Category: South Africa Government

South Africa has reiterated its opposition to attempts to single it out over migration-related challenges, calling instead for a comprehensive continent-wide conference to address the root causes of migration; examine migration; improve mobility across Africa and address the challenges associated with irregular migration. 

International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola said migration is a continental phenomenon that requires a collective, evidence-based response rather than discussions that focus solely on one country.

Briefing the media in Pretoria on Wednesday on the outcomes of the recent 49th Ordinary Session of the African Union Executive Council, Lamola said South Africa welcomed the Council’s decision not to place migration on the agenda of the AU mid-term review meeting.

Instead, South Africa continues to support the implementation of a 2015 AU decision calling for a continent-wide migration conference.

“Following a decision by the 49th Ordinary Session of the African Union’s Executive Council not to discuss migration at the upcoming AU mid-term review meeting, South Africa reaffirms its support for the long-standing decision of the AU to convene a continent-wide conference on migration,” Lamola said. 

The Minister said the proposal adopted during the 25th AU Assembly held in Johannesburg in 2015 remains the appropriate platform to examine migration, improve mobility across Africa and address the challenges associated with irregular migration.

“The 25th AU Assembly, which was held in Johannesburg in 2015, called for an African migration conference to consider approaches to accelerate mobility and development within the continent, while addressing the challenges posed by increased irregular migration and strengthening capacity to manage migration flows. South Africa supports the implementation of this decision,” he said. 

Isolation attempts

Responding to questions from journalists after the briefing, Lamola said South Africa would continue advocating for a comprehensive continental discussion on migration rather than allowing the issue to be framed as uniquely South African.

“We raised our view that any discussion on this matter must be comprehensive, dealing with the pull factors, the root causes of illegal migration… climate change, economic peace and stability, democracy in a comprehensive manner. There is no discussion that will be helpful that will just focus on South Africa, because we are not the only country facing a migration challenge.”

He said nearly 45% of Africans live outside their countries of origin, largely out of necessity rather than choice, making migration a shared continental issue.

“What we are disagreeing with is to isolate it and make it a South Africa phenomenon… If you just want to put it on an agenda and say xenophobia in South Africa, what will happen is that South Africa will be almost likely in some kind of court or inquiry where we must go there and defend ourselves. What will be the conclusion of such a meeting? It will be a zero-sum game.”

Instead, Lamola said the African Union should revive and implement the migration conference resolution adopted in Johannesburg in 2015.

“The African Union, in its wisdom, took a resolution in 2015 and said it calls for a comprehensive conference on migration. That is what the African Union should do. We don’t have a complex task; it’s already there. It’s just to dust it off from the shelves and put it on the table for implementation.”

He added that South Africa would continue cooperating with the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which is expected to visit the country to engage on migration-related issues.

Holistic approach

Lamola said South Africa believes migration cannot be separated from broader developmental challenges confronting the continent.

He said discussions should encompass peace and security, economic development, climate change, democratic governance, and regional integration while also addressing the drivers of anti-migrant sentiment.

“It must consider migration’s relationship with peace and stability, economic development, regional integration and democratic governance.

“It must also provide space for Member States to discuss the root causes of anti-migrant sentiment and develop a collective continental approach to preventing violence, discrimination, xenophobia and other forms of intolerance,” the Minister said. 

He said the urgency of such a discussion is underscored by growing migration trends across Africa.

According to research cited by the Minister, nearly six in every 10 Africans between the ages of 18 and 25 have considered emigrating in search of better opportunities.

He noted that migration within Africa remains significant, with more than half of Africans living outside their home countries and choosing to settle elsewhere on the continent.

South Africa, Egypt and Côte d’Ivoire continue to receive the largest share of these intra-African migrants.

At the same time, Lamola said research points to increasing negative attitudes towards migrants across Africa and globally, driven in part by economic hardship.

 AU mandates

Lamola also updated member states on several continental responsibilities assigned to South Africa.

The country continues to serve as Chair of the Committee of Five (C5) on South Sudan and as Chair of the Ministerial Follow-Up Committee responsible for implementing Agenda 2063.

“We appraised the AU Member States on several tasks assigned to the Republic of South Africa by the Summit and its attendant structures.”

