Category: South Africa Government

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Press conference remarks by President Cyril Ramaphosa on the occasion of the State Visit to Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia

Source: President of South Africa –

Your Excellency, President Prabowo Subianto,
Ambassadors,
Ministers,
Distinguished Guests,
Members of the Media,
 
It is a great honour to undertake my first State Visit to the Republic of Indonesia. 
 
I am accompanied by Ministers responsible for international relations, defence, trade and investment, and agriculture. 
 
We have also brought a strong business delegation with a view to building new commercial partnerships between our two countries. 
 
The relationship between South Africa and Indonesia is deeply rooted in historical ties that span over 350 years, beginning in the 17th century when people of Indonesian descent were first brought to the Cape by Dutch Colonialists. 
 
These early connections laid the foundation for a longstanding relationship between our two nations.
 
During today’s visit, I held official talks with President Prabowo on various issues of mutual interest.
 
I congratulated Indonesia on the commemoration of the 70th Anniversary of the historic Bandung Asia-Africa Conference of 1955, where the South African people were represented by two great leaders of our liberation struggle, Moses Kotane and Maulvi Cachalia.
 
I welcomed the Republic of Indonesia as one of the newest members of the BRICS family.
 
During our discussions we affirmed the importance of expanding and deepening bilateral relations on both political and economic fronts through existing bilateral mechanisms.
 
We agreed on the need to increase trade between our two countries as a catalyst for inclusive economic growth. 
 
We spoke of the importance of building more resilient and diversified economies for the benefit of the peoples of both countries as we face similar geopolitical headwinds.
 
This State Visit was preceded by a Business Forum, which provided a platform for South African companies to engage with their Indonesian counterparts. 
 
One of the key goals of the Business Forum was to find meaningful ways for our two countries to develop pathways to boost economic growth through business-to-business partnerships.
 
We discussed global issues as partners in organisations such as BRICS, the G20 and the Non-Aligned Movement, amongst others. 
 
We affirmed the need to strengthen the multilateral system and the peaceful resolution of conflict through dialogue.
 
We exchanged views on efforts to end the conflict in Gaza and to secure a just and lasting peace that realises the aspirations of the Palestinian people for self-determination.
 
We are looking forward to hosting President Prabowo at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg next month under the theme of Sustainability, Equality and Solidarity. 
 
Through our G20 Presidency, we have focused on the measures we should all take together to create an environment of inclusive growth, reduced inequality and sustainable development, especially in the Global South and on the African continent.
 
We are grateful for the constructive discussions we have held today and for the warm welcome we have received.
 
We would be honoured to host President Prabowo Subianto on a State Visit to South Africa at a mutually agreed date.
 
Indonesia and South Africa share bonds of great historical significance. 
 
It is clear from our engagements today that we also share a common future, of progress, development and prosperity for all.
 
I thank you.
 

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Media Programme: President Ramaphosa visit to Vietnam and Malaysia

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to arrive in Hanoi on Thursday, 23 October 2005 for a State Visit to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. The visit by President Cyril Ramaphosa is both timely and symbolic, reaffirming the importance South Africa accords to its bilateral relations with Vietnam, as well as its broader engagement with the Southeast Asian region.

The visit will coincide with several significant developments in Vietnam’s political landscape, including a generational transition in leadership, the conclusion of key domestic planning and reform cycles, and the country’s increasing prominence in regional and global economic affairs. This year, Vietnam is commemorate 80 years of Independence, a milestone that holds deep historical significance.

Vietnam’s expanding consumer market presents promising opportunities for South African exporters, particularly in the context of the country’s strategic efforts to diversify trade destinations.

The State Visit to Vietnam by President Ramaphosa reflects the deepening ties between the leaders of South Africa and Vietnam, underpinned by mutual respect and growing cooperation. The decision to elevate the bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership marks a significant milestone, signalling shared commitment to long-term collaboration across key sectors.

Vietnam’s dynamic economy and strategic position in Southeast Asia make it a vital partner in South Africa’s efforts to diversify markets and expand trade opportunities. Strengthening this partnership aligns with South Africa’s broader economic diplomacy goals, particularly in enhancing access to high-growth regions and fostering inclusive, sustainable development.

