Category: South Africa Government

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, November 28, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

The National Transmission Company South Africa SOC Ltd (NTCSA) has received the Market Operator Licence which bring the country closer to establishing a competitive market for electricity provision.

“The NTCSA today received approval from NERSA of its Market Operator Licence application, marking an important step toward establishing a fair, competitive market for electricity in South Africa,” the NTCSA said in a statement on Thursday.

Having commenced trading last year, the NTCSA is wholly owned subsidiary of Eskom and will own and operate the country’s national transmission system, the world-class System Operator, the grid strengthening function and energy market services among others.

In March last year, the NERSA announced that it had approved Eskom’s application for a transfer of its powers and duties related to section 34 Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to the NTCSA.

The as the license was granted by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA).

READ | Regulator takes steps to transform SA’s energy sector

The purpose of the Market Operator Licence is to authorise the NTCSA to operate and administer a new electricity market platform in accordance with the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act (ERAA).

The approval of the licence enables further progress toward a transparent, non-discriminatory trading environment that allows a wider range of participants to compete on equal terms.

“This is a significant milestone for South Africa’s evolving electricity sector. A competitive market will unlock economic and societal benefits over time by broadening participation, stimulating investment in new capacity, and enhancing long-term system resilience. We welcome also the creation of the Electricity Market Advisory Forum (EMAF) and the Grid Capacity Allocation rules” said the transmission company’s Chief Executive Officer, Monde Bala.

Bala said the entity which is the transmission arm of Eskom has undertaken extensive engagement on the Market Code with stakeholders across the sector.

“With the Market Operator now licenced, the next step is to finalise the Market Code and submit it to NERSA for its consideration and approval, thereby establishing a clear and stable rules framework for the operation of the future electricity market,” said Bala.

Finalisation of the Market Code 

With extensive preparatory work already completed, the NTCSA will now focus on finalising the Market Code for submission to NERSA, which makes the final decision on approval.

The NTCSA has ensured the proposed Market Code reflects broad stakeholder input and supports the transition to a competitive marketplace.

“The NTCSA will await the licence conditions and reason for decision and will submit any further information required by NERSA relating to potential conflicts of interest and independence within the context of the market development roadmap,” said the NTCSA.

Eskom welcomes NERSA decision

Meanwhile, Eskom has welcomed the NERSA decision to award a Market Operator Licence to the NTCSA as the next step to establishing a market for electricity and delivering competition.

“The awarding of the Market Operator Licence to the NTCSA represents significant progress in establishing a competitive electricity market in South Africa. It aligns with global best practice, supports a level playing field for market participation and enhances certainty for investors looking to bring new capacity into the system,” said Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane said.

In its statement on Thursday, Eskom said the decision is an important milestone in the country’s energy reform agenda and in building a power system that is more secure, better run, and open to wider participation.

“With the Market Operator now licensed, and following extensive engagement on the Market Code already undertaken with stakeholders, the necessary structures are in place for its finalisation and submission to NERSA who provides final approval.

“Further, the publication of the grid allocation rules will provide a clear basis for performance reporting to all stakeholders, and the Electricity Market Advisory Forum will play a vital guidance and advisory role. This sends a strong signal to investors that the country remains committed to a rules-based transition to a competitive marketplace,” Marokane explained.

The ERAA provides the legal foundation for restructuring the electricity sector. It mandates the establishment of a fully independent Transmission System Operator (TSO) within five years, while allowing NTCSA to temporarily fulfil certain TSO roles during the transition.

“Eskom is implementing the building blocks to ensure this is achieved within the anticipated timelines. Eskom has transitioned from a single, vertically integrated company to a group structure.”

The power utility said it will manage the changes responsibly, in partnership with government, regulators, organised labour, municipalities and all relevant stakeholders.

“A structured engagement process is underway to keep stakeholders informed, safeguard power system stability and support employees throughout the unbundling journey,” it said. –SAnews.gov.za 
 

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, November 28, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) says the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations have officially reached their conclusion, with rewrite opportunities for selected subjects having taken place on Thursday. 

In a statement on Thursday, the DBE said provinces have reported high levels of stability, procedural consistency and compliance throughout the exam period.

This as this year’s NSC examinations concluded on Thursday, 27 November 2025.

The DBE commended the Class of 2025 for the resilience and maturity shown during what it described as “a demanding but well-managed” examination cycle. 

