Category: South Africa Government

Source: Government of South Africa

United Nations (UN) Secretary-General, António Guterres, has urged developed nations to urgently accelerate climate finance to developing countries to deal with the unavoidable climate impacts that threaten to devastate vulnerable communities.

Addressing a media briefing on Friday in Johannesburg, ahead of the Group Twenty (G20) Leaders’ Summit, Guterres made a plea to developed countries to keep their promise to double adaptation finance to at least US$40 billion this year.

“By mobilising the $300 billion per year promised to developing countries by 2035 and by delivering on the Baku to Belém plan, mobilising all relevant partners for the US$1.3 trillion annually to be achieved in climate finance and in the same time framework for developing countries — this goal can be achieved,” he said.

The Baku to Belém plan was designed to help developing nations fund low-emission and climate-resilient development pathways, implement their national climate plans (NDCs and NAPs), and manage financial instruments that don’t increase debt, all while reforming global financial systems to make them fairer and more accessible.

“Countries have failed to keep temperatures to the 1.5°C temperature rise limit. Science tells us that a temporary overshoot above this limit is now inevitable. We must make this overshoot as small, short and safe as possible. 

“Avoiding more climate chaos means bridging the adaptation gap urgently. That requires a massive scale-up of financing. Simultaneously, it’s time to capitalise the loss and damage fund, including exploring possibilities of innovative finance,” Guterres said.

With the continent only attracting a fraction of global renewable-energy investments, he called for Africa to be prioritised in the clean energy transition.

Last year, 90% of new power capacity came from renewables. Global investment in clean energy reached US$2 trillion, US$800 billion more than fossil fuels.

“The continent holds immense solar and wind potential but lacks the investments needed to harness them. A just energy transition must also mean to entirely electrify Africa, powering homes, schools, clinics and industries, and creating decent jobs for its young people. 

“No one should be left in the dark by the clean energy age, least of all a continent that has contributed the least to the climate crisis. The economics are on our side, but political will needs to catch up,” Guterres said.

He noted that fossil fuels still receive vast subsidies, corporations are porting reptile profits from climate devastation, and lobbyists continue to “greenwash” the truth, while developing countries are locked out of a greener future.

“Ensuring that all countries can make this shift means aligning national policies and budgets with a just energy transition. And it means providing resources and technology to help developing countries invest in grids, storage and efficiency.

“It means supporting workers and affected communities to make the transition through training, protection and new opportunities. And it means unlocking finance at scale for developing countries by cutting the cost of capital and crowding in private investments. I will discuss these issues in detail with G20 leaders tomorrow,” the UN Secretary-General said.

Global leaders will gather at the G20 Leaders’ Summit taking in Johannesburg on Saturday and Sunday to discuss key economic and financial issues under South Africa’s Presidency theme: “Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability.” –SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Acting Police Minister Prof Firoz Cachalia today welcomed 3 558 newly qualified police constables who completed their training at various South African Police Service (SAPS) academies in the country.

The passing out parades were conducted simultaneously at various police academies.

Of the total number, 2 036 constables are from the SAPS Academy in Tshwane.

Speaking at the Passing out Parade held at the SAPS Academy in Tshwane, Cachalia told the new constables that the uniform they are wearing is a symbol, a symbol of authority, but more importantly, a symbol of service, of integrity and of a sacred covenant with the people of South Africa.

“Today, you march out as a unified corps, bound by a common oath and shared purpose. You have been tested mentally, physically and ethically. You have learned the law, the power of restraint, the skill of investigation and the critical importance of communication,” Cachalia said.

Cachalia said the new constables are prepared for the immense responsibility that now rests upon their shoulders.

“The road ahead is not an easy one. The challenges facing our communities are complex. Your will encounter violence, poverty and despair. You are the living, breathing embodiment of the promise that, in South Africa, justice and order will prevail.

“The SAPS is entrusting you with its future. The people of South Africa are entrusting you with their safety. Do not let them down,” Cachalia said.

Cachalia told the new constables to always remember the SAPS Code of Conduct that they pledge to and to uphold the values of professionalism, saying “policing is a profession of the heart.”

He urged the new constables to remain guided by the SAPS Code of Conduct and to uphold the values of professionalism and compassion, saying policing is “a profession of the heart”.

In his welcoming address, National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola told the new constables that the waiting is over they are now going to be active members of the SAPS.

“We take this opportunity to appreciate those who supported our trainees throughout the training period, essentially contributing to their achievement of this great accomplishment,” he said.

Gen Masemola said since their arrival at the academy, they were oriented on the SAPS in general and taken through the SAPS Code of Conduct covering professional and ethical conduct.

“We expect you to always be mindful of the SAPS Code of Conduct and our Constitutional Mandate as stipulated in Section 205 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. It is important to familiarise yourselves with the organisation’s vision and mission which provide a strategic roadmap and clarify our purpose and values. 

“We urge you to exercise the powers conferred upon you in a responsible and controlled manner. Use your power to take care of communities that you will be deployed to and collaborate with them to prevent and combat crime and to bring perpetrators of crime to justice,” Gen Masemola said.