MEDIA PROGRAMME

Thursday, 23 October 2025

SAST: 10h15 – Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Monument Heroes and Martyrs

SAST: 10h20 – Wreath Laying Ceremony at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

SAST: 10h30 – Official Welcome Ceremony  at the Presidential Palace   

SAST: 11h00 – Official Talks

– Opening Remarks by President Cưòng
– Remarks by President Ramaphosa
  
SAST: 12H00 – Press conference

SATS: 12h45 – President Ramaphosa pays Courtesy Call on Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh

Friday, 24 October 2025

SAST: 08h00 – Vietnam-SA Business Forum

President Ramaphosa departs Vietnam

The President’s tour to Southeast Asia will conclude in Kuala Lumpur, on a  Working Visit to Malaysia from 25-28 October, where the President will be a Guest of the Chair at the 47th ASEAN Summit and the East Asian Summit.

The President’s participation in the ASEAN Summits follows South Africa’s recognition as a Sectoral  Dialogue Partner of ASEAN in 2023, marking a significant milestone in advancing South-South cooperation and fostering inclusive, sustainable development throughout enhanced political, economic and multilateral collaboration.

South Africa and Malaysia enjoyed exceptionally warm and dynamic relations in the decade following 1994, marked by close collaboration on multilateral platforms such as the Non-Aligned Movement, South-South Cooperation and Dialogue Partnerships.

The relations with Malaysia and, by extension, Southeast Asia and ASEAN are of strategic importance to South Africa’s Foreign Policy. They offer a gateway to dynamic regional markets, emerging technologies and help reinforce South Africa’s position as a proactive and globally engaged partner in the Global South.

MEDIA PROGRAMME

Saturday, 25 October  2025

SATS: 06h00 – ASEAN Business and Investment Summit (Fireside Chat) 

SAST: 10h00 – Official Welcome Ceremony for the Working Visit by President Ramaphosa to Malaysia 

SAST: 11h00 – Official Talks 

– Opening remarks by Prime Minister Anwar 
– Remarks by President Ramaphosa 

SATS: 11h30 – Joint Press Conference By Prime Minister Anwar and President Ramaphosa 

Sunday, 26 October 2025

SAST: 04h45 – Official Opening of the 47th ASEAN Summit at Kuala Lampur Convention Centre 

Monday, 27 October 2025

SAST: 04h00 – Conferment of Honorary Doctorate to President Ramaphosa at the University of Malaya

SAST: 04h30 – Public Lecture by President Ramaphosa 

SATS: 09h00 – Opening Session: 20th East Asia Summit

– President Ramaphosa to deliver remarks: Boosting Sustainable Growth through  EAS and G20 Collaboration

SATS: 10h30 – Media Wrap-up interview

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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President Ramaphosa kicks off Southeast Asia visit with Indonesia State Visit

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, October 22, 2025

By Neo Bodumela

Jakarta, Indonesia – President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived in Jakarta, Indonesia, for a State Visit to the Southeast Asian country.

The State Visit will kick off President Ramaphosa’s three-nation visit to the region, which will also include a State Visit to Vietnam and a working visit to Malaysia.

“[Today] President Ramaphosa commences in Indonesia with a State Visit at the invitation of His Excellency President Prabowo Subianto. President Ramaphosa will observe the Welcome Ceremony at the Merdeka Presidential Palace in Jarkata. The two leaders will hold a tête-à-tête, priming the subsequent official bilateral talks with respective ministerial delegations in support.

“President Ramaphosa will deliver opening remarks at the bilateral talks to encapsulate relations with Indonesia and further strengthen cooperation in areas of trade, agriculture, tourism and defence. This engagement aims to diversify trade in the face of global dynamics,” the Presidency said in a statement.

The two leaders are expected to hold a joint media briefing after the official bilateral talks.

A South Africa-Indonesia Business Forum was held before the President’s State Visit in a bid to strengthen trade between the two countries.

“Indonesia is the third largest trading partner of South Africa in the Southeast Asia region. President Ramaphosa will, on the margins of the State Visit, connect with leading Indonesian business leaders to expand trade and investment. 

“Both countries continue playing leading roles in developing and enhancing South-South Cooperation and continue to be locomotives of South-South Cooperation. Contemporarily, they are Member States of BRICS,” the Presidency said.

