Category: South Africa Government

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Nzimande warns against misuse of AI and emerging technologies

Source: Government of South Africa

Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, has called for greater vigilance in how scientific knowledge is applied, particularly as emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) become more pervasive.

“The call to be vigilant is particularly urgent today when we are witnessing the use of emerging technologies such as AI, not only for the targeted killing of civilians in places such as Gaza, but also, how the same technology is being used in the targeted killing of journalists.” 

Speaking at the World Conference of Science Journalists (WCSJ) 2025, held at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria, Nzimande cited alarming statistics from the International Federation of Journalists.

According to the statistics, since 7 October 2023, over 248 journalists and media workers were killed.

They also claim to have evidence that the Israeli army has deliberately targeted journalists, with some of these cases currently being investigated by the International Criminal Court (ICC).

“Flowing from this, what is the role of science journalism in a context where countries continue to sell weapons to other countries that are committing genocide and other human rights violations?” he asked. 

The Minister underlined the importance of the theme for this year’s conference: “Science journalism and social justice: journalism that builds understanding and resilience”.

He elaborated on the implications of this theme, stressing the need for science journalism to address pressing global challenges. 

“Your theme calls for us to consistently examine the value of science by constantly asking how science helps us to address global challenges such as inequality, armed conflict, pandemics, and climate change,” he said.

In addition, he believes that the theme enjoins everyone to constantly assess how science is communicated and how such communication influences social attitudes towards science.

Nzimande also reflected on government’s efforts to promote science journalism in the country.

He told attendees that South Africa is intensifying efforts to strengthen science journalism as part of its broader drive to build a scientifically literate society. 

In the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, the Minister said science journalism plays a critical role in translating complex research into accessible information that helps citizens form independent views on science issues.

According to the 2022 South African Public Relationship with Science survey, television, the internet and radio remain the country’s leading sources of science information.

To boost capacity in the sector, the department has partnered with mainstream and community media to place more than 40 unemployed journalism graduates each year in science reporting roles. 

Nzimande highlighted the significance of hosting this conference in South Africa, as it marks the first occurrence of such an event on the African continent. 

The conference also comes on the heels of South Africa’s successful Group of 20 (G20) Leaders’ Summit. 

The WCSJ 2025 serves as a platform for elevating the conversation around science communication and its impact on society, marking a milestone for both the journalistic and scientific communities in Africa and beyond.

Delegates attending the conference are presented with a comprehensive programme featuring three plenary sessions, alongside an impressive lineup of 58 parallel sessions including seminars, workshops, and lectures from 196 speakers. 

The conference also includes 21 field trips, offering attendees a chance to explore South Africa’s rich scientific landscape, including visits to key projects like the Square Kilometre Array.

“The hosting of this conference does not just affirm our status as a preferred destination for global conferences; it also provides us with a unique opportunity to showcase South Africa and Africa’s science and cultural landscape,” Nzimande said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Media briefing remarks by President Cyril Ramaphosa on conclusion of the 4th Mozambique-South Africa Bi-National, Maputo

Source: President of South Africa –

Your Excellency President Daniel Chapo,
Honourable Ministers,
High Commissioners,
Senior officials,
Members of the media,
Ladies and gentlemen,
 
Good Morning.
 
We have just concluded a successful 4th Session of the Bi-National Commission between South Africa and Mozambique. 
 
President Chapo and I concur that we have a historic responsibility to our respective peoples to ensure that current and future generations appreciate the fruits of this strategic relationship. 
 
Your Excellency,
 
Through your leadership, I have no doubt that as neighbours with common purpose and determination, South Africa and Mozambique will use this Bi-National Commission to achieve practical benefits.
 
We have received a comprehensive report of the Council of Ministers, reflecting the work and outcomes of focused deliberations between our Senior Officials and Technical Experts.
 
We assessed progress since the 3rd Session of the Bi-National Commission in Pretoria in 2022. 
 
