Category: South Africa Government

Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina, together with Deputy Minister David Mahlobo, will hand over some 150 completed low-flush sanitation systems at the Zenzele and OR Tambo townships in the Rand West Municipality, Gauteng, on Monday.

The Minister will be accompanied by Mayor William Matsheke and the Rand Water Foundation delegation and will also visit and showcase 15 of the newly completed household sanitation installations.

“Minister Majodina will also hand over a Decentralised Water Supply System at Lukhanyo Secondary School in Mohlakeng Township, providing the school and surrounding community with a reliable and consistent water supply,” the Department of Water and Sanitation said ahead of the visit.

On Tuesday, Majodina and Mahlobo will hand over a further 100 completed low-flush household sanitation systems at the Mimosa Township in the Victor Khanye Local Municipality, Mpumalanga.

The new sanitation systems will benefit some 500 residents in the area.

“During the same visit, the Minister, accompanied by the Rand Water Foundation Board and Rand Water leadership, will also hand over two Decentralised Water Supply Systems in Brakfontein village and Savanna Ward 7, providing immediate access to safe drinking water in communities affected by water supply constraints,” the department added.

Government has committed to resolving water and sanitation challenges by implementing interventions.
“The handovers highlight the Department’s partnership with Rand Water and the Rand Water Foundation in accelerating service delivery, strengthening water security and ensuring that vulnerable communities have access to safe water and dignified sanitation infrastructure,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Western Cape police are probing the deaths of 11 individuals in three separate shooting incidents in Langa, Gugulethu and Khayelitsha.

“Provincial Serious Violent Crimes Unit detectives are investigating three separate shooting incidents in Langa, Gugulethu and Khayelitsha after 11 people were shot and killed overnight,” the South African Police Service (SAPS) said on Sunday.

In one incident, three men aged 25, 31 and 35 were shot dead in the TR Section at Lingelethu West in Khayelitsha on Saturday evening.

Meanwhile, in Langa, four men and a woman were shot and killed at Winnie Mandela Street in Phase 3, KwaLanga at approximately 22:45.

In another incident that occurred in the Barcelona informal settlement in Gugulethu, two men and a woman were also shot dead at 04:10 on Sunday morning. Two other victims sustained injuries from the shooting.

Western Cape police have reinforced deployments in the affected areas as well as other potential hotspots. The motive for the shooting incidents is the subject of the police investigations that are currently underway.

“Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sizakhele Dyantyi and his management team are visiting the affected communities with a view to strengthening investigations and overseeing deployments in the areas. No arrests have been made yet.”

Anyone with information that could help expedite the police investigations is urged to contact the SAPS on 08600 10111. Information may also be shared anonymously via the MySAPS mobile application. All information received will be handled in strict confidence. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Eskom has, this financial year, recorded the highest Energy Availability Factor (EAF) performance in six years.

The EAF for the financial year to date has improved by some 7.19%, rising to 67.24% from a low of 60.05% achieved during the corresponding period last year.

“This is the highest financial year-to-date EAF achieved since 18 November 2020, reflecting the impact of sustained operational improvements and structural interventions implemented across the generation fleet.
“Compared with the same period three years ago, Eskom’s EAF has improved by 11.9%, returning approximately 5.9GW of generating capacity to the grid. Notably, more than 85% of the coal fleet is currently operating at EAF levels between 70% and 92%,” the power utility said on Friday.
Improvements are reflected in the reduction of unplanned outages.

“Between 31 July and 6 August 2026, average unplanned outages declined significantly to 7 718MW, down from 10 758MW during the same period last year. This represents a reduction of 3 039MW, or 28.3% year-on-year. This reduction is almost equivalent to the size of the generating capacity of a power station such as Tutuka.

“This sustained improvement is also reflected in the Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor [UCLF], which significantly improved to 16.12% from 22.60% in the corresponding period last year, underscoring the continued gains achieved through Eskom’s Generation Recovery Plan.

“Together, these achievements have strengthened system reliability, supported a stable electricity supply and enabled South Africa to meet increased Winter demand while maintaining energy security,” the power utility explained.

Furthermore, Eskom has some 3360MW in cold reserve due to “excess capacity, providing further assurance of system adequacy”.

“The continued strengthening of Eskom’s operational performance reflects a progressive shift from Recovery to Reliability and Sustainability.

“Sustained improvements across the generation fleet are delivering a more dependable electricity supply, significantly reducing reliance on diesel generation and reinforcing South Africa’s energy security.