The relationship between the two countries dates back hundreds of years.

“SA-Indonesia relations go back more than 350 years – when the first people of Indonesian descent arrived in the Cape in the mid-1600s.

“Starting with the Bandung Conference of 1955, Indonesia became one of the fiercest critics of apartheid and supported the anti-apartheid struggle throughout. Formal diplomatic relations between Indonesia and SA were established in 1994,” the Presidency said. – SAnews.gov.za

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President Ramaphosa appoints Minister Godongwana as Acting President

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana, as Acting President from today, 21 October until Monday, 27 October 2025.

President Ramaphosa has made this appointment in view of consecutive international visits the President is undertaking in the coming days.

Deputy President Shipokosa Paul Mashatile will be on leave during this period.

President Ramaphosa travels to Indonesia today for a Working Visit on Wednesday, 22 October.

This will be followed by a State Visit to Vietnam on Thursday, 23 and Friday, 24 October.

Thereafter, President Ramaphosa will undertakes a State Visit to Malaysia from 24 to 27 October, during which the President will also participate in a Summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

From 29 to 30 October, President Ramaphosa will undertake a State Visit to Switzerland.

These visits will advance South Africa’s bilateral relations with the respective host countries, particularly in trade and investment.

The visits will also enable South Africa to strengthen cooperation with partner states in global forums, and contribute to the President’s preparations for his chairing of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg on 22 and 23 November 2025.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Godongwana appointed as Acting President

Source: Government of South Africa

Godongwana appointed as Acting President

President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed the Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana, as Acting President.

Godongwana’s acting period starts on Tuesday, 21 October and will conclude on Monday, 27 October 2025.

The President made this appointment in view of consecutive international visits that he will be undertaking in the coming days. 

Deputy President Shipokosa Paul Mashatile will be on leave during this period.

President Ramaphosa is travelling to Indonesia on Tuesday for a Working Visit taking place on Wednesday, 22 October 2025. This will be followed by a State Visit to Vietnam on 23 and 24 October 2025.

Thereafter, President Ramaphosa will undertake a State Visit to Malaysia from 24 to 27 October 2025, during which the President will also participate in a Summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

From 29 – 30 October 2025, President Ramaphosa will undertake a State Visit to Switzerland.

“These visits will advance South Africa’s bilateral relations with the respective host countries, particularly in trade and investment.

“The visits will also enable South Africa to strengthen cooperation with partner States in global fora and contribute to the President’s preparations for his chairing of the Group Twenty (G20) Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg on 22 and 23 November 2025,” the Presidency said. – SAnews.gov.za

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President Cyril Ramaphosa to undertake a three-nation visit to Southeast Asia

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa will undertake a three-nation visit to Southeast Asia from 22 to 28 October 2025, reflecting South Africa’s commitment to deepening strategic ties with this dynamic region. The visit will include a state visit to Indonesia (22–23 October), a state visit to Vietnam (23–24 October), and a working visit to Malaysia (25–28 October), where President Ramaphosa will also participate as Guest of the Chair at the 47th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit.

INDONESIA STATE VISIT
On Wednesday, 22 October 2025, President Ramaphosa commences in Indonesia with a state visit at the invitation of His Excellency President Prabowo Subianto. President Ramaphosa will observe the Welcome Ceremony at the Merdeka Presidential Palace in Jarkata. The two leaders will hold a tête-à-tête, priming the subsequent official bilateral talks with respective ministerial delegations in support.

President Ramaphosa will deliver opening remarks at the bilateral talks to encapsulate relations with Indonesia and further strengthen cooperation in areas of trade, agriculture, tourism and defence. This engagement aims to diversify trade in the face of global dynamics.

SA-Indonesia relations go back more than 350 years – when the first people of Indonesian descent arrived in the Cape in the mid-1600s. Starting with the Bandung Conference of 1955, Indonesia became one of the fiercest critics of apartheid and supported the anti-apartheid struggle throughout. Formal diplomatic relations between Indonesia and SA were established in 1994. 

President Ramaphosa will join His Excellency President Prabowo Subianto for a joint media briefing following official bilateral talks. The state visit will be preceded by a SA- Indonesia Business Forum taking place on Tuesday, 21 October 2025. Indonesia is the third largest trading partner of South Africa in the Southeast Asia region. President Ramaphosa will on the margins of the state visit connect with leading Indonesian business leaders to expand trade and investment. 

