Category: South Africa Government

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Gauteng reaffirms commitment to fair procurement processes

Source: South Africa News Agency

Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, has assured the public that the provincial government remains committed to ensuring fairness in both hiring and procurement processes in public infrastructure projects. 

This comes after concerns raised by local businesses about the perceived exclusion of a preferential procurement clause in the hiring of workers for the rehabilitation works along the Golden Highway (R553) project, amongst others.

The grievances sparked protest action, which temporarily halted construction activities last week.

LoneRock Construction, the main contractor, has since resumed attending to a set of demands by local, small, and medium enterprises (SMEs). The main contractor has since responded positively to their demands. 

These latest developments has led to the resumption of roadworks.

“We recognise the frustrations of affected community members, particularly concerning access to employment and subcontracting opportunities in public infrastructure projects. It is for this reason that, upon being made aware of the challenges, we immediately intervened and held engagements with affected parties.

“As the Department of Roads and Transport, we would like to assure the public that we remain fully committed to the principles of inclusive economic transformation, community empowerment, and transparent procurement processes, in accordance with national legislation,” the MEC said on Friday.

Diale-Tlabela urged local businesses and community members to engage concerns through formal channels, including project steering committees, ward councillors, and the project liaison offices, to ensure grievances are addressed and amicable solutions sought. 

She also condemned actions of those who disrupt construction sites with the aim to extort, intimidate, and cause violence.

“The department condemns any acts of violence, property damage, or obstruction of public roads and urges all affected parties to operate within the law as we work towards a solution that embodies fairness, transparency, and inclusivity.

“We remain open to engaging all stakeholders to strengthen our collective commitment to transformation, empowerment, and socio-economic development in the communities we serve,” the MEC emphasised.

Notwithstanding the delays, the MEC said the project should be delivered within budget and without unnecessary delays.

She reaffirmed the department’s responsibility to ensure that policies and practices align with legal and ethical standards of empowerment, equity, and social justice.

The department said it is currently reviewing the procurement and employment processes applied in the project in question in order to assess compliance with the legislative requirements. 

“If any non-compliance is identified, the department will take corrective actions to ensure accountability and prevent future occurrences,” the department said. –SAnews.gov.za

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Deadline looms for National Arts and Culture Awards entries

Source: South Africa News Agency

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) has issued a final call to South Africa’s creative community, including artists, industry bodies, and cultural organisations, to submit their most outstanding work for consideration in the 2025 National Arts and Culture Awards (NACA).

The closing date for submissions is 20 June 2025.

Now in its second year, the NACA Awards, previously known as the Cultural and Creative Industry Awards, shine a national spotlight on the creators, innovators, and visionaries who push boundaries and shape South Africa’s cultural identity. 

Whether you work as a filmmaker, dancer, designer, curator, musician, writer, or performer, this is your stage.

Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, said the NACA Awards are more than recognition, “they are a reflection of who we are as a people.” 

“We urge the sector to submit their finest work, not just to compete, but to inspire. Share your most thoughtful, impactful, and meaningful creations, works that capture the spirit of our nation and contribute to South Africa’s creative landscape. 

“If you’ve been waiting for the right moment, this is your time to share your brilliance with the country,” McKenzie said.

The 2025 NACA Awards will feature 30 honours across six major categories, and these include:

  • Heritage Sites
  • Visual Arts and Crafts
  • Literary Works
  • Audio Visual and Interactive Media
  • Design and Creative Services
  • Performing Arts

In addition, the Ministerial (Discretionary) Awards will be conferred at the Minister’s discretion and do not require nominations.

Key eligibility criteria are as follows:

  • Open to South African citizens, permanent residents, and locally owned entities
  • Works must be professional and have been created or released between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025
  • Entries must be submitted online at www.naca.dsac.gov.za. Each submission should include all required documentation and media samples. Incomplete entries will not be considered.-SAnews.gov.za

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Deputy President Mashatile to lead National Youth Day commemoration in Potchefstroom, North West Province

Source: President of South Africa –

Deputy President Shiphokosa Paulus Mashatile will, on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa, deliver the keynote address at the 2025 Youth Day commemoration and career exhibition event scheduled to take place on Monday, 16 June 2025, at the NWU Rag Farm Stadium, Potchefstroom in the JB Marks Local Municipality, North West Province. 

