Category: South Africa Government

The enhanced security measures implemented by the Border Management Authority (BMA) across the country’s ports of entry are ensuring that law transgressors are stopped in their tracks.

This operation is part of a strengthened multi-layered approach designed to ensure safe, efficient and well-coordinated border management during this peak travel period.

“As daily movements continue to increase, the Border Management Authority remains on high alert, committed to facilitating legitimate travel and trade while decisively preventing illegal activities and safeguarding South Africa’s borders,” Commissioner of the BMA, Dr Michael Masiapato, said on Friday.

The Commissioner is operating from the ground, overseeing border operations, with the processing of people and goods continuing smoothly and unimpeded at all Ports of Entry across the country.

On Thursday, 18 December 2025, the BMA Law Enforcement component at Kosi Bay intercepted two Mozambican male nationals travelling in a silver Volvo S40 while entering the Republic of South Africa from Mozambique. 

A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of 46 fraudulently stamped Mozambican passports concealed under the mat in the boot of the car. 

In addition, an amount of R34 890 in cash, believed to be proceeds of illicit activities, was confiscated from the suspects.

“The suspects attempted to bribe BMA officials with the same amount of cash in an effort to evade arrest. Both suspects were subsequently arrested and charged with fraud, resisting arrest, and bribery. This interception reflects the BMA’s zero tolerance on corruption and the facilitation of transnational organised crime,” Masiapato said on Friday.

In addition, the BMA Border Guards intercepted 585 undocumented Zimbabwean nationals at the Groblers Bridge Port of Entry to Botswana, as they were moving without travel documents through vulnerable segments of the borderline while leaving South Africa on 18 December 2025. 

They were carrying goods that were supposed to be declared through the normal customs processes.

Furthermore, about 142 Basotho nationals were also intercepted at Sani Pass.

“Operations at the Sendelingsdrift Port of Entry between South Africa and Namibia have been temporarily suspended due to increased water levels resulting from persistent rainfall. 

“These conditions pose a safety risk to the cross-border movement of the pontoon and to travellers between the Republic of South Africa and Namibia. The BMA continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as conditions improve,” the Commissioner said.

As he continues to monitor operations, he will on Friday be Maseru Bridge Port of Entry. 

The port is already experiencing an increase in the movement of travellers on both arrivals and departures. 

Despite the rising volumes, the situation remains manageable, with adequate deployments in place and systems functioning optimally. – SAnews.gov.za

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South Africa has reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing its immigration laws and upholding national sovereignty, while indicating that allegations involving the private data of United States officials will be addressed through diplomatic channels.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) said the recent deportation of seven Kenyan nationals by the Department of Home Affairs was carried out in full compliance with South African immigration legislation.

According to DIRCO, the individuals were found to be working in the country without the required work permits. The department stressed that the enforcement of immigration laws is a sovereign matter and forms part of government’s obligation to uphold the rule of law.

“Government will not negotiate its sovereignty and the implementation of the rule of law,” the statement said.

DIRCO also responded to what it described as an unsubstantiated allegation concerning the private information of US officials. The department said South Africa treats data security with the utmost seriousness and operates within strict legal and diplomatic frameworks.

It categorically rejected any suggestion of State involvement in the alleged actions, emphasising that such claims are not supported by evidence.

At the same time, DIRCO said South Africa remains committed to principled, transparent and constructive diplomacy. 

“Official channels have been opened with the United States government to seek clarity on this allegation and to reinforce that our bilateral engagements must be grounded in mutual respect and factual dialogue,” DIRCO said. – SAnews.gov.za

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The National Heritage Council of South Africa (NHC) has announced the passing of its Council Member, Dr Natalie Skeepers, saying her passing is a loss to the public sector.

In a statement on Thursday, the Council which is an agency of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, said Skeepers passed away unexpectedly on 15 December 2025.

“Dr Skeepers served the National Heritage Council with distinction, integrity, and unwavering commitment. She was a valued member of the Corporate Governance Committee and the Audit, Risk and Governance Committee, where she played a critical role in strengthening governance, accountability, and compliance within the organisation,” the Council said.

