Category: South Africa Government

Source: Government of South Africa

Chairperson of the Civil 20 (C20) Thulani Tshefuta says from December 2024 to date, they have managed to register more than 1 900 organisations that participate in C20 structures and processes.

“These organisations are drawn from South Africa, the African continent and the rest of the world,” Tshefuta said at a media briefing in Pretoria on Monday.

The briefing was held to update media on the state of readiness to deliver the C20 Policy Pack ahead of the Group of 20 (G20) Summit in November 2025.

The global C20 initiative serves as a vital platform for civil society engagement with the G20. Established in 2013, C20 advocates for the inclusion of diverse voices in shaping the decisions that affect communities worldwide.

C20 South Africa is led by a network of national apex organisations that represent a broad range of sectors and activism including youth, women, the disabled, civics, cooperatives, the informal sector, traditional leaders, faith-based organisations, coalitions and campaigns, social movements, NPO/NGO networks and Issue-based formations

Tshefuta said C20 South Africa convened a successful Mid-Term Policy Dialogue on 22 – 24 June 2025 in Sandton and was attended by more than 300 delegates in person, while an additional 1 800 delegates attended virtually in South Africa, Africa and other G20 countries.

“The outcomes of our deliberations and policy proposals were presented to the G20 Mid-Term Sherpa Meeting that was held on 25 – 27 June 2025 in Sun City,” Tshefuta said.

He explained that C20 member organisations are apex organisations, national organisations, medium sized organisations, grassroots and community-based formations.

“The substantive work of C20 is organised into six clusters and 14 working groups in line with government working groups.” 

Tshefuta said the essence of the theme of the South African G20 Presidency — Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability — is about co-existence, collaborations and partnerships.

“You cannot be in solidarity with yourself. You cannot be equal to yourself. Measures of sustainability outlive oneself. This further suggests that as social partners, we can play different but complementary roles.

“The G20 Presidency of South Africa has committed to promote a people-centred, development-oriented G20 that fosters inclusive economic transformation rather than economic dominance by a few.” 

Tshefuta said education and health are the two most important public services whose access to good quality services should never depend on social status, and level of income and affordability.

“The governments and the social partners must foster better strategic policy alignment between the macro-economic policies, employment and labour market policies, sectoral economic policies and skills development policies.” 

Tshifuta further said economic policies must be inclusive and job-rich.

“Skills development policies must respond to the labour market demands. We recommend that the G20 Summit and outcome document must prioritise policies, programmes and budgets to promote massive Youth Employment.

“Developing economies must be given space for debt relief and cancellation in order to redirect debt service costs towards productive economic activities,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Home Affairs’ new identity verification service that enables government users and private sector clients to verify information against the National Population Register (NPR) is making progress since its rollout earlier this month.

“The department is proud to report that it has already successfully onboarded government’s entire justice cluster to the upgraded service, which includes key public sector entities like the South African Social Security Administration (SASSA), the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development. 

“This cluster alone is now successfully processing over 180 000 transactions per day through the new service, which consistently delivers results in less than one second, with an error rate well below one percent.”

In a statement the Ministry of Home Affairs said that owing to years of under-pricing the service had broken down to the point where over half of all verification attempts failed – severely undermining social and financial inclusion, as the provision of services ranging from social grant payments to banking makes use of this service.

READ | Home Affairs rolls out upgraded National Population Register from 1 July

In a statement on Sunday, the Ministry of Home Affairs added that the system which was launched on 1 July 2025 is working well for private sector users that have been onboarded, and has delivered a major step towards making both government services more efficient and financial services more accessible and reliable.

“One private sector user has already processed over one million records through the new off-peak batch option that would previously have gone into the real-time queue, directly contributing to a more stable NPR for all users,” it said.

Additional help 

However, despite extensive public consultations that included both written correspondence and in-person meetings over a period of a number of months, including the recent 30 days set aside explicitly for public consultation which ended at the end of May, some users had still not adequately prepared their systems to make use of the upgraded service. 

“While a number of both public and private sector users have already proactively transitioned to the upgraded service, it is unfortunate that some users have not been as proactive. In particular, users that have been slower to make this critical transition have contacted the department to request assistance to avoid incurring higher costs, while they work to optimise their usage by moving as many verifications out of the R10 real-time queue to the off-peak queue, which attracts the lower charge of just R1.

“In a gesture that reflects the department’s ongoing commitment to working in good faith with responsible users to repair the NPR, Home Affairs has decided to implement an additional measure to ensure cost effective fees for clients that have been slow to optimise their usage and are therefore not able to immediately take advantage of the new low-cost off-peak alternative,” it explained.