Let me also acknowledge with deep appreciation the contributions made by our Ministers, building on the hard work of the Officials. 
 
The Memoranda of Understanding signed today are a significant development and provide impetus towards concretising our cooperation. 
 
We agreed that we need to implement decisions, identify opportunities and explore investment avenues to the mutual benefit of our two countries. 
 
South Africa’s development finance institutions, state-owned enterprises and private companies stand ready to be partners. 
 
On the eve of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg last month, I met the leadership of South African companies with significant investments and operations elsewhere on our continent, including in Mozambique.
 
They confirmed their unwavering commitment to Africa’s growth and development.
 
This Bi-National Commission supports these efforts. 
 
Our current cooperation should be amplified through deeper cooperation in energy, mining, infrastructure, agriculture, financial services, telecommunications, health, tourism and hospitality. 
 
Our countries are endowed with rich natural resources, both on land and offshore. 
 
Already, Mozambique is a major trading partner of South Africa. 
 
We will work together to explore new vistas of opportunity and possibility.
 
We will pursue cooperation in the defence and security sector, including on issues of border management. 
 
I am pleased, President Chapo, that this afternoon we are travelling to Inhambane Province to jointly launch a gas facility built by Sasol. 
 
This is another shining example of how two friendly neighbours can collaborate effectively. 
 
The project also illustrates how public-private sector partnerships can be used to great effect. 
 
We thank the government of Mozambique for continuing to provide opportunities for South African companies to invest and have meaningful commercial operations in your country.
 
In conclusion, Mr President, we once again thank you for welcoming us in Mozambique.
 
Your hospitality reflects the deep bonds of friendship and solidarity between our nations. South Africans and Mozambicans are one people.
 
When the forthcoming 5th session of the Bi-National Commission is held in South Africa, we look forward to report on even greater progress. 
 
I thank you.

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President Ramaphosa urges stronger economic integration, regional peace efforts

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for deeper economic integration and intensified regional peace efforts as South Africa and Mozambique opened the fourth Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Maputo on Wednesday, reaffirming a partnership built on struggle-era solidarity and sustained by expanding economic ties. 

Addressing Mozambican President Daniel Chapo, Ministers and senior officials at the State House, President Ramaphosa said the BNC remains a vital platform for elevating cooperation between the two countries at a time of rising global uncertainty and geopolitical instability. 

“This fourth session of the Bi-National Commission reaffirms the historic and fraternal bonds of solidarity between our nations and peoples, rooted in our shared struggle against colonialism and apartheid. The brave people of Mozambique paid a heavy price for their solidarity with us. For this, we remain eternally grateful,” the President said. 

With multilateralism under strain and violent conflicts escalating across the world, President Ramaphosa said South Africa and Mozambique must work together to defend international law, promote dialogue and tackle regional insecurity.

“Civil strife, conflict and war are robbing entire generations of the peace, stability and development that is their due,” he said, raising concern over the situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, the civil war in Sudan, and the political impasse in South Sudan. 

The President further stressed the need to redouble efforts to tackle the threat posed by terrorism and extremism. 

Economic cooperation takes centre stage 

President Ramaphosa highlighted Mozambique’s position as South Africa’s largest trading partner in the region and a key global export destination. He underscored the BNC’s central role in strengthening economic links.

“Mozambique is also host to more than 300 South African companies. We are keen to see more Mozambican investment in South Africa,” the President said. 

He added that stronger bilateral trade, investment and infrastructure development would yield shared benefits. 

He pointed to the Maputo Development Corridor as a prime example of successful cross-border cooperation, saying it had significantly improved the movement of goods and people, boosted tourism, and created multiplier effects across sectors.

The President placed particular emphasis on energy cooperation as a “central pillar” of the economic partnership. He stressed the importance of the Cahora Bassa hydroelectric scheme to South Africa’s grid and commended Mozambique for the Mphanda Nkuwa Hydropower project.

