Category: South Africa Government

Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong has called for greater regional cooperation in addressing migration, emphasising that migration should be handled in accordance with national legislation, regional commitments and international obligations.

Addressing the 31st SADC Media Awards Regional Adjudication Committee Meeting held in Sandton on Tuesday, Morolong said sustainable migration solutions should address the root causes of displacement, create economic opportunities across Member States, strengthen border management and combat human trafficking and related crimes.

“South Africa remains firmly committed to the principles of regional cooperation, solidarity and people-to-people connectivity that underpin the SADC vision. 

“Migration has long been a feature of Southern Africa’s social and economic landscape, contributing to economic development, skills transfer, trade and cultural exchange among our nations. 

“At the same time, South Africa maintains that migration must be managed in an orderly, legal and humane manner, in accordance with national legislation, regional commitments and international obligations,” the Deputy Minister said.

Morolong urged communicators and journalists to promote balanced, factual and responsible reporting on migration, while avoiding stereotypes and misinformation that can undermine social cohesion.

“Our collective objective remains the advancement of a stable, secure, prosperous and integrated SADC region where the movement of people contributes positively to development and regional unity.

“Ultimately, our efforts must contribute to the broader SADC vision of a common future. A future characterised by economic well-being, improved standards of living, peace, security, freedom, social justice and sustainable development for all the peoples of Southern Africa,” the Deputy Minister said.

He explained that this vision is anchored in Africa’s shared values, common aspirations, and historical and cultural affinities.

“It is a vision that requires all sectors of society, including governments, civil society, academia, labour and the media to work together in pursuit of common goals,” the Deputy Minister said.

Also speaking at the event, SADC Secretariat Head of Communications and Public Relations Barbara Lopi encouraged all stakeholders, including SADC National Contact Points, Media Coordinators, development partners and media houses, to join hands in building a regional narrative that inspires pride, unity, solidarity and hope.

“Together, let us ensure that every citizen feels part of something greater, something transformative. The media plays a critical role in communities.

“In our interconnected regional community, media transcends boundaries. A headline in one nation can spark dialogue in another; a local story can inspire regional, and even global, solidarity. The media tells our stories, highlights our achievements, challenges, and gives voice to our aspirations,” Lopi said.

She said journalism is more than reporting; it is a force that connects communities, amplifies voices, and builds bridges across borders. – SAnews.gov.za

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Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has urged South African youth to grasp the wealth of opportunities presented as the country moves towards decarbonisation and the establishment of the green economy.

Government has set a target of 102GW of new generation capacity, including 30GW by 2030, in addition to the 14 500km of transmission lines that need to be built to expand the grid.

“So… try to understand what components are required which would be inputs in the building of transmission lines and position yourself there. These are the opportunities that beckon and as entrepreneurs, you should be able to exploit these opportunities and move with speed,” Ramokgopa urged the youth.

The Minister delivered an address on Tuesday at the Youth in Energy Conference and Awards, held in Johannesburg.

He noted that the investment required for the new transmission lines stands at R440 billion, while the investment needed for new generation capacity is some R2.2 trillion.

“What we are doing in the energy sector in the next 12 years constitutes 30% of the South African economy.

“That’s the opportunity that is before you… and as young people, you must position yourselves to participate in this space,” the Minister said.

Furthermore, all the components needed to build infrastructure for the move towards renewable energy require critical minerals, with which South Africa is well endowed.

“If you look at all the critical minerals needed… 70% of those are found in South Africa. It means that South Africa is at the centre of this decarbonisation agenda and we want to own the entire value chain. So, you as young people must choose your place in the entire value chain,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

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An illegal initiation school operating in Jankempdorp has been shut down after authorities discovered nine underage children at the site.

The Northern Cape Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA) said the intervention followed a report received on Friday afternoon, prompting an immediate response from the Provincial Initiation Coordinating Committee (PICC). 

PICC Chief Surgeon, Mlungisi Masimini, attended to the matter and confirmed that the school was operating unlawfully.

Authorities found nine minors at the initiation school, including two girls aged 12 and seven boys aged between 15 and 17. 

According to preliminary investigations, three of the boys had already undergone circumcision.

The three boys have been referred to hospital for medical examinations and assessments to ensure their health and wellbeing. The remaining minors are being cared for while officials await the arrival of their parents or guardians, all of whom have been contacted.