While users must pay in terms of the new fee structure introduced by the amended regulations that went into effect on 1 July, the department has also provided an option for users to voluntarily elect to only have their usage costs incurred for the three-month period between 1 July and 30 September calculated at the end of October, based on their usage pattern during the month of October.

“In effect, this means that the amount owed to Home Affairs will only be confirmed after users have had the three-month period to optimise their usage by moving as many verifications as possible out of the R10 real-time queue, into the R1 off-peak queue. 

“Once the actual amount owed is calculated at the end of October, any amounts paid in excess of what would have been paid had usage been optimised from 1 July 2025, will be credited back to users,” said the department.

Additionally, the department said that in terms of the lower-cost batch option, there is significant opportunity for cost savings. The intricacies of this can be dealt with by the department when interacting with users on verifications@dha.gov.za.

“This measure not only reflects Home Affairs’ commitment to responsibly managing the transition process to ensure adequate investment in maintaining the new, world-class NPR verification service for many years to come, but also confirms that the new system and fee structure is working as intended,” said Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber.

Clients that have been slow to optimise their usage and want to voluntarily make use of this measure to ensure that their transition to the upgraded service is as cost-effective as possible are encouraged to contact verifications@dha.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Government has announced a substantial Disaster Recovery Grant, allocating R1.2 billion to municipalities affected by recent disasters. 

This decision follows severe snowfall and flooding that occurred earlier this year in the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, and the heavily impacted Eastern Cape.

The announcement comes after a devastating disaster in June, which caused an estimated R6.3 billion in infrastructure damage, leaving many communities struggling with loss and destruction.

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, announced that the Eastern Cape will receive the largest portion of the relief funds. 

By the end of July, Hlabisa stated that the province will receive an initial allocation of R50 million, with a substantial additional amount of R504 million to be distributed in August. 

Municipalities such as the O.R. Tambo District and the Amatole District will receive R30 million and R20 million, respectively, which will provide crucial support for reconstruction efforts.

Last month, the Eastern Cape experienced devastating impacts, with torrential rains leading to unprecedented floods in districts such as Nelson Mandela Bay, Chris Hani, and O.R. Tambo.

This tragedy claimed the lives of approximately 103 people in the Eastern Cape.

According to the latest figures, the O.R. Tambo District has the most fatalities with 79 victims, followed by the Amathole District with 10, with five each in the Alfred Nzo and Chris Hani districts, two each in Joe Gqabi and Sarah Baartman districts. 

In total, in June, South Africa lost 107 lives because of the disaster, of which three were in KwaZulu-Natal and one in the Western Cape.

“Government urges communities in affected areas to remain alert and follow early warning advisories issued by the South African Weather Service, as a critical measure to safeguard lives, property, and livelihoods,” the Minister said. 

According to Hlabisa, after the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) transfers funds, municipalities are expected to use these resources promptly. 

“Recipients of the funds must follow established reporting protocols and use the required templates to ensure accountability in their financial disclosures,” he explained. 

Phased funding approach 

Hlabisa announced that the funding will be released in carefully planned phases. 

The first tranche of R151.3 million in provincial response grants will be distributed on 11 July, followed by a R395 million municipal response grant on 18 July. 

In addition, the Minister said a more substantial allocation of R708.9 million is set for 28 August, of which R504 million will go to the Eastern Cape.

“We want all municipalities to know ahead that this money is coming, and they must activate their project processes,” Hlabisa stated, stressing the importance of transparency and strategic planning.

The Minister used the platform to highlight financial accountability. 

He said that municipalities that received previous disaster relief funds will be required to provide comprehensive reports detailing the utilisation of those funds. 

The Minister warned that failure to do so could result in the suspension of future allocations.

“If there is no accountability, money will not be released. It will be as simple as that,” he cautioned. 

Meanwhile, he said the NDMC plans to convene a joint meeting with Premiers, MECs, and Mayors to ensure rigorous oversight and transparency.

Recognising the potential for price inflation and mismanagement, the Minister said technical teams are currently on the ground verifying infrastructure damage. 

Hlabisa believes that the goal is not just to restore, but to “build back better” through meticulous project management and quality assurance.

In addition, he highlighted several areas of concern, including poor infrastructure planning, inadequate workmanship, and the diversion of funds from intended projects. 

To address these shortcomings, the Minister said the NDMC will collaborate closely with the municipal infrastructure support agency and various sector departments.

He also touched on a commitment to community recovery and resilience. 

By ensuring transparent, accountable, and strategic fund allocation, government aims to not just repair infrastructure, but to restore hope and dignity to communities devastated by natural disasters.

“Furthermore, funding that reverts to the national fiscus exposes communities to risks, and there is a concerning trend of non-reporting and a lack of accountability for the funding allocated to provinces and municipalities.” 

