Category: South Africa Government

By Narend Singh

South Africans often face a false choice, that we must either protect the environment or grow the economy. Our future depends on doing both.

The health of our rivers, wetlands, oceans, forests and protected areas is not separate from the wellbeing of our people. These natural systems provide water, support agriculture, sustain tourism, create jobs and protect communities from the growing impacts of climate change. When they are degraded, the consequences are felt not only by conservationists, but by ordinary citizens through water shortages, lost livelihoods, rising food insecurity and increased vulnerability to floods, droughts and extreme weather events.

This is why environmental protection cannot be viewed as a luxury or an afterthought. It is a fundamental investment in South Africa’s economic future and social wellbeing.

As government, we recognise that many of our conservation institutions face serious challenges. Years of financial pressure, ageing infrastructure, vacancies and rising operational costs have placed enormous strain on conservation authorities across the country. Rangers and environmental officials often work under difficult circumstances, confronting organised wildlife crime, illegal activities and the growing impacts of climate change.

These realities demand honesty and decisive action, hence, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has initiated a focused assessment of protected areas to identify weaknesses, strengthen governance and improve conservation management. We cannot afford complacency when it comes to safeguarding South Africa’s natural heritage.

At the same time, conservation in a democratic South Africa must be about people as much as it is about nature.

Communities living alongside protected areas must see tangible benefits from conservation efforts. Environmental protection must create opportunities, support livelihoods and contribute to local development. This is why government continues to expand benefit sharing initiatives, support previously disadvantaged businesses in the biodiversity economy and strengthen partnerships that ensure communities participate meaningfully in conservation outcomes.

The biodiversity economy represents one of South Africa’s most significant untapped opportunities. Through targeted interventions and the implementation of the revised Biodiversity Economy Strategy, we aim to unlock hundreds of thousands of jobs over the next decade. These opportunities are particularly important for young people, women, rural communities and persons with disabilities who are often excluded from mainstream economic activity.

Environmental programmes already demonstrate what is possible when ecological restoration and job creation work hand in hand. Programmes such as Working for Water, Working for Wetlands, Working on Fire and Working for Coast continue to create employment while protecting critical natural resources.

These initiatives show that environmental investment is not a cost to society; it is an investment that delivers social, economic and ecological returns and climate change further reinforces the urgency of this approach.

South Africa is already experiencing the effects of a warming planet through more frequent droughts, devastating floods, increased wildfire risks and pressure on water resources. Climate change is not a distant threat. It is a present reality affecting communities, businesses and municipalities across the country.

The implementation of the Climate Change Act marks a significant step forward in strengthening South Africa’s response to both mitigation and adaptation. Building resilience requires investment in ecological infrastructure, improved planning and access to climate finance that enables developing countries to respond effectively to a crisis they did little to create.

Climate finance should never be viewed as charity. It is an instrument of global justice and shared responsibility. Developing countries must have the resources necessary to pursue sustainable development while adapting to the impacts of climate change.

Equally important is ensuring that environmental laws are enforced fairly and consistently. Communities have a right to clean air, safe water and healthy ecosystems. Municipalities, institutions and companies that fail to comply with environmental legislation must be held accountable. Environmental degradation cannot become normalised simply because it occurs gradually or because those responsible possess significant resources.

South Africa has made meaningful progress in strengthening environmental enforcement through improved training, intelligence led operations and closer collaboration between government agencies. However, continued vigilance will be required as environmental crimes become increasingly sophisticated and transnational in nature.

Ultimately, budgets alone do not solve problems, they are translated into measurable outcomes, stronger institutions, greater public trust and meaningful improvements in people’s lives.

The choices we make today will shape the South Africa inherited by future generations. Protecting biodiversity, restoring ecosystems, combating climate change and creating sustainable livelihoods are not separate objectives. They are interconnected pillars of a prosperous, resilient and inclusive society.