To ensure fairness, additional papers are being administered as second-opportunity sittings for candidates who could not complete their exams due to valid reasons, a move the department says demonstrates its continued commitment to equity and access.

“The 2025 NSC examinations has operated with discipline, reliability, and problem-solving agility across all provinces. Minor administrative omissions inevitable at this national scale were identified early, escalated appropriately, and resolved without disadvantage to any candidate,” the DBE said. 

Incidents 

The department said it also noted a rise in candidates experiencing illness and anxiety-related difficulties. As a result, psychosocial support teams were activated through the Khuluma for Wellness platform and provincial units, ensuring affected learners received counselling and could continue writing, including from hospitals or alternative venues where required.

However, the department expressed concern over isolated incidents of crime and unrest. This included an armed robbery at an overnight study camp, after which trauma counselling was provided and affected candidates scheduled to write a special paper on Thursday, 27 November 2025. 

The DBE further conveyed its condolences following the death of a learner linked to an irregularity matter, an incident it says highlights the need for continued ethical and emotional preparation of young people for high-stakes examinations.

“Pens down”

With the end of the exam season that began on 21 October 2025, the department has urged learners to avoid unsafe celebrations linked to unregulated “Pens Down” parties, warning of risks such as alcohol abuse, violence and exploitation. 

“Unregulated pens down” parties expose learners to alcohol abuse, violence, exploitation, and serious personal harm. The department urged candidates to prioritise rest, discipline, and final revision; to report any unsafe gatherings to trusted adults or authorities; and to honour their schooling journey by returning all textbooks and learning materials. 

“Learners are also encouraged to demonstrate responsible citizenship by donating uniforms or stationery where possible, further strengthening the culture of care within school communities. These actions reflect the civic responsibility and maturity expected of the Class of 2025,” the department said. 

READ | Matriculants urged to celebrate safely after exams

Marking

Early marking, which began on 22 November 2025, has now been completed successfully. The DBE said this phase allowed for verification of systems, finalisation of training and readiness assessments ahead of the full-scale national marking process.

Full marking will officially commence on 1 December 2025 across designated centres, with more than 52 000 markers appointed nationally, one of the largest deployments of academic expertise in the public sector. 

“Their professionalism, independence, and technical skill form the backbone of the credibility of the NSC examinations. Marking preparations have included the verification of centre readiness, security controls, script-management systems, extensive training for chief and senior markers, and pre-standardisation processes to ensure uniform application of marking guidelines,” the department said. 

It added that oversight visits by the Director-General have reinforced confidence in the integrity of the process.

The DBE thanked educators, invigilators, principals, district officials, provincial teams and parents for their collective role in ensuring a secure and credible examination environment. 

The department said the system continues to demonstrate strong coordination, technical capacity and resilience.

With full-scale marking ahead, the DBE expressed confidence that the professionalism of markers and the sector’s commitment will uphold the credibility of the NSC as the country moves into the results-finalisation phase.

“These collective efforts reflect a national system that is strong, responsive, and professionally aligned as it transitions into the marking and results-finalisation phase. The department remains assured that the dedication shown throughout the examination period will continue to guide the sector in delivering a credible and fair outcome for the Class of 2025,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, November 28, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, November 28, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, November 28, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has emphasised the importance of the ongoing 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children and the critical role that communities play in eliminating the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

“Let us continue to advance gender equity. Through this annual 16 Days of Activism Campaign, let us create communities where women and children are safe, empowered, and free from violence. Let us ensure that collective responsibility becomes a lived reality,” he said on Thursday. 

The Deputy President delivered a keynote address on the second day of the South African Local Government Association’s (SALGA) National Members Assembly. 

The event, hosted at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, brought together notable figures from various sectors to discuss the future of local governance in South Africa.

This assembly which concluded on Thursday, took place during the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children, which was launched two days ago. 

READ | Minister Chikunga calls for Media and Creative Sectors to ‘flip the script’ in fight against GBVF

The Deputy President called for a united effort to ensure women’s and children’s safety, urging attendees to create “communities where women and children are safe, empowered, and free from violence.”

The country’s second-in-command said this commitment to gender equity aligns with SALGA’s goals, illustrating the organisation’s dedication to fostering safe and inclusive spaces at the local level.

SALGA anniversary

He also took a moment to reflect on the significance of SALGA’s anniversary, noting that November marks the 29th anniversary of the formation of a unified SALGA. 