The illegal initiation school was immediately closed and a criminal case has been opened against the owner.

The department condemned the operation of illegal initiation schools, particularly those involving underage children, saying such practices place initiates’ lives, safety and dignity at serious risk and violate legislation governing customary initiation.

The department has appealed to communities, parents and traditional leaders to remain vigilant and report any suspected illegal initiation activities to authorities.

“Protecting initiates and preserving the integrity of customary initiation practices remains a collective responsibility,” the department said.

The investigation is continuing. – SAnews.gov.za

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More than 300 learners and students from Ngaka Modiri Molema District have gathered in Mahikeng for a Youth Summit aimed at equipping young people with information on career opportunities, skills development programmes and pathways to employment.

The summit, hosted by North West MEC for Finance Kenetswe Mosenogi, brought together government departments, education and training authorities, financial institutions and industry stakeholders to provide information on education, training and career prospects.

The recent event was held in partnership with the Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority (FASSET), the Public Service Sector Education and Training Authority (PSETA), the Media, Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority (MICT SETA), the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and several banking institutions.

Held as part of Youth Month and the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Student Uprisings, the summit sought to empower young people by exposing them to educational, training and career opportunities available through government, higher education institutions and the private sector.

Addressing students, Mosenogi emphasised that South Africa today requires skilled, innovative and determined young people to drive inclusive economic growth.

“With opportunities spanning finance, auditing, governance, technology, project management, entrepreneurship, data analysis and procurement, youth play a critical role in ensuring public resources deliver meaningful impact.

“As the economy becomes increasingly digital and data-driven, young people remain central to shaping municipal finance, infrastructure development, local economic growth and the green economy — carrying forward the legacy of 1976 through education, innovation and leadership,” Mosenogi said.

She added that the summit was an important investment in the future of young people and a fitting tribute to the generation that fought for access to quality education and equal opportunities.

“The greatest tribute we can pay to the generation of 1976 is to ensure that the opportunities they fought for are used in building a better South Africa,” Mosenogi said.

The summit featured discussions on entrepreneurship, financial literacy, innovation, skills development and employment opportunities. Participants also explored practical solutions to challenges facing young people and shared ideas aimed at expanding economic participation across the province.

Acting Head of Department Geo Paul said the initiative aligned with the provincial government’s youth development agenda and Provincial Treasury’s commitment to promote sound financial governance and inclusive economic growth.

“This engagement serves as a strategic initiative in aligning the provincial government’s youth development agenda with the mandate of Provincial Treasury and our commitment to building an inclusive economy,” he said.

The North West Provincial Treasury reaffirmed its committed to supporting youth development through programmes that create pathways to education, employment and entrepreneurship.

The department added that continued collaboration between public and private sector partners remains essential to expanding opportunities for young people, stimulating innovation and driving sustainable economic growth in the province. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has urged senior BRICS security officials to ensure global security responses protect the world’s most vulnerable communities.

Ntshavheni said climate justice, food security, health equity, inclusive growth and information integrity must be treated as central pillars of national and global security.

She was addressing the 16th Meeting of BRICS National Security Advisors and High Representatives on National Security in India on Tuesday, where she linked this goal to building a prosperous and peaceful Africa.

“The globe is experiencing worsening climate change with more frequent droughts, floods and extreme storms that destroy crops, damage infrastructure, displace communities and cause loss of lives. 

“These events do not only affect statistics; they affect real lives, they worsen inequality, and they create conditions that breed security threats.  Under these conditions, the BRICS has a responsibility to coordinate effective climate resilience,” the Minister said.

On the just transition, a framework that ensures the shift toward an environmentally sustainable, low-carbon economy, Ntshavheni said a poorly managed shift that deepens poverty or inequality would undermine national security, while a well-planned and properly financed transition can expand opportunity and strengthen democracy.

“South Africa approaches non‑traditional security threats as interlinked and mutually reinforcing. Our just transition agenda reflects the same logic. 

“We are committed to lowering emissions, protecting biodiversity and modernising our economy, while managing the risks to workers and communities who depend on high‑carbon sectors,” she said.

She said climate security is closely tied to food security and global stability.

“We take this opportunity to remind BRICS member states that an unstable Africa due to climate change and other disruptions will worsen global instability,” Ntshavheni said.