Both countries continue playing leading roles in developing and enhancing South-South Cooperation and continue to be locomotives of South-South Cooperation. Contemporarily they are member states of the BRICS. 

INDONESIA MEDIA PROGRAMME
DATE: WEDNESDAY, 22 OCTOBER 2025

PRESIDENT CYRIL RAMAPHOSA OBSERVES WELCOME CEREMONY AS GUEST OF HONOUR OF PRESIDENT PRABOWO SUBIANTO
Time: 06:00 SAST 
Venue: Merdeka Presidential Palace, Jakarta

PRESIDENT CYRIL RAMAPHOSA DELIVERS OPENING REMARKS AT THE SOUTH AFRICA – INDONESIA BILATERAL TALKS ON THE OCCASION OF THE STATE VISIT
Time: 06:30 SAST 
Venue: Merdeka Presidential Palace, Jakarta

PRESIDENT CYRIL RAMAPHOSA DELIVERS REMARKS AT THE MEDIA BRIEFING FOLLOWING BILATERAL TALKS ON THE OCCASION OF THE STATE VISIT TO THE REPUBLIC OF INDONESIA 
Time: 7:30 SAST 
Venue: Merdeka Presidential Palace, Jakarta

VIETNAM STATE VISIT
On Thursday, 23 October 2025, President Ramaphosa proceeds to, Hanoi, on a state visit to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. The visit by President Cyril Ramaphosa is both timely and symbolic, reaffirming the importance South Africa accords to its bilateral relations with Vietnam, as well as its broader engagement with the Southeast Asian region. 

The visit will coincide with several significant developments in Vietnam’s political landscape, including a generational transition in leadership, the conclusion of key domestic planning and reform cycles, and the country’s increasing prominence in regional and global economic affairs. This year, Vietnam is commemorate 80 years of Independence, a milestone that holds deep historical significance. 

Vietnam’s expanding consumer market presents promising opportunities for South African exporters, particularly in the context of the country’s strategic efforts to diversify trade destinations

The state visit to Vietnam by President Ramaphosa reflects the deepening ties between the leaders of South Africa and Vietnam, underpinned by mutual respect and growing cooperation. The decision to elevate the bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership marks a significant milestone, signalling shared commitment to long-term collaboration across key sectors. 

Vietnam’s dynamic economy and strategic position in Southeast Asia make it a vital partner in South Africa’s efforts to diversify markets and expand trade opportunities. Strengthening this partnership aligns with South Africa’s broader economic diplomacy goals, particularly in enhancing access to high-growth regions and fostering inclusive, sustainable development

MALAYSIA WORKING VISIT
The President’s tour to South East Asia will conclude in, Kuala Lumpur, on a  working visit to Malaysia from 25-28 October ,where the President will be a Guest of the Chair at the 47th ASEAN Summit and the East Asian Summit. 

The President’s participation in the ASEAN Summits follows South Africa’s recognition as a Sectoral  Dialogue Partner of ASEAN in 2023, marking a significant milestone in advancing South-South  cooperation and fostering inclusive, sustainable development throughout enhanced political, economic and multilateral collaboration. 

South Africa and Malaysia enjoyed exceptionally warm and dynamic relations in the decade following 1994, marked by close collaboration on multilateral platforms such as the Non-Aligned Movement, South-South Cooperation and Dialogue Partnerships. 

The relations with Malaysia and by extension Southeast Asia and ASEAN are of strategic importance to South Africa’s Foreign Policy. They offer a gateway to dynamic regional markets, emerging technologies and help reinforce South Africa’s position as a proactive and globally engaged partner in the Global South.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Smooth start to NSC exams in Gauteng 

Source: Government of South Africa

The first day of the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations in Gauteng proceeded smoothly, said Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane.

“We are encouraged by the level of preparedness and commitment displayed across our examination centres on the first day of the NSC exams. Our teams acted swiftly where challenges arose, ensuring that every learner was able to write under fair and conducive conditions. 

“We are satisfied that these minor incidents did not compromise the integrity of the examination. The Department will continue to monitor all centres across Gauteng closely to ensure the smooth administration of this crucial assessment,” said MEC Chiloane.

