Category: South Africa Government

Source: Government of South Africa

The North West Provincial Government has disputed claims regarding its budget expenditure for the 2024/25 financial year, after reports indicated that it would return R383 million to the National Treasury.

This is after an opposition party noted that while most provincial departments spent between 98% and 99% of their allocated budgets, which aligns with acceptable spending norms, the province’s underspending still amounts to a significant R383 million. 

According to the party, this underspending includes considerable shortfalls in key departments.

The party has called on the North West Provincial Government to account for the R383 million in underspending for the 2024/25 financial year. 

However, the provincial government confirmed that, according to the preliminary audit outcomes for 2024/25, 99.29% of its R54.2 billion budget was spent, which translates to a total expenditure of R53.9 billion.

“This is a much-improved performance compared to the previous financial year, with only two departments spending below a threshold of 95%.

“The under-expenditure of R383 million, which is made up of R176 million of the equitable share, will be retained by the province.” 

The provincial government stated that the remaining amount, approximately R207 million, will roll over into the 2025/26 financial year.

“Already, National Treasury has approved R172 million, which will be re-appropriated through the November adjustment budget. These funds will be used for various infrastructure projects to address service delivery challenges and create various socio-economic opportunities for locals. 

“Therefore, there is no R383 million which is going to be returned to National Treasury, as alleged by some in the mainstream and social media platforms.” – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

W Cape completes housing market studies for seven municipalities

Gabisile
Thu, 07/03/2025 – 10:37

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, July 3, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, July 3, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

The National Research Foundation (NRF) has made significant progress in implementing the Presidential PhD Programme by launching a call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) from universities and other research organisations that wish to host the programme’s hubs.

The Presidential PhD Programme is a collaboration between several organisations, including the National Research Foundation (NRF), the Presidency, the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), and the National Skills Fund (NSF). 

This programme uses a hub-and-spoke model to facilitate effective communication and resource sharing among all participating institutions and partners.

The call for EOI comes after the Presidential Plenary on Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) that took place in December 2023. 

During this event, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the establishment of the Presidential PhD Programme. 

This initiative will involve an initial investment of R1 billion, intended to support PhD training both locally and internationally, and will be linked to large-scale, well-established research projects in both public research facilities and industry.

The initiative has four key components, which include developing world-class human capital in strategic areas and strengthening connections among academia, industry, government, and other stakeholders.

It also involves enhancing graduate employability by providing exposure to transferable skills and innovation ecosystems and facilitating access to leading research environments globally to improve knowledge transfer and build local capacity.

According to the NRF, the hubs will primarily be responsible for the design and implementation of collaborative PhD training programmes and activities. 

The key founding principles of the hubs are synergy, inclusivity, multi-disciplinary, economies of scale, sharing of resources, and pursuing the principle that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. 

“The hubs will not only provide intellectual leadership but also serve as coordinators and training centres to ensure uptake of the opportunities within the Presidential PhD Programme’s initiatives, in collaboration with various stakeholders, including local and international research-performing institutions, universities, industry, science councils, and government departments.” 

In addition, the hubs will be responsible for identifying strategic stakeholders and potential partners, while also assessing their needs and contributions. 

They will lead the design and implementation of mentorship networks, monitor the progress of doctoral students towards completion, and coordinate the various nodes with support from the NRF.

“We have taken a giant leap towards realising the ambitious goals of the Presidential PhD Programme,” said NRF CEO, Dr Fulufhelo Nelwamondo. 

“The hubs will be instrumental in our national drive to develop a new generation of highly skilled researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders.” 

The programme is grounded in the goals of the National Development Plan (NDP) and the STI Decadal Plan, which call for the graduation of 5 000 PhDs per annum and having 75% of the universities’ academic and research staff qualified with PhDs by 2030.

The training programme will build critical skills aimed at social transformation, with the initial areas of focus being digital innovation, advanced biotechnology, the energy-food-health sustainability nexus, and mining transformation.

The NRF will coordinate and mobilise support to attain the outcomes envisaged for graduate skilling in entrepreneurship, innovation, academia, policy, and advocacy.

Institutions eligible to host lead hubs are NRF-recognised research institutions such as South African public universities and public research entities such as science councils, national research facilities, and institutes. 

These institutions must possess strong research capabilities in a specific theme that aligns with the Presidential PhD Programme and have a proven track record in transdisciplinary and interdisciplinary coordination.

Meanwhile, the NRF said institutions located on the continent and around the globe can participate in the hubs programme as nodes or as partners. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

State power utility Eskom says it has taken several steps to strengthen its systems against potential threats related to the generation of fraudulent prepaid tokens.

In December 2024, the power utility disclosed, as part of its full-year 2024 financial results, a forensic report detailing the breach of its Online Vending System (OVS).