According to the council, Skeepers also advocated for ethical leadership, staff development, and institutional sustainability.

“Dr Natalie Skeepers was a principled and dedicated leader whose work ethic, professionalism, and commitment to good governance were evident in every space she occupied. She brought depth, integrity, and a people-centred approach to the work of Council. Her contribution to the NHC, particularly in governance and human resource matters, has left a lasting impact. Her passing is a profound loss to the organisation and the broader public sector,” NHC Chairperson Tau Masemola said.

Dr Skeepers was also a highly respected Governance, Risk and Compliance Specialist and Safety Engineer, and had recently been sworn in as a Board Member of the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) on 26 November 2025, following a recommendation from the National Assembly.

Despite her brief tenure, she made meaningful contributions to discussions on legislative reform and the sustainability of community media.

“The National Heritage Council extends its deepest condolences to Dr Skeepers’ family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of working with her. Her legacy of ethical leadership, service excellence, and commitment to public institutions will be remembered with great respect,” said the NHC. –SAnews.gov.za

 

 

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The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has confirmed that the affected section of the R563 will remain closed to traffic after geotechnical assessments found the area to be unsafe for public use. 

The decision follows the development of a sinkhole along the R563 near the N14 intersection in recent weeks. Based on the latest assessments, the department has resolved not to open the temporary road as previously considered.

Departmental officials remain on site and are set to begin excavating trenches to physically prevent vehicles from illegally accessing the closed section of the road. This comes amid growing concerns about motorists disregarding road closures and safety barriers.

Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, condemned the continued non-compliance by some road users, warning that such behaviour poses serious risks. 

“The continued lawlessness and blatant disregard for the safety measures is completely unacceptable. Such behaviour places motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, nearby residents and emergency services at serious and unnecessary risk,” the MEC said.

The department is also working to re-site barriers and install additional warning signage. At the same time, it is engaging law-enforcement agencies to intensify enforcement of the road closure, prevent illegal access and curb reckless driving in the affected area.

“Ignoring these safety measures endangers lives and will not be tolerated,” Diale-Tlabela emphasised.

The department has again urged road users to refrain from entering the closed-off section of the R563 and has appealed for patience and cooperation from the public while safety interventions and assessments continue. – SAnews.gov.za 

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has confirmed the nominations to the Steering Committee of the National Dialogue, marking a key milestone in the establishment of a citizen led, inclusive process aimed at shaping South Africa’s long-term social and economic future.

The President, who is convenor of the National Dialogue, confirmed the nominations received from a wide range of social sectors in a statement on Thursday. 

In line with his responsibility in terms of Section 83 of the Constitution to promote national unity, President Cyril Ramaphosa has convened an inclusive National Dialogue to address the challenges confronting the country.  

The Steering Committee will be responsible for setting strategic priorities and coordinating the implementation of the National Dialogue process across the country.

The confirmation gives effect to a resolution of the First National Convention held on 15–16 August 2025, which agreed that all identified social sectors should nominate representatives to serve on the Steering Committee. 

The decision was intended to ensure that the National Dialogue remains inclusive, representative and firmly citizen led.
Over recent months, organisations across 33 identified sectors and six sub-sectors convened meetings to identify nominees. The Presidency said every effort was made to ensure that no sector of society was excluded from the process.

In addition to sectoral representatives, provision was made for the President to nominate two representatives, while the former Preparatory Task Team and Convention Organising Committee nominated additional members. The Steering Committee will also be able to co-opt up to five people with relevant expertise and experience to further strengthen inclusivity.

The National Dialogue has been convened as a society-wide process to reflect on the country’s challenges, develop a shared vision for the coming decades and agree on priority actions across sectors. 

Through this process, South Africa aims to forge a new social compact that will unite all South Africans on the kind of socioeconomic development and transformation the country should undergo in the next decades.

The Eminent Persons Group, appointed as guarantors of the integrity and inclusivity of the process, compiled the nominations from the various sectors and submitted them to the President for confirmation.

The Steering Committee is expected to hold its inaugural meeting and induction early in January 2026.

 Once constituted, it will also assist sectors that have not yet completed their nomination processes.
President Ramaphosa thanked all those who have made themselves available to serve. 

