Category: South Africa Government

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Zero tolerance for violence and drugs in schools

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, August 25, 2025

Government has condemned all forms of violence in schools, which undermine learning, safety, and the future of children.

In a government news bulletin on Monday, government emphasised that schools must be safe spaces, and teachers must be respected for their role in shaping young minds. It added that violence in schools is unacceptable, and learners must respect rules, teachers, and peers. 

“Government calls on parents to take an active role in the upbringing of their children and to instil values of respect, responsibility, and non-violence. Learners must not bring drugs to school. Anyone found in possession of any mind-altering substance will face disciplinary action and the full might of the law.”

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) is currently working with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to ensure active police participation in creating safe and orderly learning environments.

The SAPS-DBE collaboration strengthens early detection of criminal activity in schools and provides a support system to teachers and learners facing threats. 

The public is urged to report any cases of violence and crime to their nearest police station or by calling the SAPS crime stop number on 08600 10111. – SAnews.gov.za

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SASSA to introduce biometric enrolment in September

Source: Government of South Africa

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced that it will be introducing mandatory Beneficiary Biometric Enrolment at all its offices from 01 September 2025. 

In a statement on Monday, the agency said this was expected to revolutionise the administration of social grants and that the biometric enrolment was set to be a precursor to detect and nip in the bud any potentially fraudulent activities in the SASSA’s grant system.  

The agency said this comes after engagements with organised labour on a myriad of issues which have since been successfully resolved, paving the way for a new age for SASSA in its resolve to administer a tight and credible grant system. 

SASSA CEO Themba Matlou has expressed his relief at the conclusion of discussions with organised labour.  

“Our plans were to commence with biometric enrolment at the beginning of the 2025/2026 financial year; however, we hit a snag, but we have ironed out the issues that delayed our plans and it is all systems go for the implementation,” he said. 

The Beneficiary Biometric Enrolment comes at an opportune time when the agency is ramping up efforts to improve its systems, detect and effectively root out any fraudulent elements in social grant administration. 

Moreover, biometric enrolment is a strategic move to ensure every grant recipient is verifiably authentic and that SASSA’s systems are resilient against manipulation and error, especially in cases involving forged green Identity Documents that frontline staff cannot reliably detect. 

In addition, the biometric enrolment will ensure: 

  • Significant reduction in fraudulent applications and duplicate payments,
  • Reliable verification of beneficiary authenticity and proof of life,
  • Reduction in inclusion errors,
  • Streamlined documentation processes, and
  • Enhanced audit outcomes and stronger record integrity. 

Improved public trust in the Social Assistance Programme include biometric fingerprint enrolment or facial recognition through electronic Know Your Client (eKYC). 

Applications without biometric data will be immediately put into the review cycle, notifying the client of the need to capture biometrics as per the review processes.

This initiative will ensure the enhancement of risk controls, contributing to a more secure and accountable grants system, while ascertaining that social grant recipients are living individuals at the time of application. 

The agency has set up the necessary infrastructure and tools at all its offices across the country.

Front line staff have been trained throughout the month of August to ensure their readiness and effective and efficient implementation of the biometric enrolment. 

“SASSA would like to reiterate its commitment and resolve to pay the right social grant to the eligible beneficiaries, and the agency will continue to work with all its stakeholders in strengthening and safeguarding its systems. 

“The agency will not hesitate to act against any of its officials should they be suspected of working with anyone to defraud its systems,” the CEO said. 

For grant enquiries, beneficiaries are urged to visit www.sassa.gov.za or call our toll-free number: 0800 60 1011 or watsap GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za 

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DIRCO warns youth of unverified foreign job offers promoted by influencers

Source: Government of South Africa

DIRCO warns youth of unverified foreign job offers promoted by influencers

The Head of Public Diplomacy at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), Clayson Monyela, has advised young people, particularly girls, to be cautious of unverified foreign job offers. 

Some of these job opportunities are being promoted by influencers on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

“Human trafficking syndicates are luring people into all sorts of illegal activities under slave-life conditions. If something looks too good to be true, get a second opinion. Contact the department or any of our embassies in the country of interest,” he said.