In a statement on Tuesday, the provincial government said that all districts commenced their examinations as scheduled, without any disruptions or irregularities. 

“A total of 16 968 candidates sat for the 3-hour Computer Applications Technology (CAT) Paper 1 practical examination at 09:00 in the morning session. Only four centres recorded minor incidents, all of which were reported before any examination was in session and were promptly managed to ensure that no candidate was disadvantaged.”

According to the department, the Letsibogo Maths, Science and ICT School of Specialisation in Meadowlands, Soweto, reported a power outage in the area since Monday afternoon. 

The school swiftly implemented contingency measures by using a generator, allowing examinations to proceed without interruption. Accordingly, PJ Simelane Secondary School, also in Soweto, utilised a generator to mitigate similar power supply challenges in the area. Examinations proceeded smoothly at the centre as well.

At Liberty Community School in Bramley, a brief power delay made examinations to start slightly later than scheduled. However, the centre swiftly switched to solar backup, and all candidates completed their practicals successfully. 

At the Falcon Educational Centre in Dawn Park, 21 candidates were safely transported to a neighbouring examination centre to complete their practicals. This precautionary measure was implemented after a technical server challenge was detected before the start of the session.

The department further recorded minor absenteeism from both full-time and part-time candidates; however, the figures are not significant and do not detract from the overall successful start of the examination period in Gauteng. 

READ | Gauteng MEC calls for honesty ahead of start of NSC exams
–SAnews.gov.za 

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R147m waterfront project to boost East London tourism, jobs

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has officially broken ground on the R147 million Latimer’s Landing redevelopment at the Port of East London — a flagship project set to revitalise the city’s waterfront and inject fresh energy into the Eastern Cape’s tourism and economic landscape.

The redevelopment marks a major milestone in the long-anticipated transformation of Latimer’s Landing into a vibrant mixed-use precinct. Once a purely operational marine quay, the site has evolved into a key recreational hub, and the new quay structure is expected to unlock further business, tourism and leisure opportunities.

TNPA Acting Chief Executive Phyllis Difeto said the investment forms part of Transnet’s broader Reinvent for Growth Strategy, aimed at stabilising the business while driving regional economic growth.

“This development charts a new course for the Eastern Cape economy by supporting value-adding industries. It aligns with our strategic goal of positioning the port within the tourism sector by integrating port operations with the leisure market.”

The upgraded facility will pave the way for new commercial ventures, including restaurants, leisure outlets and tourism centres designed to attract consistent visitor traffic to the area.

Beyond infrastructure, the project is already generating tangible community benefits. As of October 2025, 44 local jobs have been created, with approximately 55 total employment opportunities expected over the 24-month construction period, which concludes in April 2027.

Main contractor Stefanutti Stocks has also committed to partnering with local Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) to create further business opportunities and drive inclusive growth within the region.

TNPA said the project reinforces its strategy to optimise its real estate assets, attract private sector investment and position the Port of East London as a catalyst for sustainable economic development. – SAnews.gov.za

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Gondwe concludes participation in Africa Skills Week

Source: Government of South Africa

Gondwe concludes participation in Africa Skills Week

Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister, Dr Mimmy Gondwe, has concluded her working visit to the Africa Skills Week which was held in in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Deputy Minister Gondwe led the Department of Higher Education and Training Department (DHET) during the week-long programme held from 13 to 17 October 2025.

Hosted by the African Union (AU), the weeklong programme served as a continent-wide platform to promote Africa’s youth skills development.

“The five-day Africa Skills Week brought together over 850 participants from AU member states, regional economic organisations, TVET [ Technical and Vocational Education and Training] leaders, academics, youth, and other groups. 

“It promoted learning, dialogue, and collaboration, and I am pleased to state that South Africa remains committed to knowledge sharing, research, and implementation, ensuring that no African youth is excluded from the skills revolution that will define the Africa we want and need,” the Deputy Minister said in a statement on Monday.

Gondwe participated in a high-level ministerial panel on skills development as well as various other sessions.

