Category: South Africa Government

Source: Government of South Africa

Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has reaffirmed its commitment to long-term investment in Durban and the broader KwaZulu-Natal region.

The commitment was made during a recent high-level meeting with eThekwini Municipality leadership.

The meeting, attended by Mayor Cyril Xaba and TSAM President and CEO Andrew Kirby, focused on strengthening collaboration in infrastructure development and economic growth.

It also focused on critical enablers for industrial growth, including road upgrades, stable electricity supply, and improvements to water and sanitation infrastructure in the Prospecton Precinct, which is home to TSAM’s manufacturing plant.

During a meeting, Xaba was joined by City Manager Musa Mbhele, Economic Development Chairperson Thembo Ntuli, Trading Services Chairperson Mduduzi Nkosi, and Executive Committee (EXCO) member Andre Beetge.

To support industrial activity in Prospecton, Xaba said the municipality is investing over R450 million in road infrastructure projects currently at various stages of implementation.

A major water infrastructure upgrade is also underway. The project includes the replacement of a 375mm asbestos cement pipeline with a new 400mm steel pipeline to improve water supply in the area.

“In response to flood damage, over R120 million has been allocated to repair and upgrade sewer networks and pump stations. Additionally, the city has invested in refurbishing power substations that service TSAM and surrounding industries,” Xaba said.

A partnership built on trust and shared growth

Xaba described TSAM as one of eThekwini’s most significant investors, with a partnership spanning more than five decades.

“We are not taking this relationship lightly. That is why we are committed to accelerating current infrastructure projects by shortening lead times for construction and repair work,” the mayor said.

He also emphasised that the city’s dedicated support team, led by the City Manager, will continue working closely with TSAM to resolve infrastructure challenges and ensure regular progress updates.

TSAM President Andrew Kirby echoed the company’s long-standing commitment and assured the mayor that they will continue to be part of the solution to grow the city’s economy.

“Even after the catastrophic floods, it was never a consideration to leave Durban. The strength of our relationship with the city has always been a key factor,” Kirby said.

Kirby noted that TSAM contributes R18 billion in national taxes annually, with the municipality collecting over R6 million in rates from the company each year.

The municipality has pledged to collaborate with TSAM on strategic initiatives to further promote automotive manufacturing in eThekwini, reinforcing the city’s position as a hub of industrial innovation and resilience. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

Constitutional Court Chief Justice Mandisa Maya has announced the introduction of a Sexual Harassment Policy for the South African Judiciary.

According to the Office of the Chief Justice (OCJ), the policy is aimed at “safeguarding the integrity of the courts and protecting the dignity of all who serve within them”.

Key principles of the policy are:
•    Zero tolerance for sexual harassment by or against any judicial officer, staff member, or individual engaging with the Judiciary.
•    Clear, confidential, and fair procedures for reporting and addressing complaints, with protections against retaliation.
•    Accountability, with disciplinary consequences for offenders.
•    A safe and respectful workplace, free from discrimination and intimidation.

“This policy reiterates the Judiciary’s unwavering commitment to the Constitutional values of human dignity, equality, and justice, and sends a clear message: sexual harassment has no place in the halls of justice.

“As custodians of the Constitution, Judges and Magistrates bear a profound responsibility to uphold the highest standards of integrity. The Bangalore Principles of Judicial Conduct and South Africa’s own Judicial Codes of Conduct demand nothing less. 

“Yet, where sexual harassment occurs within the Judiciary, it is not only a personal violation; it is also an affront to the rule of law itself, eroding public trust and betraying the very principles the institution exists to defend and uphold,” the OCJ said in a statement.

The policy is also aimed at entrenching a culture of accountability and respect.
The Chief Justice described the policy as a “necessary and urgent intervention”.

“The Judiciary cannot dispense justice to society if it does not first ensure it within its own ranks. Sexual harassment is a gross abuse of power, a denial of equality, and a stain on the legitimacy of the courts. We are going to tackle it head on and this Policy will be a very useful mechanism in that battle.

“This is not merely a document; it is a covenant with the people of South Africa. We must lead by example,” she said.

The policy can be accessed on : https://www.judiciary.org.za/index.php/judiciary/legal-instruments 
– SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised that women must be at the forefront as the country holds the first National Convention of the National Dialogue set to be held this week. 