The Deputy President recounted how SALGA’s journey began in 1996 at the National Summit for Organised Local Government and highlighted its evolution into the “unified voice of South Africa’s 257 municipalities.”

He also took the time to praise SALGA for its role in advocating for community needs and enhancing service delivery across the nation.

The Deputy President also acknowledged SALGA’s involvement in significant legislative advancements, mentioning key acts such as the Electoral Laws Amendment Act of 2021 and the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act of 2013.

He said SALGA’s steadfast dedication has enabled them successfully to push for these improvements, ensuring that the legal framework supports municipalities in carrying out their service delivery mandates.

National Dialogue on Coalition Governments

Deputy President Mashatile also touched on the National Dialogue on Coalition Governments; a critical discussion aimed at developing frameworks that guide coalition arrangements at the local level. 

“The recommendations and final declaration of the Dialogue on Coalition Government have paved the way for the development of an overarching framework that will guide coalition arrangements at the local government level.”

Professionalising the public service and reforms

He stressed government’s commitment to establishing a capable, ethical, and developmental state. 

“Parliament is currently processing the Public Service Commission Amendment Act to extend the mandate of the Public Service Commission (PSC) to include local government and public entities.” 

Deputy President Mashatile said this move is aimed at professionalising the public service across all government levels.

Through initiatives like Phase 2 of Operation Vulindlela, the Deputy President outlined the government’s strategy to address economic challenges and support local governments. 

Phase 2 focuses on accelerating economic reforms to achieve faster and more inclusive growth by addressing structural constraints in key sectors like energy, water, and local government.

He also underscored the shared responsibility of all stakeholders in supporting government efforts to implement necessary reforms. 

The country’s second-in-command called to action members of organised local government, encouraging them to rally behind transformative initiatives.

Deputy President Mashatile reminded leaders of the challenges faced by municipalities while also calling for collaborative efforts for a stronger, more equitable future for South Africa.

He urged the prioritisation of economic resilience, investment in infrastructure and services, and embracing new technologies and approaches to service delivery. 

“By doing so, we can create an environment where businesses thrive, communities prosper, and each individual can realise their full potential.

“As I have stated, we all agree that local government is the sphere of government that is closest to our people. It is through municipalities that democracy connects with daily life, through the provision of water, energy, sanitation, roads, and public order, among other things.” 

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa’s, address emphasised the urgent need for local government reform to enhance service delivery and tackle challenges such as GBV, youth unemployment, and infrastructure decay. 

He highlighted the importance of aligning Integrated Development Plans with global priorities, particularly following South Africa’s leadership role in the Group of 20 (G20) Leaders’ Summit. 

The Minister also spoke about the review of the White Paper on Local Government, which presents a critical opportunity to strengthen governance and financial controls, ensuring municipalities can effectively address community needs.

He highlighted the importance of aligning municipal plans with global initiatives and fostering stable governance to enhance community trust and development. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

The South African Reserve Bank’s (SARB) position paper on a retail central bank digital currency (CBDC) in South Africa has concluded that it there is no compelling immediate need for its implementation.

A retail CBDC is defined as a purely digital banknote, denominated in the national unit of account, which could be used by individuals to pay businesses, shops or each other (a retail CBDC), or between financial institutions to settle trades in financial markets (a wholesale CBDC). 

At its core then, retail CBDC aims to mirror traditional currency, but in digital form.

“The SARB’s research and experimentation found that a retail CBDC is technically feasible and could be implemented in a way that aligns with regulatory and policy objectives. 

“However, the analysis does not reveal a strong immediate need for such an instrument. Instead, the SARB concluded that ongoing initiatives such as the Payment Ecosystem Modernisation Programme and expanding non-bank participation in the national payment system should remain the priority in the short-to-medium-term,” the Reserve Bank said. 

The SARB position paper on the necessity of a retail CBDC in South Africa and background note  was published on the bank’s website on Thursday.

The study focused on the potential role of a retail CBDC as a digital complement to cash, particularly in the context of South Africa’s evolving payment landscape and persistent financial inclusion challenge.

The SARB noted that in the longer term there may be a need for a retail CBDC to safeguard public access to central bank money − a public good that remains essential in a digital economy; and unlock opportunities to complement and enhance the existing payments landscape while supporting broader financial innovation in South Africa.

While the SARB does not currently advocate for the implementation of a retail CBDC, it will continue to monitor developments and will remain prepared to act should the need arise. 