Lamola said South Africa’s leadership has focused on strengthening accountability, accelerating implementation and mobilising sustainable financing for the continent’s long-term development agenda.

“During our chairship, we have noted a growing continental commitment to strengthening accountability, accelerating implementation, and mobilizing sustainable financing for Africa’s transformation agenda, while acknowledging the challenges that remain,” he said. 

As part of this work, South Africa has recommended that the AU undertake a feasibility study into establishing an Agenda 2063 Development Fund.

“The proposed Fund must complement existing African financing institutions; avoid duplication of mandates; and establish clear governance and accountability structures.”

Support for South Sudan elections 

On South Sudan, Lamola urged the international community to support preparations for credible and inclusive elections under the Revitalised Peace Agreement.

“With regards to the upcoming elections in South Sudan, as chair of the C5, we encourage the international community to assist South Sudan to reach the important milestone of having an election which is inclusive and realistically meets the requirements of the Revitalised Peace Agreement.

“Only a credible and inclusive election can bring long-lasting peace, security and prosperity for the people of South Sudan,” he said. 

Peace and security

Lamola welcomed the decision to convene an Extraordinary AU Summit on conflict prevention and resolution in Luanda, Angola, later this month.

He said the summit would provide an opportunity for African leaders to strengthen the principle of African solutions to African problems.

“South Africa welcomes the decision to convene an Extraordinary Summit of the African Union on the strengthening of mechanisms for conflict prevention and resolution in Africa from 29 – 30 August in Luanda, Angola.

“This will allow the continent to give practical expression to the principle of African solutions for African problems,” he said. 

The Minister said the worsening conflict in Sudan remains one of the continent’s most pressing concerns.
“The conflict in Sudan has become more than just a humanitarian catastrophe – it is one of the biggest moral failures in our lifetime.

“South Africa will use this platform as a critical opportunity to mobilise the continent towards a structured intervention,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

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South Africa is preparing to host the 46th Ordinary Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit of Heads of State and Government later this month, with regional leaders expected to adopt decisions aimed at accelerating industrialisation, strengthening infrastructure development, enhancing food security and advancing regional integration.

The summit, which will be held in Durban on 17 August, will also see President Cyril Ramaphosa formally assume the SADC Chairpersonship for the 2026/27 term, marking South Africa’s leadership of the 16-member regional bloc at a time of growing geopolitical and economic challenges.

Briefing the media in Pretoria on Wednesday, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola said South Africa was honoured to host the summit under the theme: “Resilient, Sustainable and Inclusive Industrialisation through Infrastructure Development, Agricultural and Critical Minerals Transformation in Pursuit of a Just World”.

The summit process officially began this week with technical meetings at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre and will culminate in the Heads of State and Government Summit on 17 August.

According to Lamola, the summit follows a structured programme of technical, ministerial and political meetings designed to prepare decisions for adoption by Heads of State and Government.

The Standing Committee of Senior Officials will meet from 6 to 7 August to consider reports from sectoral structures before making recommendations to ministers.

This will be followed by the Finance Committee meeting on 8 August, where member states will consider the SADC budget, resource mobilisation and financial sustainability matters.

Between 9 and 11 August, officials will finalise documentation before the SADC Council of Ministers convenes from 12 to 14 August under Minister Lamola’s chairpersonship.

The Council of Ministers will consider recommendations from senior officials and deliberate on issues including industrialisation, infrastructure, regional trade, food security, health, peace and security, regional financing and institutional reforms.

The summit programme will also feature President Cyril Ramaphosa’s SADC Public Lecture on 14 August at the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Westville Campus. The lecture is expected to stimulate dialogue on implementing SADC Vision 2050 and strengthening regional integration.

Regional peace and security will also feature prominently through meetings of the Organ Troika on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation on 15 August, followed by the Organ Troika Summit on 16 August.

Heads of State and Government are expected to arrive on 16 August ahead of the official summit opening and a State Banquet hosted by President Ramaphosa.

Focus on implementation

Lamola said preparations are centred on ensuring SADC decisions are more effective, measurable and capable of implementation.

Among the issues under consideration is strengthening the quality of Council and Summit decisions through improved monitoring and accountability mechanisms.

Member States will also consider a proposed framework for SADC Presidential Champions, which will see Heads of State champion priority regional development programmes including infrastructure development, industrialisation, agriculture, mining, resource mobilisation and social development.

