Category: South Africa Government

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SA’s agricultural exports to US demonstrates resilience despite global trade challenges

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, August 19, 2025

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen says South Africa’s increase in agricultural exports to the United States (US) demonstrates remarkable growth and resilience in the face of significant global trade headwinds.

According to recent data from Trade Map and analysis by the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz), South Africa’s exports have not only remained competitive, but have increased in the second quarter of 2025 to US$161 million, up by 26% from the same period in 2024.

Steenhuisen welcomed the performance but stressed the importance of examining the gains with a forward-looking perspective.

“The figures speak for themselves. In the first quarter of 2025, South African agricultural exports to the US were US$118 million, up by 19% year-on-year. This growth is not merely a statistical anomaly, but a reflection of a bountiful harvest; a surge in high-quality produce, and the efficient operation of our ports,” the Minister said.

Leading export products include a variety of fruits such as citrus, grapes, apples, pears, as well as nuts and wine.

The Minister said the recent imposition of a 30% tariff on South Africa’s exports by the US has underscored the urgent need to diversify the county’s export markets and enhance its competitiveness to mitigate the economic impact of losing preferential trade access.

“The results of the second quarter of 2025 also highlight how urgent it is to resolve the ongoing tariff talks with the US. The country’s capacity to gain steady, long-term access to this important market, continues to be a top priority.

“As we continue to engage in diplomatic negotiations and work towards a more favourable trade agreement, the focus remains on ensuring that our farmers and exporters can continue to thrive in the global marketplace, securing the future of our agricultural sector,” Steenhuisen said. – SAnews.gov.za

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NHLS targets 50% reduction in toxicology backlog by 2025/26

Source: Government of South Africa

The National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) has announced a targeted strategic initiative to achieve a 50% reduction in the toxicology case backlog by the end of the 2025/26 financial year.

According to the NHLS, this initiative, supported by new investments in infrastructure, technology, and human resources, aims to significantly improve turnaround times for toxicological results across all NHLS Forensic Chemistry Laboratories (FCLs).

City Press reported that forensic laboratories are overwhelmed by significant DNA and toxicology backlogs, with some cases pending for over 17 years.

“The NHLS recognises the recent media coverage and public apprehensions regarding delays in toxicology services. These concerns are legitimate, and the organisation is committed to working diligently to stabilise and expedite service delivery within the criminal justice and forensic pathology domains,” the national public entity said. 

The NHLS reported a toxicology backlog of 40 051 cases, most of which predate the NHLS’s integration of the FCLs. 

To advance this backlog recovery plan, the NHLS said it has procured new high-output analytical instruments for its laboratories in Pretoria, Johannesburg, and Cape Town. 

“These instruments are exclusively designated for backlog samples, ensuring that they do not disrupt the processing of new incoming cases,” the entity explained. 

In addition, the NHLS has hired extra technical professionals on fixed-term contracts, whose primary responsibility will be to clear the backlog, leaving permanent employees to focus on routine casework. 

In Johannesburg, additional laboratory space has been acquired to establish a dedicated backlog processing unit. 

“New submissions will be processed in an expanded area, facilitating a critical separation of functions and creating two parallel workflows that promote faster and uninterrupted processing. A similar model has been implemented in the Pretoria FCL.” 

Meanwhile, the NHLS is also in the process of expanding its toxicology services in KwaZulu-Natal, while addressing the sample capacity in Pretoria and Cape Town FCLs.

To increase capacity, the NHLS has also launched a full technical assessment of all analytical equipment, ensuring that any faulty or out-of-date instruments are serviced or replaced immediately. 

“In addition, a structured shift system is now in place, accompanied by approved overtime hours, to increase throughput and decrease sample turnaround times.” 

As part of a wider digital modernisation programme, the NHLS stated that it was transitioning its existing Labware Laboratory Information Management System to TrakCare. 

“This migration will improve performance reporting, data integrity, and management oversight, ensuring real-time visibility into progress made toward backlog targets.” 