As the country moves forward, the Minister said the comprehensive disaster relief plan represents a critical step towards rebuilding and strengthening municipal infrastructure.

“We are actively working to enhance response and recovery operations in the wake of disasters. We recognise the frustrations that communities often face during these trying times, and we are committed to addressing the significant challenges and uncertainties that can arise.” 

In August, the Minister is expected to announce the funds that will be redirected to communities affected by the June floods. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, July 7, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

BRICS urged to lead global governance reform

GabiK
Mon, 07/07/2025 – 04:05

Source: Government of South Africa

Call for inclusive multilateralism

GabiK
Mon, 07/07/2025 – 02:52

Source: Government of South Africa

Proposal to establish BRICS investment platform

GabiK
Sun, 07/06/2025 – 23:35

Source: Government of South Africa

By Kenny Morolong

In June this year, South Africa marked 70 years since the adoption of the Freedom Charter on 26 June 1955 by the Congress of the people. On that day, brave patriots assembled in a multiracial convention in Kliptown and adopted a document that remains the cornerstone to the founding of our Constitution and democracy. 

To this day the Freedom Charter remains a concrete expression of the will and determination of the people. The values and core principles of the Freedom Charter have been incorporated into the Constitution which guides the National Development Plan, the blueprint for a society where all can flourish. The Constitution also informs the implementation of the Medium-Term Development Plan 2024-2029, which seeks to advance an all-inclusive democracy, where all have equal opportunities to a better life.

This year’s anniversary was held under the theme “70 Years of the Freedom Charter: Youth Upholding the Constitution” and coincided with the commemoration of Youth Month. The theme reinforced the importance of the youth in taking the lead in addressing pressing challenges facing our country and ensuring that our constitutional democracy lives up to the principles as espoused in the Freedom Charter. Together we must ensure that we live by its values as we work for a better life for all our people.

The 70th anniversary of the Freedom Charter was an opportunity to celebrate the strides we have made in building our democracy based on the Constitution. Since 1994 we have worked to undo the many evils of the past. Over the years Parliament passed legislation to support our democracy and to ensure that all people are treated justly and fairly.

It also repealed several laws that sought to denigrate black people and replaced them with those that reflect the values of our new democratic dispensation. We should never forget that the apartheid government was systematic in their approach, passing law after law intended to restrict the freedoms and aspirations of black people.

The Population Registration Act of 1950 formalised racial classification and introduced an identity card for all persons over the age of eighteen, specifying their racial group. The infamous Group Areas Act of 1950 decreed that only people of the same race could live side by side.

Things that we now consider normal such as marrying the love of your life were banned under the Prohibition of Mixed Marriages Act of 1949, which prohibited marriage between persons of different races.

Simple daily activities such as boarding a bus to go to the park, or the beach were banned under the Reservation of Separate Amenities Act of 1953, which reserved most public amenities for a particular race. In 1953, the Bantu Education Act was also passed, which crafted a separate and unequal system of education for African students, which aimed to limit their educational opportunities and reinforce apartheid policies.

All these laws have been replaced and today we live in a country where all are equal before the law. No one can be discriminated against because of race, culture, language, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or any other ground.

Furthermore, Chapter 9 institutions continue to function without fear or favour to safeguard our democracy and ensure that organs of state are held to account for their actions or inactions. Alongside Chapter 9 institutions, we have the separation of powers which allows each branch of government – the executive, the legislature and the judiciary – to scrutinise the acts of another branch to prevent one branch from acting unilaterally.

Over our 31-years of democracy, we have also transformed the lives of people through the provision of basic services such as improving access to education, healthcare, houses, water, electricity, roads, social protection initiatives and wage increases. These successes are reflected in both the 30 Year Review Report and Census 2022. Both of these paints a picture of a society on the move and reflect improvements across most indicators.

Although we have made progress, we are mindful that we must do more to substantially transform our nation and the economy. We are committed to speeding up transformation across society by strengthening partnerships with civil society to ensure that we address the many challenges faced by the most vulnerable including the youth in our country.

All of these changes and milestones are a testament that we have a lot to be grateful for as we mark 70 years since the adoption of the Freedom Charter. South Africans from all races are encouraged to reflect on the 70th Anniversary of the Freedom Charter and find ways to build on the gains we have made to improve the lives of people.

*Kenny Morolong is the Deputy Minister in the Presidency

Source: Government of South Africa

Following intelligence indicating that a group of inmates at Baviaanspoort Correctional Centre were in possession of mobile phones and actively scamming members of the public, the National Commissioner of Correctional Services, Makgothi Samuel Thobakgale, led a specialised team in a targeted operation.