Another key priority is advancing implementation of the Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020–2030, which remains SADC’s primary development blueprint.

Key outcomes expected

The Minister said Heads of State and Government are expected to consider 47 decisions submitted through the summit process, although that number could change following deliberations during preparatory meetings.

Among the expected outcomes are:
•    Accelerating regional industrialisation and regional value chains; 
•    Strengthening infrastructure connectivity and transport corridors; 
•    Enhancing agricultural productivity and food security; 
•    Advancing beneficiation of critical minerals; 
•    Improving regional peace, security and stability; 
•    Strengthening resource mobilisation through the operationalisation of the SADC Regional Development Fund; 
•    Enhancing implementation and monitoring of SADC decisions; and 
•    Strengthening institutional effectiveness through the Rationalisation Mechanism and Presidential Champions Initiative.

Lamola said the summit presents an opportunity for member states to strengthen regional cooperation and pursue inclusive economic growth.

Migration to feature prominently

Lamola said South Africa would use the platform to articulate its approach to migration management while promoting greater regional cooperation.

He said government remained committed to managing migration in a lawful, orderly, humane and effective manner in line with the Constitution and South Africa’s international obligations.

Government’s approach includes strengthening border security, combating irregular migration, addressing the unlawful employment of undocumented migrants, improving enforcement of immigration and labour legislation and tackling corruption within migration systems.

South Africa will also encourage greater regional cooperation in addressing migration challenges while promoting stability, development and respect for human rights. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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The Acting Minister of Police Firoz Cachalia convened a high-level meeting with South African Police Service (SAPS) officials on Tuesday, to strengthen government’s response to the challenges associated with initiation schools.

The officials included the Acting National Commissioner of SAPS, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, the Deputy National Commissioners, Provincial Commissioners, Premiers and Members of the Executive Councils (MECs) responsible for Community Safety.

“The meeting follows the recent engagement convened by the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Velenkosini Hlabisa which brought together key stakeholders to address matters relating to illegal initiation schools, the tragic deaths of initiates and the role of government in preventing these incidents while safeguarding legitimate cultural practices,” the police said in a statement.

The Deputy National Commissioner: Policing, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, who also serves as the Chairperson of the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS), presented a comprehensive situational report detailing the number of initiation-related deaths, arrests effected by law enforcement as well as the number of registered legal initiation schools and those identified as operating unlawfully.

The meeting welcomed the presentation, noting that it provides a valuable operational picture that will inform targeted interventions by law enforcement and other government departments.

“Discussions that followed highlighted a number of operational and coordination challenges experienced across provinces.

“Provincial Commissioners emphasised the need for stronger coordination between government, law enforcement and all stakeholders responsible for regulating and overseeing initiation schools,” the police said.

Minister Cachalia noted the concerns and resolved that they will form part of the report to be submitted to the Minister of CoGTA.

The report will also include practical recommendations aimed at strengthening intergovernmental coordination and ensuring a more integrated approach to addressing illegal initiation schools and preventing avoidable deaths.

The meeting further resolved to enhance collaboration between provincial governments, the SAPS, traditional leaders and recognised initiation school leadership to improve compliance with applicable legislation, facilitate information sharing and strengthen enforcement efforts against illegal operators. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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By Lihle Nxumalo

The National Women’s Month launch, held at the Olive Convention Centre in Durban on 01 August 2026, celebrated the achievements of women who are shaping South Africa’s future through entrepreneurship and innovation. 

Hosted under the theme: “Empowered Women, Empower Nations”, the event was led by the Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga.

A key highlight of the event was the vibrant EmpowerHer Trade Market, which featured women-owned businesses from across the country, showcasing their role in driving economic growth, creating jobs and strengthening local communities.

Among the standout exhibitors was Grasp Adhesive, a 100% black female-owned manufacturing enterprise founded by Zamafiso Mngomezulu. Operating in the construction sector, the company manufactures high-quality tile adhesive products that meet rigorous standards of durability, reliability and performance. Through innovation and an unwavering commitment to quality, Grasp Adhesive has established itself as a trusted supplier in an industry where women remain underrepresented.