She urged BRICS to support the beneficiation of critical minerals close to their source, saying Africa must move beyond exporting rock and dust to producing finished products for green and digital technologies.

“We see BRICS as an instrument to drive reform of global governance, to amplify the voice of the Global South, and to deliver practical cooperation that improves the lives of our people. 

“We believe that BRICS can add value through the mobilisation of affordable finance for climate‑related infrastructure and adaptation, building regional value chains in critical minerals and green technologies, enhancing pandemic surveillance and response, and promoting climate‑smart agriculture and balanced trade in food and inputs,” she said.

Ntshavheni said these initiatives must support African priorities, strengthen the African Continental Free Trade Area and advance Agenda 2063’s vision of an integrated, prosperous and peaceful continent with silenced guns.

“For South Africa, the real danger is in a disorderly transition in which power is used selectively, international law is applied inconsistently, and shared threats are met with fragmented responses. 

“In such a context, the countries and regions with the least historical responsibility for global crises often carry the heaviest burden, and that includes many in the African continent,” Ntshavheni said.

She said security also depends on whether people are free from crime, instability, hunger, disease and the abuse of information through emerging technologies.

“Security is about whether institutions such as the BRICS can be trusted to coordinate a system that drives economic inclusion for citizens of its member states, but also countries of the global South, in particular the developing and underdeveloped countries, as the BRICS reinforce a functional global multilateral system,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has assured residents that the provincial government is working with law enforcement agencies to ensure that the upcoming protest on anti-illegal immigration matters is held safely and peacefully.

He noted that the province is expected to be one of the hotspots for the protests against illegal migration billed for next week.

“All of us are deeply concerned about the rising tensions and planned protest on the 30^th of June over illegal immigration. As a home to many immigrants, Gauteng will be directly affected and we have therefore put clear, practical measures in place.

“Firstly, I want to be clear, we fully support the right to peaceful protest. It’s a cornerstone of our democracy and its also enshrined in the Constitution. We share the protestors’ concerns about illegal immigration. We are pleased that His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa has put measures in place to address this issue.

“[However,] let us be clear – we will not allow anyone to use the protest as an excuse for taking the law into their own hands. Any conduct that amounts to criminality or violence will be met with firm action,” Lesufi said in a video statement on Monday evening.

Government has intensified enforcement of immigration laws and strengthened border security through coordinated action led by the Inter Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Migration.

Successes of these interventions have resulted in, amongst others, the arrest of some 40 000 illegal foreign nationals since the beginning of this year and the establishment of the Virtual Priority Court to deal with immigration and speedily support deportation.

To promote dialogue on the issue, Lesufi announced that the provincial government will host a gathering to explore solutions “in a constructive way”. 

He added that law enforcement is ready to deal with any event on June 30.

“We have met with law enforcement agencies in our province and they have briefed us on their strategy to ensure that everything on the 30^th of June and beyond is handled within the law with zero tolerance for violence.

“I call upon all our citizens of our beloved province to remain calm, obey the law and allow our law enforcement agencies to do their work. We are committed to protecting every person and every piece of property in this province,” Lesufi said.

Meanwhile, National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) Chairperson, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, has assured that law enforcement continues to “monitor the situation daily”, enabling them to identify any risks early on.

“Our integrated operational plan has been activated across all provinces. It brings together the South African Police Service, the South African National Defence Force, Metro Police Departments, Traffic Law Enforcement, Disaster Management structures and other relevant departments to ensure a coordinated government response.

“The operational focus is to protect lives, safeguard critical infrastructure, maintain the free movement of people and goods, preserve public order and ensure that all communities remain safe,” Mosikili said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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More than R1.7 billion of the R2.1 billion owed to Ithala SOC Limited depositors has been repaid since December 2025, marking significant progress in resolving the institution’s long-running financial challenges.

The update emerged from a recent high-level meeting between KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Finance Francois Rodgers, Head of Department Carol Coetzee, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, South African Reserve Bank (SARB) Deputy Governor Fundi Tshazibana, and Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) Commissioner Unathi Kamlana.

The meeting, held in Pretoria, focused on resolving outstanding issues delaying the finalisation of legal agreements related to Ithala, including the repayment of depositors and the settlement of the government guarantee.

