Category: South Africa Government

President Cyril Ramaphosa will lead the National Youth Day Commemoration which will be held at the FNB Premium Parking precinct in Gauteng on Tuesday, 16 June, 2026.

“This year’s National Youth Day marks the 50th Anniversary of the 1976 Youth Uprising, one of the defining moments in South Africa’s liberation struggle and democratic journey. The commemoration honours the courage, resilience and sacrifices of the young people who stood up against injustice and helped shape the future of a free and democratic South Africa,” the Presidency said on Monday. 

The President will deliver the keynote address at the precinct that is adjacent to the FNB Stadium in Nasrec, Johannesburg.

The commemoration forms part of a year-long national programme launched by the Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, in May 2026 to reflect on the legacy of the youth of 1976 and advance a national dialogue on the challenges and opportunities facing young people today.

READ | 2026 declared “Year of action” for South African youth

This year’s National Youth Day Commemoration is held under the theme: “RESET @50 – Our National Commitment to the Future for Freedom Lives in Every Generation.”

“As South Africa reflects on the significance of the events of 16 June 1976, the 50th anniversary provides an opportunity not only to honour the sacrifices of the youth who confronted an unjust system, but also to reaffirm the country’s commitment to building a future in which young people are empowered to realise their full potential,” said the Presidency.

The event will bring together youth formations, students, veterans of the liberation struggle, government leaders, civil society organisations, business representatives, development partners and communities from across the country.

Additionally, the President’s address will reflect on the significance of the 1976 Youth Uprising, the progress made over the past five decades, and the collective responsibility of all sectors of society to create opportunities for young people and accelerate their meaningful participation in the social, economic and political life of the nation.

“The commemoration will also serve as a platform to reaffirm government’s commitment to addressing the challenges confronting young people, including unemployment, poverty, inequality, access to education and skills development, mental health challenges, gender-based violence and social exclusion,” said the Presidency.

Part one of Tuesday’s proceedings will include a wreath laying ceremony at the Hector Pieterson Memorial site followed by the unveiling of the commemorative coin project. –SAnews.gov.za

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Advancing cooperation in areas like trade, tourism, and health, will form part of talks between International Relations and Cooperation, Minister, Ronald Lamola and his counterpart, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Rwanda, Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe on Wednesday.

“The meeting forms part of ongoing efforts to rebuild and strengthen bilateral relations between South Africa and Rwanda. Discussions will focus on enhancing diplomatic engagement and advancing cooperation in priority areas, including trade, tourism, health, education, and security,” the Department of International Relations and Cooperation said on Monday.

The Ministers bilateral will be held at OR Tambo Building in Pretoria.

“At the conclusion of the meeting, Minister Lamola will address members of the media in a press conference, where he will outline the outcomes of the bilateral discussions and provide perspectives on the way forward in strengthening relations between the two countries,” said the department. –SAnews.gov.za

 

 

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The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety has welcomed the decision by the Office of the Premier to place the Gauteng Traffic Police Chief Inspector, Samuel Mashaba, on suspension pending the outcome of a formal disciplinary process.

The decision followed the Chief Inspector’s testimony before the Madlanga Commission, during which admissions were made on conduct that may constitute serious acts of misconduct.

In a statement on Monday, the committee said it views the suspension as an important demonstration of government’s commitment to accountability, ethical leadership and the rule of law.

“The committee wishes to emphasise that the suspension of the Gauteng Traffic Police Chief Inspector is a precautionary administrative measure and should not be interpreted as a finding of guilt. South Africa’s constitutional democracy is founded on the principle that every individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty through due process.

“However, the committee is equally resolute in its view that no public official, regardless of rank or position, should be above the law. Those entrusted with enforcing the law are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism and ethical conduct.”

The committee said any conduct that undermines public trust in the institutions of state must be thoroughly investigated and where wrongdoing is established, met with appropriate consequences.

The committee added that it firmly believes that those found to have acted unlawfully or in contravention of the ethical standards expected of public servants must face the full might of the law and be held accountable for their actions. 

“Accountability is not only essential for justice to prevail but is also critical to restoring public confidence in the institutions responsible for safeguarding the people of Gauteng,” the committee said.

