Category: South Africa Government

Source: Government of South Africa

The Western Cape Department of Infrastructure successfully hosted a housing beneficiary verification drive in Subcouncil 14 of the City of Cape Town.

This drive, held over the past weekend, provided residents already registered in the housing demand database with the opportunity to review and update their registration details.

“We aim to ensure a fair and transparent beneficiary process. Residents in this area have waited a very long time for housing opportunities, and we must make sure that the correct individuals benefit from our housing projects,” Western Cape Infrastructure MEC, Tertuis Simmers, said on Monday.

The Welmoed development is part of the Southern Corridor Integrated Human Settlements Programme, with the first phase set to deliver 3 296 housing opportunities.

These will include a mix of affordable housing, mixed-use options, and private development units.

According to the provincial department, beneficiaries will be drawn from subcouncil 14 and surrounding informal settlements.

Subcouncil 14 includes Amandelsig, Kuils River, Zevenwacht, Oakdene, Sarepta, Blackheath, Blue Downs, Eerste River, Dennemere, Welmoed, Kalkfontein, Mfuleni, and their surrounding areas.

The ward numbers are Ward 11, Ward 14, Ward 16, Ward 17, Ward 19, Ward 108, and Ward 114.

The Welmoed project will also create economic growth and provide up to 6 000 job opportunities.

Part of the development plan requires contractors to employ local labour and subcontractors from the Subcouncil 14 area.

“The Welmoed project is about much more than just housing units. Together, we are building resilient communities, restoring dignity, and creating thousands of job opportunities that will transform the lives of our people. Through infrastructure, we are building an inclusive, prosperous future for all,” Simmers said. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, September 16, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

The Deputy Minister of Finance, Ashor Sarupen, has emphasised the importance of governments, the private sector, development finance institutions, and multilateral partners working together to create an enabling environment for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to succeed. 

Addressing an official side event of South Africa’s Group of Twenty (G20) Presidency, Sarupen highlighted that MSMEs are the backbone of every economy – accounting for over 90% of businesses globally.

“The private sector plays a key role—not only in providing capital, but also in driving innovation and market access. Emerging partnerships with non-bank finance actors—such as equity, crowdfunding, and venture capital—are promising and must be scaled to close the MSME funding gap,” the Deputy Minister said on Monday in Johannesburg.

In South Africa, MSMEs represent 91% of formal businesses, provide 60% of jobs, and contribute up to 34% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).  

“Their impact is clear, and so is our responsibility to create an environment that enables their success. The informal sector also holds potential to address unemployment yet remains excluded from adequate support. It contributes 6% to GDP and 17% to employment but continues to struggle with growth and productivity,” Sarupen said.

He was addressing the Global SME Finance Forum – an official side event of the G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion Working Group.

“In line with the G20/ Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Principles on SME Financing, we must support diverse instruments, enhance transparency, improve financial literacy, and promote timely payments. Together, we can build ecosystems that are inclusive, sustainable, and future-ready,” he explained.

Inclusive financial sector

South Africa’s efforts include the National Treasury’s Financial Inclusion Policy, approved in 2023, which sets a framework to build a more inclusive financial sector. 

It focuses on deepening inclusion for individuals, expanding access to MSMEs, and diversifying financial channels.

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, September 16, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, September 16, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina,  has reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to advancing sustainable fuels and hydrogen energy.

Addressing the Ministerial Meeting on Sustainable Fuels, Gina highlighted the country’s strides in decarbonising its economy, despite its historically carbon-intensive profile.

The Deputy Minister, who is currently on an official visit to Japan, stressed the importance of international collaboration.

“The intention is, therefore, to utilise this meeting platform to enhance our efforts, in line with the global momentum on sustainable fuels, in collaboration with the relevant countries and international organisations,” Gina said on Monday.

She recognised the pivotal role of sustainable fuels in climate action, stressing that they are essential to South Africa’s decarbonisation drive, which is aimed at powering industries, transport systems and the wider economy, while cutting greenhouse gas emissions and supporting the country’s climate commitments.

The Deputy Minister pointed to robust policy frameworks, such as the Biofuel Regulatory Framework (BRF), and support for research and innovation as central to South Africa’s strategy.