Our environment is not a barrier to development. It is one of our greatest national assets. If we protect it wisely, it will continue to sustain our economy, strengthen our communities and secure our future for generations to come.

*Singh is the Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

 

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By Narend Singh

Each year, World Oceans Day provides an opportunity to reflect on humanity’s relationship with the sea. This year, the theme, “Reimagine: Beyond the world we know, a new relationship with our ocean”, challenges us to think differently about the future we wish to create.

For South Africa, a nation blessed with more than 3,000 kilometres of coastline and an ocean economy that supports livelihoods, trade, tourism and food security, this challenge could not be more urgent.

The ocean is often viewed as something distant from our daily lives a vast expanse beyond our cities and communities. Yet nothing could be further from the truth. The ocean produces much of the oxygen we breathe, regulates our climate, supports biodiversity and sustains millions of livelihoods. Every South African is connected to the ocean, whether they live on the coast or hundreds of kilometres inland.

Reimagining our relationship with the ocean begins by recognising a simple but profound truth, what happens upstream ultimately affects what happens downstream.

The health of our oceans is determined long before rivers reach the coast. The decisions we make in our homes, businesses, municipalities and industries shape the quality of our rivers, estuaries and coastal waters. Pollution entering a river in the interior does not disappear. It travels through catchments and estuaries before eventually reaching the sea.

This Source to Sea perspective is central to South Africa’s environmental governance framework. It recognises that protecting our oceans requires protecting the entire ecological system that feeds into them.

One of the clearest examples of this interconnectedness is plastic pollution.

For too long, plastic pollution has been viewed solely as a waste management issue, while effective waste collection and recycling remain essential, the challenge extends far beyond litter. Plastic pollution affects ecosystems, biodiversity, human health, tourism, fisheries and economic productivity. It undermines the resilience of communities and threatens the natural systems upon which we depend.

Recent scientific studies undertaken in South Africa continue to deepen our understanding of how microplastics and other pollutants move through our river systems and into our oceans. The evidence is increasingly translucent plastic pollution is not a single sector problem and cannot be solved through isolated interventions. It demands coordinated action across government, industry, academia, civil society and communities, and this is why partnerships matter.

Addressing complex environmental challenges requires all spheres of government and all sectors of society to work together. It requires evidence-based policymaking, investment in scientific research, and collaboration that transcends institutional boundaries. When researchers, municipalities, state owned entities, environmental organisations and communities unite around a common purpose, meaningful progress becomes possible.

South Africa is also contributing to international efforts to confront plastic pollution. As negotiations continue towards a legally binding global agreement on plastic pollution, countries around the world are recognising that this challenge knows no borders. Pollution released into one ecosystem can affect another thousands of kilometres away. 

Collective action is therefore not simply desirable, it is essential.
As we commemorate World Oceans Day during Youth Month, we must also recognise the opportunities that a healthier ocean can create for future generations.

The transition to a greener and more sustainable economy offers significant prospects for young South Africans. Environmental restoration, recycling, waste management, marine science, conservation, maritime industries, and broader ocean-based economic activities all hold the potential to create jobs, stimulate entrepreneurship and foster innovation.

Our young people are not merely beneficiaries of environmental protection; they are its future leaders. By investing in environmental skills, research, technology and sustainable industries, we can equip a new generation to participate meaningfully in the blue economy while safeguarding our natural heritage.

Ultimately, reimagining our relationship with the ocean requires more than policy change. It requires a shift in mindset.

We must move away from seeing nature as separate from ourselves and instead recognise our deep interdependence with the ecosystems that sustain life. We must rethink how we produce, consume and dispose of resources. We must strengthen cooperation between institutions and communities. And we must acknowledge that every action taken upstream has consequences downstream.

The renowned oceanographer Sylvia Earle once observed; “With every drop of water you drink, every breath you take, you’re connected to the sea.”

World Oceans Day reminds us that this connection carries both responsibility and opportunity.

