Category: South Africa Government

Posted on

SA to participate in 134th Session of the International Maritime Organization

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, July 7, 2025

Transport Deputy Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa is in London, in the United Kingdom to represent South Africa at the 134th Session of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council set to get underway this week.

“South Africa will take part in this vital session to further its campaign to secure a seat on the IMO Council for the 2026–2027 term. This engagement is a key component of South Africa’s diplomatic efforts to garner support from member states yet to endorse its candidacy,” the Department of Transport said in a statement.

The IMO which takes place from Monday, 7 July, will conclude on Friday, 11 July 2025.

The IMO Council is instrumental in overseeing the work of the IMO between Assembly sessions and in shaping global maritime policies and strategies.

South Africa has a history of distinguished service on the Council under Category C and has held the Vice Chairperson position from 2005 to 2015.

“During the session, the Deputy Minister will interact with representatives from various IMO Member States to solidify support for South Africa’s campaign. Additionally, Mr. Hlengwa will meet with the Secretary-General of the IMO, Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, reaffirming South Africa’s commitment to strengthening multilateral maritime relations.

“The election of new council members is scheduled for the upcoming IMO Assembly later this year. South Africa is dedicated to contributing to the global maritime agenda, with a focus on advancing the interests of the African continent, enhancing maritime safety and security, and promoting inclusive and sustainable shipping practices,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Traditional leaders pay tribute to late former Deputy President Mabuza

Source: Government of South Africa

The National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders (NHTKL) has joined the nation in mourning former Deputy President David Mabuza.

“On behalf of the collective institution of traditional and Khoi-San leadership, the House expresses its deep sorrow at the loss of former Deputy President Mabuza, who passed away following a short illness.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Mrs Mabuza, the children, and the people of Mpumalanga during this time of grief,” said a statement issued by the NKTKL chairperson, Kgosi Thabo Seatlholo. 

Mabuza passed away on Thursday, 3 July, at the age of 64, following a brief illness.

The House worked closely with Mabuza during his time as chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Task Team on Traditional Leadership.

The task team was established to respond to issues raised by traditional and Khoi-San leaders. 

The ongoing discussions between government and traditional leaders are focused on addressing the development issues faced by traditional communities, including the concerns of traditional and Khoi-San leaders.

Throughout his public service, the NHTKL noted that  Mabuza had consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to enhancing the relationship between government and traditional leadership.

“He promoted meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and mutual respect, leaving a lasting legacy of unity and cooperation.” 

From his early role as MEC for Agriculture to becoming Premier of Mpumalanga and later Deputy President, traditional leaders noted that he consistently prioritised engagement with traditional leaders across the country.

“We hold his family, friends, and the people of Mpumalanga in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace,” the House said. 

President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced that the late former Deputy President will be honoured with a State Funeral Category 2 on Saturday, 12 July 2025.

According to the State, Official, and Provincial Official Funeral Policy Manual of The Presidency, a State Funeral Category 2 is designated for the Deputy President of the Republic, the Acting President, and former Deputy Presidents. 

This category of funeral includes the prescribed military ceremonial honours.

As preparations are underway, President Ramaphosa has declared that a period of National Mourning will be observed from today, Monday, 7 July, until the evening of Saturday, 12 July. 

The late former Deputy President is expected to be laid to rest in his hometown in Mpumalanga. – SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Statement by President Cyril Ramaphosa on statements by SAPS KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa has noted statements made earlier today in a media briefing by the South African Police Service KwaZulu-Natal (SAPS KZN) Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

President Ramaphosa said: “This is a matter of grave national security concern that is receiving the highest priority attention. It is vital that the integrity of the country’s security services is safeguarded and that the rule of law is affirmed.”

“All parties to this matter are called upon to exercise discipline and restraint. The trading of accusations and counter-accusations threatens to undermine public confidence and sow confusion. Furthermore, these actions damage the unity and focus of the police.”

President Ramaphosa will outline the actions to be taken on this matter on his return from the BRICS Leaders’ Summit currently underway in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Posted on

President notes Provincial Commissioner’s statements

Source: Government of South Africa

Sunday, July 6, 2025

The Presidency says President Cyril Ramaphosa has noted statements made earlier today in a media briefing by South African Police Service (SAPS) KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

The Provincial Commissioner held a media briefing earlier on Sunday at the KwaZulu-Natal SAPS headquarters where he made various allegations.