This follows the backlash faced by influencer and DJ Cyan Bujee, whose real name is Honour Zuma, for promoting the Alabuga Start programme in Russia. 

Alabuga Start describes itself as an international programme designed for young women aged 18 to 22 from countries in Africa, Latin America, and South and Southeast Asia. It provides them with the opportunity to relocate to Russia and develop their careers.

Currently, the programme offers seven career tracks, including catering, service and hospitality, production operator, driver, installation work, finishing work, and logistics.

According to an investigation by the Associated Press (AP), young women are lured to Russia with promises of plane tickets, education, higher salaries, and the chance of a “European” adventure. 

However, they often find themselves working at a drone manufacturing plant in the Alabuga Special Economic Zone in Tatarstan, Russia, alongside students as young as 16 years old.

According to the AP, women aged 18 to 22 have been targeted from countries such as Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, South Sudan, Sierra Leone, and Nigeria, as well as from Sri Lanka and Latin America in response to a domestic labour shortage caused by wartime casualties and mass emigration.

“Most of the women interviewed by AP said that life at Alabuga did not meet their expectations. Four of the women interviewed said they had to work shifts of up to 12 hours and that they had inconsistent days off,” The Moscow Times reported.

Bloomberg reported that the Alabuga zone has been accused in three research reports from organisations, including the Institute for Science and International Security (ISIS), of deceiving African women into working at the plant that assembles Shahed 136 kamikaze drones.

Meanwhile, the Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security Cluster has warned young people against illegitimate and unverified opportunities targeting women and announced an investigation into these issues.

“The video clip circulated by a social media influencer, which purports to promote a two-year-long ‘Start program’ targeting young women in acquiring professional skills and commencing their careers, is currently under investigation.

“Notably, the author of the post has since removed the promotional video from her social media platforms,” the statement read. 

The cluster has advised job seekers not to depend solely on social media promotions. 

It said it was important to cross-check information and seek a second opinion from a trusted source.

The cluster encouraged young people to verify job opportunities through official channels, including the DIRCO, and to contact South African embassies in the countries where these opportunities are located. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Tributes continue to pour in for actress Nandi Nyembe 

Source: Government of South Africa

Tributes continue to pour in for actress Nandi Nyembe 

The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation (SACR) has paid tribute to legendary actress Nandi Nyembe, affectionately known as Mam’ Nandi.

Nyembe passed away on Saturday, 23 August 2025, at the age of 75.

“Mam’ Nandi was more than an actress. She was a cultural torchbearer whose work reflected the resilience, struggles and triumphs of South Africans. She gave voice to our stories and left an indelible mark on the nation’s artistic and cultural landscape. 

“Her passing is a tremendous loss not only to the creative sector, but to the soul of our country,” Chairperson of the SACR Portfolio Committee Disebo Tlebere said on Monday.

READ | Tributes continue for Mama Nandi Nyembe

Mam’ Nandi’s career spanned decades, during which she graced South African stages and screens with performances that were both powerful and timeless. 

She became a household name through her memorable role as Nandi Sibiya in Zone 14 and further enriched South African storytelling with her outstanding portrayals in Yizo Yizo, Izoso Connexion, Isibaya, Isithembiso, House of Zwide, and numerous other productions. 

Her versatility also shone through in feature films such as Reasonable Man (1999), Saturday Night at the Palace (1987), and the award-winning Yesterday (2004).

The Committee has extended its deepest condolences to her family, loved ones, colleagues and millions of fans across South Africa and beyond, who are left heartbroken by this loss. 

“Her passing marks not only the departure of an extraordinary actress, but also a cultural icon whose artistry touched generations.

“The Committee salutes Mam’ Nandi for her remarkable contribution to the performing arts and her role in shaping South Africa’s cultural identity. As the country bids farewell to this icon, her legacy will continue to inspire artists and audiences for generations to come,” the Committee said. 