Mngomezulu’s entrepreneurial journey reflects resilience, determination and a clear vision. She founded Grasp Adhesive with the ambition of demonstrating that women can excel in manufacturing and construction while producing products that compete with the best in the industry. Her dedication to quality and customer satisfaction has enabled the business to grow steadily, earning the trust of contractors, retailers and property developers.

A pivotal moment in the company’s growth came through funding support from Ithala Bank. The investment enabled Grasp Adhesive to expand its production capacity, enhance its manufacturing processes and strengthen its competitiveness within the construction industry. For Mngomezulu, Ithala’s support represented more than financial assistance, it was a strong endorsement of her vision and confidence in her potential as a business leader.

Beyond building a successful enterprise, Mngomezulu is passionate about empowering women and creating opportunities for young people in manufacturing. She believes that increasing women’s participation in the sector is essential to building a more inclusive and sustainable economy. Through her leadership, she continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women seeking to break barriers in industries traditionally dominated by men.

Zamafiso Mngomezulu’s story embodies the spirit of this year’s Women’s Month theme: “Empowered Women, Empower Nations”.  Through innovation, perseverance and strategic support from institutions such as Ithala Bank, she has built a thriving business that not only delivers quality products but also creates employment, contributes to economic development and demonstrates the transformative impact of investing in women-owned enterprises. – SAnews.gov.za

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Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Sindisiwe Lydia Chikunga has called for women’s empowerment that transcends generations, is institutionalised, and gives women the power to define their futures.

“Africa and the world [must] move from merely remembering women to building institutions that include women. Our responsibility is not only to honour the women who changed history – it is to ensure that the next generation of women has the power to define their own futures,” Chikunga said on Tuesday in Pretoria.

The Minister was speaking at the launch of the Portraits of Power Exhibition, which celebrates extraordinary women whose courage, leadership and contributions have shaped nations and inspired generations.

The exhibition takes place during Women’s Month, celebrated under the theme: “Empowered Women Empower the Nation,” and commemorates the 70th anniversary of the historic 9 August 1956 march by more than 20 000 women to the Union Buildings.

Chikunga emphasised that women must take their rightful place in all areas where decisions are made, and power is exercised.

“Especially decisions over the ownership, control and management of the wealth-producing resources of this land.  We must continue to ask difficult questions: Where are the women when budgets are allocated, when policies are designed, and when decisions about our collective future are taken,” Chikunga said.

She stressed that women’s participation must be institutionalised, not incidental.

“We must demand institutional commitment, not symbolic commitment. The true measure of our commitment to women is not the number of conferences we hold, or portraits we unveil. It is whether our institutions themselves change — whether women gain access to capital, education, leadership, technology, markets, and decision-making power,” the Minister said.

Chikunga said women must have access to education, financial support, networks and institutions that can turn ambition into influence — and influence into impact.

“We must make intergenerational inclusion mandatory. This initiative already creates a platform connecting international women leaders, diplomats, artists, students, and young women leaders. Let us institutionalise those connections. Every woman who has climbed the ladder must become part of building the ladder for someone else. Bring someone along,” she said.

The Minister said the women whose portraits were unveiled should not remain historical figures on walls.

“They must become symbols of hope, and of access. Their stories must enter our classrooms, our universities, our communities, and our conversations with young women — and opportunities must be materially realised in their honour.

“Let us leave this room with a personal responsibility. Leave here committed. Identify one young woman you will mentor. One door you will open. One institution you will challenge. One opportunity you will create. Because the most powerful portrait we can unveil is the portrait of the woman whose future we helped change,” she said.

The International Portraits of Power exhibition is a Charlotte Mannya-Maxeke Institute initiative presented in partnership with The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa and participating diplomatic missions.

It forms part of a series of legacy projects commemorating the 155th birthday anniversary of Mannya-Maxeke. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Over 15 000 suspects have been arrested in nationwide Shanela II operations, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said.

In a statement on Monday, the police said 15 798 individuals were nabbed in police operations that involved collaboration with other law enforcement agencies and participating government departments.

“Just this past week alone, police apprehended 329 alleged drug dealers and 3 242 suspects for possession of drugs between 27 July and 02 August 2026,” said the SAPS.

This as the police on Friday, 31 July 2026, seized a consignment of cocaine worth an estimated R28 million at OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA). The cargo had arrived on a flight from São Paulo, Brazil, when police, with support from Customs officials and Menzies Aviation operational members, intercepted the drugs.