National Youth Day Commemorative events this year are held under the theme, “Skills for the Changing World – Empowering Youth for Meaningful Economic Participation”, a call to all government entities and its strategic partners to accelerate and enhance meaningful interventions in bridging the gap between skills development programmes and services available for access by youth to realise economic gain.

In South Africa, June 16 has been declared a National Youth Day due to the active role and participation of young people in the liberation struggle, noting specifically the student uprising of June 16, 1976. 

The 1976 uprising raised the political awareness and introduced a renewed sense to protest against the oppressive apartheid regime. The peaceful 1976 youth demonstrations were met with brutal force from the apartheid regime, resulting in the tragic loss of innocent lives, including that of Hector Pieterson, who became the face of the brutality worldwide. 

To date, not only does South Africa continue to pay homage to the youth of 1976, but the country also recognises and applauds the greatness of today’s youth as they make up 34% of South Africa’s total population. 

“As we commemorate this year’s Youth Day, we do so fully aware of the challenges which continue to confront today’s youth, one of them being youth unemployment.  Hence this youth month, Government is putting a strong emphasis on the importance of strong collaboration by all implementing partners on  education, skills and economic development in order to link youth with education and economic opportunities to address youth unemployment in our country,” said the Deputy President.

During the Youth Day Commemorative event, Deputy President Mashatile will be accompanied by the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Mr Gayton McKenzie, Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Ms Sindisiwe Chikunga, Premier of the North West Province, Mr Lazarus Mokgosi, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Development Agency, Ms Mafiki Duma, Mayors, senior government officials and Young Trailblazers.  

The Youth Day event will take place as follows:
Date: Monday, 16 June 2025
Time: 09h00 (Gates open at 07h00)
Venue: North West University (NWU) Rag Farm Stadium, Potchefstroom, North West Province.

Accreditation
Members of the media who have applied for accreditation to cover the commemoration event are hereby requested to collect their accreditation cards as follows:
Date: Sunday, 15 June 2025
Time: 10h00 -18h00
Venue: Trim Park Hall, Potchefstroom in JB Marks Local Municipality.

Monday, 16 June 2025
Time: 07h00 -10h00

For collection enquiries please contact: Madimetja Moleba on 066 301 4675.

Media enquiries:  Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 066 195 8840

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Over 200 SANDF troops return from DRC mission

Source: South Africa News Agency

The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Angie Motshekga, has welcomed the return of 249 South African troops who were deployed to the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), as part of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC).

The first group of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) heroes and heroines arrived at the Air Force Base Waterkloof in Pretoria on Friday from Tanzania, following South Africa’s phased withdrawal from the regional peacekeeping mission.

“The idea of seeing our soldiers in good spirits and genuinely excited to be home not only speaks volumes of their unwavering patriotism but is also a powerful expression of their steadfast commitment to defend the territorial integrity of the Republic and support its people – a constitutional mandate every member of the South African National Defence Force lives and serves by,” Motshekga said.

The withdrawal of the soldiers was announced by the Minister in May, following a “high level consultation with several role-players in the peacekeeping efforts within the eastern DRC”.

Earlier this year, 14 troop members lost their lives and others sustained injuries during clashes with the M23 rebel group, as fighting in the Goma region escalated. 

The rebel group fought intensely against the Congolese armed forces, resulting in the deaths of soldiers from 23 to 27 January 2025 during M23’s advance on Sake and Goma. 

The South African soldiers were part of the SAMIDRC, which aims to help restore peace, security, and stability in Africa’s second-largest country. 

Motshekga noted that part of the meticulous withdrawal process includes safe retrieval of all Prime Mission Equipment (PME), which is currently underway. 

“As stated by the Chief of the SANDF during our last media briefing on this matter, we shall not leave even a pin behind. All necessary logistical support will continue until the withdrawal is fully completed. 

“We are fully aware that half the work is done in terms Prime Mission Equipment movement, hence we are working around the clock with our counterparts in the region to ensure that the process runs expeditiously with minimal logistical risks,” the Minister said.

She assured the people of South Africa that government will continue to provide the latest developments as the process unfolds.

“Our main focus from now on is to prioritise their standard procedure of demobilisation. This will include crucial psychosocial sessions, after which they will return to their respective units and, thereafter, be reunited with their families,” the Minister said.

Motshekga reaffirmed South Africa’s continued commitment to a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Southern African region. –SAnews.gov.za

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President Ramaphosa hails Proteas historic ICC test championship victory

Source: South Africa News Agency

Sunday, June 15, 2025

President Cyril Ramaphosa has congratulated the Proteas on their historic victory in the International Cricket Council’s Test Championship, after five-wicket win over Australia at Lord’s, England, on Saturday.

South Africa beat Australia on the fourth day, through a superb team effort at the home of cricket. 

“Your win is a major boost for cricket in South Africa, and you have inspired a new generation of cricketers. I call on the nation to come and greet the Cricket World Champions when they arrive back in the country this week,” the President said in a statement on Saturday.

The President described the win as being built around excellent performances by the batsmen in the second innings.

There was the brilliant batting by Aiden Markram who scored 136 and the captain, Temba Bavuma with his 66 runs.

Their match-winning partnership was pivotal in the team’s success.

The bowlers, led by Kagiso Rabada, also kept the pressure on the Australian batsmen and never allowed them to dominate.

“Coach Shukri Conrad, captain Bavuma and the team have done South Africa proud. They started the match as underdogs but that indomitable spirit, that is a characteristic of our nation, carried the team through. The Proteas underlined the importance of being focussed on the field and triumphed,” the President said. –SAnews.gov.za

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Public to comment on Integrated Social Facilitation Framework

Source: South Africa News Agency

Public to comment on Integrated Social Facilitation Framework

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has encouraged South Africans to submit their comments on the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure’s Integrated Social Facilitation Framework before the 20 June 2025 deadline. 

This follows the recent gazetting of the framework, which has received overwhelming public interest. 

The framework seeks to formalise social facilitation in infrastructure projects in order to reduce construction site disruptions.

The framework is a direct outcome of the National Construction Summit on Site Disruptions held in Durban in November last year, where social facilitation was identified as a key mechanism to address the prevalence of the so-called “construction mafia”.

“I had the privilege yesterday of delivering a keynote address at an event hosted by one of the voluntary associations under a Professional Council, focused on integrating social facilitation into the construction project lifecycle.

“I am pleased to announce that my department is leading the way in this regard and has officially gazetted an Integrated Social Facilitation Framework for public and industry comment.

“This initiative, driven by the department’s Social Facilitation Unit, represents a significant step toward ensuring that infrastructure, construction, and built environment projects reflect the needs and priorities of communities and all legitimate interested and affected stakeholders.

“I strongly encourage the industry to engage with this process and submit comments by the closing date: 20 June 2025. Your input is vital in shaping a framework that will serve as the blueprint for a more inclusive and responsive construction sector in South Africa,” he said.

Macpherson said the initiative would go a long way in ensuring that social facilitation is embedded from the outset of infrastructure projects, preventing criminal elements from manipulating communities for personal gain. 

He said all community roleplayers would be informed of the project prior to its implementation, allowing for a clear understanding of its context, expected impact and preventing the spread of misinformation.

“It is important that we standardise these practices as we work to reduce construction site disruptions nationwide. 

“The police have an important role to play in apprehending those found guilty of site disruptions, but equally, the department must play its part in working hand-in-hand with communities during infrastructure delivery. By working together, we can build a better South Africa,” the Minister said.

Comments on the policy can be directed to molatelo.mohwasa@dpw.gov.za or andre.duplessi@dpw.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin

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Welcoming remarks by Hon. Kenny Morolong, MP Deputy Minister in The Presidency on the occasion of the U20 African Mayors’ Assembly tour to the Union Buildings

Source: President of South Africa –

The Executive Mayor of the City of Tshwane, Dr Nasiphi Moya
Delegates and Members of the African Mayors’ Assembly Management of The Presidency 
Ladies and Gentlemen Good Afternoon. 

“Heritage is what is preserved from the past as the living collective memory of a people not only to inform the present about the past but also to equip successive generations to fashion their future. It is what creates a sense of identity and assures rootedness and continuity, so that what is brought out by dynamism of culture is not changed for its own sake, but it is a result of people’s conscious choice to create a better life.” 

This definition from the National Heritage Council provides an important conceptual tool to understanding the importance of heritage in general and world heritage sites in particular. 

In July 2024, sitting in Delhi, India; the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s World Heritage Committee inscribed the Union Buildings as a world heritage site. 

For the its part, The Presidency is still elaborating plans on the management of this site; properly to give practical meaning “not only to inform the present about the past but also to equip successive generations to fashion their future.” 

These operational plans will be announced on our website, including the creation of the visitors centre to manage visitors flow. 

As the Presidency and I indeed speak for the President, we are elated by your presence here to tour this beautiful site. We thank very much each of the Mayors and African city governments present here today. 

A special extension of appreciation goes to the Executive Mayor of Tshwane; the host extraordinaire of the U20, African Mayors Assembly. As you very well may know, the City of Tshwane, is also the host of our national seat of Government, at whose preeminent and symbolic building, I have the singular honour to receive and welcome you all. 

For very many years in the past, this very building was a symbol of oppression and division, yet paradoxically, union being its name. The union it then represented, was the union of whites against blacks in general and Africans in particular. It was a union of repression and oppression by one against the other. This is the collective memory whose preservation is entrusted on us the living, so that we give due respect to the past, present and future. 

Indeed today, this building evokes memories of the consistent battles fought to win our peace and the true unity we have today. Today, the building is the symbol of the union of all our people, diverse in the culture yet sharing a common heritage. 

The memories of the past and our management of the present should and must form the impulses that “equip successive generations to fashion their future.” 

I hope as you prepare to go back home, you have experienced the hospitality of our nation and will soon as return with your families for leisure. 

Esteem members of the African Mayors’ Assembly, I have made all these long winded remarks to simply say: welcome to the Union Buildings and enjoy your tour. 

Ke a leboga! 
 

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President Ramaphosa congratulates the Proteas on winning the ICC World Test Championship

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa congratulates the Proteas on winning the International Cricket Council’s Test Championship against Australia by five wickets in London today.

South Africa beat Australia through a superb team effort at Lord’s, the home of cricket, on the fourth day.

The win was built around excellent performances by the batsmen in the second innings.

There was the brilliant batting by Aiden Markram who scored 136 and the captain, Temba Bavuma with his 66 runs.
 
Their match-winning partnership was pivotal in the team’s success.

The bowlers, led by Kagiso Rabada, also kept the pressure on the Australian batsmen and never allowed them to dominate.

 President Ramaphosa said, “Coach Shukri Conrad, captain Bavuma and the team have done South Africa proud. They started the match as underdogs but that indomitable spirit, that is a characteristic of our nation, carried the team through.

The Proteas underlined the importance of being focussed on the field and triumphed.

Your win is a major boost for cricket in South Africa and you have inspired a new generation of cricketers.

I call on the nation to come and greet the Cricket World Champions when they arrive back in the country this week.”

 
Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Three police officers successfully convicted of corruption

Source: South Africa News Agency

Three police officers successfully convicted of corruption

The Serious Corruption Investigation component of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation has this week secured a conviction in a high-profile corruption matter involving three police officials attached to the Provincial Taxi Violence Unit in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.

The police officials are Madoda Mduduzi Mhlongo (56), Siyabonga Herbert Mabhida (51) and Prince Ntsikelelo Shezi (50).

“It was reported that on 13 March 2019, the complainant [in the matter] was approached by the three police officials, who alleged that they were under pressure from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to arrest two suspects due to the alleged murders of key witnesses in a case they were investigating,” the South African Police Service (SAPS) said in a statement. 