“We stand ready to explore partnership opportunities in this project,” the President said.

Later today, President Ramaphosa and President Chapo will inaugurate the new Sasol gas development facility in Inhambane – a project born out of the long-standing gas cooperation agreement signed in 2004.

“This facility represents another milestone in our joint efforts to expand the energy mix in both countries in a mutually beneficial manner,” President Ramaphosa said, adding that a new Memorandum on Energy Cooperation will be signed during the BNC.

He also highlighted opportunities in minerals such as graphite, iron ore and tantalum, supported by financing from South Africa’s development finance institutions, including the Development Bank of Southern Africa, Industrial Development Corporation and Export Credit Insurance Corporation.

Driving continental economic integration

President Ramaphosa said both countries must fully leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area to diversify markets, deepen intra-African trade and strengthen economic resilience.

“This BNC session should therefore focus on how we can expand all areas of cooperation, including accelerating people-to-people ties and cultural links. Our fortunes are intertwined, and our interests are mutually reinforcing,” he said. 

The President closed by expressing appreciation for the delegation’s warm reception in Maputo and reiterated South Africa’s commitment to working closely with Mozambique to secure a better future for both nations. – SAnews.gov.za 

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New Plant Improvement Act comes into effect

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, December 3, 2025

The Department of Agriculture has announced that the Plant Improvement Act, 2018 (Act 11 of 2018) and its accompanying regulations has officially come into effect on 1 December 2025.

President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the proclamation of the new Plant Improvement Act, following the approval of the regulations by Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen.

The Act replaces the Plant Improvement Act of 1976 (Act No. 53 of 1976). Both the proclamation of the Act and its regulations were published in Government Gazette No. 53707 on 21 November 2025.

Key provisions of the new Act

The updated legislation establishes systems for:
The registration of businesses relating to plants and propagating material intended for cultivation and sale.

  • The registration of premises on or from which that business is conducted.
  • Quality standards for plants and propagating material intended for cultivation and sale and conditions of sale of plants and propagating material.
  • National listing of plant varieties.
  • The evaluation of plant varieties in order to ensure value if there is doubt in respect of the value for cultivation and use of plant varieties intended for cultivation and sale.
  • Import and export control of plants and propagating material.
  • Certification schemes for plants and propagating material.

New additions not included in the 1976 Act

The 2018 Act introduces several new provisions, including:
The registration of businesses relating to plants and propagating material intended for cultivation and sale.

  • The cultivation of Cannabis sativa L. (hemp) varieties in South Africa in accordance with the revised definition which means “low tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) plants or parts of plants of Cannabis sativa L. cultivated for agricultural or industrial purposes, of which the leaves and flowering heads do not contain more than 2% transdelta-9- tetrahydrocannabinol, and no longer 0 2% THC as per the definition under the old Act;
  • The publication of a National Varietal List Journal; and
  • The hearing of objections lodged with the Registrar in respect of an application for National the hearing of objections lodged with the Registrar in respect of an application for National Listing of a plant variety.

The Act also provides for the establishment of an advisory committee that may provide advice to the Registrar on any technical matters arising from the provisions of the Act and any other matter relating to the administration of the Act.

“The Plant Improvement Act provides a legal framework for the production and sale of good quality, true-to-type seed and vegetative propagating material which contributes to the overall productivity and sustainability of food production in the country,” the department said in a statement on Tuesday.

The Act and its regulations will be accessible on the Department of Agriculture’s website: https://www.nda.gov.za 

For technical enquiries, contact the Director: Plant Production, Joseph Mahlabe, or Ashika Kistnasamy, Registrar: Plant Improvement Act, in the Department of Agriculture on 012 319 6072 or e-mail JosephMa@nda.gov.za or AshikaK@nda.gov.za – SAnews.gov.za
 

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President Ramaphosa to address the Free State Men’s Indaba

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday, 4 December 2025, deliver a keynote address at the Free State Provincial Men’s Indaba held at Limo Green Park, Bloemfontein.