Earlier this week, the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) Chairperson Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili said some of the new constables will be deployed at the Nasrec Expo Centre were the G20 Leaders Summit taking place this weekend. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, November 21, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, November 21, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

South Africa has reaffirmed its commitment to an inclusive, people-centred G20, with Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola declaring that the 2025 G20 Social Summit has strengthened the role of civil society in shaping global governance.

Delivering closing remarks at the Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg on Thursday, Lamola said South Africa had fulfilled President Cyril Ramaphosa’s mandate to continue the social summit tradition established in Brazil during its 2024 G20 Presidency.

“We promised to carry forward the innovative practice and courageous example set by Brazil in holding an inclusive G20 that centred the voices of people on the margins. We also promised to extend the G20’s work beyond engagement groups to include civil society organisations working at the grassroots level. I believe that we have kept that promise,” Lamola said. 

He highlighted that civil society had played a decisive role throughout the summit, amplifying concerns that would otherwise be sidelined in high-level diplomacy.

“International relations are far too important to be left to governments alone. This has long been the mantra of civil society,” Lamola told delegates.

He said civil society movements had been instrumental in warning governments about the risks of a new global minerals boom, cautioning that without beneficiation, it could “usher in yet another era of extraction and plunder.” 

They had also drawn attention to the social costs of the debt crisis, noting that women and children pay the price.

According to Lamola, the message from activists and grassroots organisations was clear: the Sustainable Development Goals will remain out of reach unless global inequality is tackled decisively. 

“Your movements have constantly reminded us that inequality is bad for democracy,” he said.

He reflected on the urgent calls raised during the Summit from climate change and food insecurity to conflict and youth marginalisation. He applauded civil society’s insistence that developing countries must have meaningful representation on global platforms.

“You have said, loud and clear, that Africa must graduate from rule-taker to rule-maker in matters that affect our continent and its peoples,” he said.

Lamola emphasised that the outcomes of the Social Summit would enrich the 2025 G20 Leaders’ Declaration, expected to be adopted over the weekend. He urged delegates not to leave South Africa with resignation, but with “renewed vigour.”

Referencing Keorapetse Kgositsile’s poem Bandung Dance, he closed with a call for persistence: “Like this dancer, may we defy fatigue and dance on. May we refuse to waver in our commitment to solidarity, equality and sustainability.”

South Africa’s hosting of the G20 Social Summit marks one of its most significant efforts to elevate grassroots voices in global decision-making as it continues its G20 Presidency. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Government has committed to creating a favourable environment for trade and investment as South Africa and Vietnam work diligently to strengthen their economic ties, Deputy President Paul Mashatile said.

During his speech at the South Africa-Vietnam Business Forum held at the Capital Empire Hotel in Sandton on Friday, the Deputy President highlighted the importance of simplifying business operations, improving industrial infrastructure, and increasing trade finance support. 

He emphasised the roles of organisations such as the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and the Export Credit Insurance Corporation (ECIC) in these efforts.

He encouraged Vietnamese companies to explore investment opportunities in the Special Economic Zones (SEZs), which offer world-class infrastructure and incentives. 

“Likewise, we welcome South African businesses to invest in Vietnam’s dynamic industrial clusters and technology hubs.” 

WATCH | SA-Vietnam Business Forum

Through Joint Trade Committee and bilateral cooperation frameworks, the Deputy President said they will continue to address trade barriers, facilitate market access, and enhance cooperation between both chambers of commerce and industry bodies.

The forum takes place alongside the Group of 20 (G20) Leaders’ Summit, which begins tomorrow at the Nasrec Expo Centre.

Bilateral relations 

It also builds on President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent State Visit to Vietnam, which marked a new phase in bilateral relations and expanded cooperation in areas such as agriculture, renewable energy, digital transformation, and science and technology.

READ | President Ramaphosa hails ‘successful’ three-nation visit to Southeast Asia

According to the country’s second-in-command, South Africa remains Vietnam’s largest trading partner on the African continent, while Vietnam offers a gateway to the 700-million-strong Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) market. 

Meanwhile, South Africa provides access to the African Continental Free Trade Area, connecting 1.4 billion consumers.

“This forum is not only about economics – it is about partnership, shared growth, and solidarity. It is about recognising that South–South cooperation offers a path to inclusive development, innovation, and resilience.

“In this era of global uncertainty, both South Africa and Vietnam stand as advocates for multilateralism, sustainable trade, and equitable growth.” 

As hosts of the G20 Leaders’ Summit, he emphasised the importance of collaboration among emerging economies to reform global trade systems and ensure that development benefits all.

“To our distinguished business leaders, you are the engine of this partnership. The opportunities before us will only be realised through your innovation, your entrepreneurship, and your commitment to building bridges across borders.

“Let us use this platform to identify bankable projects, establish joint ventures, and promote technology and skills exchange that can advance industrialisation and inclusive growth in both our countries.

“Our government, together with our Vietnamese counterparts, stands ready to support you every step of the way.” 

He called on the delegates to build on the momentum of President Ramaphosa’s State Visit and the spirit of this G20 Leaders’ Summit to propel South Africa–Vietnam relations to new heights.

