Category: South Africa Government

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, November 28, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has emphasised the importance of the ongoing 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children and the critical role that communities play in eliminating the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

“Let us continue to advance gender equity. Through this annual 16 Days of Activism Campaign, let us create communities where women and children are safe, empowered, and free from violence. Let us ensure that collective responsibility becomes a lived reality,” he said on Thursday. 

The Deputy President delivered a keynote address on the second day of the South African Local Government Association’s (SALGA) National Members Assembly. 

The event, hosted at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, brought together notable figures from various sectors to discuss the future of local governance in South Africa.

This assembly which concluded on Thursday, took place during the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children, which was launched two days ago. 

READ | Minister Chikunga calls for Media and Creative Sectors to ‘flip the script’ in fight against GBVF

The Deputy President called for a united effort to ensure women’s and children’s safety, urging attendees to create “communities where women and children are safe, empowered, and free from violence.”

The country’s second-in-command said this commitment to gender equity aligns with SALGA’s goals, illustrating the organisation’s dedication to fostering safe and inclusive spaces at the local level.

SALGA anniversary

He also took a moment to reflect on the significance of SALGA’s anniversary, noting that November marks the 29th anniversary of the formation of a unified SALGA. 

The Deputy President recounted how SALGA’s journey began in 1996 at the National Summit for Organised Local Government and highlighted its evolution into the “unified voice of South Africa’s 257 municipalities.”

He also took the time to praise SALGA for its role in advocating for community needs and enhancing service delivery across the nation.

The Deputy President also acknowledged SALGA’s involvement in significant legislative advancements, mentioning key acts such as the Electoral Laws Amendment Act of 2021 and the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act of 2013.

He said SALGA’s steadfast dedication has enabled them successfully to push for these improvements, ensuring that the legal framework supports municipalities in carrying out their service delivery mandates.

National Dialogue on Coalition Governments

Deputy President Mashatile also touched on the National Dialogue on Coalition Governments; a critical discussion aimed at developing frameworks that guide coalition arrangements at the local level. 

“The recommendations and final declaration of the Dialogue on Coalition Government have paved the way for the development of an overarching framework that will guide coalition arrangements at the local government level.”

Professionalising the public service and reforms

He stressed government’s commitment to establishing a capable, ethical, and developmental state. 

“Parliament is currently processing the Public Service Commission Amendment Act to extend the mandate of the Public Service Commission (PSC) to include local government and public entities.” 

Deputy President Mashatile said this move is aimed at professionalising the public service across all government levels.

Through initiatives like Phase 2 of Operation Vulindlela, the Deputy President outlined the government’s strategy to address economic challenges and support local governments. 

Phase 2 focuses on accelerating economic reforms to achieve faster and more inclusive growth by addressing structural constraints in key sectors like energy, water, and local government.

He also underscored the shared responsibility of all stakeholders in supporting government efforts to implement necessary reforms. 

The country’s second-in-command called to action members of organised local government, encouraging them to rally behind transformative initiatives.

Deputy President Mashatile reminded leaders of the challenges faced by municipalities while also calling for collaborative efforts for a stronger, more equitable future for South Africa.

He urged the prioritisation of economic resilience, investment in infrastructure and services, and embracing new technologies and approaches to service delivery. 

“By doing so, we can create an environment where businesses thrive, communities prosper, and each individual can realise their full potential.

“As I have stated, we all agree that local government is the sphere of government that is closest to our people. It is through municipalities that democracy connects with daily life, through the provision of water, energy, sanitation, roads, and public order, among other things.” 

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa’s, address emphasised the urgent need for local government reform to enhance service delivery and tackle challenges such as GBV, youth unemployment, and infrastructure decay. 

He highlighted the importance of aligning Integrated Development Plans with global priorities, particularly following South Africa’s leadership role in the Group of 20 (G20) Leaders’ Summit. 

The Minister also spoke about the review of the White Paper on Local Government, which presents a critical opportunity to strengthen governance and financial controls, ensuring municipalities can effectively address community needs.

