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The Limpopo Province recorded a 14% reduction in road crashes and a 10% decline in road fatalities during the festive season when compared to the same period last year.

According to Limpopo Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, the province recorded 125 fatal crashes, which is a significant decrease from 145 the previous year.

“Such statistics reflect the efficacy of our committed road safety interventions. Behind these numbers lie the stories of lives saved and families preserved from the anguish associated with road fatalities,” the Premier said on Thursday in Polokwane.

She was addressing the media on the status of floods in Limpopo, the Marula Festival 2026 and the release of the Limpopo 2025/26 Road Safety Report for the festive season.

Ramathuba said during the festive season, the N1 corridor emerged as the deadliest route, claiming 25 lives.

“This essential economic thoroughfare demands heightened attention and rigorous enforcement to enhance safety. 

“The data analysis further confirms that driver behaviour is the predominant factor leading to these tragic incidents, with reckless driving – particularly unsafe overtaking – culpable in 115 of these fatalities,” the Premier said.

Ramathuba expressed concerns about the safety of pedestrians.

“The statistics reveal that 48 pedestrians lost their lives during this period; many of these incidents are classified as hit-and-runs, which reveals a distressing disregard for human life and the law,” she said.

Despite intensified law enforcement during the festive period, 259 motorists were apprehended for driving under the influence of alcohol, while an additional nine were detained for excessive speeding.

“We have acted decisively to safeguard public transport passengers by impounding 20 overloaded taxis and buses due to roadworthiness issues and non-compliance with required documentation.

“While it is encouraging to witness a decrease in crashes and fatalities, we must remain vigilant and dedicated to our mission. Each life lost on our roads is a tragedy that resonates deeply within our communities. 

“We pledge to further fortify our law enforcement efforts, enhance road safety education, and work collaboratively with road users and stakeholders to continue reducing road-related incidents,” the Premier said.

Ramathuba thanked all the traffic officers, law enforcement agencies and all partners who have worked diligently, often under difficult conditions during the festive season to ensure safety on the province’s roads. 

“Together, we can achieve a safer Limpopo, not only during festive occasions but throughout the entire year,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

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The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) says a total of R3.6 billion has been successfully disbursed to universities for allowance payments whilst R679 million was disbursed to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges for tuition payments. 

“Upfront payments were made on 2 February 2026, with allowance disbursements to TVET college students scheduled for 13 February 2026, followed by a second disbursement on 27 February 2026, due to extended registration periods,” NSFAS Acting CEO Wassem Carrim said on Thursday.

Giving an update of NSFAS’s appeals process for the 2026 application cycle, Carrim reported that 91 937 appeals have been lodged for the 2026 cycle.

To date, 10 445 appeals have been approved; 27 893 are in process; 3 209 are awaiting documents; 5 407 have been rejected and 44 983 have been closed, deleted, finalised or withdrawn.

The NSFAS Appeals process provides applicants and current beneficiaries with the opportunity to request a review of their application outcome should they feel that their circumstances have not been fully considered, or if additional information has become available that may affect their eligibility.

“NSFAS remains committed to processing all appeals fairly, transparently, and efficiently. We encourage all applicants to ensure that their contact information and supporting documentation are up to date, and to monitor communication from NSFAS regarding the status of their appeal.”

He also reminded students that once an outcome is communicated, they have a maximum of 30 days to finalise their appeal.

WATCH | NSFAS media briefing

Student accommodation 

On student accommodation, Carrim emphasised that access to safe and suitable accommodation is fundamental to academic success, personal development and student well-being.

To continually enhance the student accommodation process, the scheme is actively engaging closely with students, institutions, and key stakeholders, including the Department of Higher Education and Training, the South African Union of Students (SAUS) and the South African TVET Student Association (SATVETSA). This is so as to ensure that accommodation criteria remain relevant and that challenges experienced by students are addressed collaboratively.

In response to requests from institutions for additional guidance on accommodation, the Acting CEO reported that NSFAS has developed a comprehensive guidance circular to clarify accommodation requirements and processes.

“For the upcoming academic year, higher education institutions participating in the student accommodation project will continue to have their accommodation payments managed directly by NSFAS, while institutions that have historically managed accommodation payments independently will maintain their current arrangements during this transitional period,” Carrim said.

According to the figures, a total of 194 071 applications has been received across universities and TVET colleges. Of these, 55 653 have been approved, 90 794 are pending institutional review, and 53 864 are awaiting landlord approval.

Carrim said NSFAS continues to work closely with both institutions and landlords to expedite approvals and prioritise student needs and well-being.

Addressing recent concerns around accommodation at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) and other institutions, he clarified that CPUT manages accommodation independently.

He said NSFAS has engaged with the university to understand its challenges, including the wellbeing of NSFAS beneficiaries and will support the institution in remedying the situation.

Carrim also warned accommodation providers against housing students without confirming their NSFAS funding status and subsequently submitting claims, as well as relocating students without due process.

“NSFAS will take a zero-tolerance approach on these matters. NSFAS further encourages any students who may be facing issues with accommodation to report these to NSFAS via our official channels.”

Carrim confirmed that the allowances and accommodation rates for 2026 are currently under review. Adjustments to allowances and rates are informed by factors such as consumer price inflation, student academic progression, enrolment figures for first-time entering students, and budget allocations through the budget process.

He said NSFAS will recommend the 2026 rates once the budget allocations aligned with the National Budget process has been finalised.

READ | NSFAS makes progress in clearing backlogs

– SAnews.gov.za
 

 

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