The entity believes that this initiative represents a critical advancement toward long-term sustainability and accountability within the FCLs. 

“By enhancing both capacity and systemic efficiency, the NHLS aims to restore operational effectiveness, strengthen public confidence, and reaffirm its commitment to supporting justice and public health.” – SAnews.gov.za

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Authorities dismantle major transnational rhino horn trafficking network

Source: Government of South Africa

Six suspects appeared in the Pretoria magistrate’s court on Tuesday in connection with a scheme involving the trade of 964 rhino horns that were destined for illegal markets in Southeast Asia. 

Investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly defrauded the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) by securing permits under false pretences to buy and sell rhino horns domestically, while funnelling them into illegal international markets. 

Under South African law, domestic trade is permitted with a valid DFFE-issued permit in terms of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) of 2004.

International commercial trade in rhino horn is banned under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

“After a seven-year investigation, the Wildlife Trafficking Section of the Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit has dismantled a major transnational rhino horn trafficking network.

“The six suspects, between the ages of 49 and 84, face charges of fraud, theft, and contravention of the NEMBA, with additional charges of racketeering and money laundering under consideration,” the department said.

The six suspects, five men and one woman, surrendered to the Hawks at Sunnyside Police Station.

The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has hailed the arrests as a decisive victory in South Africa’s fight against international wildlife crime.

“This complex investigation, which was also supported by the Enforcement unit of the Department (the Green Scorpions) and the National Prosecuting Authority, is a powerful demonstration of South Africa’s resolve to protect its natural heritage.

“The Hawks’ work shows that our enforcement agencies will not hesitate to pursue those who plunder our wildlife for criminal profit. The illegal trade in rhino horn not only destroys biodiversity but also undermines the rule of law and the foundations of environmental governance,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Minister Chikunga recovering after health scare at Y20 summit

Source: Government of South Africa

Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, is recovering after experiencing a health scare during the opening of the Y20 South Africa Summit 2025 on Monday.

Chikunga was escorted off stage while delivering a keynote address at the summit, currently underway at Birchwood Conference Centre in Boksburg, Johannesburg.

The department confirmed that the Minister is recovering and has been advised to take time off her official schedule to rest and recuperate.

“The Minister remains committed to addressing the unique challenges faced by women, youth, and persons with disabilities, through economic empowerment, social justice and inclusion, as well as advocacy, mainstreaming, monitoring, and evaluation,” Selala said.

He added that the department continues to work towards “creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all, with a particular focus on empowering and enhancing the well-being of women, youth, and persons with disabilities.”

Held from 18-22 August 2025, under the theme “Youth for Global Progress: Uniting for Solidarity, Championing Equality, Driving Sustainability”, the summit is the first Y20 gathering held on African soil.

It serves as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and action, ensuring that young voices contribute meaningfully to global decision-making.

The summit aims to include voices from across the continent, amplifying youth perspectives in addressing global and regional challenges.

The discussions at the summit will focus on five thematic areas linked to South Africa’s priorities, the African Union’s Agenda 2063, and the United Nations 2030 Agenda, all reinforcing South Africa’s commitment to social and economic development and climate action.

Under the South African G20 Presidency theme of “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability”, the Y20 Summit will gather youth delegates from G20 nations, regional representatives, and additional invited nations.

In her address, before the incident, the Minister encouraged the youth delegates to consider “pathways to a fairer and more connected world, while dismantling old ones.” – SAnews.gov.za

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Eskom launches first-ever Renewable Energy Offtake Programme

Source: Government of South Africa

Eskom has announced the launch of its first-ever Renewable Energy Offtake Programme.

This marks a significant milestone in the utility’s strategic objective to facilitate a “competitive future energy industry” and integrate more clean power into the national grid.  

In a statement on Tuesday, the power utility said that it was transitioning its generation mix from predominantly coal to a blended portfolio with an increasing proportion of clean energy sources by 2040. 