“Stronger plant performance and improved system resilience are enabling Eskom to meet demand more efficiently while creating lasting operational and financial benefits for customers, communities and the broader economy,” Eskom said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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The Acting Minister of Police, Firoz Cachalia, together with the Premier of Gauteng, Panyaza Lesufi and the Acting National Commissioner, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, will today visit the scene in Reiger Park, Ekurhuleni, where two civilian women and two members of the Anti-Gang Unit tragically lost their lives.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the delegation will also be joined by Gauteng Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, as they visit the scene on Sunday afternoon.

This as the Acting National Commissioner appealed to the community of Reiger Park and surrounding areas to stand with the police and assist investigators in bringing to justice those responsible for the killings.
Government also condemned Friday’s incident in which the two officers were conducting patrols in the area when they heard gunshots and moved towards the source of the shots and were subsequently shot and killed.

“Government will not allow criminal elements and gangs to undermine the ability of law enforcement to protect communities and uphold the law. Law enforcement agencies have deployed resources to apprehend those responsible for these killings. Every effort will be made to ensure that those behind this attack are brought to justice and face the full might of the law,” Acting Government Spokesperson Nomonde Mnukwa said in a statement.

SAPS’ Crime Intelligence, Tracking Team, Crime Scene Management as well as the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation has been mobilised to bring the perpetrators to justice.

Reiger Park community members are urged to work with police to provide any information they have on the incident.

“Communities have a vital role to play in reclaiming their neighbourhoods from gangs, drugs and other forms of criminality. Government recognises that the fight against crime cannot be won by law enforcement alone.

“Communities are an essential partner in this effort. Community members are encouraged to work with the police, report criminal activity and provide information that can assist in disrupting criminal activities.
“The killing of these two officers reinforces the need for a united response to criminality. 

“Government will continue to strengthen law enforcement operations and work with communities to create safer neighbourhoods, while ensuring that those who threaten the safety and security of South Africans are held accountable,” the statement read.

Increased measures have been rolled out by the government to combat organised and violent offences, encompassing both gang criminality and illicit narcotics.

“Through sustained, intelligence-led and multidisciplinary operations such as Operation Shanela, law enforcement agencies are targeting crime hotspots, tracing wanted suspects, disrupting criminal networks and removing illegal drugs and other illicit goods from communities.

“Government remains resolute in protecting the lives and safety of all South Africans and in defending the rule of law,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has urged Banyana Banyana to hold their heads up high following their elimination from the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON 2026).

“Defeat is temporary, but our love for Banyana Banyana is permanent. Lessons were learned, and we shall return a better team. Hold your heads high, ladies,” the Minister said in a post on social media platform X.

The national senior women’s football team crashed out of the WAFCON following a 1-2 defeat to tournament host Morocco on Saturday night.

“Banyana Banyana found themselves a goal down in the first half after Sakina Ouzraoui scored the opening goal of the match in the 31st minute. The Moroccans were awarded a penalty early in the second half,” the South African Football Association (SAFA) said.

Saturday’s quarter-final match was played at the Moulay el Hassan Stadium in Rabat.

“Coach Dr Desiree Ellis’ charges fought their way back and forced the hosts on the back foot, with Thembi Kgatlana pulling one back in the 67th minute. Banyana Banyana fought very hard for the equaliser, but in the end, Morocco held on to proceed to the next stage of the tournament,” said SAFA.

Meanwhile, Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Lebogang Maile, commended the team for putting up a good fight at WAFCON.

“The team gave it their all, but unfortunately it was not enough to see them through this time around.  It is unfortunate that Banyana’s journey in the competition came to an end unexpectedly.

“We are still proud of Banyana Banyana despite their elimination from the competition, as they displayed courage, determination and resilience. The team put up a brave fight against formidable teams of the continent throughout the competition. We thank the coach, players and the technical team for not giving up after a rough start. Reaching the knockout stages was not easy, and they gave it their best”.

“Their determination to keep on fighting is emblematic of the spirit of the women of 1956 who never wavered even when it was difficult. As we observe the 70th anniversary of the historic Women’s march, we wish to encourage Banyana not to be despondent and learn from those who came before them as they prepare for the future”, said the MEC.

This is as government encouraged all South Africans to unite behind the team and celebrate how far they have come.
READ | Government urges nation to support Banyana Banyana
–SAnews.gov.za

 

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As South Africa commemorates Women’s Day today, the South African Police Service (SAPS) is shining the spotlight on Captain Karin Botha, a forensic social worker who played a role in the sentencing of three human traffickers to four life terms in prison earlier this year.

Botha, who is attached to the Germiston Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) unit in Gauteng, played a role in the sentencing of the three suspects.

“Captain Botha played an instrumental role in the sentencing of three human traffickers to four life terms and 110 years’ imprisonment each on 23 April 2026. The sentences will run concurrently.