“I wish all Steering Committee members well in undertaking this important task to advance the building of a free, equal, united and prosperous nation,” he said.

The members of the Steering Committee are:

Sectoral Nominees
1. Valentia Andrews – National NGOs / NPO Networks
2. Michelle Arendse – Khoisan Leaders
3. Ashley Benjamin – Labour and Unions
4. Dumisile Cele – Children
5. Cynthia Chishimba – National NGOs / NPO Networks
6. Rebecca Como – Khoisan Leaders
7. Duduzile Dlamini – Sex Work
8. Scelo Duma – Government Departments
9. Khanyisa Dunjwa – Health / HIV
10. Luyolo Dwesi – Youth
11. Keagen Je-ron Gertse – Represented Political Parties
12. Jimmy Ntobeko Gotyana – National NGOs / NPO Networks
13. Annette Theresa Griessel – Foundations
14. Crispin Hemson – Restorative Justice, Peace & Safety
15. Cheryl Hendricks – Women
16. Josephilda Hlope – Government Departments
17. Lance Joel – Government Departments
18. Howard Johnson – Small Businesses, Stokvels & Informal Economy
19. Moipone Jwayi – Rural & Agricultural / Land Rights
20. Marble Bore Kalembo – LGBTQIA+
21. Luzuko Khohli – Arts, Culture and Creative Industries
22. Steven Thapelo Khunou – Faith Based Organisations
23. Bosa Ledwaba – Women
24. Tebogo Legodi – LGBTQIA+
25. Lawrence Elijah Lekgowane – Transport
26. Gomolemo Lesejane – Faith Based Organisations
27. Siyabulela Lucas – Persons with Disabilities
28. Innocent Madlala – Small Businesses, Stokvels & Informal Economy
29. Mahlatse Martinah Kgaladi Magoro – Persons with Disabilities
30. Bridgemohan Maharaj – Faith Based Organisations
31. Mxolisi President Siphamandla Mahlangu – Persons with Disabilities
32. Realeboga Makgeledise – Youth
33. Thulasizwe Makhanya – Foundations
34. Octavia Thenjiwe Makhubu – Education
35. Malemolla David Makhura – Represented Political Parties
36. Thabo Makwela – Small Businesses, Stokvels & Informal Economy
37. Steve Mashiya – Foundations
38. Loungo Masire – Arts, Culture and Creative Industries
39. Kganki Matabane – Formal Business 
40. Khulekani Mathe – Formal Business 
41. Looks Matoto – Persons with Disabilities
42. Busisiwe Mavuso – Formal Business 
43. Nokuthula Caritus Mazibuko – Academia, Think Tanks & Research
44. Odwa Mbane – Formerly Incarcerated
45. Hussein Mubaarak Mbonambi – Faith Based Organisations
46. Palesa Rosemary Mboweni – Women
47. Buhle Mchunu – Academia, Think Tanks & Research
48. Charles Mcunu – Transport 
49. Promise Memela – Health / HIV
50. Mabalane Mfundisi – Health / HIV
51. Donald Mkhwanazi – Students
52. Shannon Nontobeko Mokoena – Rural & Agricultural / Land Rights
53. Busang Obakeng Molekane – Sports
54. Mzwandile Molo – Faith Based Organisations
55. David Morema – Government Departments
56. Boitumelo Mosenogi – Small Businesses, Stokvels & Informal Economy
57. Keitumetse Fatimata Moutloatse – GBVF
58. Kunene Mpho – Media, Linguistic & Communication
59. Tshilidzi Mulaudzi – Academia, Think Tanks & Research
60. Muriel Mamotala Mumba – Civic Movements & Local Organisations
61. Treasure Ndesi – Men’s Sector
62. Marshall Nelson – Education
63. Nondumiso Ngonyama – Traditional Leaders
64. Beau Nkaelang – Men’s Sector
65. Mbali Nkosi – Youth
66. Matthew Parks – Labour and Unions
67. Letsiri Phaahla – Traditional Leaders
68. Tshegofatso Tebogo Phakisa – Media, Linguistic & Communication
69. Zandile Phiri – Represented Political Parties
70. Romeo Qetsimani – Arts, Culture and Creative Industries
71. Nkanyiso Radebe – Restorative Justice, Peace & Safety
72. Lebogang Ramafoko – Media, Linguistic & Communication
73. Hayley Reichert – Immigration
74. Vanessa Samuel-Chetty – GBVF
75. Edward Saunderson – Sports
76. Fatima Shabodien – Restorative Justice, Peace & Safety
77. Ngaletjang Emily Shilakoe – Media, Linguistic & Communication
78. Shakespeare Mandla Sibanyoni – Rural & Agricultural / Land Rights
79. Thandeka Patience Sibiya – Immigration
80. Tolika Sibiya – Youth
81. Lisa Silwana – Youth
82. Tumi Sole – Civic Movements & Local Organisations
83. Patric Solomons – Children
84. Sandile Soxokashe – Youth
85. Sinesipho Soxujwa – Civic Movements & Local Organisations
86. Qhamisa Tengile – Small Businesses, Stokvels & Informal Economy
87. Mammatli Thakhuli-Nzuza – Arts, Culture and Creative Industries
88. Ntandane Thembelihle – GBVF
89. Gerald Twala – Labour and Unions
90. Riaan Van der Bergh – Education
91. Tanya van Meelis – Labour and Unions
92. Lee-Anne Walker – LGBTQIA+
93. Monica Woodhouse – Children
94. Xolani Benson Xala – Immigration
95. Zwakele Zondo – Rural & Agricultural / Land Rights