The Nyembe and the  Department of Sport, Arts and Culture announced the death of the actress in a joint statement at the weekend. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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DWYPD secures second clean audit

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities has received a clean audit from the Auditor-General for the second consecutive year, marking a significant milestone in government’s efforts to strengthen financial management and good governance within government.

A clean audit confirms that a department’s financial statements are free from material misstatements and fully comply with relevant legislation, reflecting sound accountability and transparency in its operations.

Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga and Deputy Minister Mmapaseka Steve Letsike welcomed the outcome, describing it as a vital step towards building a capable, ethical, and developmental state.

In a joint statement, they commended the department’s unwavering commitment to good governance, ethical standards, and strengthened internal controls.

“The achievement reflects consistent dedication to accountability and service delivery,” Chikunga and Letsike said.

The Auditor-General’s engagement report confirmed that the following programmes were audited in the annual performance report for the financial year, ending 31 March 2024:
• Advocacy and mainstreaming for the rights of women;
• Monitoring and evaluation;
• Research and coordination; and
• Rights of youth.

The department said it has strengthened its audit approach to ensure that irregular, fruitless and wasteful expenditures are subjected to audit to confirm the validity, accuracy and completeness of the amounts recorded, even when they have been excluded from the annual financial statements.

According to the Auditor-General, the favourable opinion was based on critical areas, including the timely submission of annual financial statements.

This clean audit, defined as an unqualified opinion with no material findings, demonstrates the department’s dedication towards good governance, ethical standards, and stronger internal controls,” Chikunga and Letsike said.

While acknowledging that a clean audit does not necessarily mean responsive service delivery, the department reiterated its commitment and call to ensuring that women, youth, and persons with disabilities are mainstreamed in public and private sector services. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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New regulations for ship-to-ship transfer operations

Source: Government of South Africa

New regulations for ship-to-ship transfer operations

The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has signed new regulations to manage offshore ship-to-ship transfer operations, which will see transgressors pay fines of up to R2 million, imprisonment for up to five years, or both.

The new rules are designed to prevent pollution, protect coastal ecosystems, minimise and mitigate the impacts of a spill in the unlikely event that one occurs and secure the survival of the African Penguin, together with other marine species and ecosystems in the rich biodiverse Algoa Bay and along South Africa’s coastline in general.

“These regulations are a decisive step to safeguard our oceans and secure the future of our African Penguin. They set strict standards for offshore ship-to-ship transfers, ensuring that maritime activity can only proceed in a safe and responsible way,” the Minister said.

George signed the Regulations for the Environmental Management of Offshore Ship-to-Ship Transfer, published under the National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Act, 2008 (Act No. 24 of 2008).

These regulations will come into force once published in the Government Gazette. 

They provide South Africa with a clear and enforceable environmental framework to manage offshore ship-to-ship (STS) transfer operations, including bunkering. 

The new measures include:

  • Prohibited zones: STS operations are banned within marine protected areas, aquaculture development zones, within 5 nautical miles of each of these zones and within three nautical miles of the high-water mark.
  • Wildlife protection: Operators must monitor for penguins and marine mammals, deploy hydrophone systems, and report sightings and incidents. Immediate response plans must be in place for any oiled or injured wildlife.
  • Weather limits: In Algoa Bay, operations may only take place in safe conditions, with wind speeds below 22 knots and wave heights below two metres. The Minister may set conditions elsewhere.
  • Pollution prevention: Operators must use drip trays, leak detection systems, inflatable booms, and have a spill-response vessel on standby within five nautical miles of shore.
  • Training and compliance: All crew must receive environmental awareness training. Each operator must also submit an independent Environmental Management Plan, approved by the Minister, addressing site-specific risks.
  • Algoa Bay restrictions: Operations are confined to designated anchorages, with a limit on the number of operators and tankers, and seasonal restrictions in anchorage area 2 to protect sensitive habitats.