He highlighted the importance of aligning municipal plans with global initiatives and fostering stable governance to enhance community trust and development. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

The South African Reserve Bank’s (SARB) position paper on a retail central bank digital currency (CBDC) in South Africa has concluded that it there is no compelling immediate need for its implementation.

A retail CBDC is defined as a purely digital banknote, denominated in the national unit of account, which could be used by individuals to pay businesses, shops or each other (a retail CBDC), or between financial institutions to settle trades in financial markets (a wholesale CBDC). 

At its core then, retail CBDC aims to mirror traditional currency, but in digital form.

“The SARB’s research and experimentation found that a retail CBDC is technically feasible and could be implemented in a way that aligns with regulatory and policy objectives. 

“However, the analysis does not reveal a strong immediate need for such an instrument. Instead, the SARB concluded that ongoing initiatives such as the Payment Ecosystem Modernisation Programme and expanding non-bank participation in the national payment system should remain the priority in the short-to-medium-term,” the Reserve Bank said. 

The SARB position paper on the necessity of a retail CBDC in South Africa and background note  was published on the bank’s website on Thursday.

The study focused on the potential role of a retail CBDC as a digital complement to cash, particularly in the context of South Africa’s evolving payment landscape and persistent financial inclusion challenge.

The SARB noted that in the longer term there may be a need for a retail CBDC to safeguard public access to central bank money − a public good that remains essential in a digital economy; and unlock opportunities to complement and enhance the existing payments landscape while supporting broader financial innovation in South Africa.

While the SARB does not currently advocate for the implementation of a retail CBDC, it will continue to monitor developments and will remain prepared to act should the need arise. 

“As the SARB continues its CBDC journey, the next phase will pivot toward further exploration of wholesale CBDC. This strategic shift reflects the growing global momentum around wholesale applications and their potential to enhance financial market innovation, cross-border payment efficiency and systemic resilience. The SARB will outline its plans for this next phase in due course.”

Central bank money plays a crucial role in the financial system for two primary reasons: it represents the highest quality of money, reducing risk and enhancing payment system efficiency and its accessibility through convertibility with commercial bank money fosters trade efficiency and mitigates financial instability in a dual money system.

Growth and cash

“From the research and analysis conducted as part of this study, there is evidence of significant growth in the adoption and use of digital payments in South Africa. 

“This has been driven by innovative solutions introduced by commercial banks, fintechs and the efforts of the SARB and other public sector agencies and partners,” it said.

These are anticipated to continue having a positive impact on financial inclusion, and it is expected that a growing number of South Africans will adopt and use digital payments on a regular basis.

“Notwithstanding the progress made, evidence also shows that physical cash continues to play a significant role in South Africa, particularly for certain segments of the population. This prevailing cash reliance is due to barriers such as infrastructure availability, costs of digital payments and network and power issues.

Balancing act

“More importantly, the continued ability to redeem private money into safe and liquid public money (i.e. banknotes and coin) provides a safety net in times of economic stress and maintains confidence in the financial system. Further, balancing access to both central bank and commercial bank money is essential for maximising trade efficiency,” SARB said.

This balance requires careful consideration of the unique benefits each type of money provides.

“In the SARB’s view, continued commitment and resources should be dedicated to realising the opportunities of existing payment modernisation initiatives, such as expanding the PayShap value proposition, enabling interoperability of different stores of value, allowing non-banks to issue electronic money and participating directly in the NPS [national payment system], QR code standardisation, introducing an open banking/open finance framework, among others,” the bank said.

SARB emphasised that the conclusion of the study should not be interpreted as a view that South Africa should not implement a retail CBDC in future. 

The study can be accessed on: https://www.resbank.co.za/en/home/publications/publication-detail-pages/Fintech/sarb-position-paper-on-the-necessity-of-a-retail-cbdc-in-south-africa

–SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

A total of 10 sluice gates are now in operation at the Vaal Dam, after three additional sluice gates opened on Thursday, to manage rising water levels.