Participants described the engagement as constructive and positive, with discussions centred on accelerating the completion of the remaining processes, while maintaining robust governance and accountability measures.

“We are encouraged by the significant strides made in repaying Ithala depositors and the strong collaboration among all stakeholders. Our focus remains on ensuring that all legitimate depositors receive their funds as quickly as possible, while upholding strict governance and accountability,” Rodgers said.

Under the current agreement between National Treasury and FirstRand Bank Limited, depositors have a three-year window to claim their funds.

However, the Government of Provincial Unity continues to encourage clients to visit their nearest First National Bank (FNB) branch with the required documentation, as efforts continue to conclude the repayment process sooner. All claims remain subject to stringent verification processes.

The meeting also agreed that, given the back-to-back agreements structured by Provincial Treasury, the role of Repayment Administrator Johan Kruger would be reviewed by the Prudential Authority. This is required in order to enable the provincial government to meet its contractual obligations contained in the agreement with National Treasury.

This was a welcomed resolution for all parties concerned and further collaboration will be required to reach final transaction by 30 June 2026. – SAnews.gov.za 

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The South African Government has explained that the group of approximately 500 Malawian nationals accommodated in Newlands, Sophiatown, is awaiting the finalisation of administrative processes ahead of their voluntary repatriation.

The group was relocated from Cape Town as part of a coordinated process facilitated by the Malawian Embassy to support their voluntary return to Malawi.

Government departments, including the Department of Home Affairs, are working closely with the Malawian Consulate-General to ensure proper documentation, compliance with immigration laws and the facilitation of voluntary repatriation.

“Government wishes to emphasise that the buses and individuals involved in this matter originated from Cape Town and were transported to Gauteng as part of these arrangements. 

“Upon arrival, temporary accommodation was secured at a church facility in Newlands, Sophiatown, where the individuals are being provided with care and support while the necessary administrative processes are being finalised. We expect the buses to leave very soon,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said in a statement. 

Government has called on all communities to remain calm and allow the relevant authorities to manage the situation in a lawful, orderly and humane manner.

“Any actions that may inflame tensions or undermine due process will not assist in resolving the matter.

“Government further appeals to all individuals and organisations who have the means and willingness to support the return of foreign nationals to their countries of origin to do so in an orderly and lawful manner by working through the relevant government departments,” the GCIS said.

This includes obtaining the necessary permits and approvals to ensure that these processes are conducted safely, transparently and in compliance with South African law.

The Government affirmed its commitment to ensuring that all interventions are guided by the rule of law, respect for human dignity, and regional cooperation, while safeguarding the safety and stability of communities.

Law enforcement agencies, including the South African Police Service, have been deployed in the area to maintain law and order.

Government has encouraged the public to contact the official toll-free call centre of the South African Department of Home Affairs (DHA) on 0800 60 11 90 to report migration-related concerns. –SAnews.gov.za

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By Bernice Swarts

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on government to work with all South Africans to plant one billion trees over the coming years. In support of the President’s vision, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has launched an ambitious campaign to plant 10 million trees in a single day on Heritage Day, 24 September 2026.

The Presidential One Billion Trees Programme seeks to mobilise all sectors of society – government, business, labour, civil society, faith-based organisations, traditional leaders, diplomatic missions, youth formations and communities – to plant trees as part of our collective response to climate change.

This programme is a call to action for every South African. It is about protecting our environment, improving our communities and safeguarding the future for generations to come. On 24 September 2026, I call on all South Africans across the country to unite in an effort to plant ten million trees in a single day.

Trees will be planted in safe spaces across all nine provinces, including schools, clinics, hospitals, colleges, police stations, churches, parks and residential areas. We also encourage households to plant trees in their own yards. Every tree planted will contribute towards a greener, healthier and more climate-resilient South Africa.

I therefore make a clarion call to all South Africans – including all spheres of government, organised business, organised labour and civil society – to join us in this national campaign and help make history by planting ten million trees on Heritage Day.

I recently launched the Presidential One Billion Trees Programme under the theme: “My Tree, My Oxygen. Plant Yours Today.” This programme is not merely about planting trees. It is about confronting the realities of climate change and taking meaningful action.

The science is clear: climate change is no longer a distant threat. It is a lived reality affecting communities across the globe and here at home. South Africa has experienced devastating floods, droughts, veld fires and heatwaves. Lives have been lost, livelihoods disrupted and infrastructure damaged. Standing by is no longer an option. We must act urgently, decisively and collectively.

