Category: South Africa Government

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has issued an alert about a scam targeting new, unemployed, and substitute teachers, misleading them into believing they have been selected for permanent teaching positions and then asking for payment under false pretences.

According to the department, several schools have reported incidents in which young teachers received WhatsApp messages from individuals posing as district officials or school principals. 

The messages claim that a permanent position has become available at a specific school and that the recipient is the preferred candidate.

The message instructs the teacher to report to the school with specific documentation and requests a “once-off fee” of approximately R2 800. 

This fee is allegedly required for the “authorisation of an appointment letter” at district offices, and the message also includes banking details for the fraudulent payment.

“Regrettably, some teachers have fallen victim to this scam, arriving at schools having paid the so-called ‘authorisation fee,’ only to discover that no such post exists. 

“This deception has caused significant distress to the affected individuals and has the potential to damage the reputations of schools, principals, and district officials who are being impersonated,” the statement read. 

The provincial department has since urged all affected individuals to report these incidents to the South African Police Service (SAPS) for investigation.

While these investigations are ongoing, the WCED want to warn the broader public to be aware of this scam and to note that: 

•    Permanent teaching positions are exclusively advertised through the WCED’s Directorate of Recruitment and Selection.

•    The WCED, including head office, district offices, and schools, will never request payment for job applications or appointments.

•    The online e-recruitment system is the official platform for advertising and applying for posts.

•    Unemployed educators must register and apply via the e-recruitment system.

•    Temporary appointments are managed directly by schools; applicants must verify the legitimacy of any advertised post.

•    No payment is required for any appointment within the WCED.

•    Suspicious activity must be reported immediately to the WCED and SAPS.

The WCED said it remains firmly committed to upholding the integrity of its recruitment processes and safeguarding the well-being of all educators.

“We sincerely hope that no further individuals fall victim to this malicious scam, which not only undermines the reputation of our staff and institutions but also shatters the aspirations of young professionals seeking meaningful employment opportunities in education.” – SAnews.gov.za

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The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Willie Aucamp, has called on African leaders to mainstream climate change adaptation and resilience across their planning and budgets. 

“Droughts, floods, cyclones, sea level rise, and heat extremes already cost lives and livelihoods every year. Let us partner to build robust investment pipelines that convert plans into projects, and projects into resilience on the ground,” the Minister said on Thursday.

Addressing the Ministerial Breakfast Meeting of the African Ministers of Environment taking place on the margins of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) sessions in Nairobi, Kenya, Aucamp emphasised that Africa is at the frontline of the triple planetary crisis – climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.

“We should therefore come with clear priorities and practical solutions, anchored in solidarity, equality, and sustainability – values that have resonated throughout recent African and Group Twenty (G20) deliberations, and which must now translate into measurable action.

“Our development pathway depends on a just energy transition that expands access while cutting emissions. Over 600 million Africans still lack electricity, and nearly a billion rely on biomass for cooking. Energy poverty is a climate and health emergency,” the Minister said.

He said Africa is ready to scale solar and wind, mini grids, clean cooking, and regional power pools, if the financing terms are fair and if projects are built with communities.

“We must confront pollution and waste with a circular economy lens, as envisaged in the African Union Continental Circular Economy.
“The time for talking is long past, the time for action is now. Africa stands ready to lead with solutions that protect people and planet, strengthen economies, and deepen regional integration. 

“Let us match ambition with delivery, and turn commitments into credible, financed, and implementable programmes that transform lives across our continent,” Aucamp said. –SAnews.gov.za
 

 

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The Western Cape Mobility Department is deeply concerned about the alarming number of road incidents recorded in the first week of the festive season, from 1 to 7 December 2025.

According to the provincial government, a total of 21 fatal crashes were reported across the province during this period, resulting in 28 fatalities on provincial roads.

Pedestrian deaths remain a significant and persistent challenge on Western Cape roads. 

Of the 28 fatalities recorded, 12 were pedestrians, making them the single largest group affected this past week. 

The other fatalities include 10 passengers, three drivers, two motorcyclists, and one cyclist.

Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku said the numbers are extremely troubling, especially considering that the peak travel period has not even begun. 

“Every life lost is a tragedy, and every family affected enters the festive season carrying pain instead of joy. Pedestrian safety remains one of our greatest concerns. We urge every road user, whether behind the wheel or walking alongside our roads, to exercise heightened caution.

“The mental and physical fitness of drivers who are undertaking long journeys is also of paramount importance to reducing the number of incidents,” Sileku said. 

During the reporting period, Provincial Traffic Services conducted over 200 integrated operations, including roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints, and speed control activities. 

Over 33 000 vehicles were stopped and checked, and just over 10 000 fines were issued for a range of traffic violations relating to both driver and vehicle fitness.

In addition, 43 motorists were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol during this period. 

As holiday travel increases, the department warns that drunk driving, speeding, and pedestrian behaviour continue to be major contributors to serious and fatal crashes.

Chief Director of Traffic Management, Maxine Bezuidenhout, stated that their teams are fully deployed across the province; however, enforcement alone cannot prevent crashes.

“We need every motorist, pedestrian, cyclist, and passenger to take responsibility. Simple decisions, like crossing only at safe points, not drinking and driving, and sticking to the speed limit, can save lives. The festive season should be a time of celebration, not mourning,” said Bezuidenhout. 

As the province prepares for increased traffic volumes in the coming weeks, the Western Cape Mobility Department calls on all road users to remain vigilant and responsible.

“Let us work together to bring these numbers down. Your loved ones are waiting for you. Let’s make sure every journey ends with a safe arrival,” Sileku added. 

Road safety tips for a safer festive season: 

•    Slow down and obey the posted speed limits; speeding remains a leading cause of fatal crashes.

•    Never drink and drive. Plan by arranging a designated driver, e-hailing service, or alternative transport if consuming alcohol.

•    Be extra vigilant at night, especially for pedestrians, who are most at risk during dark, early morning, or in low-visibility conditions.

•    Cross roads only at safe, designated points and wear visible or reflective clothing when walking near roadways. – SAnews.gov.za 

 

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Cabinet has welcomed the continuing improvement in Eskom’s financial and operational performance for the first six months ending September 2025.

This, while highlighting Eskom’s sustained financial and operation recovery, as the power utility recorded a R24.3-billion profit after tax for the six months, ending September 2025, which is a 37% increase compared with the same period last year.

Speaking at a post-Cabinet media briefing in Pretoria on Thursday, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni noted the period saw consistent energy supply, with only four days of load-shedding, while electricity supply reliability stood at 96% in 2024/25, improving to 98% to date. 

“Eskom’s solid performance demonstrates the efficacy of Eskom’s recovery plan, initiated under Operation Vulindlela structural reforms programme, the level of competence of Eskom’s management team and its board, and the focused leadership of the Minister of Electricity and Energy,” Ntshavheni said.

Positive economic growth

Cabinet also welcomed signs of sustained economic momentum, as indicated by the 3rd Quarter GDP figures, released by Statistics South Africa.

South Africa’s GDP grew by 0.5% in the period July – September 2025, marking the fourth consecutive quarter of expansion, driven by strong performance in mining, agriculture and services, and contributions from finance, government services, and manufacturing.

The GDP growth in the 3rd Quarter of 2025 was accompanied by a significant increase in employment.  According to the Quarterly Labour Force Survey, employment increased by 248 000 jobs, while the number of unemployed people declined by 360 000.

“In addition, the Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative, which provides young people with pathways into the economy, has now reached the 200 000 jobs milestone. To date, YES has placed over 202 558 young South Africans in 12-month, quality work experiences and it is supported by more than 1 900 corporate partners.

“Furthermore, the IMF just lifted South Africa’s growth forecast to 1.3% in 2025 and 1.4% in 2026, up from earlier projections of 1.1% and 1.2%, respectively,” the Minister highlighted.