The Indaba, a flagship event of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children Campaign, aims to mobilise men and boys as active partners in the fight against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF). 

This year’s theme, “Letsema: Men, Women, Boys and Girls working together to end GBVF,” calls for a collective, society-wide response rooted in unity and shared responsibility.

The event will bring together over 4 500 participants from diverse sectors, including Government, political parties, faith-based organisations, the sports fraternity, civil society, and young men from across the Province. 

The programme is designed to foster robust dialogue, promote positive masculinities, and strengthen multi-sectoral partnerships to eradicate GBVF.
 
The President’s participation is expected to galvanise support and reinforce the national commitment outlined in the National Strategic Plan on GBVF. 

The Indaba will serve as a platform to challenge harmful gender norms, advocate for economic justice for women, and promote safe environments in communities and workplaces.

Media are invited to cover the event as follows: 

Date: Thursday, 04 December 2025
Time: 09h00
Venue: Limo Green Park, Bloemfontein, Free State Province

Media are requested to register for accreditation by sending their details to Ms Pulane Tsupane at pulane.tsupane@fspremier.gov.za.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Opening remarks by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the 4th Mozambique-South Africa Bi-National Commission during the Working Visit to Mozambique, Maputo

Source: President of South Africa –

Your Excellency President Daniel Chapo, 
Honourable Ministers,
High Commissioners,
Senior officials,
Ladies and gentlemen,

Allow me to begin by thanking you, Mr President, for welcoming us in Maputo.

This 4th Session of the Bi-National Commission reaffirms the historic and fraternal bonds of solidarity between our nations and peoples, rooted in our shared struggle against colonialism and apartheid. 

The brave people of Mozambique paid a heavy price for their solidarity with us in our struggle against apartheid rule. For this, we remain eternally grateful. 

We meet at a time of increasing global challenges and uncertainties. 

Multilateralism and the rules-based international order are under threat. 

Our countries therefore need to work together to reaffirm the value of cooperation, sustainable development and inclusive economic growth.

We should continue to advance peace in our region and on the continent through dialogue, mediation and peacekeeping.

Civil strife, conflict and war are robbing entire generations of the peace, stability and development that is their due. 

South Africa is concerned about the intractable security situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, the civil war in the Sudan and the serious political impasse in South Sudan. 

We must redouble our efforts to tackle the threat posed by terrorism and extremism. 

At the same time, we must strive for global peace, stability, justice and respect for international law. 

Your Excellency,

This session of the Bi-National Commission is a continuation of our efforts to take our bilateral relations to a higher level. 

South Africa is a trusted and reliable partner of Mozambique. 

Mozambique is South Africa’s largest trading partner in the region. It is in the top quartile of our exports globally. 

Mozambique is also host to more than 300 South African companies. We are keen to see more Mozambican investment in South Africa.

The reports to be presented by our Ministers today will underscore the strategic nature of bilateral relations between our countries. 

It is essential that we implement our decisions and identify new areas of opportunity. 

By way of example, we should build on the progress with the Maputo Development Corridor. 

It is a major transportation network and economic zone linking our two economies. 

Facilitating the movement of goods and people between countries has contributed to stronger ties and is having a positive multiplier effect in other critical sectors such as tourism. 

Energy cooperation is a central pillar of our economic cooperation.

The Cahora Bassa hydroelectric dam makes an important contribution to South Africa’s energy security. 

South Africa commends Mozambique for the Mphanda Nkuwa Hydropower project. We stand ready to explore partnership opportunities in this project.

Another critical area of cooperation is in the development of natural gas.

A good example of effective public-private partnership is the gas cooperation agreement signed by South Africa and Mozambique in 2004, with Sasol as a joint venture partner. 