Our ambitious target to plant ten million trees in a single day builds on the success of the 2025 One Million Trees Campaign. On Heritage Day last year, South Africans planted more than 1.3 million trees in a single day, surpassing the target of one million trees. Importantly, this achievement came at no cost to government, as citizens, businesses and organisations donated and planted the trees themselves.

The success of the 2025 campaign demonstrated the power of collective action and the willingness of South Africans to contribute to environmental protection and climate action. We extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed their time, resources and commitment to making that campaign a success.

For the 2026 Ten Million Trees Campaign, we will adopt a similar approach. Government funds will not be used to purchase trees. Instead, we will rely on donations and partnerships from individuals, communities, businesses and organisations across the country.

The Presidential One Billion Trees Programme is also about creating economic opportunities, particularly for young people, women and persons with disabilities. Greening initiatives support nursery owners, landscapers, environmental workers and emerging entrepreneurs, while creating jobs for the people. It must also be stressed that the creation of jobs remains an important pillar of the Government of National Unity (GNU).   

I must also stress that our plan to plant ten million trees on Heritage Day, 24 September 2026 is not a public relations exercise. It is a national movement that is already gaining momentum. Over recent months, we have distributed tens of thousands of trees to traditional leaders and communities through our outreach programmes, community imbizos, school engagements and greening initiatives.

However, to reach our target of ten million trees, we need every South African to play their part. Whether you plant a tree in your yard, donate a tree through our departmental digital pledge platform, mobilise your workplace or encourage your community to participate, you are contributing to a lasting legacy.

If you are a business, sponsor trees. If you are an educator, encourage learners to participate. If you are a community leader, mobilise your neighbourhood. No contribution is too small.

The Presidential One Billion Trees Programme forms part of government’s broader National Greening Programme, which focuses on creating sustainable and resilient settlements through tree planting, ecosystem restoration and climate change mitigation.

Recent years have shown us the devastating impact of extreme weather events. We have witnessed severe flooding in the Eastern Cape, Western Cape, Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces. We have seen the destruction caused by floods in the Kruger National Park and surrounding communities, with tragic loss of life and significant economic damage. Our thoughts remain with all affected families and communities.

These events serve as a reminder that climate change affects every aspect of our lives. While we cannot control nature, we can take meaningful action to reduce our environmental impact and strengthen our resilience. 

Greening our country is not only about environmental protection; it is also an economic necessity. Research has consistently shown that well-greened neighbourhoods often experience increased property values and improved quality of life. This can strengthen municipal revenue bases and support improved service delivery.

Municipal participation in the planting of trees will also help identify projects that contribute to climate change mitigation, including the rehabilitation of degraded areas and the transformation of neglected spaces into safe community parks and recreational areas. 

Greening is also closely linked to spatial justice. Historically disadvantaged communities often bear the greatest burden of pollution, environmental degradation and inadequate green infrastructure. By expanding tree planting and greening initiatives, we contribute to creating healthier, safer and more equitable communities.

To ensure the success and sustainability of the Presidential One Billion Trees Programme, we are finalising a comprehensive implementation plan that includes the following interventions:

• Strengthening partnerships with academic, research and professional organisations, including the Institute of Environment and Recreation Management (IERM), to ensure that tree-planting initiatives are guided by scientific evidence.

• Integrating small and emerging nurseries into the programme to stimulate local economic development in rural and peri-urban communities.

• Expanding partnerships through Memoranda of Understanding with the Departments of Basic Education and Human Settlements to promote tree planting in schools and human settlements, particularly in low-income housing developments.

• Promoting commemorative and remembrance tree planting as a meaningful way for South Africans to honour important milestones and events.

• Supporting stakeholders involved in the rehabilitation of degraded land and ecosystems.

I therefore call on all South Africans to make history on Heritage Day, 24 September 2026, by participating in our effort to plant ten million trees. Let us leave behind a greener, healthier and more sustainable South Africa for future generations. Let us plant ten million trees in a single day under the theme: “My Tree, My Oxygen. Plant Yours Today.” 

Together, we can grow a legacy that will benefit our country for generations to come.

*Bernice Swarts is the Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

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