The signed regulations can be accessed here: https://www.dffe.gov.za/sites/default/files/legislation/regulationsforshiptoshiptransfersignedministergeorge.pdf. – SAnews.gov.za

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Awards honour excellence in the arts 

Source: Government of South Africa

The stage was alive with celebration as the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) hosted the 2025 National Arts and Culture Awards (NACA) at the Sun City Super Bowl in the North West. 

Friday’s ceremony shone a national spotlight on the extraordinary storytellers, performers, and visionaries who continue to shape South Africa’s cultural identity.

Hosted by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and attended by Deputy President Paul Mashatile and Minister Gayton McKenzie, the evening brought together icons, innovators, and emerging voices across the creative industries. 

From theatre and dance to literature, film, design, and heritage, the awards reaffirmed that South Africa’s greatest resource is the imagination and resilience of its people.

The awards recognised excellence across South Africa’s creative industries, from performance and visual arts to literature, design, film, and cultural heritage.

“The arts remain one of the most powerful forces in our society, they carry our history, express our present, and inspire our future. As a nation, the arts are not only a source of pride but also a driver of unity, healing and progress,” said the department in a statement on Sunday.

The department said the arts preserve traditions, open doors for innovation, and remind us of who we are while showing the world the depth of South Africa’s creativity.

The winners at the awards were: 
•    Heritage Category 
Outstanding Cultural Landscape Award: Freedom Park Heritage Site Museum
Outstanding Museum Award: William Humphreys Art Gallery
•    Literature Category  
Outstanding Book, Fiction Award: The Comrade’s Wife (by Barbara Boswell)
Outstanding Book, Non-Fiction Award: 100 Years of Dispossession (by Lebogang Seale)
Outstanding Children’s Fiction Book: Sanda Makes Some Money (by Yamkela Tywakadi)
Outstanding Publisher Award: Vhakololo Press (Tshifhiwa Given Mukwevho)
•    Design Category 
Outstanding Architecture/Interior Designer: Asher Zachary Marcus
Outstanding Fashion/Textile Designer: Mzukisi Mbane
•    Visual Arts Category 
Outstanding Crafter Award: Majolandile Samuel Dyalvane
Outstanding Curator Award: Nontobeko Ntombela
Outstanding Visual Artist Award: Malebogo Naticia Molokoane
•    Performance Art Category
Outstanding Musician Award: Mphumelelo Dlamini
Outstanding Actor in Theatre: Tshireletso Nkoane
Outstanding Theatre Production: A Street Taxi Named Desire (by Obett Motaung)
Outstanding Dance Production: INGOMA (by Moeketsi Koena)
Outstanding Poet Performance: Napo Masheane
•    Audio Visual Category  
Outstanding Documentary Film: London Recruits (by Jacintha de Nobrega)
Outstanding Documentary Series: Free At Last (by Xoliswa Sithole)
Outstanding Film Fiction Award: Old Righteous Blues (by Catharina Weinek)

“The winners of NACA 2025 embody the richness of South Africa’s creative spirit. Their work pushes boundaries, honours traditions, and gives voice to the stories that define us,” the department said.

“Together, they stand as proof that art is not a luxury, but a national necessity — shaping how we see ourselves and how the world sees us.”

The ceremony also featured unforgettable performances and tributes, weaving together music, dance, and storytelling in a way that reflected the vibrancy and resilience of South Africa’s cultural heartbeat. 

READ | SA’s best to be celebrated at NACAs and SA Sport Awards

More than awards, NACA is dedicated to honouring legacy, uplifting today’s trailblazers, and inspiring the next generation of South African artists. – SAnews.gov.za

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Tributes continue for Mama Nandi Nyembe

Source: Government of South Africa

Sunday, August 24, 2025

The Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Matome Chiloane has extended his heartfelt condolences following the passing of South Africa’s legendary actress, Mama Nandi Nyembe, who passed away on Saturday.

Mama Nandi’s career, spanning more than five decades, added richly to the cultural tapestry of the nation through her unforgettable roles in several television and film productions she starred in which includes iSibaya, Soul City, Zone 14, Yizo -Yizo, Joacob’s Cross and Yesterday, among others. 