Key implementation plans to drive economic growth approved

Meanwhile, Cabinet approved the implementation plan to drive growth and inclusion, based on the priorities of the 7th administration’s Medium-Term Development Plan.

The plan aims for a coordinated and focused implementation of prioritised economic development interventions which were designed under multiple initiatives.

The plan consolidates several development initiatives into a streamlined framework built on three core pillars:
•    Economic reforms to fix and strengthen the fundamentals of the economy;
•    Public service reforms to build a state that delivers; and
•    Industrial Policy reforms to pursue new areas of growth.

“The focused and prioritised implementation will give the Plan the same impetus of the Structural Reforms programme under Operation Vulindlela,” Ntshavheni said.

Roadmap approved for Critical Minerals Strategy

Cabinet also approved the implementation plan for South Africa’s Critical Minerals Strategy, which details a roadmap to leverage opportunities in mineral wealth arising from the surge in demand for critical minerals due to their increased applications in digital technology, defence, healthcare, consumer electronics, and electric vehicles, amongst others.

The implementation plan focuses on six pillars, including geoscience mapping and exploration; value addition and localisation, research, development and innovation; infrastructure and energy security; financial instruments; and regulatory harmonisation.

The Minister noted that the implementation of the Critical Minerals Strategy will significantly contribute to economic growth and job creation. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Cabinet has joined President Cyril Ramaphosa in extending its appreciation to all South Africans for their role in ensuring the successful G20 Presidency which culminated in the recently hosted G20 Leaders’ Summit.

President Cyril Ramaphosa hailed South Africa’s historic G20 Presidency as a resounding success both as a diplomatic achievement and a celebration of national unity.

He expressed deep gratitude to all those who contributed to making South Africa’s G20 Summit a success.

“During our G20 Presidency, South Africa firmly placed Africa’s development agenda in the purview of G20 leaders and mobilised consensus on meaningful actions to address the challenges constraining South Africa, Africa and the global South’s development,” said Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni. 

Briefing the media on the outcomes of Cabinet, Ntshavheni said Cabinet noted the recent position of the United States regarding South Africa’s participation in the upcoming G20 Sherpa meeting and the expressed intentions to exclude South Africa, a G20 founding member, from participating in the 2026 G20 meetings. 

“While this development is regrettable, as a founding member, South Africa’s commitment to the G20’s principles and collaborative framework remain unwavering,” Ntshavheni said.

The Minister said the 2025 G20 Summit demonstrated the power of multilateralism and cooperation, and that Cabinet remains confident that multilateralism and cooperation are the path to shared prosperity for all people of the world.

Meanwhile, Cabinet has welcomed the successful hosting of the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) Leaders’ meeting on the margins of the G20 Leaders’ Summit. 

“At IBSA, South Africa called for a revitalisation of South-South cooperation to drive inclusive growth, advance sustainable development and accelerate the reform of global governance institutions.

“IBSA nations are well positioned to champion the priorities of the global South, including scaling up climate finance, enhancing food and health security, supporting foundational learning and mobilising investment for disaster risk reduction,” Ntshavheni said. 

The Minister briefed the media in Pretoria on Wednesday, following Cabinet’s ordinary meeting on 5 December. – SAnews.gov.za

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Cabinet has approved a comprehensive Programme of Action to address GBVF, including a service delivery framework and institutional arrangements to drive a whole of society approach in addressing this scourge. 

At a post Cabinet media briefing in Pretoria, on Thursday, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the comprehensive Programme of Action focuses on the implementation of five priorities.

These are: 
•    Prevention and rebuilding social cohesion: Focusing on eliminating the social acceptance of violence and addressing structural drivers. Greater effort will be made to engage men and boys in prevention dialogues to dismantle harmful norms and toxic masculinity. 
•    Enhanced law enforcement protection, safety, and justice: Aimed at strengthening the criminal justice system to ensure protection and justice for survivors. Expanded victim-friendly facilities and specialised GBV desks at SAPS stations are part of this effort. 
•    Victim and survivor centred support: Seeks to provide equitable access to high-quality services across justice, health, and education sectors. Emphasis is in integrated support systems that prioritise dignity, healing, and empowerment, ensuring survivors receive comprehensive care without discrimination or delay.
•    Communication and stakeholder Engagement and Mobilisation: Focuses on transforming social norms at all levels through consistent, evidence-based messaging. It aims to challenge harmful attitudes, promote gender equality, and mobilise communities to actively participate in ending GBVF. 
•    Institutional arrangements: Ensures strong governance and accountability mechanisms across all spheres of society. Calls for firm, coordinated leadership and clear institutional roles to drive implementation, monitor progress, and enforce accountability. 