Nominees of the Convention Organising Committee:
96. Boichoko Ditlhake                             
97. Tessa Dooms

Nominees of the President
98. Mduduzi Mbada
99. Zwoitwaho Nevhutalu

– SAnews.gov.za

 

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The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) has urged women and people with disabilities to remain vigilant against financial abuse during the festive season.

The department raised concern over the increased risk of financial exploitation targeting women and persons with disabilities during this period.

The department explained that financial abuse can take various forms, including controlling access to money, misusing income or social grants, forcing individuals into debt under their names, and exploiting economic dependence.

According to the DWYPD, perpetrators often intensify these tactics during the festive season, leaving women and persons with disabilities financially trapped and burdened with debt.

The department emphasised that economic abuse is recognised as a form of domestic violence under South African law and urged women and persons with disabilities to remain alert.

“We must recognise that financial abuse is not only an economic violation; it is a form of control and intimidation used to silence women and persons with disabilities. During the festive season, when financial pressures increase, so does the risk,” the department said.

The department also called on families and communities to remain vigilant, supportive, and protective of the rights of women and persons with disabilities.

The department noted that many women and persons with disabilities are often denied access to their own salaries, bonuses, savings, and government benefits during this time.

“Many are also pressured to cover holiday expenses while partners or family members misuse household funds.”

To address the growing concern, the department called for:
•    Increased community awareness on recognising and reporting financial abuse.
•    Closer collaboration between government departments, banks, and social services to detect and prevent financial exploitation.
•    Protection of social grants and income from misuse by partners or family members.
•    Strengthened economic empowerment programmes for women, especially women with disabilities.
The department further reminded South Africans that gender-based violence (GBV) is not only physical.

“Financial control is a powerful tool of oppression. Let us work together to ensure women, especially women with disabilities, remain safe, supported, and financially independent,” the department said.

Members of the public who suspect financial exploitation are urged to report it to the relevant authorities and ensure that women, particularly women with disabilities, receive the necessary support to protect their independence and dignity. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for unity, dialogue and regional cooperation as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) concluded its virtual Extraordinary Summit on the political and security situation in Madagascar.

Delivering closing remarks at the summit on Wednesday, President Ramaphosa said the engagements by Heads of State and Government reflected a shared commitment to peace and stability in the region.

“The unity of purpose that has governed our engagements on this and other critical matters affecting our region is indeed commendable. We must continue in this vein,” he said.

President Ramaphosa said deliberations on Madagascar had been “substantive, detailed, constructive and most importantly, outcomes based,” underscoring SADC’s resolve to support a peaceful resolution to the country’s political challenges.

He called on the people of Madagascar to seize the moment and pursue national reconciliation.