The committee further called for the disciplinary process to be conducted expeditiously, fairly and without fear, favour, or prejudice. 

“Delays in matters of public accountability serve only to erode confidence in governance and weaken the public’s trust in the administration of justice.

“The people of Gauteng deserve a law enforcement system characterised by integrity, professionalism and an unwavering commitment to serving the public interest. 

“The committee will continue to champion these principles as part of its broader efforts to promote safer communities and strengthen public institutions across the province.”  – SAnews.gov.za

 

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The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has forecast that a cut-off low, associated with a surface high-pressure system, will bring windy, cooler and unsettled weather to parts of South Africa from Tuesday afternoon until Saturday.

“As the system moves eastwards, it is expected to spread these conditions to the Free State and the western half of the Eastern Cape. By Friday and Saturday, it may begin to affect the North West, Gauteng and neighbouring provinces,” the weather service said.

SAWS will continue to monitor the weather outlook closely and issue updates and warnings as necessary.

“Take extra care on the roads – strong winds may cause dangerous driving conditions,” the weather service warned.

Strong to fresh winds over the western interior may enhance the risk of veld fires.  –SAnews.gov.za

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The Gauteng Department of Social Development on Monday joined the world in observing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD).

“The day raises awareness about the abuse, neglect and exploitation of Older Persons and encourages communities to protect their rights and dignity,” it said of Monday’s commemoration.

The provincial department explained that it provides a range of services to support older persons, including active ageing programmes, community-based care and support services, residential care facilities, awareness campaigns and social work interventions. 

The programmes aim to promote the well-being, safety and social inclusion of older persons. 

“Older Persons are the custodians of our history, values and wisdom. They have played an important role in building our communities and supporting families. We cannot allow them to live in fear of abuse, neglect or exploitation. Every older person deserves to feel safe, respected and valued,” Gauteng MEC for Social Development, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko said.

The MEC urged families and communities to report cases of abuse and to treat older persons with dignity and respect. 

“Many cases of elder abuse occur behind closed doors and often go unreported. We urge communities to be vigilant and to report any form of abuse, neglect or exploitation of older persons. Protecting older persons is not only a government responsibility, it is a responsibility that belongs to all of us,” she said.

The public can report cases of abuse, neglect or exploitation of older persons to the Department of Social Development Gender-Based Violence Command Centre on 0800 428 428 (0800 GBV GBV), send a Please Call Me to 1207867#, or contact their nearest social work office, or the South African Police Service. –SAnews.gov.za 

 

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With the Electoral Commission’s (IEC)  voter registration Weekend just days away, South Africans, particularly young people are being encouraged to participate in the commission’s drive as the country counts down to the 4 November 2026 polls.

During the voter registration weekend  on 20 and 21 June, the Electoral Commission will open all 23,706 voting stations from 8 -5pm on both days.

“Eligible citizens will have an opportunity to register to vote, verify their registration status and update their registration details, including addresses where necessary,” the Commission said ahead of the registration weekend.

To vote in the Local Government Elections (LGE) on 4 November, voters need to be registered to vote and must have their smartcard or green bar-coded identity document (ID) or  a valid Temporary Identity Certificate (TIC). A voter must also be a  South African citizen and aged 18 years and above.

This weekend’s registration weekend comes at a time when the country is commemorating Youth Month and Youth Day (on 16 June). 

The Electoral Commission has previously spoken to the importance of young people’s participation in elections.

“Youth are core to the development process of each nation, but their contributions will not achieve full impact unless they participate in their nation’s decision-making processes. Elections are a key part of making decisions and choices in your society,” the Commission said.

Citizens can check their registration status, voting station and ward details on the IEC’s website using this link: https://www.elections.org.za/pw/Voter/Voter-Information .

Meanwhile, the Commission is set to provide the nation with an update on its readiness for national voter registration weekend on Thursday.

On Friday, a joint meeting of three parliamentary oversight committees received a briefing from the IEC on the state of readiness for the LGE and the voter registration weekend.

The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs, the Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs and the Select Committee on Security and Justice met with the IEC to assess progress on voter registration and the IEC’s operational readiness.