The programme, unveiled through a Request for Proposal (RFP), invites large power users to procure 291MW of Solar Photovoltaic (PV) capacity through long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) from Eskom-owned renewable energy sites. 

According to Eskom, this programme follows a successful Expression of Interest (EOI) process and extensive engagement with commercial and industrial customers, which revealed strong demand for direct contracting through long-term PPAs.

These agreements enable businesses to align with global sustainability standards, reduce carbon footprints, and green their supply chains, enhancing competitiveness. 

The RFP offers tailored solutions that meet operational requirements while contributing to South Africa’s decarbonisation goals. 

Successful bidders will enter PPAs ranging from 5 to 25 years, with renewable energy delivered in phases from multiple Eskom projects. The earliest project is expected to reach commercial operation by December 2027. 

Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, said the programme was a crucial step in reshaping the company’s generation mix.

“This is the next step in the focused execution of our strategy to integrate additional renewable energy into the grid, in line with global electricity industry trends for environmentally sustainable solutions that support broader decarbonisation objectives. 

“We have seen strong interest in Eskom’s capabilities in green energy supply, which this programme demonstrates. Just over a year into our turnaround strategy, we are not only focused on ending loadshedding but are also pivoting Eskom into a sustainable and competitive company while ensuring security of supply through a customer-centric approach,” Marokane said. 

Eskom Distribution Acting Group Executive, Agnes Mlambo, said the programme signalled Eskom’s innovation in building a resilient energy future.

“This programme demonstrates Eskom’s commitment to innovation and building a cleaner, more resilient energy future. By offering customised renewable energy offtake solutions, we are enabling our customers to transition to low-carbon operations while ensuring a secure and competitive supply, through customer-centred solutions,” Mlambo said. 

She added that structured engagement with the private sector would give impetus to Eskom’s efforts to create a sustainable pathway for clean power integration into the grid. 

Eskom said it continues to develop a balanced energy mix, comprising coal, nuclear, gas, renewables, and energy storage solutions such as Battery Energy Storage Systems and pumped hydro. 

The power utility added that a renewable energy business will accelerate deployment of green projects, targeting 2 gigawatts (GW) of construction-ready capacity by 2026 and scaling up to 32GW, including Green Hydrogen projects, by 2040. – SAnews.gov.za 

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Alleged extortionists nabbed in Western Cape

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, August 19, 2025

Police have arrested suspected extortionists in Lower Crossroads in the Western Cape.

Members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) on Monday followed up on information about suspected extortionists at a building in Ntambanane Road, Lower Crossroads.

Surveillance of the premises was conducted, during which it was confirmed that the suspects were at the address. Officers approached the premises, where the suspects opened fire on them. 

“The members retaliated and in the process injured a 29-year-old suspect, who was arrested and taken for treatment at a nearby medical facility under police guard,” SAPS said. 

During the arrest, a 9mm Z88 firearm, with serial number intact, three 9mm magazines and 45 9mm rounds of ammunition were recovered on the premises and confiscated. Further investigations revealed that the firearm was reported as stolen at Philippi SAPS in June 2025.

“The members also arrested two females, aged 19 and 28, who were found on the premises. All three suspects face charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm and illegal possession of ammunition, a charge of attempted murder and attack on police. They will appear at the Athlone Magistrates Court once charged,” police said. – SAnews.gov.za

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SAPS warns of increase of ATM-related scams

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, August 19, 2025

The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape says it has noted with concern the increase in reports of ATM-related scams. 

“Criminals continue to target unsuspecting community members, particularly at busy cash points,” the South African Police Service said in a statement.

The public is urged to remain vigilant and exercise caution when using ATMs. 