If we are prepared to reimagine our relationship with the ocean, we can build a future where rivers flow free from pollution, where coastal ecosystems are resilient, where sustainable development creates opportunities for our youth, and where our oceans continue to sustain life and prosperity for generations to come.

The future of our ocean begins with the choices we make today.

*Singh is the Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

 

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South Africa’s science and technology capabilities will be on display this month when the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) launches National Science Month on Saturday.

The inaugural event represents a major transition from the traditional National Science Week, which has run since 2000.

The theme for the historic month is: “Science, Technology and Innovation Are for Everyone” and is aimed at deeply entrenching scientific literacy into everyday society.

“The transition to National Science Month is therefore more than an expansion of National Science Week. It is an opportunity to deepen public appreciation of science, technology and innovation by demonstrating how science helps us understand the natural and social world, create and apply new technological and social innovations, solve pressing real-world problems, and build the capacity of the State and economic actors to better serve the needs of our people,” Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Professor Blade Nzimande told a media briefing on Monday.

The formal launch of National Science Month is pencilled in for this Saturday at the Vaal University of Technology in Sebokeng and will kick off the month-long programme of “meaningful public engagement with science”.

The event on Saturday will feature an expansive exhibition boasting 132 stands with more than 100 exhibitors including major national entities like the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) as well as universities.

“National Science Month targets every sector of society, including learners, educators, students, scientists, researchers, innovators, industry players, indigenous knowledge holders, science interpreters, journalists, STEM professionals, government departments, research institutions, knowledge intermediary institutions, think tanks, tourists and the general public. 

“During July, over 31 days and across various provinces, these target groups, participating institutions, and partners will take part in an exciting range of interactive activities curated around 14 thematic areas,” Nzimande said.

These thematic areas include:

• Technology and innovation;
• Science in human health;
• Environmental conservation and management;
• Science in service delivery, and
• Science in education and others.

Scientific success

The Minister noted that beyond public awareness, the National Science Month serves as a powerful platform to reaffirm national pride by spotlighting the country’s formidable scientific achievements.

These achievements include:

• South Africa is cohost of the Square Kilometre Array, the world’s largest radio astronomy project, as well as another major scientific project, the Southern African Large Telescope
• The country built the Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure at Steve Biko Academic Hospital which advances drug development and clinical research, and provides cutting-edge diagnostics and treatment for cancer, tuberculosis, and other major diseases
• Biovac received approval from the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) to begin clinical trials of its oral cholera vaccine

“Historically, and still to a considerable extent today, South Africa possess one of the largest and most advanced public science systems on the African continent.

“But we must ensure funding and social participation in the development does not lag behind the pressing needs of the present and future,” Nzimande emphasised.

National Science Month is an opportunity to demonstrate how science to contribute to resolving every day challenges.

“It is also about using South Africa’s science, technology, and innovation capabilities to develop evidence-based solutions to everyday challenges such as unemployment, poverty, education, health care, water provision, energy security, crime, violence, and migration.

“We therefore wish to use this historic announcement to make a strong call to every citizen and every family, in every town and village to please find out which institution in your province will be participating in National Science Month activities and get involved,” Nzimande concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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The South African Police Service (SAPS) arrested 15 384 suspects for various offences during nationwide Operation Shanela II operations conducted last week.  

The suspects, arrested between 22 and 28 June 2026, are facing charges including murder, attempted murder, rape, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and drug trafficking.

Among those arrested were 2 884 foreign nationals of different nationalities, apprehended in various parts of the country for contravening the Immigration Act. 

“South Africans can rest assured that law enforcement agencies are fully prepared to safeguard the country, protect lives and property, and maintain law and order,” the SAPS said in a statement on Monday.

Meanwhile, police have reiterated their commitment to protecting citizens’ constitutional right to protest ahead of demonstrations taking place across the country on Tuesday against illegal migration.

“The SAPS’ role is to maintain public order, protect lives and property, and act decisively against any criminality that threatens public safety,” the Acting National Commissioner, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, said.

Protesters have been urged to demonstrate peacefully while ensuring the safety and security of all South Africans. – SAnews.gov.za

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Ahead of planned repatriation operations, the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Migration on Monday conducted a site inspection at the Beitbridge border post in Limpopo. 

The IMC is chaired by the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi.

“The inspection forms part of government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen border management and enhance migration governance,” the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development said in a post on social media platform, X.

The department said Kubayi was accompanied by Deputy Minister Andries Nel; the Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi; Minister of Public Works, Dean Macpherson; Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber, Acting Minister of Police Firoz Cachalia and the Deputy Minister of Police, Polly Boshielo.

The department said the delegation is assessing the operational readiness of the temporary processing centre ahead of planned repatriation operations. 

Last week, the Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato, said the BMA continues to facilitate the lawful and orderly repatriation of foreign nationals through the Beitbridge port of entry, with over 8 000 persons having been processed at the time.

READ | More than 8 000 foreign nationals processed at Beitbridge

At a media briefing on Friday, Kubayi said government is making “substantial progress” in the deportation and repatriation of undocumented foreign nationals in South Africa, reflecting the five-point comprehensive approach for managing migration through lawful, coordinated, and constitutionally sound mechanisms.

This as government has ramped up its work to clamp down on illegal immigration through the Comprehensive Approach for Migration Management announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa earlier this month.

Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on South Africans to exercise their constitutional right to protest peacefully and responsibly, while warning that acts of violence, intimidation and vigilantism have no place in the country’s constitutional democracy. 

In his weekly newsletter on Monday, ahead of planned demonstrations against undocumented immigration on Tuesday, the President acknowledged that South Africans have raised legitimate concerns about illegal immigration, border management, pressure on public services and criminal syndicates that exploit the country’s immigration system. –SAnews.gov.za

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The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Blade Nzimande, is this afternoon hosting the pre-launch of the inaugural edition of National Science Month (NSM).

Monday’s briefing at the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) offices in Pretoria comes ahead of the launch of the inaugural edition, which will be held at the Vaal University of Technology Southern Gauteng Science and Technology Park in Sebokeng on Saturday, 4 July.

The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation said National Science Month is South Africa’s first month-long science engagement event of its kind and marks an important milestone in advancing public engagement with science, technology and innovation (ST&I).

“National Science Month represents a significant expansion of National Science Week, one of the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation’s flagship science engagement initiatives, which has been implemented since 2000.”

Like National Science Week, National Science Month forms part of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation’s (DSTI) Science Engagement Strategy.

The strategy seeks to build a science-aware and science-literate society in which citizens can form independent opinions on ST&I issues and have confidence in science, scientists and science institutions.

In contrast to National Science Week — in which grant-funded activities were carried out by the DSTI funded organisers — National Science Month is a nationwide science observance during which all sectors of society are encouraged to use any means available to demonstrate their connection to science, technology, and innovation.

“National Science Month provides an opportunity for all sectors across society to mobilise and organise their own theme-related initiatives.

“These activities will demonstrate the value and impact of science in society while significantly scaling up the promotion of careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and innovation among learners and students,” said the ministry.

National Science Month is aimed at encouraging all South Africans to recognise the role of science, technology and innovation in everyday life. This includes learners, educators, students, scientists and researchers and indigenous knowledge-holders among others.

The launch programme later this week will include media engagements, an exhibition tour by dignitaries, the formal launch ceremony and a public science exhibition featuring 132 exhibition stands from 105 organisations representing universities, science councils, government institutions, the private sector, innovation organisations, science centres and civil society.

Fifteen universities, together with all DSTI entities, have confirmed their participation in the exhibition including Vaal University, the University of Johannesburg and Stellenbosch University among others. –SAnews.gov.za

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Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has paid tribute to Bafana Bafana after their historic 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, describing the team’s performance as remarkable.