“The officials solicited a gratification of R200 000 from the complainant, in lieu of preventing the arrests. The trio warned that failure to pay would result in the suspects being arrested that same night. 

“Later that evening, the police officials arrived at one of the suspects’ premises, reinforcing the threat,” the police said.

The matter was reported to the Serious Corruption Investigation component based at the head office. A police operation was authorised in terms of section 252A of the Criminal Procedure Act, 1977 (Act No. 51 of 1977). On 29 March 2019, the three implicated police officials, who were all Warrant Officers, were arrested after receiving the R200 000.

The trio appeared in the Durban Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on 1 April 2019 and were each released on R10 000 bail. Their trial commenced on 1 March 2021 and ran over an extended period until they were found guilty of corruption.

The trio was remanded in custody as the matter was postponed to 19 June 2025 in the same court for their sentencing. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin

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Youth entrepreneurship key to SA’s sustainable economic growth, says Mashatile

Source: South Africa News Agency

Youth entrepreneurship key to SA’s sustainable economic growth, says Mashatile

Equipping young people with the skills necessary to become entrepreneurs is essential for the success of society and for overturning the post-apartheid laws that prevented the majority from engaging in the economy. 

This is according to Deputy President Paul Mashatile, who was speaking during the Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator event in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, on Friday.

Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator is a not-for-profit social enterprise that works with partners to find solutions for the challenge of youth unemployment.

Deputy President Mashatile cited the latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey, which indicated that the youth unemployment rate has now reached 56.3% in the first quarter of 2025. 

This figure represents 9.2 million youths, who are not engaged in education, employment, or training.

“Most of you gathered here today know all too well what it means to be without work, locked out of the economy and unable to earn an income. It is disheartening; it is discouraging, and it takes resilience and an enduring sense of hope to overcome.

“Most importantly, it requires support from family, government, the private sector and other stakeholders,” he told attendees. 

To address the nation’s youth economic crisis, Mashatile believes that initiatives to support young entrepreneurs are critical.

“As government, we are fully aware that this is not just a labour market issue but a social and moral emergency.

“I am encouraged by many of you in the audience today who remain hopeful about yours and the country’s future.”

The country’s second-in-command said he was encouraged by the several interventions currently underway in partnership with stakeholders from across society.

He also touched on the R100 billion — through the Transformation Fund — to support black-owned businesses and historically disadvantaged groups. 

“These funds will act as a catalyst to attract other funds and make more funding available to support micro, small and medium enterprises.”

The other key initiatives include the Spaza Shop Support Fund, which has allocated R500 million to revitalise township and rural economies. 

In addition, the SAYouth.mobi platform has processed 17.9 million online applications, and the Basic Education Employment Initiative has provided first jobs for 205 000 young people.

READ | Presidential Youth Initiative continues to empower SA’s most excluded youth

Government also offers various programmes to support young entrepreneurs, including financial assistance, business development services, and skills training.

Other initiatives include the National Youth Development Agency’s grant programme and the Youth Challenge Fund. 

“To ensure increased access to funding, we have the Innovation Fund, which has already supported over 96 start-ups since 2020,” said the Deputy President. 

He announced that these strategies focus on expanding digital infrastructure, developing digital skills, and fostering digital innovation.

Deputy President Mashatile stressed that these were not handouts, but strategic investments in youth potential. 

Meanwhile, he said new legislation, such as the Public Procurement Act and National Small Enterprise Amendment Bill, aims to create an enabling environment for young entrepreneurs by simplifying regulations and improving market access.

In addition, he stated that government was working with the private sector and civil society to scale up enterprise support, open procurement pathways, and remove red tape.

“As we look ahead, let us imagine a world in which every young person can make their ambitions a reality, where entrepreneurship is more than a slogan but a way of life.”

Mashatile also took the time to wish everyone a wonderful National Youth Day celebration on Monday, 16 June. The national celebration will be held in Potchefstroom, North West. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile

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