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) intensified flood management operations at the Vaal Dam by opening three additional sluice gates in response to rising inflows and persistent rainfall across the Vaal River System.

In a statement, the department announced that the gates were being opened in controlled intervals, with two gates opened at 10am and 12pm, and another scheduled to open in the afternoon at 2pm, to safely increase outflows throughout the day and stabilise dam levels.

These latest adjustments follow reopening of four sluice gates on Wednesday, between 10am and 1pm, which increased releases from 325 cubic metres per second (m³/s) to 950 m³/s.

‘With today’s measured operations, the Vaal Dam will operate with 10 open sluice gates, enabling the department to regulate the rising upstream inflows while ensuring the integrity of key water infrastructure,” department spokesperson Wisane Mavasa said.

The department also confirmed that there are no changes to operations at Bloemhof Dam, with outflows remaining steady at approximately 1000 m³/s – consistent with last week’s adjustments and aligned with current dam safety protocols.

According to the department, both the Vaal and Bloemhof dams remain above 100% due to sustained rainfall this week, necessitating continuous monitoring and proactive intervention.

Mavasa noted that the opening of sluice gates is a standard operating procedure and a critical dam safety measure implemented when water levels rise sharply.

“Controlled releases help prevent overtopping, safeguard the structural integrity of dam infrastructure and protect communities downstream from potential disaster. With increased releases from the Vaal Dam, downstream areas may experience overflowing riverbanks, which could affect infrastructure located in low-lying zones of the floodplain,” Mavasa explained.

The department appealed to communities along the Vaal River, particularly those in the Vaal Triangle, Parys, and other riparian settlements, to remain vigilant and monitor rising river levels closely.

“Farmers and residents with pumps, movable equipment, or infrastructure situated close to the water’s edge are advised to take immediate steps to secure their assets. Livestock and valuable property should be moved to higher ground.”

The Department of Water and Sanitation remains on high alert and will continue to conduct real-time monitoring of inflows at both Vaal and Bloemhof Dams. Further updates will be issued as conditions change. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, November 27, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

The South African Government joins the international community in commemorating the 48th United Nations (UN) International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. 

According to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, South Africa reaffirms its commitment to achieving a just and lasting solution to the question of Palestine.

This year, the department noted that the International Day of Solidarity coincides with the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between South Africa and Palestine.

South Africa and Palestine continue to maintain strong ties of solidarity and cooperation, grounded in the principles of international law. 

Together, they are working towards creating a better future for their people, their regions, and the world.

According to the department, on Friday, 28 November 2025, Deputy President Paul Mashatile will participate in the commemorative event, alongside Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Thandi Moraka.

“The quest for Palestinian self-determination and statehood remains unresolved after 75 years and remains at the core of ensuring lasting peace and prosperity in the Middle East.

“In this regard, this occasion provides us with a crucial opportunity to reflect and take stock of the plight of the Palestinian people and to chart a way forward.” 

Government has once again urged Israel to recognise that the only path to achieving peace is through ending its illegal occupation of Palestine. 

This includes adhering to its obligations under international law and complying with various UN resolutions related to this issue over the decades.

“South Africa remains resolute in its commitment to continue strengthening the bonds of long-standing solidarity, friendship, and cooperation with Palestine, and calls upon the international community to tirelessly work for the attainment of peace and to provide strong humanitarian, economic and political support to the Palestinians.”

In keeping with South Africa’s long-term and principled support for the Palestinian people, government said it remains committed to supporting initiatives aimed at refocusing the international agenda on Palestine and reviving a genuine Middle East peace process that places Palestinian agency at its core. 

In light of the ongoing crisis in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, particularly in Gaza, South Africa has renewed its call for the urgent implementation of the Gaza Peace Plan. 

This includes Israel’s full compliance with a permanent ceasefire, the unrestricted entry of humanitarian assistance through the United Nations and other reputable relief agencies, and the withdrawal of Israeli occupation forces to the Egyptian border. 

South Africa further urges inclusive consultations with the Palestinian authorities on reconstruction efforts and the long-term governance of Palestine.