“The three Zimbabwean nationals were found guilty by the Gauteng Division of the High Court in Johannesburg on multiple counts of trafficking in persons, fraud, contravention of the Immigration Act as well as possession, destruction, concealment or tampering with documents.

“In August 2022, one of the traffickers and four child victims, aged between six and 14, were reportedly en route to Ireland when they were intercepted at the OR Tambo International Airport; they were in possession of fraudulent travel documentation. Two more traffickers were shortly arrested.

“The investigating officer referred the child victims to Captain Botha to assist with forensic assessments. By gaining their trust, Captain Botha was able to obtain a detailed account of events from the victims,” said the South African Police Service (SAPS).

Her contribution strengthened the evidential value of the child victims’ testimony, which led to the successful prosecution of the three accused.

This Women’s Month, the SAPS is paying homage to its women in blue through a campaign,  which celebrates the courage, dedication and professionalism of female police officers who are making a meaningful difference in the lives of women, children and other vulnerable groups while advancing the SAPS Reset Agenda through ethical leadership, accountability and service excellence.

The 41-year-old Botha joined the service nine years ago.

“Captain Botha’s core function as a forensic social worker is to conduct forensic interviews in the investigation of child abuse cases. By using age-appropriate techniques, Captain Botha obtains accurate information from child victims to assist courts to make just and fair decisions,” said the police.

Captain Botha continuously strives for service excellence and was awarded on numerous occasions for her invaluable contribution in securing sentences in courts.

In 2020, Captain Botha was awarded a Certificate of Commendation by the Minister of Police for the role she played in the sentencing of a paedophile to life in prison and an additional 100 years’ imprisonment for multiple counts of possession, manufacturing and distribution of child pornography as well as child abuse.

Botha, fondly known as ‘tannie Karin’ – holds a degree in Social Work and a Master’s degree in Forensic Practice. She believes being a forensic social worker is a calling which enables her to be a voice for ‘voiceless’ child victims in court.

“Being a forensic social worker is my calling. My job is not easy; my clients are children whose innocence was stolen the moment they were violated. My duty and purpose is to ensure justice is served by being a voice for these young victims in court,” says Botha.

Captain Karin Botha personifies the values set out in the SAPS’ Reset Agenda as she continues to serve the people of South Africa with dignity, honour and pride. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

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With Banyana Banyana set to take on Morocco in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) quarter-final match tonight, government is calling on all South Africans to continue supporting the senior women’s national team.

“Government encourages all South Africans to unite behind the team and celebrate how far they have come. Their courage, determination and resilience have inspired the nation and demonstrated that South Africa can compete with the very best on the global stage,” Acting Government Spokesperson Nomonde Mnukwa said.

The match will get underway at 10 pm.

“Wear your Banyana Banyana jerseys, national colours or other South African symbols of support. Whether at home, at work or in public spaces, let us rally behind the National Women’s team as they continue to make South Africa proud,” she said.

The Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe, has also called on all South Africans to rally behind the team in the crucial match.

READ | Call to rally behind Banyana Banyana

Banyana Banyana booked their place in the quarter-finals after defeating Burkina Faso 1-0 in Casablanca, Morocco, on Tuesday night. –SAnews.gov.za

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President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the keynote address at the 2026 National Women’s Day commemoration event at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Sunday.

“This occasion will mark the 70th anniversary of the 1956 protest march to the Union Buildings by at least 20 000 women. The 1956 march opposed the apartheid government’s decision to extend urban pass laws to women, and was a precursor to major political changes over [the] coming decades that led to the demise of the racist regime in South Africa,” the Presidency said on Friday.

The National Women’s Day commemorations this year take place under the theme: “Empowered Women, Empower Nations.”

Since 1994, National Women’s Day is celebrated on 09 August every year as part of Women’s Month.

“This year’s celebration emphasises improving women’s access to quality healthcare, vital for sustainable development, social justice and economic growth.”

The Presidency said Women’s Month provides an opportunity for government and civil society to highlight the challenges confronting women and profile programmes and policies that advance women’s empowerment and gender equity.  

It also provides an opportunity to pay tribute to the generations of women such as Lilian Ngoyi whose struggles laid the foundations for the progress made in the democratic era in empowering women and advancing gender equality.

At the launch of Women’s Month on 1 August, Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Sindisiwe Chikunga reflected on the impact of the 20 000 women who marched in 1956.

“With every step, they shook the pillars of oppression. With every stride, they redrew the boundaries of possibility. They marched as the authors of our liberation and freedom, the midwives of democracy, the first architects of a more equal South Africa and the custodians of a future they would never fully see but boldly chose to build.

“They became the rhythm of a nation’s progress, echoing through every classroom, every boardroom, every parliament, every marketplace, and every enterprise led by women today,” the Minister said at the time. –SAnews.gov.za
 

 

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With a cold front expected to bring very cold, wet and windy conditions to parts of the country from Sunday, government is urging the public to remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has advised that a cold front is expected to make landfall over the Western and Northern Cape, bringing cold to very cold, wet and windy conditions, rough seas and snowfall over mountainous areas.

The system is expected to move eastwards, with these conditions spreading to the Eastern Cape and further inland. Snow is expected over mountainous areas of the Free State, KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga, while there is a lower probability of light snow over some other higher-lying areas.

The expected conditions may result in localised flooding, damaging winds, rough seas, very cold conditions and snowfall over mountainous areas, with potential impacts on communities, infrastructure and travel. Farmers are urged to take appropriate measures to protect livestock from the cold, including ensuring that animals have access to safe, sheltered and adequately protected areas.

“Government, through the relevant authorities, is monitoring the developing weather system and calls on communities, motorists, farmers and other members of the public to remain informed and take appropriate precautions,” Acting Government Spokesperson, Nomonde Mnukwa said on Friday.

Members of the public are urged to:
•    Monitor the latest SAWS weather forecasts and warnings and follow guidance issued by disaster management authorities.
•    Plan journeys carefully and check weather and road conditions before travelling, particularly in areas where heavy rain, snow or strong winds are expected.
•    Exercise extra caution when driving in adverse weather conditions, reduce speed, maintain a safe following distance and use headlights where visibility is poor.
•    Never attempt to cross flooded roads, bridges or fast-flowing water, either on foot or in a vehicle. Turn around and seek a safer alternative route.
•    Exercise particular caution when travelling through mountainous areas and mountain passes, where snowfall may result in slippery roads, hazardous driving conditions, road closures and travel disruptions.
•    Communities living in low-lying and flood-prone areas should remain alert to rising water levels. 
•    Secure loose objects, equipment and structures around homes and properties that could be displaced or damaged by strong winds.
•    Ensure that children, older persons, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable members of communities are adequately protected from the cold.

“Government further calls on the public to rely on official and verified information from government, bona fide media and SAWS. The South African Weather Services provides regular updates via mainstream media and social media. You can also access more information on their website: https://www.weathersa.co.za/,” she said.

Government also called on the public to avoid sharing unverified weather reports that may cause confusion or unnecessary concern.

“Members of the public are urged to remain alert, plan ahead and prioritise safety,” said Mnukwa.

READ | Cold, wet and windy conditions expected for the long weekend

The weather service said it expects the upper-air trough is expected to deepen even further as it moves over the central to eastern parts of the country, spreading the cold to very cold conditions with rain and showers further inland, while scattered to widespread rain and showers are expected over the southern parts of the country on Monday, 10 August. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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While urging eligible South Africans to cast their vote in the upcoming Local Government Elections, the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, has also called on voters to ensure peaceful, credible, free, and fair municipal elections.

“Minister Hlabisa urges all South Africans to ensure peaceful, credible, free, and fair municipal elections. The Minister [has] urged all South Africans, especially women, youth, persons with disabilities, and people in rural areas under different traditional authorities to go out to strengthen democracy by voting in the coming elections on 04 November 2026,” the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) said.

This is as Minister Hlabisa gazetted the date of the municipal elections, as published in Government Gazette No. 55162, on Friday. 

READ | Minister gazettes date of Local Government Elections

“The Minister of CoGTA has the responsibility in terms of the Constitution, section 159 read with the Municipal Structures Act, which prescribes that at the end of a five-year term of local government, elections must be held within a period of 90 days. Gazetting of the election date means that the IEC will close the voters’ roll and registration for the election will stop as the elections are drawing closer,” said the department.

The Minister thanked citizens who ensured that they are registered and their names appear in the voters’ roll following the registration drive undertaken by the Electoral Commission.

Online registration and updating of voter registration details for the upcoming elections closed at midnight on Friday.

“Following the gazetting of the election date and the closure of the voters’ roll, the IEC [Electoral Commission] will over the course of the election period provide updates on processes until the election date. As the gazetting of the date signals the beginning of the election period, we are now all looking towards voting day,” the department said.

The gazette can be accessed here: https://www.cogta.gov.za/index.php/2026/08/07/45019/ 

At a media briefing on Friday, the Electoral Commission welcomed the proclamation of 4 November 2026 as the election date. The Commission also announced the publication of the Election Timetable.

The timetable serves as the guiding framework for various preparations, ranging from the finalisation and certification of the voters’ roll for these elections to candidate nominations, objections, voting arrangements, special votes and the declaration of results. –SAnews.gov.za 

 

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