“We call on all the Malagasy people to take this opportunity to deeply reflect on the challenges facing their country and choose the path of peace, unity, reconciliation and development,” the President said.

The SADC Chairperson welcomed the restoration of calm in Madagascar and noted steps taken by the Transitional Government to initiate national consultations earlier this month, saying these developments provided a foundation for further engagement and dialogue.

President Ramaphosa emphasised that SADC would remain actively engaged in Madagascar’s transition process, reaffirming the regional bloc’s commitment to peace, constitutional order and democratic governance.

He also highlighted the importance of cooperation among SADC Member States, noting that instability in one part of the region has implications for all. 

“Inasmuch as conflict and instability in one part of the region impacts us all, cooperation is key to the region’s stability, peace and progress,” he said.

Turning to organisational matters, President Ramaphosa congratulated Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema on his election as incoming Chair of SADC, expressing confidence in continued collaboration to advance the organisation’s mandate.

“I look forward to working closely with you, my dear brother as we advance the mandate of SADC in pursuit of peace, security and shared prosperity for our region and all its peoples,” he said.

President Ramaphosa concluded by thanking Heads of State and Government, Ministers and senior officials for their participation and preparatory work and extended well wishes to the region. 

He wished leaders and citizens “a blessed festive season and a prosperous new year.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

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The South African National Parks (SANParks) has advised day visitors planning to visit the Kruger National Park (KNP) during the festive season that gate quotas will be in place to prevent overcrowding on the roads and facilities. 

“Once daily quotas are reached, only pre-booked visitors will be allowed entry. Queueing will then apply, and access will be dependent on the number of visitors exiting the park. Wild Card members are reminded that they are not exempt from the pre-booking administration fee,” SANParks said on Wednesday.

To safeguard entry, visitors are advised to book online ahead of their visit at www.sanparks.org, for which a non-refundable administration fee of R59 for adults and R29 is payable. 

This fee is separate from the conservation fee, which remains payable at the gate unless a valid Wild Card is produced.

“Importantly, the quota system does not apply to overnight guests but is specifically relevant to day visitors. Pre-booked day visitors are prioritised at the gate but must arrive within their allocated time slots. Late arrivals will be treated as non-booked and will not receive priority access,” SANParks said.

Special attention is therefore drawn to operational times, as it pertains to entry of pre-booked visitors:

• Time slot 1: 05.30 to 08:00
• Time slot 2: 08:00 to 10:00
• Time slot 3: 10:00 onwards

The conservation fee for South African residents, as well as Zimbabwe and Mozambique nationals, is R134 per adult and R67 per child between ages 2 to 11 years. 

For nationals of Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, the conservation fee is R275 per adult and R137 per child. 

“The standard conservation fee of R602 for adults and R300 for children applies to all other guests. To this effect, South African identity documents or driver’s licences will be required for South Africans, with all other guests having to produce a passport. 

“This applies to both drivers and all passengers. Failure to produce valid identification will result in the payment of the standard conservation fee of R602 for adults and R300 for children,” SANParks said. 

Vehicles without licenCe plates or display of a valid temporary licenCe number will not be allowed to enter or exit the park. 

Any vehicle found inside the park without proper plates will be impounded, and the driver will be charged and fined. 

Ranger Services, the South African Police Service and the South African National Defence Force will be deployed throughout the festive period to ensure compliance and prevent poaching.

Guests are also reminded of the secure and convenient cash-free payment system applied at the gates (i.e., Paul Kruger, Phabeni, Numbi, Malelane and Crocodile Bridge) as well as fuel stations in the southern part of the park. 

This system ensures a smooth and hassle-free entry and exit from the park.

“Visitors are urged to observe the park’s rules, which are primarily intended to ensure safe and pleasant experiences. We also urge visitors to make use of the 24-hour emergency number on their entrance permit to report any incidents (013 735 4064 or 076 801 9679). 

“By respecting these rules, visitors contribute to the preservation of the park’s natural beauty and the safety of all its inhabitants. Visitors are urged to plan their trips and allow sufficient time to enjoy the bush, relax and arrive safely at their destination,” SANParks said. – SAnews.gov.za

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