The following safety guidelines are strongly recommended:

  • Always remain alert and aware of your surroundings before and after using an ATM.
  • Never disclose your card or PIN (Personal Identification Number) to anyone.
  • Do not write your PIN on your card or keep it with your card.
  • Insert your card only when prompted by the ATM screen.
  • Avoid using ATMs with blank screens or those in poorly lit or secluded areas.
  • Shield the keypad with your hand and body when entering your PIN.
  • Monitor the card slot closely to prevent skimming or card-swapping.
  • Do not accept assistance from strangers at ATMs.
  • Be cautious of individuals who attempt to distract you, as criminals often operate in groups.
  • If your card is retained by the ATM, immediately contact your bank’s toll-free stop-card line.
  • Never allow others to call the bank on your behalf, as this may be an attempt to defraud you.
  • Security personnel posted at ATMs are there to deter crime and are not authorised to assist with transactions.
  • For assistance, approach a bank official directly.
  • Consider setting a daily ATM withdrawal limit with your bank for added protection.

The SAPS also called on community members to report any suspicious behaviour or criminal activity by contacting Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or by using the MySAPS App. – SAnews.gov.za

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Campaign to curb deaths at initiation schools in N West

Source: Government of South Africa

The National Oversight Coordinating Committee and the Provincial Initiation Coordinating Committee (PICC) will launch an awareness campaign about the provisions of the Customary Initiation Act (CIA) to prevent deaths at initiation schools in the North West. 

The campaign is set to launch on Thursday, 21 August 2025, at the Bahurutshe ba ga Moiloa Traditional Council in Dinokana. 

The goal of the initiative is to raise awareness about the importance of safe and lawful cultural practices. This includes educating people about the rights of initiates, as well as the roles of traditional leaders, parents, and initiation school principals.

According to the PICC, the campaign follows the mushrooming of illegal initiation schools during the past winter initiation season, which led to over 100 initiates being rescued and the tragic death of six initiates. 

The campaign aims to achieve zero deaths during initiation seasons and eliminate unnecessary fatalities through strict enforcement of the CIA, fostering collaboration between government, traditional leaders and communities.

The event will be attended by the Chairperson of the National Initiation Oversight Committee (NIOC), Ikosi Vembi William Mahlangu; the North West PICC Chairperson, Kgosi Godfrey Gasebone; the Chairperson of the North West House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, Kgosi Thari Maotwe, traditional leaders and representatives from government departments.

Gasebone has thrown his weight behind the campaign and stated that the emergence of illegal initiation schools, especially those run by opportunists seeking financial gain, will never be tolerated.

“We call upon all traditional school principals to work with local traditional authorities, the department and the PICC to ensure compliance and approval of hosting initiation schools. If we all comply, this will go a long way in safeguarding the lives of our young people,” Gasebone said. 

The CIA aims to protect, promote, and regulate initiation practices. It also establishes acceptable norms and standards, oversees initiation processes, and coordinates structures for this purpose. 

In addition, the CIA focuses on the protection of life, the prevention of injuries, and the safeguarding of people from all forms of abuse. 

It also addresses the governance aspects of initiation, protects the traditional practice, and ensures that initiation is conducted in accordance with constitutional and legal requirements.

“As per the Act, no person must be forced or coerced into attending initiation school. No person under the age of 16 may attend initiation, and a person between 16 and 18 years may only attend after obtaining written consent letter from parents,” the PICC said.  

It announced that principals of initiation schools have until 3 October 2025 to apply for permission to operate schools during the summer initiation season. 

In addition, traditional surgeons must be at least 40 years old, have undergone initiation more than 10 years ago, and must have served as a mentor to others for a minimum of five years. – SAnews.gov.za 

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Let the dialogue begin, let all voices be heard – President Ramaphosa

Source: Government of South Africa

Let the dialogue begin, let all voices be heard – President Ramaphosa

In his weekly newsletter to the nation, President Cyril Ramaphosa described the launch of the National Dialogue as one of the most important undertakings in the history of South Africa’s democracy, urging all citizens to participate in shaping the country’s future.

The first National Convention of the National Dialogue concluded on Saturday with a call for South Africans from all walks of life to begin conversations on the issues affecting their communities and the nation. 