“As the SARB continues its CBDC journey, the next phase will pivot toward further exploration of wholesale CBDC. This strategic shift reflects the growing global momentum around wholesale applications and their potential to enhance financial market innovation, cross-border payment efficiency and systemic resilience. The SARB will outline its plans for this next phase in due course.”

Central bank money plays a crucial role in the financial system for two primary reasons: it represents the highest quality of money, reducing risk and enhancing payment system efficiency and its accessibility through convertibility with commercial bank money fosters trade efficiency and mitigates financial instability in a dual money system.

Growth and cash

“From the research and analysis conducted as part of this study, there is evidence of significant growth in the adoption and use of digital payments in South Africa. 

“This has been driven by innovative solutions introduced by commercial banks, fintechs and the efforts of the SARB and other public sector agencies and partners,” it said.

These are anticipated to continue having a positive impact on financial inclusion, and it is expected that a growing number of South Africans will adopt and use digital payments on a regular basis.

“Notwithstanding the progress made, evidence also shows that physical cash continues to play a significant role in South Africa, particularly for certain segments of the population. This prevailing cash reliance is due to barriers such as infrastructure availability, costs of digital payments and network and power issues.

Balancing act

“More importantly, the continued ability to redeem private money into safe and liquid public money (i.e. banknotes and coin) provides a safety net in times of economic stress and maintains confidence in the financial system. Further, balancing access to both central bank and commercial bank money is essential for maximising trade efficiency,” SARB said.

This balance requires careful consideration of the unique benefits each type of money provides.

“In the SARB’s view, continued commitment and resources should be dedicated to realising the opportunities of existing payment modernisation initiatives, such as expanding the PayShap value proposition, enabling interoperability of different stores of value, allowing non-banks to issue electronic money and participating directly in the NPS [national payment system], QR code standardisation, introducing an open banking/open finance framework, among others,” the bank said.

SARB emphasised that the conclusion of the study should not be interpreted as a view that South Africa should not implement a retail CBDC in future. 

The study can be accessed on: https://www.resbank.co.za/en/home/publications/publication-detail-pages/Fintech/sarb-position-paper-on-the-necessity-of-a-retail-cbdc-in-south-africa

–SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

A total of 10 sluice gates are now in operation at the Vaal Dam, after three additional sluice gates opened on Thursday, to manage rising water levels.

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) intensified flood management operations at the Vaal Dam by opening three additional sluice gates in response to rising inflows and persistent rainfall across the Vaal River System.

In a statement, the department announced that the gates were being opened in controlled intervals, with two gates opened at 10am and 12pm, and another scheduled to open in the afternoon at 2pm, to safely increase outflows throughout the day and stabilise dam levels.

These latest adjustments follow reopening of four sluice gates on Wednesday, between 10am and 1pm, which increased releases from 325 cubic metres per second (m³/s) to 950 m³/s.

‘With today’s measured operations, the Vaal Dam will operate with 10 open sluice gates, enabling the department to regulate the rising upstream inflows while ensuring the integrity of key water infrastructure,” department spokesperson Wisane Mavasa said.

The department also confirmed that there are no changes to operations at Bloemhof Dam, with outflows remaining steady at approximately 1000 m³/s – consistent with last week’s adjustments and aligned with current dam safety protocols.

According to the department, both the Vaal and Bloemhof dams remain above 100% due to sustained rainfall this week, necessitating continuous monitoring and proactive intervention.

Mavasa noted that the opening of sluice gates is a standard operating procedure and a critical dam safety measure implemented when water levels rise sharply.

“Controlled releases help prevent overtopping, safeguard the structural integrity of dam infrastructure and protect communities downstream from potential disaster. With increased releases from the Vaal Dam, downstream areas may experience overflowing riverbanks, which could affect infrastructure located in low-lying zones of the floodplain,” Mavasa explained.

The department appealed to communities along the Vaal River, particularly those in the Vaal Triangle, Parys, and other riparian settlements, to remain vigilant and monitor rising river levels closely.

“Farmers and residents with pumps, movable equipment, or infrastructure situated close to the water’s edge are advised to take immediate steps to secure their assets. Livestock and valuable property should be moved to higher ground.”

The Department of Water and Sanitation remains on high alert and will continue to conduct real-time monitoring of inflows at both Vaal and Bloemhof Dams. Further updates will be issued as conditions change. – SAnews.gov.za