“The committees emphasised the need for clear communication to educate the public about the electoral system. The committees also emphasised that educational communication must be in all indigenous languages, including sign language, to educate, inform and raise awareness about the electoral system,” said the Portfolio Committees of Home Affairs, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, and Select Committee on Security and Justice on Saturday.

The Chairperson of the Select Committee on Security and Justice, Jane Mananiso, welcomed the engagement, emphasising the importance of the briefing ahead of the registration weekend during Youth Month.

“It is important that we target the youth to register,” she said while also stressing the importance of including the youth, older persons, persons with disabilities and rural areas.

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Dr Zweli Mkhize, welcomed the presentation and said Parliament should continue to receive regular updates on public attitudes towards elections and trust in institutions.

“It is something that we, as parliamentarians, must constantly work on and find ways of improving, to increase the level of trust and confidence of the public,” Dr Mkhize said.

The committees also asked the IEC to regularly update Parliament on matters before the courts that may affect public perception and trust. 
Members also asked to be updated regularly on the situation in areas where there are boundary disputes following the ward delimitation process, as this may affect voter registration and participation. The committees resolved that further engagement with the IEC will be necessary as preparations continue.

Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs, Mosa Chabane, welcomed the information shared. He said the committees will consider an oversight visit during a future registration weekend, where and when possible, to assess implementation on the ground. –SAnews.gov.za

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Ahead of Youth Day, President Cyril Ramaphosa says government is pressing ahead with structural reforms, infrastructure investment and targeted job-creation programmes to drive inclusive growth and reduce youth unemployment.

In his weekly newsletter on Monday, Ramaphosa said government is investing in a massive infrastructure programme and implementing far-reaching reforms to boost competitiveness, while a second investment drive has secured R890 billion in new pledges over the past year.

However, he cautioned that these efforts would take time to translate into jobs.

“And even as the economy grows, young people may still find it difficult to participate in that growth. We know that for many young South Africans, the promise of democracy can feel distant when jobs are scarce, when opportunities seem out of reach and when qualifications do not always lead to employment. 

“Many of you are working hard, applying for jobs, pursuing training and seeking opportunities, only to face disappointment. We hear these frustrations, and we understand that they are real,” Ramaphosa said.

To reassure citizens that government is working to address youth unemployment, he outlined a range of programmes providing young people with access to learning and work opportunities, skills, experience and an income.

“One of our most successful programmes has been the Presidential Employment Stimulus, which was launched at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“Today, that stimulus has created in excess of 2.5 million work and livelihood opportunities. More than eight in ten of these opportunities have gone to young people, and two-thirds to women. It has enabled the most rapid expansion of public employment in our history,” Ramaphosa said.

The President said the initiative stands out for its impact on participants’ prospects and the contribution it makes in the communities where they work.

Last year, through the Basic Education Employment Initiative, 200,000 unemployed young people provided valuable support to nearly 22,000 schools in remote villages, townships, dense inner cities, special needs classrooms and farm schools. 

“The programme is giving young people their first foothold in the world of work while strengthening the foundations of learning in the schools that need it most,” he said.

Another successful programme, the Social Employment Fund, offers part-time work for young people in social development initiatives such as education, food and agriculture, health care, environmental improvement and safety.

“Because it is part-time, participants get regular and predictable income while spending the rest of their time looking for work, exploring business opportunities or improving their skills. 

“Alongside these public and social employment programmes, the Presidential Youth Employment Intervention is steadily dismantling the barriers that keep young people locked out of the labour market,” the President said.

Through the SA Youth online platform, more than 5.7 million young people can now search for opportunities, helping to overcome barriers such as transport and data costs. To date, the intervention has facilitated access to more than 2.3 million earning opportunities.

The revitalised National Youth Service has placed more than 132,000 young people in paid service opportunities in their communities.

“These are young people learning the dignity of work while giving back to the society that raised them. The Youth Employment Service, which is a business initiative, places young people in quality year-long work experience opportunities in companies across the country. 

“We are also pioneering smarter ways of spending training funds. The Jobs Boost Outcomes Fund pays for training for young people only when they are placed in a real, quality job. It is a model that demands results,” the President said.