This afternoon, we will oversee the inauguration of the Sasol gas development facility arising out of the Production Sharing Agreement in Inhambane Province.

This facility represents another milestone in our joint efforts to expand the energy mix in both countries in a mutually beneficial manner. 

We thank the government of Mozambique for making this possible. To further solidify this cooperation, a Memorandum on Energy Cooperation will be signed during this session. 

We seek to deepen cooperation on minerals, particularly with respect to graphite, iron ore, tantalum and others. 

This is evident in the financial coverage extended to Mozambique by the Development Bank of Southern Africa, the Industrial Development Corporation and the Export Credit Insurance Corporation of South Africa.

South Africa is on a concerted mission to diversify its exports markets. 

Both South Africa and Mozambique must make full use of the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area to deepen intra-African trade and build economic resilience well into the future.

This BNC session should therefore focus on how we can expand all areas of cooperation, including accelerating people-to-people ties and cultural links. 

Our fortunes are intertwined and our interests are mutually reinforcing.

Our countries should continue to work together to ensure a better life for our people.

Once again, we thank you for your warm welcome and I look forward to today’s deliberations. 

I thank you.

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SA, Mozambique strengthen regional cooperation for peace and prosperity

Source: Government of South Africa

South Africa, in collaboration with Mozambique and other regional partners, has committed to enhancing efforts to promote regional integration and ensure peace and security in the region. 

This announcement was made by Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola during the fourth South Africa-Mozambique Bi-National Commission (BNC) held in Maputo on Tuesday.

The gathering was co-chaired by Lamola and Mozambique’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Maria Manuela dos Santos Lucas. 

During his address, Lamola emphasised the importance of working together to address cross-border crime and other significant security issues affecting both countries.

“Without peace and stability, our efforts at regional integration and shared prosperity cannot succeed,” he said, calling for collective action from the African Union (AU), regional partners, and the international community to address this crisis.

He highlighted the humanitarian situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the conflict in Sudan during the session. 

Lamola conveyed South Africa’s concern over the recent devastating attacks in El Fasher, Darfur, which resulted in loss of lives, including the lives of women and children. 

The discussions at the commission focused on a variety of regional security challenges, with a particular emphasis on the ongoing threats from terrorism and violent extremism in Cabo Delgado province. 

“We remain committed to working with you in support of lasting solutions to terrorism and violent extremism in Cabo Delgado province. As President [Cyril] Ramaphosa noted at the third session of the Bi-National Commission, this is a threat we face together.” 

In addition, Lamola emphasised the importance of the relationship between the two nations. 

“This fourth Bi-National Commission session reflects our desire to continue to strengthen cooperation and partnership between our nations.” 

He acknowledged the special bond shared, marked by friendship and a common heritage.

“In the words of Oliver Tambo: ‘It is no simple physical proximity that unites us. What unites us is the geography of shared goals and shared dreams,’” Lamola said.

The Minister also recognised the significant legacy of the late former Mozambican President Samora Machel, a great revolutionary and pan-Africanist, who stood firm with all those who fought for justice and peace.

“As we meet here in Maputo, we honour his memory and the sacrifices of countless Mozambicans and South Africans whose struggles laid the foundations for the democratic and mutually beneficial relations we enjoy today.” 

Building on this firm foundation, Lamola said South Africa and Mozambique’s shared task now is to ensure that their partnership improves the quality of life for their respective citizens. 

He believes that expanding cooperation in key sectors is vital, such as trade and investment, energy and mining, agriculture, infrastructure and transportation, as well as health, culture, and people-to-people ties.

“As we work together, we must ensure that the full scope of our relations is reflected in the progress we make and in the new opportunities we unlock in each of these sectors.

“It is encouraging to note that trade and investment levels between South Africa and Mozambique are high.” 

Mozambique is South Africa’s largest trading partner on the African continent. 