Police also seized 153 unlicensed firearms, which include handguns, shotguns and rifles. The majority of the handguns were recovered by police in the Eastern Cape (29), followed by KwaZulu-Natal (27), and the Western Cape (23). A total of 86 stolen and hijacked vehicles were also recovered.

In the Johannesburg central business district (CBD) in Gauteng, the National Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit led a multi-disciplinary operation which resulted in the seizure of counterfeit and illicit goods worth more than R5 million.

An on-site verification process by officials from the Department of Home Affairs also led to the arrest of eight individuals for contravening the Immigration Act.

In the Eastern Cape, four suspects were nabbed for an armed business robbery at a local jewellery store in Jeffrey’s Bay on Sunday, 02 August 2026.
 
Meanwhile, between 27 and 30 July 2026, the Gauteng Provincial Counterfeit Unit, working together with brand protection representatives and other law enforcement partners, executed a series of search and seizure operations across the Tshwane, West Rand, Sedibeng and Johannesburg Districts.

The operations resulted in the seizure of counterfeit and illicit goods worth more than R27 million.

In KwaZulu-Natal, the Mthunzini High Court sentenced Dumisile Sibisi (37), Thulani Mbatha (38), Ngcebo Mavuso (32), Mndeni Buthelezi (32) and Dumisani Gumede (44) to two life terms and a further one hundred years for murder, conspiracy to commit murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances as well as unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition. 

The 30 July 2026 sentence comes after a thorough and skilful investigation into a murder and robbery case that occurred on 29 November 2022, at the Scayeni area in KwaNongoma.

In Mpumalanga,  a multi-disciplinary operation led by the Middelburg Flying Squad has resulted in the arrest of a 40-year-old man and the recovery of a suspected stolen vehicle and mining equipment in Middelburg. The success follows intelligence-led information regarding a stolen white Toyota Hilux GD6 Single Cab which was reported in Witbank. 

In the North West, police arrested a 27-year-old Lesotho national, Thabiso Sholo Potsoko, in connection with the fatal mass shooting at a Tavern in Kanana, near Orkney. 

The incident occurred on Saturday night, 30 May 2026, at a tavern in Kanana Extension 10, where five people were shot and killed, while five others sustained gunshot injuries. 

It is alleged that the suspects stormed the tavern and opened fire indiscriminately, killing the patrons.

The arrest follows an intelligence-driven operation involving members of the Provincial Anti-Gang Investigation Unit, North West Crime Intelligence, Sasolburg Crime Prevention Unit (Free State), and the North West Tactical Response Team (TRT).

In the Western Cape, Operation Prosper deployments to crime hotspot areas led to the confiscation of 139 mandrax tablets, 126 heroin straws and 61 small packets containing crystal meth on 31 July.  A 39-year-old suspect was arrested. 

Police also searched a dwelling in New Monwabisi informal settlement in Khayelitsha and seized 58 small plastic packets containing crystal meth, 35 half mandrax tablets and five quarter mandrax tablets. A 28-year-old suspect was arrested. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Runway operations have resumed at Cape Town International Airport following an aircraft incident that disrupted flights on Tuesday afternoon, although passengers may still face delays as airlines work to recover their schedules.

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) said a Kenya Airways aircraft, flight KQ784, experienced a tyre failure while landing at about 3:25pm on Tuesday, leaving the aircraft disabled on the airport’s primary runway.

The company said the incident temporarily disrupted airport operations, with arriving flights diverted to alternate airports.

Domestic departures continued operating, while wide-body international departures were temporarily unable to operate as airport teams worked with the airline and other stakeholders to recover the aircraft and restore runway operations.

The airport has now confirmed that runway operations have resumed. However, some flight delays may continue as airlines work to bring their schedules back to normal.

Passengers travelling through Cape Town International Airport are advised to check directly with their airline or the ACSA Mobile App for the latest information on flight times, delays and any operational changes.

ACSA had earlier urged passengers to check their flight status before travelling to the airport.

The airport thanked passengers for their patience as operations return to normal. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana has noted the High Court judgment declaring the suspension of the Public Investment Corporation (PIC) CEO, Patrick Dlamini, invalid and unlawful.