“This is a matter of grave national security concern that is receiving the highest priority attention. It is vital that the integrity of the country’s security services is safeguarded and that the rule of law is affirmed,” said the President in a statement on Sunday night.

He said all parties to this matter were called upon to exercise discipline and restraint. 

“The trading of accusations and counter-accusations threatens to undermine public confidence and sow confusion. Furthermore, these actions damage the unity and focus of the police,” President Ramaphosa said.

The Presidency said President Ramaphosa would outline the actions to be taken on this matter on his return from the BRICS Leaders’ Summit currently underway in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. – SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Call for urgent reform of international governance structures

Source: Government of South Africa

By Gabi Khumalo

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for enhanced global cooperation and urgent reform of international governance structures amid the “dramatic reshaping of global dynamics-politically, economically, technologically, and environmentally”.

Speaking during the opening of the 17th BRICS Summit, currently underway in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, President Ramaphosa underscored the critical need for multilateral collaboration to address escalating global tensions and institutional inefficiencies.

“With this change comes both opportunity and uncertainty. As conflicts persist, as new threats emerge and as old institutions falter, the pursuit of global peace and security has never been more urgent or more complex,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa participated in the first session of the BRICS Summit, where he delivered an intervention under the theme: “Peace & Security, Reform of Global Governance”.

The President underscored the need to reform the United Nations Security Council to become more democratic, regionally representative, and more accountable.

He noted that the United Nations, in particular the Security Council which is the preeminent instrument for the maintenance of international peace and security, has too often failed to meet the challenges of today.

“In responding to these challenges – ranging from humanitarian crises to open acts of aggression – the Security Council has become too rigid, too narrow and too disconnected from today’s multipolar realities.

“Reform is a necessity. The Security Council must be made more democratic, more regionally representative and more accountable,” the President said.

Strengthening regional peace mechanisms

To further enable sustainable peace, the President emphasised the need for strong regional peace mechanisms. 

“We must give them the resources and authority they need to lead efforts in dialogue, mediation and de-escalation. Localised responses, grounded in cultural and geopolitical understanding, are the frontline of peacebuilding.

“The linkages between peace, security and development require a more comprehensive approach to conflict prevention and peacebuilding; an approach that addresses the underlying causes of conflict,” he said.

Highlighting the role of BRICS in this evolving landscape, President Ramaphosa said BRICS is increasingly shaping global debates on development, multipolar governance and security matters.

With a broad geographical footprint and growing influence, BRICS is uniquely positioned to advocate for reform in global governance structures.

He called on BRICS to strengthen its voice in calling for a global framework that is inclusive, representative and anchored in the principles of sovereignty, equality and peaceful coexistence.

“BRICS must continue to strengthen its cooperation on key security issues, including counterterrorism, cyber security and transnational crime,” the President said.

Global digital governance framework 

President Ramaphosa commended BRICS’ focus on a global digital governance framework that is inclusive, transparent and rooted in the principles of the United Nations.

He reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to the full implementation of the BRICS Counter Terrorism Strategy.

The country remains steadfast in its support for the United Nations’ central role in global counter terrorism efforts.

Call for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions

President Ramaphosa raised South Africa’s concerns at the deteriorating peace and security situation in the Middle East.

The President condemned the recent attacks by Israel and the United States on the Islamic Republic of Iran, warning that the attacks raise serious concerns of international law, including the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and the protection of civilians.

He said South Africa understands the power of peaceful resolution through dialogue, given the country’s own experience. 

“We must continue to advocate for the urgent intensification of diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and ensure sustainable and lasting peace. We remain deeply concerned by the heavy human toll of conflicts in Russia and Ukraine, the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan and Gaza, among others. 

“We must find just and lasting solutions to these devasting conflicts. Achieving and maintaining peace and security requires the collective will of the community of nations,” President Ramaphosa said.

Summit deliberations

During the BRICS Summit session, Heads of State and Government are expected to deliberate on issues pertaining to global governance reform, peace and security, the ongoing humanitarian impact of Israeli military action in Gaza and in conflicts in Sudan, Ukraine, Iran, and advocating for the sustainable resolution of conflicts through diplomacy, inclusive dialogue and a commitment to the United Nations Charter.

The summit will also look into synergies between BRICS, COP30 and G20 outcomes, including in global governance of artificial intelligence and prioritising climate finance that is just, accessible and transformational. – SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Intervention by President Cyril Ramaphosa on peace, pecurity and global governance, 17th BRICS Leaders’ Summit, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Source: President of South Africa –

Your Excellency, President Lula da Silva,
Fellow BRICS Leaders,
Honourable Ministers,
Excellencies,
Ladies and gentlemen,

I would like to thank you, President Lula, for your warm welcome and for hosting us, as Chair of the 17th BRICS Summit, in Rio de Janeiro.

I extend my warmest welcome to our dear friends, the Republic of Indonesia, as the newest member of the BRICS formation.

We are witnessing a dramatic reshaping of global dynamics – politically, economically, technologically and environmentally.

With this change comes both opportunity and uncertainty. 

As conflicts persist, as new threats emerge and as old institutions falter, the pursuit of global peace and security has never been more urgent or more complex.

The United Nations, in particular the Security Council, is the preeminent instrument for the maintenance of international peace and security.

Yet, it has too often failed to meet the challenges of today.

In responding to these challenges – ranging from humanitarian crises to open acts of aggression – the Security Council has become too rigid, too narrow and too disconnected from today’s multipolar realities.

Reform is a necessity. The Security Council must be made more democratic, more regionally representative and more accountable. 

To further enable sustainable peace, we must strengthen and invest in regional peace mechanisms. We must give them the resources and authority they need to lead efforts in dialogue, mediation and de-escalation.

Localised responses, grounded in cultural and geopolitical understanding, are the frontline of peacebuilding.

The linkages between peace, security and development require a more comprehensive approach to conflict prevention and peacebuilding; an approach that addresses the underlying causes of conflict.

BRICS has vital role in this evolving landscape.

BRICS is increasingly shaping global debates on development, multipolar governance and security matters.

With our broad geographical footprint and growing influence, BRICS is uniquely positioned to advocate for reform in global governance structures. 

BRICS must strengthen its voice in calling for a global framework that is inclusive, representative and anchored in the principles of sovereignty, equality and peaceful coexistence.

BRICS must continue to strengthen its cooperation on key security issues, including counterterrorism, cyber security and transnational crime.

We welcome the focus by BRICS on a global digital governance framework that is inclusive, transparent and rooted in the principles of the United Nations.

We need to share best practices, strengthen technical cooperation and invest in the protection of critical digital infrastructure. 

South Africa is committed to the full implementation of the BRICS Counter Terrorism Strategy, with a focus on deradicalisation, disrupting terrorist financing and countering the misuse of digital platforms by extremist groups.

We remain steadfast in our support for the United Nations’ central role in global counter terrorism efforts.

As an African nation, we are acutely aware of the ways in which state and non-state actors exploit global divisions and vulnerabilities to destabilise those who do not share their worldview. 

This is why our strategic partnership is critical in our pursuit for a safer, more just and more equitable world.

South Africa remains gravely concerned at the deteriorating peace and security situation in the Middle East. 

The recent attacks by Israel and the United States on the Islamic Republic of Iran raise serious concerns of international law, including the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and the protection of civilians.

Given our own experience, South Africa understands the power of peaceful resolution through dialogue. 

We must continue to advocate for the urgent intensification of diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and ensure sustainable and lasting peace.

We remain deeply concerned by the heavy human toll of conflicts in Russia and Ukraine, the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan and Gaza, among others. 

We must find just and lasting solutions to these devasting conflicts.

Achieving and maintaining peace and security requires the collective will of the community of nations.

Through dialogue, through respect for the rule of law, through the advancement of human rights, through cooperation and solidarity, we can and must achieve peace for the collective good.

I thank you.

Posted on

Victims urged not to withdraw gender-based violence cases

Source: Government of South Africa

The Portfolio Committee on Community Safety in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature has urged victims of crime, particularly those affected by gender-based violence (GBV), to refrain from withdrawing criminal cases against perpetrators.

In a statement on Sunday, the Portfolio Committee said this urgent call follows growing concern over a troubling trend that threatens to undermine efforts to combat GBV and ensure justice for victims.

The committee raised this issue during an oversight visit to the Fochville Police Station on Friday, followed by a stakeholder engagement session at Greenspark Community Hall.

“During these engagements, the committee was alarmed by a report from the Station Commander indicating that 64 GBV cases had been withdrawn by victims, allowing alleged perpetrators to evade justice and remain a threat within their communities,” the portfolio committee said. 

According to police reports, these withdrawals are often driven by financial inducements from perpetrators and pressure from families, who encourage victims to “resolve matters privately”. 

“The committee strongly condemns this practice, warning that it not only places victims at further risk but also undermines the integrity of the criminal justice system. The withdrawal of serious cases such as GBV enables repeat offenses including rape, assault, and even murder.

“The committee urges communities to stand with victims and allow the law to take its course,” the portfolio committee said. 

Furthermore, the committee emphasised that this pattern is not isolated to Fochville but is emerging as a province-wide concern, threatening progress in reducing crime and securing justice for survivors.

“The committee calls on all stakeholders including traditional leaders, community-based organisations, and faith-based institutions to actively educate communities on the importance of reporting GBV and pursuing justice. Victims must be protected and supported, not silenced or coerced,” the statement read. 

As part of its ongoing Focused Intervention Study on SAPS compliance with the Domestic Violence Act, the Committee will continue to engage stakeholders and monitor police stations across Gauteng to ensure accountability and improved service delivery in the fight against GBV. – SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Mourning period declared to honour the late former Deputy President Mabuza

Source: Government of South Africa

Sunday, July 6, 2025

President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that the former Deputy President David Dabede Mabuza will be honoured with a State Funeral Category 2 on Saturday, 12 July 2025. 

Deputy President Mabuza, 64, who served as Deputy President between 2018 and 2023 passed away on Thursday following a short illness.

In a statement on Sunday, the Presidency said in terms of the State, Official and Provincial Official Funeral Policy Manual of The Presidency, the State Funeral Category 2 is reserved for the Deputy President of the Republic, an Acting President and Former Deputy Presidents.

The State Funeral Category 2 is conducted with prescribed military ceremonial honours.

“The funeral of Former Deputy President Mabuza will take place in Mpumalanga. Closer details will be announced in the coming days. 

“While preparations unfold, President Ramaphosa has declared that days of national mourning be observed from tomorrow, Monday, 07 July 2025, until the evening of Saturday, 12 July.

“During this period, the National Flag must be flown at half mast at all flag stations around the country,” the Presidency said. 

President Ramaphosa reiterated his deep condolences to the Mabuza family.

“The President wishes the family strength as they and the nation reflect on the life of a family member, activist, educator, intellectual and leader in government who contributed greatly to the attainment of freedom and development in our society,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

President Ramaphosa declares mourning period to honour the late former Deputy President David Mabuza

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that the former Deputy President David Dabede Mabuza will be honoured with a State Funeral Category 2 on Saturday, 12 July 2025.

Deputy President Mabuza, 64, passed away on Thursday, 3 July 2025, following a short illness.

In terms of the State, Official and Provincial Official Funeral Policy Manual of The Presidency, the State Funeral Category 2 is reserved for the Deputy President of the Republic, an Acting President and Former Deputy Presidents.

The State Funeral Category 2 is conducted with prescribed military ceremonial honours.

The funeral of Former Deputy President Mabuza will take place in Mpumalanga. Closer details will be announced in the coming days.

While preparations unfold, President Ramaphosa has declared that Days of National Mourning be observed from tomorrow, Monday, 07 July 2025, until the evening of Saturday, 12 July.

During this period, the National Flag must be flown at half mast at all flag stations around the country.

President Ramaphosa reiterates his deep condolences to the Mabuza family.

The President wishes the family strength as they and the nation reflect on the life of a family member, activist, educator, intellectual and leader in government who contributed greatly to the attainment of freedom and development in our society.

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Posted on

Eastern Cape provincial government strengthens oversight in flood-affected areas

Source: Government of South Africa

Eastern Cape provincial government strengthens oversight in flood-affected areas

The Eastern Cape Provincial Government has intensified efforts to coordinate disaster relief and recovery measures following the devastating floods that have impacted the province, particularly in the OR Tambo and Amathole Districts. 