“South Africa calls on all UN member states, as third-party states, to ensure that they adhere to their international obligations not to engage in any actions that would sustain the illegal occupation or the current genocide in Palestine. 

“It is the duty of the international community to work tirelessly in assisting the Palestinian people to achieve their aspirations of freedom, justice and statehood,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has expressed South Africa’s deep appreciation for Finland’s unwavering support during the country’s Group of 20 (G20) Presidency and its struggle against apartheid.

The Deputy President made the remarks during a bilateral meeting on Wednesday with Finland’s Prime Minister Petteri Orpo at OR Tambo House in Pretoria.

“This commitment was underscored by the participation of His Excellency President Alexander Stubb at very short notice, for which we remain sincerely grateful. Relations between South Africa and Finland continue to be warm, cordial and constructive,” said Deputy President Mashatile on Wednesday.  

Prime Minister Orpo’s visit follows South Africa’s successful hosting of the G20 Leaders’ Summit over the weekend in Johannesburg, which was attended by President Stubb and his delegation. 

It also comes shortly after the Prime Minister participates in the 7th African Union–European Union (AU-EU) Summit in Luanda, Angola, marking the 25th anniversary of the AU–EU partnership.

Finland operates as a parliamentary republic, where the Prime Minister serves as Head of Government and oversees daily administration, while the President acts as Head of State with a primarily ceremonial role, including responsibilities in foreign policy and military command.

“Since the dawn of our democracy, Finland has recognised the importance of South Africa’s reconstruction and development efforts and has made a meaningful contribution through various development partnership agreements, as well as expanding trade and investment across diverse sectors.” 

The Deputy President highlighted that bilateral engagement has strengthened recently, especially during the State Visit by former Finnish President Sauli Niinistö in April 2023.

The country’s second-in-command reported that the visit resulted in several tangible and positive outcomes. 

These include collaboration on water resource management, the development of educational models for Early Childhood Development, initiatives aimed at supporting out-of-school youth and adult education, and a joint effort to train young peace mediators.

“These practical projects reflect the substance and value of our partnership.” 

He said yesterday’s visit builds on these high-level engagements and serves to further consolidate our bilateral relations, particularly in the areas of trade and investment. 

“We are encouraged that your delegation includes business leaders seeking to explore new opportunities in smart and sustainable mining, water and built environments, and the development of smart cities.” 

In addition, he stated that water management and digitalisation remain central pillars of bilateral cooperation. 

He referred to the 2023 memorandum of understanding (MoU) on water resources between South Africa and Finland as a significant milestone, particularly emphasising its focus on innovation and technology.

“We also value the Letters of Intent concluded with several municipalities on water resource management.”

Minister of Water and Sanitation Penny Majodina’s visit to Finland in August 2025, along with the participation of a Finnish delegation in the inaugural Technical Conference of the Association of Water and Sanitation Institutions of South Africa (AWSISA) earlier this month, highlights the strength of our collaboration in this field.

“We appreciate ongoing cooperation in advancing innovation systems and start-up ecosystems. Work continues on digital infrastructure – especially low-cost connectivity in township areas – which will help create an enabling environment for inclusive development. In this regard, we value Finland’s active participation in the G20 Digital Economy Working Group.” 

Beyond strong bilateral ties, Deputy President Mashatile believes the relationship has increasingly evolved into a partnership in support of Africa’s broader development priorities. 

“South Africa and Finland share the conviction that equitable representation in the United Nations and the wider multilateral system is essential for sustainable peace and development. 

“We commend Finland’s consistent and principled support for the comprehensive reform of the United Nations, particularly the Security Council, and for its advocacy for a more just, inclusive and rules-based international order.”

In addition, he recognised Finland’s continued partnership on key global challenges, including the strengthening of multilateralism and international law, peacebuilding and mediation, gender equality and human rights, and the global response to climate change. 

“The history of our respective struggles and the lessons drawn from our shared solidarity remind us that, by working together, we can help build a better world – one in which the aspirations of all nations and peoples may be realised.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, November 27, 2025