Bafana Bafana’s journey came to an end on Sunday after a 1-0 defeat to tournament co-hosts Canada in a last 32 match at Los Angeles Stadium. 

The men’s team reached the knockout rounds of a FIFA World Cup for the first time in their history.

“In their fourth World Cup appearance, after exits in 1998, 2002, and on home soil in 2010, these young men did what no South African team has ever done before. They made it through, and that is not a small thing. 

“That is history that can’t be erased, written in the gold and green on the world stage in front of billions of people,” McKenzie said on Monday.

McKenzie said the manner in which the team qualified made the achievement even more remarkable.

“Written off after a 2–0 defeat to Mexico in the opening match, they showed character, resilience, and tactical intelligence to draw with Czechia and, in what many will rightly describe as one of the greatest nights in our football, beat South Korea 1–0 to book their place in the Round of 32. 

“That victory, earned by Thapelo Maseko’s 63rd-minute strike, lifted South Africa from fourth to second place in the group and announced our arrival on the global knockout stage,” the Minister said.

He also paid tribute to Coach Hugo Broos for his work, belief and sacrifice in coaching the team.

“When the final whistle blew against South Korea, Broos collapsed to the turf as the bench flooded the pitch. That image captured his years of work, belief, sacrifice and love for this team and this country. 

“Coach, you have earned your place in the history of South African sport. What you have built here is something that will endure long after this tournament,” the Minister said.

The Minister extended his congratulations to Canada on a well-deserved victory, as well as to all three host nations — the United States (US), Canada and Mexico — for the outstanding manner in which they have staged this tournament.

“This has been a World Cup that has captured the imagination of the world, and the hosts deserve enormous credit for that. We have been made to feel at home in both Mexico and the US, who opened their arms to South Africa and showed us great love. We will never forget it,” he said.

McKenzie also recognised the South African Football Association for its commitment to the World Cup campaign.

“To every player in our squad: South Africa sees you and we thank you. We are proud of each of you – not just for the moments of glory, but for the moments no one saw: the early mornings, the doubts you needed to overcome and the commitment to your country.

“This is not the end but a new beginning. South Africa is a football nation. We always were, and today, the world knows it and will remember it,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

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The Eastern Cape Provincial Government on Monday urged citizens planning to participate in the 30 June protest against illegal immigration to exercise their constitutional right to peaceful assembly responsibly, stressing that all demonstrations must remain lawful, peaceful and respectful of the rights and safety of others. 

In a statement on Monday, Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane called on  citizens to remain calm and conduct themselves in accordance with the laws of the country. 

He  also condemned all forms of intimidation, harassment, or violence directed at any individual irrespective of their nationality or immigration status.

This as multi-disciplinary teams are working around the clock to monitor the demonstrations, ensuring that they are conducted peacefully and operational plans are in place to manage any eventuality. 

“South Africa remains a constitutional democracy founded on the rule of law, human dignity, and the protection of all persons within its borders,” the provincial government said.

In addition, the Premier has has emphasised that Tuesday is a normal business day and no citizen should be obstructed from conducting their business or going to work.  

“As government, we remain open to engagement on the matters that have been raised, and we appreciate that last week’s march in the province was conducted in compliance with the law. 

“I call for the same responsible approach to tomorrow’s march, where demonstrators will exercise their constitutional right to protest peacefully and in accordance with the Constitution,” he said.

The provincial government added that as of June 28, approximately 700 foreign nationals, mainly Malawians have been processed by the Department of Home Affairs in Jefferys Bay and St Francis Bay.   

“The province has set up a central Provincial Processing Centre in kuGompo City as a strategic central location within the province. All logistical arrangements have been coordinated to ensure the smooth and safe escort of foreign nationals being deported or repatriated to their country of origin. 

“Furthermore, all District and Metro Municipalities in the province have identified venues to be used as Displacement Centres to house and manage the processing of migrants as and when required,” said the provincial government.