According to the MEC, Nyembe was was more than an actress, she was an icon, mentor and an inspiration to generations of young creatives.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary Mme Nandi. She gave dignity to the stories of our people and carried them with authenticity and grace. Earlier this year, she spoke with rare honesty about her wish to keep working rather than being pitied.

“That humility and strength deeply touched the nation, reminding us of the resilience of our artists and the importance of celebrating their contributions while they are still with us. Mme Nandi’s name will forever stand among the greats who shaped South African storytelling.

“Our sincerest condolences go to the Nyembe family, friends and the entire creative community. May her soul rest in eternal peace,” the MEC said. 

READ | Condolences for actress Nandi Nyembe

Nyembe passed away at the age of 75. – SAnews.gov.za

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Condolences for actress Nandi Nyembe

Source: Government of South Africa

Prolific actress Mam’ Nandi Nyembe has been described as the “very soul of South African storytelling” and as someone who was a “teacher and guide” in the country’s arts landscape.

In a joint statement on Saturday, the Nyembe Family and the National Department of Sport, Arts and Culture announced the death of the actress.

“It is with profound sorrow that the Nyembe Family, together with the National Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, announce the passing of one of South Africa’s most treasured icons of the arts, Mam’ Nandi Nyembe. Mam’ Nandi was far more than an actress; she was the very soul of South African storytelling. 

“A teacher, a guide, and a mother to this nation, she carried our struggles, our laughter, and our victories through every performance with truth, dignity, and heart,” the department and family said.

According to the statement, the actress gave “our people pride and our stories, a purpose” and that she inspired young actors in villages and townships to dream beyond their circumstances, showing them that greatness isn’t defined by where you come from, but by how deeply you’re willing to give of yourself.

It said her extra extraordinary legacy is that her art is eternal.

“Our hearts are broken as we share the loss of our beloved mother and grandmother, Nandi Nyembe. To the world, she was a gifted actress; to us, she was our everything. Her love, laughter, and strength will stay with us always. We are so grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers and support during this time,” Nyembe’s grandson Jabulani Nyembe said.
The department expressed its deepest condolences and gratitude to the family.

Minister Gayton McKenzie said: “You shared a legend with us. Her loss is not yours alone but a loss we all feel. South Africa bows its head in sorrow but also lifts its eyes in honour of the life she lived so powerfully.” –SAnews.gov.za

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Praise for actress Nandi Nyembe

Source: Government of South Africa

Prolific actress Mam’ Nandi Nyembe has been described as the “very soul of South African storytelling” and as someone who was a” teacher and guide” in the country’s arts landscape.

In a joint statement on Saturday, the Nyembe Family and the National Department of Sport, Arts and Culture announced the death of the actress.

“It is with profound sorrow that the Nyembe Family, together with the National Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, announce the passing of one of South Africa’s most treasured icons of the arts, Mam’ Nandi Nyembe. Mam’ Nandi was far more than an actress; she was the very soul of South African storytelling. 

“A teacher, a guide, and a mother to this nation, she carried our struggles, our laughter, and our victories through every performance with truth, dignity, and heart,” the department and family said.

According to the statement, the actress gave “our people pride and our stories, a purpose” and that she inspired young actors in villages and townships to dream beyond their circumstances, showing them that greatness isn’t defined by where you come from, but by how deeply you’re willing to give of yourself.

It said her extra extraordinary legacy is that her art is eternal.

“Our hearts are broken as we share the loss of our beloved mother and grandmother, Nandi Nyembe. To the world, she was a gifted actress; to us, she was our everything. Her love, laughter, and strength will stay with us always. We are so grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers and support during this time,” Nyembe’s grandson Jabulani Nyembe said.
The department expressed its deepest condolences and gratitude to the family.

Minister Gayton McKenzie said: “You shared a legend with us. Her loss is not yours alone but a loss we all feel. South Africa bows its head in sorrow but also lifts its eyes in honour of the life she lived so powerfully.” –SAnews.gov.za