In a statement on Friday, the provincial government said a multidisciplinary team led by the Office of the Premier, supported by the Departments of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Human Settlements, Health, Home Affairs, SASSA, and affected local municipalities, has been deployed since the disaster began. 

A Provincial Joint Operations Centre (JOC) has been activated to streamline disaster response as well as the Donations Management Team which coordinates humanitarian support, including food, sanitary items, and household necessities. 

The provincial government said this team has been actively assessing the functionality, safety, and welfare of residents in temporary shelters across the province, while coordinating and distributing humanitarian aid. 

The team is also making significant progress in the resettlement of displaced residents, which is expected to resume once all proper government processes have been followed. 

“As of [Friday], the official death toll stands at 103, tragically including 32 school-going children. Out of the 103, there are 50 men and 53 females, 63 are adults and 40 are children. 

“The OR Tambo District has the most fatalities with 79 victims, followed by Amathole District with 10, Alfred Nzo district 5, Chris Hani 5, Joe Gqabi 2, and Sarah Baartman District with 2. 

“Of the 103 deceased, 98 bodies have been identified and collected, while 5 bodies remain unidentified. The Department of Home Affairs has registered 92 deaths out of the 103,” a statement issued by the provincial government said. 

Floodwaters have ravaged over 6 800 households, leaving 4 724 without homes and partially damaging another 2 145 dwellings. 

Search and recovery efforts are still underway, while emergency response and relief teams continue their critical work. 

The Provincial Government thanked all the stakeholders involved and assured affected communities that comprehensive support services will remain in place until full recovery and stability are achieved. 

“The South African National Defence Force and Mercedes-Benz have all joined the collective effort to support flood victims in the OR Tambo and Amathole districts. These key stakeholders have delivered substantial donations of food, clothing, and other essential supplies, reinforced the broader relief operation and demonstrated a strong spirit of solidarity across public and private sectors. Donations have also been received from entities such as Shoprite, Meals on Wheels, AbaThembu Kingdom, and numerous community contributors,” the provincial government said. 

COGTA MEC Zolile Williams this week conducted an oversight visit to assess the conditions at all eight of the Community Care Centres (CCCs) accommodating displaced residents in and around OR Tambo District Municipality. 

Mayor of OR Tambo District Municipality, Mesuli Ngqondwana, and the Mayor of King Sabata Dalindyebo (KSD) Local Municipality, Nyaniso Nelani were also there. 

Community members shared their appreciation for the support received but also raised concerns about an urgent need for a more durable and dignified housing solutions. 

Responding to these concerns, MEC Williams reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring dignity and stability for all affected families. He emphasised that municipalities have identified land for the erection of temporary structures as part of broader resettlement plans. 

“Suitable land has been identified in both KSD and Mnquma municipalities for the construction of 1 230 Temporary Residential Units (TRUs), with R120 million reprioritised to begin implementation. A further R461 million is needed to meet the full TRU demand. 

“The verification of damaged homes is underway in Mnquma and OR Tambo Districts, with Joe Gqabi District having completed the process. 

“This critical step aims to determine which families require temporary or permanent housing, ensuring that those displaced or affected by structural damage receive appropriate support and stability as part of the ongoing recovery and resettlement strategy,” the provincial government said. 

Additionally, the exercise will further determine households that must be permanently moved as they are situated in flood plans. 

Furthermore, key progress milestones for the road to recovery so far includes: 

  • 62 burials have been completed; with 9 more planned for this weekend.
  • 1442 individuals received psychosocial support.
  • 760 families have been supported with SASSA food vouchers.
  • 989 smart ID and 96 birth certificate applications have been processed. 

Additionally, the provincial government said infrastructure repairs are in motion, with 235 schools, 69 health facilities, and 149 roads and 91 bridges damaged across various districts. 

A total of R5.04 billion is the estimated cost to repair damaged infrastructure. 

“The collaboration across government and with civil society has been instrumental in responding to this humanitarian crisis. We remain committed to ensuring that displaced families are cared for with dignity and that donations are managed transparently. The province thanks all donors,” the MEC said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM

8 views