“This commitment was similarly reaffirmed during the reciprocal visit when Vietnam’s Vice President visited South Africa in September 2023, and during my visit to Vietnam in December 2023, which included opportunities to engage with business leaders aimed at strengthening bilateral relations in sectors such as trade and investment.” 

He said the forthcoming agreement to enhance bilateral relations signifies that both parties want to establish camaraderie while also ensuring mutual benefits for their populations.

South Africa has called for stronger economic collaboration with Vietnam, highlighting untapped opportunities in trade and industrial partnerships. 

Despite steady trade growth, South Africa recorded exports of US$610.89 million to Vietnam in 2024 against imports of US$1.14 billion, leaving a sizable trade deficit. 

The two countries currently trade largely in raw commodities and manufactured goods, respectively – an imbalance South Africa hopes to address through value addition and industrial cooperation. 

“Together, we can create a model of partnership that demonstrates how developing nations, through mutual respect and shared ambition, can achieve prosperity that is both inclusive and sustainable.” 

The Deputy President is also expected to hold a bilateral meeting with the Prime Minister of Vietnam, Pham Minh Chinh. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has reaffirmed the province’s commitment to accountability, cooperative governance, and community-centred service delivery.

This comes as the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) convened its “Taking Parliament to the People” programme at the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature in Pietermaritzburg.

The programme, one of South Africa’s most significant participatory democracy platforms, brings national lawmakers into direct engagement with communities to listen, observe, and respond to service-delivery challenges raised by citizens.

The KwaZulu-Natal delegation of permanent delegates to the NCOP crisscrossed the uMgungudlovu municipal area from 19 to 20 November 2025, to assess the progress of various infrastructure development projects.

Premier Ntuli described the engagement as a constitutional imperative that ensures Parliament remains close to the people it serves, especially those whose voices often go unheard.

He said the NCOP’s focus on the uMgungundlovu District provide the province an opportunity to reassess progress and confront persistent service-delivery obstacles, and [refine government’s developmental approach.]

Economic and large-scale investment

The Premier highlighted notable progress across the province, including economic renewal and large-scale investment.

At the 2025 KZN Investment Conference, the province secured R100.1 billion in commitments across 34 major projects, which are expected to create both direct and indirect employment opportunities.

“Infrastructure development continues to accelerate, with catalytic corridors in eThekwini, tourism developments in iLembe, and major water schemes such as the R463 million Greater Mthonjaneni Bulk Water Project,” the Premier said.

He also highlighted the establishment of the KwaZulu-Natal Infrastructure Council, which oversees a R3.9 trillion long-term project pipeline focused on inclusive growth; climate resilience; integrity in procurement and broader participation of rural communities; small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs), women and youth.

Road rehabilitation remains a major priority, with more than 5 million square metres of roads currently being resurfaced or repaired.

Ntuli said the province has strengthened partnerships with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to address construction mafia disruptions, enabling critical infrastructure projects to proceed safely.

“Through SAPS partnerships, disruptions caused by construction mafias are being contained, allowing projects to proceed safely,” the Premier said.

Ntuli added that KwaZulu-Natal is intensifying its climate-resilience planning.

“The Climate Change Council continues to prioritise climate-resilient infrastructure, early-warning systems, responsible land-use planning, and the growth of green industries aimed at youth employment.”

Despite progress, Ntuli acknowledged persistent water supply challenges, especially in Ugu, Zululand, uThukela and uMzinyathi, while urban centres such as Msunduzi, KwaDukuza and Newcastle face sewage failures and ageing sanitation networks.

He said illegal dumping, which the NCOP highlighted sharply during its walkabouts in uMgungundlovu, remains an urgent environmental and health concern across multiple municipalities.

“Electricity availability sits at more than 93 percent in the province, yet local networks are increasingly strained by illegal connections, vandalism, and ageing infrastructure. Municipal financial recovery is non-negotiable, especially as some government departments continue to carry substantial debt to municipalities, undermining local capacity,” the Premier said.

To stabilise governance, the Premier outlined several interventions, including strengthened intergovernmental forums, improved coordination through the District Development Model, and Section 154 support for financially distressed municipalities.

He cited improvements in Msunduzi Municipality as evidence that targeted oversight and expert deployment can restore administrative and financial stability.

Community safety also featured prominently in Ntuli’s address. He argued that economic development and service delivery cannot thrive without safe communities, as insecurity disrupts clinics, schools, and municipal operations.

“The province is expanding intelligence-driven operations, enhancing rural safety, deploying specialised law-enforcement support to high-risk municipalities, installing CCTV systems, and strengthening school-safety and youth-at-risk programmes,” he said.

Ntuli stressed that building capable municipalities is crucial to long-term progress, warning that without strong financial controls, engineering capacity and effective governance systems, infrastructure plans collapse before implementation.

“Building capable, reliable municipalities is a moral responsibility owed to every household in KwaZulu-Natal.”

The Premier also urged the NCOP to support the province in reviewing equitable-share allocations, fast-tracking disaster relief funding, enforcing municipal turnaround plans, and addressing national logistics constraints affecting development, including port inefficiencies, rail limitations, and special economic zone blockages. – SAnews.gov.za