“One of the key drivers of expanding the scale-up, production and utilisation of sustainable fuels is the creation of robust policy and regulatory frameworks, as well as promoting the support and collaboration in research, development and innovation aimed at cost reduction and deployment of key technologies and infrastructure for sustainable fuels, including carbon capture, use and storage,” she explained.

Hydrogen

In addition to sustainable fuels, Ginq told those attending high-level ministerial meetings
that South Africa is expanding its focus to include hydrogen.

“By building global supply chains and forging cross-border projects, we can ensure that sustainable fuels flow seamlessly across regions, strengthening both energy security and economic resilience.”

At the 7th Hydrogen Energy Ministerial Meeting, Gina addressed delegates under the theme, ‘Demand Creation’ and underscored the need to build both supply and demand for hydrogen.

“While supply chains for hydrogen and its derivatives are advancing at remarkable speed, their long-term success will depend on our collective ability to generate and sustain demand,” she said.

South Africa’s efforts include establishing hydrogen valleys and hubs and supporting projects like the Platinum Valley Initiative (PVI).

“Within this corridor, hubs have been identified to support decarbonisation of hard-to-abate sectors such as chemicals, steel, and cement; to drive hydrogen mobility through mining haul trucks and buses; and to introduce hydrogen into the power sector”, the Deputy Minister said.

Tax incentives

To further stimulate demand, she cited the introduction of tax incentives for manufacturing new energy vehicles, including hydrogen-powered vehicles.

One such example is the PVI, the South African version of the Hydrogen Valley, stretching from the north of the country to the east coast at the Port of Richards Bay in KwaZulu-Natal.

“South Africa has introduced tax incentives through the Taxation Laws Amendment Act No. 42 of 2024 for the manufacturing of new energy vehicles, including hydrogen-powered vehicles, aimed at stimulating local production and creating a strong market for both battery electric and hydrogen mobility,” Gina said.

She also called for an inclusive transition, saying the creation of a sustainable fuel future must also incorporate just, inclusive and transformative principles.

“Training, reskilling, and knowledge transfer will ensure that the transition creates jobs, builds industries, and uplifts communities across the globe.”

The Deputy Minister is currently in Japan until Thursday to engage with Japanese officials on international collaboration, demand stimulation, and supply chain development between the two nations.  

READ | Gina heads to Japan to advance relations on hydrogen, sustainable fuels

The Ministerial Meetings are held in collaboration with Expo 2025 Osaka, an event that brings together people and innovations from around the world to address global issues and showcase Japan’s technological capabilities in achieving a hydrogen-powered society.

From 16 – 18 September, the Deputy Minister will engage in discussions with representatives from the Japanese government, academic institutions, and commercial entities.

The discussions will focus on science, technology and innovation-related matters, such as nanotechnology, carbon recycling, astronomy and space science technologies. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has called for a thorough investigation into two scholar transport accidents in Pietermaritzburg’s Imbali Township last week.

On Thursday, a minibus taxi lost control and crashed into Senzokuhle Crèche and Pre-School in Imbali Unit 18, claiming the lives of five children aged between nine and eleven, and leaving several others injured.

On Friday, another scholar transport vehicle was involved in a crash along the same road. All children survived the second incident.

Ntuli has called for an urgent investigation into both accidents to establish their root causes and ensure accountability.

“We need to understand fully what went wrong. Only then can we implement decisive measures to prevent similar tragedies. No family should endure the pain of burying a child because of preventable mistakes on our roads,” Ntuli said.

He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, classmates, educators, and the entire community of Imbali.

“This is a heartbreaking tragedy that has robbed our province of young lives who had bright futures ahead of them. We mourn with you and stand in solidarity during this time of deep sorrow,” Ntuli said.

Ntuli said the incidents underscored the urgent need for vigilance and safety on the roads.

“Government cannot remain passive in the face of repeated tragedies — we must respond with decisive action,” he said.

Ntuli has directed law enforcement and traffic officers to intensify visibility and conduct multidisciplinary roadblocks across KwaZulu-Natal.

“Traffic authorities must be more present and proactive, especially in areas where public transport is heavily used by learners and workers. Roadworthiness checks, driver compliance, and strict enforcement must become part of our daily operations,” he instructed.

Ntuli further urged commuters and communities to take shared responsibility for road safety by reporting reckless driving, speeding, and overloading.