“We are committed to ensuring that Mozambique shares equally in the benefits of this trade, including through increased imports of Mozambican goods into South Africa,” Lamola said.

South Africa and Mozambique have intertwined economies and development, with numerous local companies operating in various sectors of Mozambique’s economy. 

These companies create employment opportunities, transfer skills, and generate revenue.

The meeting also served as a platform to reflect on South Africa’s recent Group of 20 (G20) Presidency, where African development priorities were at the forefront. 

Lamola touched on the key issues, including debt sustainability and a fairer global climate finance system, stressing the need for a continental approach. 

“We look forward to building on this agenda as a continental collective, speaking and acting with one voice.”

Lamola expressed appreciation for the gracious hospitality received in Mozambique. 

“The South African delegation once again appreciates the warm welcome and great hospitality extended to us.” 

The Minister invited all present to continue to nurture a regional order based on relations of equality among nations, trust and cooperation for mutual benefit. – SAnews.gov.za

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Petrol prices increase in December

Source: Government of South Africa

Motorists will have to fork out more for fuel this festive season as the price of all grades of petrol have gone up this December.

This as the Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources announced the adjustment of the fuel prices based on current local and international factors with effect from Wednesday, 03 December 2025.

Based on current local and international factors, the fuel prices for December 2025  have been adjusted as follows:
•    Petrol 93 (ULP & LRP): 29 cents a litre increase.
•    Petrol 95 (ULP & LRP): 29 cents a litre increase.
•    Diesel (0.05% sulphur): 65.48  cents a litre increase.
•    Diesel (0.005% sulphur): 82.48 cents a litre  increase.
•    Illuminating Paraffin (wholesale): 74.48 cents a litre increase.
•    SMNRP (Single Maximum National Retail Price for Illuminating Paraffin) for Illuminating Paraffin: 99 cents a litre increase.
•    Maximum LPGas Retail Price: 24 cents a litre increase and 9 cents per kilogram increase in the Western Cape.

The increase means that a litre of Petrol 95 (ULP & LRP) now costs R21.41 in Gauteng while a litre of Petrol 95 (ULP & LRP) in the coast now costs R 20.58

In a statement on Tuesday, the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, said the average brent crude oil price decreased from 64.14 US Dollars (USD) to 63.54 USD during the period under review. 

“The main contributing factors are oversupply concerns due to increased production by OPEC+ and non-OPEC [Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries] producers amid slower global demand,” it said.

It added that the average international product prices of petrol were affected by lower inventories ahead of the winter season in the Northern Hemisphere due to planned and unplanned refinery outages which resulted in higher refinery margins. 

“These factors led to higher contributions to the Basic Fuel Prices of petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin by 28.97 cents a litre, 64.09 cents a litre and 72.04 cents a litre, respectively.”

In addition, the Rand appreciated on average, against the US Dollar (from R 17.29 to R17.23 per USD) during the period under review when compared to the previous one.

In line with the application of the Regulatory Accounting System (RAS), the Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources approved a net increase of 3.6 cents a litre in the annual margin adjustments on petrol and a net increase of 5.48 cents a litre on diesel and illuminating paraffin wholesale prices, with effect from the 3rd of December 2025.

The Minister also approved the annual adjustment to the pricing elements of the maximum retail price of LPGas with effect from the 03 December 2025.

“The operating expenses and the working capital were adjusted by the average Consumer Price Index (CPI) for 2024 of 4.4% whilst the depreciation, primary transport cost and the gross margin were adjusted by the average Producer Price Index (PPI) for 2024 which was 3.1%.”

In November, the department announced decreases in the price of petrol, diesel, illuminating paraffin and LP Gas.
READ | Petrol and diesel to decrease from Wednesday

–SAnews.gov.za

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Recreational fishing dates for West Coast Rock Lobster season announced

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, December 3, 2025

The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Willie Aucamp, has announced the designated recreational fishing dates for the 2025/26 West Coast Rock Lobster season.