Dlamini was placed on precautionary suspension following allegations of impropriety contained in a whistleblower report.

According to court reporting, the judgment found that the PIC board had acted without the required ministerial and Cabinet approval.

“The Minister believes this judgment vindicates the actions taken by National Treasury and Cabinet to restore governance at South Africa’s largest asset management institution.

“These actions were both good and necessary, triggered in part by the hasty removal of Dlamini without due consultation and process,” the Ministry of Finance said on Tuesday.

A recent Cabinet statement announced the appointment of non-executive members to the PIC Board of Directors.

The appointments were aimed at addressing current governance challenges at the corporation.

“The Minister of Finance will continue to drive the reforms of the PIC, as recommended by the Judge Mpati Commission, in consultation with Cabinet,” the statement said.

The Minister underscored that the PIC occupies a critical position within South Africa’s financial system.

“As the country’s largest asset manager and the custodian of a substantial portion of public sector retirement funds, trust in its governance is of systemic importance,” the Ministry of Finance said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Women are the driving force in South Africa’s healthcare system, tirelessly serving the people of South Africa.

This is according to Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi who spoke to SAnews on the sidelines of the official opening of the King Nyabela Hospital in Middelburg, Mpumalanga.

READ | New King Nyabela Hospital offers suite of health care services

Speaking as the country marks Women’s Month in August, Motsoaledi noted that women occupy every sphere of the health system.

Women’s Month is celebrated in South Africa to commemorate the 1956 Women’s March, when 20 000 women walked to the Union Buildings in protest against apartheid pass laws.

“In healthcare, women are the backbone of the healthcare system because we’ve got more female nurses than male nurses and I’ve always said that nursing is the backbone of the system.

“Even with the medical personnel too. We do have quite a number of women who are in charge. They are hospital CEOs, hospital medical managers, surgeons, gynaecologists and psychiatrists. So, there’s no difference between men and women when it comes to healthcare,” Motsoaledi explained.

Healthcare workers at the opening of the hospital on Tuesday reflected on the importance of Women’s Month.

“This Women’s Month, I call on women to stand up for themselves and for their children. They must not allow themselves to be distracted. I say forward with women and imbokodo [rock],” Gladys Masina told SAnews.

Another healthcare worker, Meikie Motau, said: “I want to praise all the women of the Department of Health; may they continue to provide lifesaving care”.

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

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

“They became the rhythm of a nation’s progress, echoing through every classroom, every boardroom, every parliament, every marketplace, and every enterprise led by women today.

“And, 70 years later, I see women here today, still walking in the footprints of their courage and the light of their vision. Bearing witness to the message of 1956, firmly affirming that their footsteps did not end at the Union Buildings; they continue to echo through every generation of South African women determined to rise, determined to lead, and determined to empower the nation,” Chikunga said.

South Africa will commemorate National Women’s Day on Sunday. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Government has congratulated Banyana Banyana on their outstanding victory over Burkina Faso in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026, a remarkable achievement that once again affirms South Africa’s place among the continent’s footballing giants.

The senior women’s team advanced to the quarterfinals of the tournament after beating Burkina Faso 1-0 in Casablanca, Morocco, on Tuesday night.

“The team represented South Africa with dignity and pride. Throughout the tournament, the team displayed discipline and fighting spirit that have become synonymous with South African sport,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said in a statement on Wednesday.

The GCIS said Banyana Banyana’s advancement to the next stage has added another proud chapter to South Africa’s sporting history. 

“Their achievement has inspired a new generation of athletes, strengthened the nation’s sporting legacy and reaffirmed the power of women’s sport to unite, inspire and transform lives, especially given that August is Women’s Month in South Africa; they have made us proud,” the GCIS said.

Government reaffirmed its commitment to working with the stakeholders to strengthen and advance women’s sport through sustained investment, improved development programmes and broader opportunities for female athletes. 

“Investing in women’s sport is not only critical to South Africa’s sporting future but also contributes to the continued advancement of women’s sport across the African continent.

“Banyana Banyana remain among Africa’s leading women’s football teams and Government is confident that the lessons from this campaign will serve as a foundation for future sporting events.

“Government thanks the players, technical team, support staff and all South Africans who rallied behind Banyana Banyana throughout the tournament,” the GCIS said. –SAnews.gov.za 

 

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