“Victims of violence are encouraged to use the 24-hour Gender-Based Violence Command Centre hotline: 0800 428 428 to report abuse and access support services,” the Minister said on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga said recently that bold leadership and stronger partnerships across various levels of government, civil society, and the private sector, are indispensable as the country intensifies its response to GBVF.

READ | Call for nationwide responsibility in fight against GBVF

Chikunga emphasised that the fight against GBVF must extend beyond the annual 16 Days of Activism campaign, urging a year-round, 365-day commitment to prevent violence, protect vulnerable groups, and build a society grounded in equality, dignity, and safety. –SAnews.gov.za

 

 

 

 

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Cabinet has welcomed the decrease in serious and violent crimes as reported in the Crime Statistics for Quarter 1 and 2 of the 2025 financial year.

“The crime statistics, covering the period from April to September 2025, show significant reductions in serious and violent crime, with murder rates dropping substantially. Murders decreased by 6.5% in the first quarter and by 11.5% in the second quarter,” Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said.

Addressing a post Cabinet media briefing in Pretoria on Wednesday, the Minister said Cabinet commended law enforcement agencies for the continuing hard work against crime while also calling upon society to join the fight against crime.

At the release of the stats at the end of November, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said that categories that saw reductions include murder, assault, common robbery with aggravating circumstances, contact crime, rape and sexual assault. 

This also includes carjacking, robbery at residential premises, robbery at non-residential premises and cash-in-transit heists.  – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

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Transnet SOC Ltd and the world’s largest independent terminal operator, International Container Terminal Services Inc (ICTSI) have officially signed a 25-year partnership agreement to manage the upgrade and development of the Durban Container Terminal (DCT) Pier 2.

In a statement on Wednesday, Transnet said the landmark agreement marks a pivotal moment in government’s economic reforms agenda and Transnet’s strategy to crowd in the private sector into selective and strategically identified areas of the business. 

It is expected to enhance terminal productivity and increase throughput, ultimately improving the organisation’s operational efficiency and container supply chains.

Through the introduction of new equipment and advanced technology, DCT Pier 2 is expected to increase its capacity from 2 million to 2.8 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) and improve Gross Crane Moves per Hour (GCH) from 18 to 28 as well as Ship Working Hour (SWH) from 60 to 120.

These improvements are envisaged to reduce logistics costs and improve service quality, thus broadening market access and attracting new volumes.

“Through our deliberate and expansive investment in new equipment across our terminals, the performance of DCT Pier 2 has been on an upwards trajectory. We expect that our partnership with ICTSI will further propel this crucial terminal to its full potential,” Transnet Group Chief Executive Michelle Phillips said.

In terms of the agreement, Transnet holds a majority shareholding in a new special purpose vehicle, Newco, while ICTSI will be responsible for operation of the terminal. 

ICTSI has an excellent track record across the globe in improving the performance, service and efficiency of ports.

The joint partnership between Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) and ICTSI will take effect on 1 January 2026.

In July 2023, Transnet selected ICTSI as the preferred bidder for the transaction following a rigorous and transparent procurement process.

“Private sector participation (PSP) transactions are an important element of our strategy to modernise, expand and improve our key assets. It is also a big step in our efforts to improve efficiencies across our terminals and transform our ports into world-class hubs. 

“This is consistent with our approach to enhance efficiency and growth through strategic partnerships. Private sector participation in ports has the potential to positively influence efficiencies, export processes and global competitiveness,” Phillips said.

ICTSI’s Senior Vice President Hans-Ole Madsen said the partnership marks a shared commitment to revitalising South Africa’s maritime infrastructure and unlocking new opportunities for growth for South Africa and the entire region. 

“Pier 2 is a strategic asset for South Africa, critical to trade, jobs, and economic growth. ICTSI is proud to invest in Durban’s future, bringing global expertise and technology to ensure DCT Pier 2 becomes a world-class terminal that benefits the entire region. We look forward to getting started, working closely with Transnet to execute our shared vision,” Madsen said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has convened the National Tourism Safety Forum in Johannesburg to strengthen and coordinate tourism safety across South Africa.

This was the first sitting of the forum under the 7th administration, bringing together MECs, provincial tourism authorities, South African Tourism, the private sector – including the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) and the South African Township and Village Tourism Association (SATOVITO) and a wide range of national and provincial stakeholders.

During the meeting, the Minister received a comprehensive state-of-readiness report from all the provinces ahead of the festive season. 

A key element of the national safety plan is the deployment of Tourism Monitors. 

A total of 40 of the 202 Tourism Monitors allocated to the Border Management Authority (BMA) have been officially deployed at OR Tambo International Airport to strengthen visibility and visitor support.

“Safety is the foundation of tourism growth and our ability to collaborate effectively determines how well we protect both visitors and the jobs that depend on them,” said de Lille.

She confirmed that the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Maggie Sotyu, has been formally delegated to chair the National Tourism Safety Forum going forward.

“Deputy Minister Sotyu brings deep experience, including her previous tenure as Deputy Minister of Police, and her leadership will be invaluable in guiding this Forum’s work,” said de Lille.

With a strong background in public safety and crime prevention, Sotyu will now lead the Forum’s coordination efforts across government, industry and security structures.

The Minister called on communities across the country to work with government and the private sector to ensure that South Africa maintains its global appeal and remains a destination where visitors feel safe, welcomed and supported. – SAnews.gov.za

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The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) has called on all South Africans to assume collective responsibility in the ongoing national effort to end Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), describing the crisis as one that demands urgent, coordinated action across society.

Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga said bold leadership and stronger partnerships across various levels of government, civil society, and the private sector, are indispensable as the country intensifies its response.

While government continues to strengthen laws, expand support services for survivors, and accelerate the implementation of the National Strategic Plan on GBVF (NSP-GBVF), the Minister stressed that sustainable progress will only be possible when communities unite behind a shared commitment to end violence.

She emphasised that the fight against GBVF must extend beyond the annual 16 Days of Activism campaign, urging a year-round, 365-day commitment to prevent violence, protect vulnerable groups, and build a society grounded in equality, dignity, and safety.

“Every day is a day to end GBVF,” the department said, calling on citizens to work together to build a safer, more inclusive and society free from violence.

Chikunga highlighted the role communities play in creating safe environments, supporting survivors, and ensuring perpetrators are held accountable.

She urged institutions and workplaces to ensure that policies, protections, and reporting mechanisms are in place and effective. She also encouraged families to instil values of respect, equality, and non-violence from early childhood.

“The responsibility does not rest with government alone, but with every sector, every community, and every individual.”

The Minister also called on men to actively challenge harmful behaviours and attitudes and to speak out against abuse whenever it occurs.

“We cannot end GBVF through legislation alone. We need a united nation, men, women, youth, traditional leaders, religious formations, business, labour, and civil society working in one direction. National efforts towards ending GBVF are both a moral duty and a collective responsibility,” the Minister said.

The department further encouraged the public to make use of available support services, including the GBVF Command Centre at 0800 428 428, to assist individuals at risk.

“Together, South Africa can build a society where women, children, and persons with disabilities live free from violence, fear, and discrimination.”

Meanwhile, in his weekly newsletter, President Cyril Ramaphosa reiterated the call for a nationwide, sustained programme of dialogues with men and boys to confront the drivers of violence, including toxic masculinity, harmful cultural norms, peer pressure, and patterns of socialisation. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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