“Do not remain silent until it is too late. Together, we can build a culture of responsibility and safety on our roads. Saving lives requires a united effort — government will do its part through enforcement and awareness, but communities must remain vigilant. If we act together, we will reduce these tragedies,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

As part of ongoing efforts to achieve fiscal sustainability, government is implementing reforms that will unlock economic growth and is roping in the private sector to invest in infrastructure development, says the Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr David Masondo.

“South Africa’s fiscal path is not without challenges. But we are taking deliberate steps, restoring expenditure discipline, stabilising debt, advancing structural reforms, and strengthening institutions,” the Deputy Minister said on Monday.

Addressing investors, policymakers, and thought leaders at the RMB Morgan Stanley 2025 Investor Conference, Masondo emphasised that government is serious about fiscal sustainability.

Fiscal sustainability is about how government manages expenditure, taxation, and debt in a way that allows it to meet current and future obligations without creating long-term instability.

“The task is to balance caution with opportunity, ensuring that we honour our obligations while creating the space for growth and investment. Together, government and financial markets can help place South Africa’s economy on a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable footing,” he said.

Metro Trading Services Reform

Through Operation Vulindlela Phase II, a joint initiative of the Presidency and National Treasury, government is implementing structural reforms at local government to improve service delivery.

“Our metros are the engines of the economy, hosting the bulk of our population, businesses, and jobs. Yet years of underinvestment, weak management, and service unreliability in electricity, water, sanitation, and waste services have constrained growth.

“The Metro Trading Services Reform is our response. It aims to create financially ring-fenced, professionally managed utilities within metros, restoring credibility and sustainability to essential services,” the Deputy Minister said.

The initiative offers access to a new R54 billion performance-linked incentive grant that will be strictly conditional on council-approved turnaround plans and adherence to clear accountability standards.
“This is not money for promises, it is money for performance. Only metros that demonstrate measurable improvements in service delivery, financial performance, and governance will qualify. 

“The intention is to crowd in investment. For every rand of incentive funding, metros are expected to leverage at least another rand, mobilising an additional R108 billion into infrastructure,” the Deputy Minister said.

Masondo said the impact of the Metro Trading Services Reform will be significant as reliable trading services will strengthen municipal finances, attract investment, and boost urban growth. 

“For financial institutions and investors, this reform creates a new opportunity. Lower risk, greater transparency, and stronger governance will open the door for financing water, sanitation, energy, and waste infrastructure, projects that improve lives and generate sustainable returns.

“My message is simple: we invite you to partner with us in this reform. Support our metros, finance the infrastructure that will keep our cities running, and share in the long-term benefits of a stronger urban economy,” he said.

Debt burden 

For the past three years, South Africa has maintained a primary budget surplus, which is revenue exceeding non-interest spending. 

“This outcome is critical because it reduces the debt burden and lowers debt-service costs, which in turn lowers the sovereign risk premium. As debt-service costs decline, savings can be directed towards fiscal buffers and productive infrastructure, reducing the cost of doing business and supporting growth,” the Deputy Minister said.

South Africa’s gross borrowing requirement is projected to decline to R434 billion in 2026/27 before increasing to R588 billion in 2027/28. 

“Over the medium term, we expect to raise US$14.6 billion to meet foreign exchange commitments. We will continue to use a balanced mix of domestic and foreign borrowing, with predictability and confidence as guiding principles. While fixed-rate bonds remain our mainstay, we are expanding our toolkit to include floating-rate notes, Treasury bills, and innovative instruments such as green bonds, sustainable financing, and sukuk,” he said.

These instruments not only diversify government’s funding but also align with investor appetite and long-term sustainability.  –SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Higher Education and Training is set to establish a War Room for the 2026 academic year in a bid to strengthen stability and responsiveness across the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) system.

Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela said the War Room will bring together the department’s leadership, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), universities, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges and Community Education and Training (CET) colleges, student formations, and quality councils. The forum will meet weekly to address challenges as they arise.

Manamela said that the initiative is not about “holding more meetings”, but rapid decision-making, problem-solving, and clear communication with stakeholders.

“Through the War Room, we will tackle outstanding issues head-on: from the timely payment of NSFAS allowances, to the accreditation of student accommodation, the finalisation of examination certificates, and the resolution of disputes that can otherwise disrupt teaching and learning.  It will also function as an early-warning system, so that potential triggers of protest or disruption are identified and addressed before they escalate,” Manamela said during a media briefing on Monday.