“The system was exploited to generate and distribute fraudulent prepaid electricity tokens, revealing critical vulnerabilities in both the physical and cybersecurity components of the utility’s prepaid electricity infrastructure.

“In response, Eskom undertook a comprehensive review and intervention strategy aimed at mitigating these vulnerabilities and restoring system integrity,” Eskom said in a statement.

Eskom Chief Technology and Information Officer, Len De Villiers, said the power utility has “successfully strengthened the protection of its current systems against potential threats”.

“All system enhancements are managed through a robust Change Management process that spans all divisions, ensuring consistent oversight and control. These measures are part of Eskom’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding operations and addressing identified vulnerabilities,” De Villiers said.

The latest key actions implemented include:

• Internal controls to deal with electricity theft have been implemented.
• Measures to safeguard the system by reinforcing physical infrastructure and limiting both physical and digital access.
• Enhanced monitoring capabilities to ensure transparency and timely reporting.
• On-going collaboration with law enforcement agencies to support investigations and ensure accountability. As part of this process, internal employees who have been implicated have been placed on precautionary suspension pending further review.
• Augmented in-house capabilities, supported by an external Information Technology (IT) firm tasked to better manage risks and safeguard operations.
• Coordinated system upgrades through a structured change management process.
• Regular reporting to the Eskom Board, which has maintained oversight throughout the remediation process.
• Accelerated acquisition of a new. secure vending system, designed to replace the current OVS and prevent future incidents.

Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, said: “We are fully aware of the challenges that have emerged within the OVS environment, and we have taken clear steps to address them. 

“Our focus is on restoring trust, strengthening our systems, and ensuring that our customers can rely on a secure and efficient service. This is not just a technical fix, it is part of a broader commitment to transparency, operational excellence and accountability.”

Eskom, in conjunction with law enforcement, is investigating with the findings to be disclosed once complete. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

The South African Police Service (SAPS) on Wednesday said it remains steadfast in its commitment to combat and prevent gender-based violence and femicide (GVBF) through its intensified nationwide operations and dedicated resources across the country.

According to SAPS, nationwide operations and police actions conducted from 23 – 29 June resulted in the arrest of 145 suspects for rape. Gauteng recorded the most arrests (35).

In addition, police arrested 77 wanted rape suspects, as well as 14 individuals tracked down for sexual offences in various provinces.

SAPS continues to strengthen its response to combating GVBF through targeted interventions and collaboration with communities, including various stakeholders.

“SAPS specialised units, such as the Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences Units (FCS), across the country continue to play a crucial role in investigating and prosecuting GBVF cases, as well as providing specialised support to survivors,” SAPS said.

Key arrests this past week included 40-year-old Lesiba Ledwaba for the gruesome murder of his 87-year old mother, Raisibe Ledwaba. He has already appeared in the Seshego Magistrates Court on charges of murder. 

In a separate case, on 1 July 2025, police in Ladybrand arrested a 27-year-old man for the alleged murder of his 51-year-old mother after she reprimanded him from making noise when under influence of alcohol. He is expected to appear before the Ladybrand Magistrates Court on 3 July.

“Recently, FCS unit members successfully secured lengthy jail sentences for the perpetrators of gender-based violence and femicide, ensuring that they are removed from society for the rest of their lives,” the police said.

Notable convictions secured this week alone include:

• On 1 July, the Greytown Regional Court sentenced a 29-year-old accused to life imprisonment for raping his eight-year-old biological daughter in March 2025.
• On 30 June, the  Mahwelereng Regional Court sentenced a 22 –year-old accused to life imprisonment for the rape of a 13-year-old boy on 4 November 2023.
• On 30 June 2025, the Molopo Regional Court sentenced serial rapist Bongani Ntoro (36) to life term sentence and an additional 25 years’ imprisonment for the rape of four women and a 12-year-old minor between 2007 and 2010 in Magogoe, Tloung and Seweding villages.

“SAPS is committed to fulfilling its mandate to combat, prevent, and investigate GBVF incidents and is continuously working to improve its response to these crimes in the country. Citizens are urged to report GVBF incidents to the nearest police or through MySAPS app,” the police said. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, July 3, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Dion George has welcomed the Green Climate Fund’s (GCF) approval of the South African National Biodiversity Institute’s (SANBI) Eco Disaster Risk Reduction (Eco DRR) project.

The project was approved during its 42nd board meeting, currently being held in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea.

The project, funded by a grant of just over US$40 million, reflects South Africa’s commitment to harnessing ecosystem-based approaches to tackle climate-induced disasters.

Over the next eight years, the Eco DRR initiative will benefit more than five million South Africans, particularly in vulnerable communities, by embedding ecosystem-based approaches into disaster risk planning. 

This will bolster infrastructure resilience, safeguard livelihoods, and enhance adaptive capacity against climate change impacts. 