“We are about to embark on one of the most important undertakings in the history of our democracy. We all have a responsibility to make it work. Let the dialogue begin and let every voice be heard,” the President said. 

The convention, which was attended by just over 1 000 delegates from organisations drawn from all sectors of society, was the kick-off for thousands of public dialogues that will take place for the next few months and into the beginning of next year. 
 
The public dialogues will take place at a local level in wards and at a sectoral level. Citizens will also be encouraged to organise their own dialogues, bringing people together to discuss the issues that concern them and to look for solutions to the challenges they face.
 
The President said the outcomes of each of these dialogues will be recorded and collated through a special digital platform. There will also be mechanisms in place to enable those without access to the technology to submit the outcomes of their dialogues.
 
These discussions will culminate in a second National Convention in 2026, where a clear vision for the country is expected to be outlined, along with a social compact defining the roles and responsibilities of all sectors of society, including government, business, labour, traditional leaders, religious organisations and civic bodies.

“The form and content of these outcomes will ultimately be determined by the South African people through their discussions. The first National Convention reflected the great diversity of the country’s people and their enthusiasm to get involved in the debate,” the President said. 

He highlighted that delegates were clear that citizens themselves must determine the issues discussed and must use whatever approaches and methods that suit them and their circumstances. 

READ | First National Convention closes with a call for citizen-led change

They stressed that what may work in urban centres may not be applicable in rural areas, and that different methods may be required for organised sectors compared to informal communities.

The President further noted that there was a strong emphasis at the convention on inclusion and participation, with some delegates expressing concern that important voices were missing from the gathering. There was a firm view that special efforts should be made to reach and include groups and people who were often left out or marginalised.
 
Preparations for the National Dialogue have been underway for many months, drawing together foundations of struggle stalwarts, civil society bodies and the Presidency. They were given the responsibility to organise the first National Convention and lay the basis for the public dialogues that would follow it.
 
The President said the convention was the moment at which the people of South Africa would take over the National Dialogue. Delegates discussed the formation of a Steering Committee, consisting of nominees from all sectors of society, to take the process forward. 

Each of the sectors held discussions at the convention on how they would select their respective nominee for the Steering Committee by the end of August 2025. They agreed that these processes need to be inclusive and that the Steering Committee needs to be representative. 
 
In taking the National Dialogue forward, the Steering Committee would be supported and guided by the Eminent Persons Group, prominent South Africans tasked with championing the dialogue and providing advice. The Eminent Persons Group will also advise the Head of State as the convenor of the National Dialogue to ensure that it is inclusive and credible.

“There should be no person, no part of society and no institution – either public or private – that is excluded from the conversation. The dialogue should break down the barriers between ‘insiders’ and ‘outsiders’ and challenge notions of ‘us’ and ‘them’. 

“At the same time, we should not seek a form of unity that is based only on sentiment, but a unity that is forged through constructive and honest discussion on the difficult questions our country faces – and an agreed programme of action,” the President said. 

President Ramaphosa said the National Dialogue must be a platform where all voices are heard, where divisions between insiders and outsiders are broken down, and where South Africans engage openly, even in disagreement, to find common ground. 

“Disagreeing is part of engaging in a meaningful and robust dialogue. It is through the expression of different views that we will be able to give full legitimacy and credence to the dialogue. We should therefore make a determined effort to air our differences with a view to finding agreement on the actions we need to take together to build a better society, in which every person has an equal opportunity to prosper,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

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President Ramaphosa receives briefing from President Putin

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, 18 August 2025, received a briefing from President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation, on the outcome of the meeting with President Donald Trump, that was recently held in Anchorage, Alaska in the United States of America. 

President Putin expressed satisfaction with the manner in which his talks with President Trump proceeded and the emerging alignment on the peace process. 

President Ramaphosa appreciated the briefing from President Putin. The President underscored the need for more compromise on key issues for lasting peace to be attained between Russia and Ukraine. 

Both leaders once again pledged to maintain open lines of communication and to continue their cooperation on issues of bilateral interests. 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria