Category: South Africa Government

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Gauteng Education provides update on municipal debt payment 

Source: Government of South Africa

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has paid R426.27 million of the R426.45 million that was owed to municipalities and Eskom for schools without Section 21(1)(d) functions. 

“As of 30 June 2025, the GDE had successfully paid a total of R426.27 million, representing 99.95% of the R426.45 million that was owed to municipalities and Eskom for schools without Section 21(1)(d) functions. The small outstanding balance of R175,853.61 (0.05%) was due to a delay resulting from updates to the Standard Chart of Accounts (SCOA), a reform implemented by the Provincial Treasury to improve public financial management systems,” the provincial department said.

Earlier this month, the department reiterated that, in line with legislation, schools – specifically those granted Section 21 functions – are entrusted with managing their own finances. These schools are responsible for a range of functions, including the payment of municipal services such as electricity and water.

READ | Gauteng Education allocates funds to schools 

This as the department provided an update on the fulfilment of its commitment to settle all outstanding municipal debts owed by schools as of 31 March 2025 and outline critical infrastructure interventions aimed at addressing overcrowding across the province’s public schools.

In its update on Thursday, the department confirmed that the remaining balance will be paid during the scheduled payment runs between 25 July and 8 August 2025. 

“This payment will bring the total settlement to 100%, thereby closing the commitment made in April 2025,” it said.

The GDE provides annual allocations to schools in accordance with the Amended National Norms and Standards for School Funding. School Governing Bodies (SGBs) are guided through circulars and compliance workshops to ensure appropriate usage of these funds and are expected to supplement state resources to ensure sustainability.

Currently, the GDE retains direct financial oversight of 40 schools in the province that have not been granted Section 21 functions. 

“As of 30 June 2025, these schools collectively owed R105,391.24 in municipal debt. The department confirms that none of these schools experienced any water or electricity disconnections and continues to monitor and manage service payments on their behalf. The department reaffirms its commitment to ensuring no public school in Gauteng is or will be disconnected from water and electricity due to unpaid accounts,” it explained.
 

Overcrowding 

As part of efforts to address overcrowding in provincial schools, the department has allocated R2.8 billion in the 2025/26 financial year toward school infrastructure. 

“Of this allocation, R1.489 billion is dedicated to the construction of new and replacement schools; R615 million will support upgrades and additions, including mobile classrooms and self-build projects; R166 million is earmarked for refurbishment and rehabilitation; and R476 million is allocated for maintenance interventions.”

The GDE’s approach to overcrowding combines various infrastructure strategies, including the construction of new schools on available sites, brick-and-mortar self-build classroom projects within existing schools, and the provision of mobile classrooms where immediate relief is required. 

It added that it procures mobile classrooms are procured directly and not through monthly lease agreements, ensuring cost-effectiveness in their deployment.

To accelerate school infrastructure delivery in high-pressure areas, the department is exploring a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

Under this model, private sector partners would finance, design, build, and potentially operate or maintain public schools for a defined period, with the department amortising payments over time. This model aims to unlock private capital, fast-track delivery timelines, and ensure long-term sustainability while maintaining public oversight and accountability.

MEC Matome Chiloane said the department remains committed to ensuring sound financial governance.

“As the department, we remain committed to ensuring sound financial governance, transparency, and service continuity in all public schools. We call on all education stakeholders, particularly parents, communities, and School Governing Bodies, to continue working closely with the Department to deliver quality learning environments across Gauteng,” he said. –SAnews.gov.za

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Government cracks down on water mafia

Source: Government of South Africa

Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahlobo has reaffirmed government’s commitment to tackling the growing challenge of water infrastructure sabotage and criminal activities of the so-called “water mafia”, who continue to violate citizens’ constitutional right to water access.

Speaking during a webinar hosted by the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), Mahlobo described the destruction, vandalism and extortion within the water sector as acts of “economic sabotage that preys on the most vulnerable and obstructs the country’s developmental goals”.

He highlighted how criminal syndicates, often in collusion with unscrupulous individuals, are deliberately disrupting water supply networks, including damaging pump stations, pipelines, and valves. They then profit by selling water through tankers at inflated prices.

“These activities not only cripple infrastructure but also endanger public health, inflate municipal budgets through recurring repair costs and degrade the dignity of affected communities,” Mahlobo said.

The webinar held this week under the theme: ‘Sabotage of Essential Water Infrastructure and Water Mafias: What Can Be Done?’, focused on initiatives underway to address the sabotage of essential water infrastructure and water mafias.

Mahlobo noted that the widespread and coordinated criminal operations have led to water outages due to the theft of critical components like pipes, cables and meters.

He warned that the problem is not only limited to urban centres but is emerging across the country and requires urgent, coordinated and forceful action.

He said department would intensify its collaboration with law enforcement agencies and all levels of government to ensure that those behind the sabotage are identified and prosecuted.

“We will not tolerate the deliberate sabotage of our water infrastructure. These criminal acts are an attack on our constitutional democracy and our commitment to human rights.

“There will be no hesitation in acting against those responsible. We are closing the space for criminals to operate, and we will pursue them relentlessly through law enforcement, community mobilisation and with the full weight of State institutions,” the Deputy Minister warned.

Mahlobo underscored the importance of community participation in protecting infrastructure. He urged citizens to report suspicious activities, support educational campaigns, and embrace a culture of whistleblowing to expose criminal networks and corruption within the water sector.

He also called for a culture of whistleblowing, encouraging individuals with knowledge of criminal networks or corruption in the sector to come forward, adding that their role is vital in rooting out entrenched criminality.

The Deputy Minister outlined the department’s comprehensive response, including the implementation of the 2025 National Water and Sanitation Indaba resolutions, which prioritise infrastructure protection strategies, public education campaigns and partnerships with law enforcement.

“Communities are also being urged to embrace innovation, as municipalities begin deploying technology such as surveillance systems, remote sensors and smart infrastructure to detect and prevent sabotage.”

Mahlobo called on all South Africans, particularly civil society, organised labour, water activists, conservation groups and traditional leaders, to unite against the sabotage of national infrastructure.

“All acts of theft, vandalism or extortion should be reported without delay to local law enforcement or municipal security authorities,” he said.

Mahlobo reaffirmed government’s stance that water access is a non-negotiable human right and “must never be held hostage by criminals”.

“Water is life, and no criminal syndicate will be allowed to hijack the public’s right to it. We are acting decisively, and we urge every South African to be part of the solution.

“We must defend this resource together. Through strong partnerships, community vigilance and courageous whistleblowing, we will protect our water and secure our future,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Home Affairs dismisses a further five officials 

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, July 31, 2025

The Department of Home Affairs has dismissed five officials for corruption and sexual assault.

“On Monday, 28 July 2025, the Department of Home Affairs dismissed a further five officials, with immediate effect, for offences ranging from fraud to sexual assault. The total number of officials dismissed between July 2024 and July 2025 now stands at 38,” the Ministry of Home Affairs said.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Ministry said eight officials have already been convicted and sentenced to prison terms ranging from four to 18 years, while the criminal prosecution of another 19 is underway. 

“These dismissals follow on the crackdown on a passport syndicate in Durban just last month, where two officials and three members of the public were arrested. These results demonstrate the growing success of Home Affairs in dealing with criminal syndicates both inside and outside the department,” said the Ministry.

Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber said the days of defrauding the department are over.

“In just 12 months, we have already rid Home Affairs of 38 crooked and delinquent officials. I repeat my warning to anyone involved in corruption: the days of defrauding this department or committing acts of sexual harassment or abuse while relying on long drawn-out disciplinary processes, are over.”

The Minister thanked the department’s diligent officials, including those involved in accelerating disciplinary processes, who are playing a critical role “in our work to clean up Home Affairs”.

“Committed officials like these are the future of Home Affairs, as we continue to work together as #TeamHomeAffairs to clean out the corrupt elements that represent the past,” said the Minister.-SAnews.gov.za 

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Navigating the Jukskei: An in depth look into the legendary Joburg river

Source: Government of South Africa

The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) Press will launch a new book this evening that explores the diverse ways in which the Jukskei River has influenced the cultural, social, political and scientific narratives of Johannesburg.

Titled ‘Johannesburg from the Riverbanks: Navigating the Jukskei’, this engaging volume is edited by Mehita Iqani and Renugan Raidoo.

According to HSRC, this innovative volume brings together an array of interdisciplinary voices, shedding light on the complex and often tangled relationships between the city and this vital waterway. 

Five different launches have been organised, starting with the launch at Exclusive Books in Rosebank on Thursday, 31 July 2025, from 6:30 pm.

The organisation said the book builds on the insightful discussions and interdisciplinary perspectives shared at the 2022 Riparian Urbanism Conference, which brought together a diverse range of voices to explore the complex relationship between the city and this river. 

“From the bustling inner city to the tranquil northern suburbs, the Jukskei’s history acts as a mirror reflecting the city’s growth, struggles and stark inequalities. 

“Readers will uncover the dynamic interaction of memories, identities, and aspirations that the river embodies, all while addressing the urgent environmental challenges resulting from modernisation.” 

Professor Emeritus at the University of the Witwatersrand, Isabel Hofmeyr, said this “treasure trove of a book” tells stories of how Johannesburg and the Jukskei River make each other. 

“A sparkling compendium of chapters and images by artists, activists, scientists, urban planners, and historians will make you think about the river in new ways,” she said. 

Professor of History at the University of the Witwatersrand, Mucha Musemwa, believes the book not only investigates the Jukskei River itself but also enriches the city’s understanding of Johannesburg in refreshing ways. 

“[It is] an invigorating read for anyone interested in the intersection of nature and urban life,” he said. 

The Head of the History Workshop at the University of the Witwatersrand, Noor Nieftagodien, believes that authors highlight how the processes of modernisation, such as the mining industry and urbanisation, have contaminated this historic waterway. 

Nieftagodien said they also illustrate how the banks of the river reflect the city’s significant inequalities.

“Yet, amidst these challenges, artists and activists offer hope by reimagining our relationship with the river, making this a crucial contribution to current conversations about environmental crises,” Nieftagodien added. 

Click here on the link to RSVP https://exclusivebooks.co.za/pages/events#?event-id=55150. – SAnews.gov.za

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Hlabisa engages with business on review of White Paper on Local Government

Source: Government of South Africa

Hlabisa engages with business on review of White Paper on Local Government

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, has wrapped up the fourth strategic CoGTA–National Business Initiative (NBI) Roundtable focused on reviewing the 1998 White Paper on Local Government.

This final session took place yesterday in East London, Eastern Cape, in anticipation of the 31 July 2025 deadline for public submissions on the Discussion Document regarding the review of the White Paper.

This Eastern Cape-focused session follows successful engagements in the Western Cape, Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, forming part of a broader, inclusive and participatory policy reform process under the theme: ‘Every Municipality Must Work – A Call to Collective Action’.

“The roundtable aimed to harness practical insights from the business sector to shape a modern, fit-for-purpose local government system. 

“In his keynote address, Minister Hlabisa emphasised the critical importance of leadership in local government, particularly regarding competence, capability, and ethical conduct,” a CoGTA statement read. 

The talks provided the business sector with a platform to reflect on the legacy and limitations of the 1998 White Paper and identify policy priorities for a renewed local government framework. 

Hlabisa commended the cleanliness of East London, noting that this final consultation was not a cosmetic exercise but a substantive effort to reset the vision of the 1998 White Paper. 

He also acknowledged the current challenges facing municipalities, including rapid urbanisation, climate change, youth unemployment and declining public trust.

“Throughout the public consultations, a consistent message has emerged from traditional leaders, business, civil society organisations, and citizens alike that every municipality must work to create a conducive environment for investment, stimulate economic activity, and ensure sustainable service delivery matched by payment for services.” 

The Minister further reflected on the need to reposition municipalities as economic enablers through a differentiated funding regime, overseen by a competent and accountable leadership. 

He also stressed the importance of streamlining regulatory frameworks to enable climate-resilient planning, budgeting, and infrastructure development – guided by investment foresight and institutionalised collaborative partnerships beyond the review process.

“In conclusion, the Minister committed to requesting the establishment of a dedicated unit within the South African Police Service (SAPS) to combat corruption in local government, noting that eliminating corruption is essential to achieving effective governance,” CoGTA said.

The Minister was joined by the Executive Mayor of Buffalo City Metro, Princess Faku, who welcomed the timely review, highlighting the complex challenges municipalities face and the need for tailored collaborations with business to address capacity constraints and stimulate local economic development.

The CEO of NBI, Shameela Soobramoney, described the engagement as a pivotal moment to shape sustainable and inclusive local government systems. 

She emphasised the need for the evolution of Integrated Development Plans (IDPs) into investment prospectuses – bankable project portfolios that can drive meaningful change.

“Efficient local government is essential for economic growth and business sustainability. This roundtable offered business leaders a strategic platform to influence policies that reduce investment risk and foster a more conducive business environment.” – SAnews.gov.za 
 

Gabisile

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Deputy President Mashatile to lead outreach programme on integrated service delivery in the North West Province

Source: President of South Africa –

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Friday, 01 August 2025, undertake an outreach programme, aimed at addressing service delivery challenges facing communities, through integrated Government service delivery initiatives, in Moretele Local Municipality, Bojanala District, in the North West Province.

Joined by the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Ms Pemmy Majodina, Deputy President Mashatile will commence his visit by handing over a 25ML Concrete Water Reservoir to the Moretele Local Municipality, as part of a commitment by Government to improve the provision of reliable water supply to communities.   
 
These initiatives are in line with the clarion call by President Cyril Ramaphosa, to elevate the provision of quality water services to communities. As one of its apex national priorities, Government has committed to spend over R940 billion on infrastructure over the next three years, to revitalise roads and bridges, build dams and waterways, modernise ports and airports and power the economy. 

Deputy President Mashatile will, as part of the outreach programme to the Moretele Local Municipality, also embark on a Clean Cities and Towns campaign in Mogogelo Village, in the Bojanala Platinum District Municipality. This nationwide campaign is aimed at fostering cleaner, greener, and more inclusive urban spaces, while advancing sustainability, equality, and solidarity among all citizens.  

On the conclusion of his visit to the North West, the Deputy President will deliver remarks at a Community Meeting, which will provide an opportunity for Government leadership to give feedback on progress achieved in addressing service delivery challenges affecting the surrounding communities. 
 
Deputy President Mashatile will be accompanied by the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Ms Pemmy Majodina; North West Premier, Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi; Morelete Local Municipality Mayor, Cllr George Manyike; Members of the North West Provincial Executive Council; as well as senior Government officials.

Members of the media are invited as follows: 

Date: Friday, 01 August 2025
Times:

09h00 – Deputy President Mashatile, accompanied by the Minister of Water and Sanitation, unveil the Moretele Concrete Water Reservoir 
09h55 – Media Doorstop
10h00  – Integrated Service Delivery and Cleaning Campaign, Mogogelo Village 
12h00 – Community Feedback Session, Mogogelo Community Hall

For enquiries and accreditation, please contact Mr. Sam Matome Bopape on 082 318 5251.

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President, on 066 195 8840.

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Remarks by Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli, on the occasion of Mr. Busani Ngcaweni’s farewell as Principal of the National School of Government

Source: President of South Africa –

Good afternoon, colleagues and friends.

It is a real honour for me to say a few words this afternoon as we bid farewell to a remarkable public servant, an intellectual giant, a principled leader, and for me personally, a dear friend, Mr. Busani Ngcaweni.

Busani’s tenure as Principal of the National School of Government has left an indelible mark on the State and its capacity to serve. Under his leadership, the NSG became more than just a training institution – it became a space for bold ideas, critical reflection, and transformation in the public sector. He challenged us to think deeply, act ethically, and serve with integrity.

But, beyond the titles and achievements, Busani is someone who leads with both head and heart. His friendship, wisdom and humour have enriched not just our work, but our lives, his insistence on nuance, and his ability to remain principled in the most difficult of times.

As you move on to your next chapter, Busani, I hope you will continue to guide and inspire young public servants. We need your mind and your mentorship more than ever. Please continue writing, and not just for the pages of newspapers and journals, but for our growth and learning. I hope you will run writing workshops, help us sharpen our thinking, and support Government in turning ideas into operational reality.

Busani, thank you for everything you have given to the NSG, to the Public Service, and to the project of building a capable, developmental state. I know this is not the end just the closing of a chapter before a new and exciting one begins.

Go well, my friend. We are proud of you.

Thank you.

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Dialogue to mark start of Women’s Month 

Source: Government of South Africa

Dialogue to mark start of Women’s Month 

To mark the official launch of 2025 Women’s Month, Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD), Sindisiwe Chikunga, will hosts a Women Trade Intervention Dialogue.

This as Women’s Month will be launched at the Sandton Convention Centre in Gauteng on Friday, 01 August 2025.

The department will launch the month in partnership with the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gauteng Provincial Government, Standard Bank South Africa and ABSA Bank.

Observed annually in August, Women’s Month pays tribute to the pivotal role played by women in the struggle against all forms of discrimination, subordination, and exploitation.

It is also a time to reflect on the progress made in the past three decades of democracy and to celebrate the resilience, achievements, and contributions of South African women.
This year’s Women’s Month will be observed under the theme: “Building Resilient Economies for All”.

The DWYPD highlighted that as part of the launch, the Women Trade Intervention will focus on three priorities. 
These include support of the survival of informal economy across identified key economic sectors; identification of key sectoral interventions, including agriculture, manufacturing, and the Green Energy Sector; as well as calling for collaboration and leveraging off sector agreements to increase investments in local economies.

“Minister Chikunga will also lead a round table session which will focus on De-Risking Financial Inclusion of and for Women, aimed at equipping women with business skills, market knowledge and access to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) opportunities,” the department said.

According to the African Union, the AfCFTA aims to accelerate intra-African trade while boosting Africa’s trading position in the global market. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK

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SAWS warns of cold weather conditions

Source: Government of South Africa

SAWS warns of cold weather conditions

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned that the Western Cape and Northern Cape provinces will experience very cold, wet and windy conditions on Thursday.

“A high pressure system will be ridging behind a cold front on Thursday and is expected to affect the south-eastern regions of Namakwa, as well as over the Cape Winelands, Central Karoo and Little Karoo municipalities of the Western Cape on Thursday, resulting in cold to very cold, wet and windy conditions,” SAWS said on Wednesday.

The weather service has advised the public to take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety and health of their animals during very cold, wet and windy days.

The Western Cape can also expect damaging winds from Thursday until Sunday.

“A high pressure will be ridging behind a cold front on Thursday, affecting the Western Cape coastline until Friday.  This will result in south-westerly waves of 4.0m to 6.0m, as well as wave periods of 10-13s between Saldanha Bay and Cape Agulhas on Thursday morning, spreading to Plettenberg Bay and Alexander Bay in the afternoon, subsiding from Friday morning. 

“Windy conditions (40-60km/h) can also be expected along the southwestern and southern coastlines on Thursday,” the weather service said.

KwaZulu-Natal will also experience damaging winds on the east coast from Thursday until Friday.

“A passage of a cold front results in strong southerly to south-westerly winds along the coast on Friday, with average speed of 25 – 35KT gusting 35 – 40KT from tomorrow evening between Port Edward and Mtunzini spreading to Kosi Bay by Friday.”

These weather conditions will result in difficulty in navigation to vessels at sea, with small vessels at risk of taking on water and capsizing within a locality.

Disruption to beachfront activities can also be expected.

Meanwhile, the Eastern Cape province has been warned of disruptive snow on Thursday.

“Light snow, with surface temperatures below freezing, will follow the passage of a cold front. Although snow accumulation will be minimal, icing is expected on the road surfaces, due to low minimum temperatures on the high ground. Light snow and icy roads will result in traffic disruptions at night,” SAWS said.

Damaging winds will also affect the east coast of the Eastern Cape from Thursday until Friday.

“Strong to gale force W/SW winds are expected as a cold front passes through the province. These strong winds are expected to increase the sea state to about 4.5 to 6.5m from the afternoon. Due to these waves persisting for more than a 24 hour period, wave impacts may be possible,” SAWS said.

The impact will be localised disruptions to harbours/ports and beach activities, difficulty in navigation, small vessels at risk of taking on water and capsizing within a locality and danger to life. –SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle

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All hands-on deck for SASSA August grant payment cycle 

Source: Government of South Africa

All hands-on deck for SASSA August grant payment cycle 

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) Chief Executive Officer, Themba Matlou, has called for an all hands-on deck approach to assist beneficiaries that have been identified for review in the August grant payment cycle.

This as the agency is working to enhance operations at local offices in efforts to ensure that beneficiaries are not severely inconvenienced when they present themselves for social grants review in the coming days.

“We are intent in our drive to assist all our clients to have their grants reviewed as seamlessly as possible, so that no one leave[s] our offices without being assisted and being burdened with back and forth. It is for this reason that we want everyone, especially at the senior level, to get their hands dirty as well and be on the ground to assist our important clients,” Matlou said.

Executives and senior managers have been asked to be visible to clients and ensure that enquiries regarding the fourth payment date are addressed promptly and professionally. 

“The ongoing social grants reviews have put a spotlight on us as an organisation and tested our capacity to handle the inflow to our local offices, and we are addressing some of the challenges that we have picked up in the last few months. 

The SASSA grants payment dates have been set for 5 – 7 August 2025.

“Whilst the majority of payments will proceed without any hindrance, we want to ensure that we leave no room for tardiness at the expense of the vulnerable,” Matlou said.

He reiterated the importance of social grant reviews, saying they are the best tool to safeguard the government fiscus, thus ensuring that social grants are paid to eligible beneficiaries, while strengthening the integrity of the system and curbing fraudulent activities internally and externally.

Additionally, he urged all SASSA beneficiaries to not be alarmed and heed the call to have their grants reviewed so that their personal details can also be updated for ease of communication going forward.

Beneficiaries, who have been affected by the grants review, are encouraged to visit their nearest SASSA local office and bring the following documents:
•    Valid South African ID (13-digit barcoded ID or smart ID card).
•    Proof of income (e.g. payslips, pension slips, or affidavits if no longer employed or employment discharge confirmations).
•    Bank statements (last 3 months) – for all active bank accounts.
•    Proof of residence (e.g. utility bill or letter from a local authority).
•    Marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applicable).
•    Death certificate (if some death has occurred, for example, child, spouse etc).
•    Any other supporting documents relevant to your grant type (e.g., birth certificates for Child Support Grants, school attendance proof for Foster Care Grants).

READ | SASSA warns against non-compliance with review process

For more information, beneficiaries can visit www.sassa.gov.za or call the toll-free number on: 0800 60 1011 or GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM

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