The raid at the weekend resulted in the confiscation of several mobile phones and other contraband items. Investigations revealed that inmates had created sophisticated hideout spots within their cells to conceal these devices.

“What is most alarming is that these illicit activities were carried out in broad daylight, raising serious concerns about lapses in vigilance and continuous monitoring by officials. 

“This glaring security breach has prompted the National Commissioner to demand a full report from the centre’s management, explaining how such activities could have occurred under their watch,” the Department of Correctional Services said in a statement

As part of immediate corrective action, all identified inmates involved in the scams have been transferred to the maximum-security unit (C-Max) at Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre.

Forensic analysis will be conducted on the confiscated mobile phones to trace the extent of the scam and assist in any further legal processes, the department said.

Thobakgale has directed Baviaanspoort Management to urgently develop and submit a comprehensive plan aimed at addressing operational weaknesses and preventing the smuggling of illegal items into the facility. 

He has also called for a thorough investigation into the matter.

The department reiterates that ongoing raids are part of a broader campaign to rid correctional centres of contraband and eliminate criminal networks operating from within. 

“While removing illegal items is a key focus, equal attention is being given to preventing their entry in the first place. Any official found to be complicit in smuggling will face the full might of the law, with no leniency afforded.

“Correctional Services remains firm in its commitment to maintaining safe, secure and corruption free facilities,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Eskom has announced that Unit 4 of the Medupi Power Station has been successfully returned to service, adding 800MW to the national grid. 

This milestone strengthens South Africa’s energy security and enhances the stability of electricity supply. 

“The unit’s return follows extensive repairs, completed eight months ahead of the original schedule, made possible by the innovative use of a refurbished Generator Stator, an alternative to waiting for a brand-new component. 

“The unit had been out of service since 8 August 2021 after sustaining significant damage from the explosion of its Generator Stator, a key component in the operation of the generation unit,” said Eskom in a statement. 

As part of the Generation Operational Recovery Plan, Eskom’s engineering teams implemented strategic measures to cost effectively fast-track the unit’s return. 

To avoid the costly delays associated with the lengthy delivery time of a new Generator Stator, Eskom sourced a used stator from the Netherlands as an interim solution, enabling the early return to service of Medupi Unit 4. 

With the return of Unit 4, all six units at Medupi are now operational and will contribute a combined capacity of 4 800MW to the national grid once the unit reaches full output in the coming weeks. 

Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, said “The return of Medupi Unit 4 marks a major milestone in our strategic objective of achieving operational stability through the addition of 2 500MW to the grid and Eskom remains committed to its Operational Excellence Programme, which focuses on restoring performance, strengthening oversight, and ensuring accountability from service providers.”

He said the development once again reflected the progress of the Generation Operational Recovery Plan, which is central to ensuring the long-term sustainability of the broader economy. T

“This achievement moves us closer to consistently overcoming load shedding, which is now largely behind us due to structural improvements in the generation fleet, as we continue to build a more reliable, resilient, and sustainable power system,” said Marokane. 

Eskom Group Executive for Generation, Bheki Nxumalo, said: “Eskom applauds the Medupi team, support staff, and all execution partners for their dedication and professionalism, including the daunting task of safely transporting the 400-tonne Generator Stator approximately 1 000km by road from Richards Bay to the power station, a feat accomplished by Eskom Rotek Industries. 

“Their achievement serves as a motivation for our teams as we advance our recovery efforts. We are confident that, like the other units, Unit 4 will deliver stable electricity to the national grid, enhancing South Africa’s energy security.”

Medupi Power Station, located in Lephalale in Limpopo, holds the distinction of being one of the world’s largest dry-cooled, coal-fired power plant. 

As one of the newest additions to Eskom’s fleet, Medupi features advanced supercritical technology that allows it to operate at higher temperatures, improving efficiency while reducing both coal and water consumption, an essential advantage in a water-scarce region. 

The station is designed to recycle and reuse all water involved in the power generation process on-site. It is also equipped with low nitrogen oxide (NOₓ) burners to minimise NOₓ emissions. 

Additionally, Medupi has been designed to accommodate future installation of flue gas desulphurisation technology, which will cut sulphur dioxide (SO₂) emissions by more than 90%, further enhancing its environmental performance. 

Medupi continues to play a vital role in supporting South Africa’s economic growth and development. During its construction, Eskom invested over R2.9 billion in socio-economic development initiatives aimed at addressing urgent needs within local communities. 

Since its inception, more than R145 million has been allocated to corporate social investment programmes, benefiting over 80 000 people, with a strong focus on rural development, education, and healthcare infrastructure. – SAnews.gov.za