In addition, law enforcement agencies, led by the South African Police Service (SAPS), are on high alert across the province to prevent any unlawful activities and ensure that public order is maintained. 

This includes the monitoring of all points of entry, as well as freight and logistics corridors.

“Individuals or groups found engaging in acts of violence, intimidation, or incitement will be dealt with decisively in accordance with the law.    

“The provincial government reiterates that immigration matters must be addressed through lawful and orderly processes. Communities are urged not to take the law into their own hands,” said the province.

In his weekly newsletter to the nation, President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on South Africans to exercise their constitutional right to protest peacefully and responsibly, while warning that acts of violence, intimidation and vigilantism have no place in the country’s constitutional democracy. 

READ | President calls for peaceful protest, warns against vigilantism over immigration concerns

Meanwhile, the provincial governments of Mpumalanga and the Western Cape  has also called on citizens to protest responsibly.
READ |  Mpumalanga urges protesters to maintain law and order

READ | Western Cape urges protestors to respect the rule of law

–SAnews.gov.za 
 

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The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has forecast that typical winter conditions will dominate this week, with rainfall and strong, damaging winds expected from Wednesday over the central and southern parts of the country.

On Monday, the forecast indicates partly cloudy and cool to warm conditions, with isolated showers and rain in the south and south-east, but scattered showers in places along the Eastern Cape coast.

The weather service has issued a warning for damaging waves along the coast of KwaZulu-Natal.

The passage of a cold front will result in strong surface winds over the north-western parts, leading to localised damage to settlements, both formal and informal, localised loss of agricultural production, disruptions to some transport routes and travel services, and falling trees.

A warning for damaging waves has also been issued for the Eastern Cape.

This is due to west-to-south-west damaging waves, with wave heights of between 4m and 5m and winds of up to 30 knots (60km/h), expected between Plettenberg Bay and Port Edward as a strong cold front passes along the Eastern Cape coast.

These waves are expected to moderate from the west by late afternoon.

The weather outlook for Tuesday and Wednesday shows partly cloudy conditions, with isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers over the central, western and eastern parts of the country.

Conditions will be cold to very cold over the western interior on Wednesday; otherwise, it will be fine and cool. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Western Cape Premier Alan Winde has reiterated that protests must remain orderly, and organisers must respect the rule of law. 

The appeal comes ahead of planned nationwide demonstrations scheduled for Tuesday, 30 June, against illegal immigration.

“It is incumbent on every single South African to centre kindness and dignity in everything we do. Anyone acting outside of the law must be arrested and prosecuted,” Winde said.

On Monday, the Premier and several members of the Western Cape Government Cabinet attended a Joint Operations Centre (JOC) meeting, under the auspices of the Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC), with numerous other stakeholders, including representatives from municipalities, the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).

The Premier strongly urged protest organisers and participants to ensure that all demonstrations remain peaceful and lawful.

“We fully respect every resident’s constitutional right to protest. However, this right must always be exercised peacefully and within the bounds of the law. I call on all residents to reject violence in all its forms,” Winde said.

He said there is no justification for violence under any circumstances. 

“This is not who we are as South Africans. We have already seen tensions escalate. The Western Cape government has responded decisively by enhancing inter-agency coordination and implementing contingency plans to help prevent any further social unrest. 

“We remain committed to protecting the safety and well-being of all residents, while upholding the rule of law,” the Premier said.

The International Relations Directorate, within the Department of the Premier, is in regular contact with foreign consulates.

The Premier said that emergency relief and assistance would continue where required, while supporting the timely movement of individuals through the voluntary repatriation process. 

The Western Cape Government expressed its appreciation to emergency relief organisations and Non-Profit Organisations (NGOs) who are assisting in defusing tensions and providing necessary assistance. 

“I am also grateful to the Provincial Disaster Management Centre, which is coordinating the proactive response to ensure protests do not turn violent,” he said.

The Western Cape government has appealed to all undocumented individuals to take steps to regularise their status. – SAnews.gov.za

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