“These dates have been finalised following a thorough and science-based assessment to ensure that recreational opportunities are balanced with the long-term sustainability of our marine resources,” the Minister said on Wednesday.

The dates were announced as follows:

  • 20, 21, 27 and 28 December 2025.
  • 3, 4, 24, 25 and 31 January 2026.
  • 1 February 2026.
  • 21 and 22 March 2026.

The dates were determined taking into account the West Coast Rock Lobster breeding season; alignment with weekends, public holidays and the festive season, and the timing of the low tide periods to maximise safe and responsible harvesting opportunities.

Fishers are requested to fish responsibly and adhere to the regulations for recreational fishing. 

These include, but are not limited to, that fishing is prohibited on the days that are not included in the above list. 

Furthermore, fishers must hold a valid recreational permit, and follow the bag and size limits. 

These measures collectively support stock recovery trajectories and contribute to ensuring that utilisation remains within sustainable thresholds. – SAnews.gov.za

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President Ramaphosa positions Mozambique as SA’s top African economic partner

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has used his official dinner remarks in Maputo to underscore Mozambique’s growing significance as South Africa’s leading economic partner on the continent, saying the two nations are one people bound by history and now firmly focused on shared prosperity.

Speaking on the eve of the fourth South Africa-Mozambique Bi-National Commission (BNC), President Ramaphosa said the bilateral relationship – forged in the struggle against colonialism and apartheid – had evolved into one of South Africa’s most strategic economic partnerships.

“Today, Mozambique is South Africa’s largest trading partner on the African continent and the fourth in the world. We are committed to growing this partnership in a mutually beneficial manner,” the President said. 

His remarks set the tone for a two-day working visit centred on deepening cooperation in energy, infrastructure, transport, tourism, agriculture and mining — areas he said hold huge potential for expanded investment. 

The President arrived in Mozambique on Tuesday afternoon at the invitation of President Daniel Chapo, ahead of a full programme that includes bilateral talks, the official opening of the BNC, and a series of high-impact economic engagements.

President Ramaphosa said South African businesses continued to see Mozambique as a priority destination, with investments spanning numerous sectors. 

President Ramaphosa and President Chapo are expected to jointly launch the flagship Integrated Hydrocarbons Infrastructure Facility in Temane on Wednesday, a major partnership between Mozambique and Sasol expected to bolster regional energy security and industrial development. 

“We are also looking forward to attending the Business Forum in Vilankulo, in which many South African companies, State-owned enterprises and development finance institutions will participate,” President Ramaphosa said.

The BNC, first established in 2015, serves as the central mechanism guiding cooperation between the two neighbours. More than 70 agreements and memoranda of understanding have been signed over the years, covering areas such as agriculture, defence, border management, health, labour, customs administration and investment facilitation.

The fourth session will assess progress on commitments made during the previous BNC in 2022 and identify new opportunities for trade and investment. In 2024, Mozambique recorded R119.4 billion in goods and merchandise trade with South Africa, an increase from R114 billion the previous year. South African exports to Mozambique totalled R19.4 billion.

President Ramaphosa emphasised that the future of both countries remains intertwined.

“Ours is a special relationship… South Africans and Mozambicans are bound together by a common heritage, geographic proximity and familial ties. We are one people. Once more, my dear brother, I extend our gratitude for your gracious hospitality. We feel truly welcome,” he said to President Chapo. 

The President is accompanied by a high-level ministerial delegation, reflecting the breadth of cooperation under review. The delegation includes Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola; Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Angie Motshekga; Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni;  Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille; Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy; Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana; Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau; Minister of Social Development, Nokuzola Tolashe, and Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, among others. 

The BNC opening and joint press conference will take place at the State House in Maputo on Wednesday morning, followed by the Sasol project launch in Temane and an address to the South Africa-Mozambique Business Forum in Vilankulo later this evening. – SAnews.gov.za