“This is a monumental achievement for South Africa and a testament to SANBI’s expertise as a Direct Access Entity to the GCF. The Eco DRR project will empower millions of our citizens, ensuring that we build a resilient future where nature and communities thrive together,” said George.

 As a Direct Access Entity, SANBI has showcased leadership in securing this substantial funding, marking a proud milestone for both the institute and the nation. 

The approval underscores South Africa’s dedication to sustainable development and climate resilience, positioning its institutions as key players in global climate action. 

“By leveraging the power of ecosystems, this project not only mitigates disaster risks but also fosters inclusive growth and environmental stewardship. It is a beacon of hope for a greener, stronger South Africa,” said the Minister.

The Eco DRR project aligns with South Africa’s National Climate Change Adaptation Strategy and its vision of fostering a climate-resilient society. 

The initiative will deliver long-term benefits by integrating ecosystem-based approaches into national planning frameworks. 

The Minister extended his congratulations to SANBI and all stakeholders involved, reaffirming the department’s commitment to supporting the project’s successful implementation. 

“We will work tirelessly to ensure that the benefits of this initiative reach our most vulnerable communities, paving the way for a sustainable future,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Despite the challenging global environment, South Africa’s mining industry is an industry on the rise.

This view was shared by Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe, who delivered the department’s Budget Vote in Parliament on Wednesday afternoon.

In his written remarks, Mantashe explained that Mintek – the country’s national mineral research organisation – has completed a study on the state of mining in the country and the Critical Minerals and Metals Strategy for implementation, which shows great potential in the industry.

“Having produced individual commodity reports on 21 minerals, the critical minerals strategy shows that minerals, such as platinum, manganese, iron ore, coal and chrome ore, are poised to play a critical role in the South African mining industry and the economy for the foreseeable future.

“In contrast to the sceptic view that the South African mining industry is a sunset industry, with the comprehensive and up-to-date insights into key developments within global commodity markets, mineral production trends in South Africa and the mining sector’s contribution to the economy, we are now more convinced than ever that the South African mining industry is a sunrise industry.

“This mining frontier is filled with exciting opportunities for investors and the economy,” he said.

Mantashe acknowledged that the industry is operating in a challenging global landscape.

Despite these challenges, including escalating trade tensions, evolving geopolitical relationships and the United States of America’s imposition of tariffs on some mineral exports, the industry remains a strong contributor to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

“Despite the challenging global environment, mining gross value-added rebounded by 0.3% in 2024, from a 0.5% decline in 2023. Effectively, in Rand terms, 2024 saw the mining sector contributing R451 billion to the country’s GDP, thus sustaining the 6% total contribution to the GDP.

“In the same period, the mining industry’s export earnings totalled R674 billion, comprising R586.4 billion from primary minerals and R87.5 billion from processed minerals, representing a decrease of 0.6% from R678 billion in 2023,” the Minister said.

Expanding mineral exploration

The Minister highlighted that the sustainability and future of mining in South Africa is dependent on new mineral discoveries – making the Junior Mining Exploration Fund critical for discovery and transformation.

“Established through a R200 million allocation from National Treasury, matched by the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), this fund is poised to unlock new mineral discoveries and drive transformation. The first funding call has already resulted in the signing of legal contracts with black-owned junior miners. 

“As the country navigates the natural decline of legacy commodities like gold, this fund will enable the discovery of new minerals that are essential for a range of industries, from advanced manufacturing to technology and infrastructure development.

“Expanding this fund is not just an investment in new mining frontiers but a commitment to ensuring that our mineral wealth contributes to a more inclusive and transformed industry,” he insisted.

Mantashe noted that, for its part, the Council for Geoscience (CGS) has implemented its Integrated and Multi-Disciplinary Mapping Programme to expand its onshore mapping coverage to meet the needs of the exploration community.

“This work provides the fundamental basis to outline the mineral potential and geological systems at an enhanced scale, allowing [for] greater clarity to focus on exploration initiatives. 

“For the 2025/26 financial year, the CGS will continue with the implementation of this backbone programme, both onshore and offshore, to make available key pre-competitive geological data, information and knowledge for considered investment in minerals exploration,” he said.

The budget

The department’s budget allocation for the 2025/26 financial year is R2.86 billion, of which R1.16 billion will be transferred to public entities, municipalities, and other implementing institutions to “enable them to fulfil their constitutional mandates”.

Some specific projects to receive funding include:

• R134.7 million for the rehabilitation of derelict and ownerless mines implemented by Mintek.
• R22.4 million for the Mine Rehabilitation Research Project implemented by the Council for Geoscience.
• R32.3 million allocated to the CGS for the Mine Water Ingress Project.
• R46.1 million allocated to the Petroleum Agency South Africa (PASA) for the implementation of the Shale Gas Project. 

 – SAnews.gov.za