She also held significant engagements and meetings on the sidelines of Africa Skills Week. Notably, the Deputy Minister met with Ethiopia’s Minister of Labour and Skills, Muferihat Kamil Ahmed, where they shared best practices on youth skills development. The meeting included discussions on using artificial intelligence to link unemployed youth with employment opportunities. 

Another significant engagement was a meeting with the AU Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy and Digitisation, Lerato Mataboge. During the meeting, the parties discussed potential collaboration opportunities between the DHET and the AU, especially in university research and the TVET sector. 

Deputy Minister Gondwe was accompanied by South Africa’s Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the AU,  Nonceba Losi, during all sideline engagements.

READ | Building Africa’s industrial future through skills and innovation

A key highlight of Africa Skills Week is the launch of the Continental TVET Strategy 2025–2034, a vital framework from the African Union focused on promoting the skills revolution envisioned in Agenda 2063. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Govt’s e-waste disposal project finds its first home in Alex

Source: Government of South Africa

With the ever increasing use of electronic devices and the need to sustainably manage their disposal, government has launched an e-Waste Recycling Pilot Project in the City of Johannesburg’s Alexandra township.

Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Bernice Swarts, said the improper disposal of e-waste has become a growing concern.

“The increasing number of electronic devices being used without a proper system for disposal has led to the accumulation of waste that harms our environment and contaminates water and soil. Today’s launch of the e-Waste Recycling Pilot Project is our response to this growing crisis,” Swarts said on Tuesday.

The goal of this pilot project is to test and implement a sustainable system for recycling of e-waste in the City of Johannesburg. 

“The success of this project relies heavily on the participation of the local community. By providing households with easy access to collection or drop off points, recycling facilities, and offering guidance on how to properly separate and dispose of their old electronic devices, we aim to change the way residents think about their waste. 

“The Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs) working together with local Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) will ensure availability of drop-off points and collection bins/receptacles to ensure ease of access and safe disposal of e-waste,” the Deputy Minister said.

This initiative was launched by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), in partnership with the City of Johannesburg, Gauteng Department of Environment and PROs. 

“Through this collaboration, we aim to not only manage and dispose of e-waste responsibly but also raise awareness among communities about the importance of recycling and the dangers of improper e-waste disposal.

“Furthermore, this project is about more than just waste management; it is about creating jobs and stimulating local economic development,” Swarts said.

Through this initiative, government will be able to engage the PROs that are committed to facilitating the proper recycling of e-waste. 

These organisations play a crucial role in managing the end-of-life phase of electronic products and are an important part of the national effort to promote a circular economy, where materials are reused and recycled, rather than discarded. 

“Through collaboration between the City of Johannesburg and the PROs, we can ensure that this pilot project is sustainable and scalable, with the potential to expand across other regions in the future.

“Not only will it help the City of Johannesburg and the residents of Alexandra to manage its e-waste more effectively, it will also contribute to our country’s broader environmental goals,” she said.

As part of the National Waste Management Strategy 2020, South Africa has committed to reducing waste sent to landfills, increasing recycling rates, and promoting a circular economy. 

The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, which place responsibility for end-of-life products on producers, are key to this vision. 

“By encouraging industry involvement in waste management, we are ensuring that those who create waste are also part of the solution.

“As many of us are aware, e-waste is growing at an alarming rate. It is now considered the fastest-growing waste stream worldwide,” the Deputy Minister said.

The proliferation of technology and the consumer-driven nature of  society have led to millions of tons of electronic devices being discarded each year. 

These devices – from old cell phones, computers, laptops to televisions and household appliances (such as fridges, stoves, kettles and anything that uses electricity) – contain harmful materials such as lead, mercury, and many other toxic chemicals, which can have devastating effects on the environment and health, if not properly managed. 

“In South Africa, we generate over 360 000 tons of e-waste annually, and it is estimated that at least 50% of this waste is generated in Gauteng. 

“Only a small fraction of approximately 10% of this is properly managed. The rest ends up in landfills, or worse, is illegally dumped, posing serious risks to our ecosystems. 

“Our waste laws do not allow the disposal of e-waste to landfills. This is done with the intention of diverting this waste stream from landfill for recycling purposes,” she said.

In November 2021, South Africa has implemented the EPR legislation for Electrical and Electronic Equipment, which compels the producers of electronic products to take-back and ensure proper recycling thereof. – SAnews.gov.za