Manamela described the War Room as a symbol of “a new approach to governance: agile, collaborative, and transparent”.

“It ensures that when problems emerge, no student, no parent and no institution is left without answers. It is one of the ways in which we are demonstrating that readiness is not a once-off announcement, but a continuous commitment to keeping the doors of learning and culture open,” the Minister said.

The Minister acknowledged the magnitude of the challenge, noting that the state of post-school education and training (PSET) is closely tied to the state of the country’s economy, health, democracy, and every other measure of national development.

“But we also know that we can and shall deliver on this dream, not as government alone, but together with the people. As the Freedom Charter proclaimed, and as our democracy demands, the doors of learning and culture shall be opened – not only in 2026, but for generations to come,” the Minister said.

Repositioning SETAs for work transition

The Minister also announced reforms within the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), describing them as a critical bridge between education and the labour market.

“By the end of this week, all SETAs will have fully constituted Accounting Authorities in place, and the process for the appointment of chairpersons will be at an advanced stage of finalisation. This is part of a broader stabilisation effort, ensuring that SETAs can perform their critical mandate without governance paralysis,” the Minister said.

The Minister is scheduled to brief Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Higher Education later this week to account on the changes effected in SETAs and present an overall plan for reforms that will ensure a more efficient, transparent and impactful system.

He emphasised that SETAs play a vital role in creating opportunities for matriculants, unemployed youth, and workers seeking to reskill or upskill.

“Through learnerships, apprenticeships, bursaries and workplace training programmes, SETAs open opportunities in sectors ranging from engineering and construction to ICT, hospitality, health and agriculture,” Manamela said.

He encouraged young people to register on SETA databases, approach accredited training providers, or apply directly for learnerships and bursaries, adding that these opportunities complement NSFAS and institutional funding to ensure that no one is left without a chance to learn, to skill, and to work. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela has urged matriculants to explore a range of post-school opportunities, as spaces at universities remain limited.

Speaking at a media briefing on the state of readiness for the 2026 academic year, on Monday, Manamela said the department is projecting about 235 000 first-year university spaces.

“That is a large number, but it cannot absorb every qualifying learner, [and] this is why we stress that learners must apply on time and must explore multiple options. Learners must recognise that SETA’s (Sector Education and Training Authority), TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) colleges and CET (Community Education and Training) colleges are equally important pathways into work, skills, and further study,” the Minister said.

Manamela noted that while access to higher education has improved over the years, dropout rates, especially in the first year, remain high.

He said the department is currently in discussions with institutions to make student success rates more transparent, similar to how Grade 12 results are reported, so that “society can track not only how many enter the system, but also how many succeed.”

Currently, the Minister said the country’s universities accommodate around 1.1 million students, TVET colleges about 527 000, and CET colleges about 130 000 learners.

Through NSFAS, 900 000 students receive bursaries and loans annually, while SETAs provide thousands of learnerships, apprenticeships, and skills programmes every year, to the unemployed, those already in work, and those classified as not in employment, education or training.

“This mix is deliberate – to ensure that the post-school system serves not only the academic elite, but also those who seek practical skills, second chances, or pathways into the labour market,” the Minister said.

Funding mechanisms

On student funding, Manamela announced that the department has developed a mechanism to address the substantial shortfall experienced in the 2025 academic year. 

By reprioritising R13.3 billion within existing resources, the department will support 34 000 students with blocked registrations and 15 000 students with second semester registrations.

This follows commitments made in August to stabilise the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and set in motion a sustainable funding model.

NSFAS will issue a circular on Monday, 15 September 2025, to open its registration portal.

Manamela also assured student accommodation providers affected by delayed or non-payments that they will now receive funds owed for services rendered.

“This marks a significant moment in the stabilisation of NSFAS for the 2025 academic year,” he said.

However, Manamela warned that the scheme remains financially strained due to an increasing number of students qualifying for post-school education and training funding; escalating cost of living, which has expanded the eligibility criteria; and declining state resources in real terms.

“We will later in the year announce steps towards the sustainable funding reforms for NSFAS,” he said.

The Minister is expected to officially launch the 2026 NSFAS application process on Tuesday, 16 September, at the University of Pretoria. – SAnews.gov.za