He emphasised that behind each of these figures is a young person whose dignity has been restored, whose confidence has been renewed and whose horizons have broadened.

“Although these opportunities are mostly short-term, there are thousands of stories of young people who have used them as a stepping stone towards finding a permanent job, starting a small business or studying towards a new career. 

“The value of these opportunities can be measured not merely by what young people earn while they’re in the programme, but by what they leave with: skills, experience, self-esteem and a sense of purpose,” Ramaphosa said.

The President acknowledged that much work remains.

He said the scale of the challenge demands sustained and deepened efforts.

“Every company, every department, every organisation and every South African who can open a door for a young person must do so.  Your country sees your potential and will work with you to ensure that you realise it. 

“Let us together build a South Africa in which every young person finds their place in an inclusive economy and in a thriving society,” the President concluded. –SAnews.gov.za

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While the youth of 1976 left an indelible mark in the fight against apartheid’s oppressive education policies, paving the way for equal access to education and opportunities, National Council of Provinces Chairperson Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane has urged today’s youth not to become passive members of society.

“To this end, our repeated call to the youth of today is to remember what the struggle was for. It is for the youth to pick up the baton and not become passive recipients of government, private and public interventions. It is for the youth to reclaim education as a site of struggle,” Mtshweni-Tsipane said on Monday in Johannesburg.

She was addressing the National Youth Parliament, convened to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Student Uprisings and 30 years of South Africa’s transformative Constitution.

National Youth Day is celebrated on June 16 to honour the role young people played in the fight against apartheid and the Soweto Uprising of 1976. 

“In commemorating this historic occasion, the current generation must properly locate the essence of the 1976 struggle to understand present challenges as part of the long arc of liberation. 

“This was a moment in our painful history when the youth, the children of Soweto and across the country, did not wake up intending to die. Rather, they chose to take ownership of their future through a protracted struggle to confront and combat their oppression,” the Chairperson said.

She added that the youth-led uprising of 1976 became the focal point of opposition when other organisations fighting for liberation had been banned and many leaders were in exile, underground or imprisoned.

“It was characterised as a period of people’s power, where apartheid rule was being displaced in all corners of society through forms of self-government across our communities. 

“It was a period of liberation of consciousness from psychological and political oppression, helping to rebuild political unity and self-determination,” Mtshweni-Tsipane said.

She therefore called on South Africans to help address contemporary challenges such as transformation and access to quality education, as a means to reclaim the present and the future, and confront precarious labour conditions in a changing world of work to redefine a different development path.

Furthermore, she said young people should mobilise a multi-sectoral compact to accelerate youth development and policy implementation, and reassert the role of a democratic Parliament as the epicentre of lawmaking, oversight and public participation.

“As Parliament, we have committed ourselves to becoming more deliberate in deepening accountability and strengthening state capacity to deliver services to our people. 

“Let us be inspired by the sacrifices of the youth of 1976, who showed that the future of South Africa depends on the determination of its young people. Passivity, drug abuse and alcohol abuse do not build nations,” she said.

The Chairperson also encouraged young people to reclaim democracy by registering to vote and deciding the kind of country and world in which they wish to live.

“The multiple, interlocking and interrelated challenges facing young people are not the problems of the future; they are the problems of the present. It is time to make your mark and contribution through all sites of people’s power, especially through our municipalities, legislatures and Parliament,” Mtshweni-Tsipane said.

She stressed that the struggle is not yet over.

“It has moved from the streets of our communities to different sites of contestation in universities, industries, corporations, the spaces of arts and culture, spirituality, sport and other aspects of social life. That is why some political thinkers say the struggle feels different today,” the Chairperson said.

She invited participants in the Youth Parliament to contribute meaningfully towards creating renewed ways of life through an oversight agenda that affirms freedoms, even under conditions of scarcity and constraint.

“Parliament is a theatre of contestation, ideas and oversight, and a necessity in developing a transformative strategy for social change.

“Thus, our presence here today in the great city of Johannesburg is to give credence to all voices, especially those of the marginalised, the unemployed and poor youth, against a history of erasure that the youth of 1976 sought to end,” the Chairperson said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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