The President was addressing the nation through his weekly Presidential newsletter on Monday.
The convention, which forms part of the National Dialogue process, will bring together 200 organisations from 33 different sectors across the country.

“On Friday this week, organisations from across South Africa will gather at the National Convention in Pretoria to kickstart the National Dialogue process.

“Given the history of women’s struggles in our country, it is therefore to be expected that at this critical moment in our history, women will once again come to the fore and participate actively National Dialogue process,” he said.

President Ramaphosa noted that women make up more than half of South Africa’s population – making their contributions critical to the dialogue.

“Women are affected by every political, social and economic issue in the country. Likewise, every crisis, whether it is unemployment, crime or climate change, affects women equally and, in some instances, more than men.

“Recognising that the lives of women are bound up with the future of the nation as a whole, we are counting on women’s groups and organisations to mobilise around the National Dialogue process.

“As government, working in partnership with the various stakeholders, we have committed to ensuring women are equally represented across the structures supporting and guiding the process,” the President said.

He emphasised that “we have to ensure that all women are represented” during the process if every sector’s voice is to be heard.

“This means a concerted effort to mobilise young and old, urban and rural dwellers, women from different ethnic and linguistic communities, women with disabilities, and LGBTQI+ [ Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Intersex+] people.

“The reality is that women’s struggles are not all the same and we should not assume they are. Although they may be similar in certain respects, the issues and challenges facing rural women and women in traditional communities differ vastly from those of women in urban areas with access to education, resources and public services.

“This was one of the points made at last year’s South African Women’s Pre-National Dialogue convened by the Institute of Justice and Reconciliation. It emphasised that the National Dialogue process should focus on all issues affecting and impacting women, and that diverse perspectives and priorities of all South African women must be reflected,” he said.

Uplifting women 

With the country commemorating Women’s Month in August, President Ramaphosa noted that women have consistently “organised to ensure that their voices, consent and participation remained central to all decisions affecting them either directly or indirectly”.

“The inclusion of the gender equality clauses in the Freedom Charter was heavily influenced by the Federation of South African Women (FEDSAW) formed in 1954. More than three decades later, the Women’s National Coalition, which was formed in 1992, played a formative role in ensuring that these passages were reflected in South Africa’s democratic constitution.

“From the protests against the pass laws, to the so-called beer-hall protests of 1959, to the rent boycotts of the 1980s, to the contemporary protest movements against gender-based violence, South African women have a proud history of standing up and being counted,” he said.

The President called on all of society to uplift the voices of women during the dialogue in recognition of the 20 000 women – led by struggle heroes Lilian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph, Albertina Sisulu and Sophia Williams-De Bruyn – who marched to the Union Buildings in protest against the apartheid government’s introduction of pass laws against black women this month in 1956.

“With the first National Convention taking place during Women’s Month, we call on all sectors of society to come together to ensure the full participation of all women in the National Dialogue. 
“This would be the most fitting and powerful tribute to the legacy of the pioneers of 1956,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

With the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC 5.2) on Plastic Pollution underway in Geneva, Switzerland, South Africa has reaffirmed its support for a legally binding global treaty to tackle plastic pollution.

Plastic pollution is already harming communities, economies and ecosystems – from land to rivers to oceans.
“Plastic pollution is not just an environmental issue. It affects public health, sustainable development and the future of our oceans. We must act now,” Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, said on Monday.

The Minister is leading the South African delegation that is attending the second part of the INC 5.2 on Plastic Pollution.

This session is a critical opportunity to finalise a legally binding global treaty to tackle plastic pollution.
George reaffirmed South Africa’s strong support for urgent and coordinated international action to end plastic pollution across its full life cycle.

Global plastic production has grown rapidly, from two million tonnes in 1950 to 475-million tonnes in 2022. Without urgent intervention, South Africa’s plastic pollution is expected to nearly double by 2040 compared to 2020 levels.

In response, South Africa has moved to ban plastic microbeads. Draft regulations have been signed and are set to be published for public comment. 

READ | Have your say on draft plastic pollution regulations

These regulations aim to prohibit the manufacture, import, export, sale and distribution of microbeads and products containing them.

“South Africa is acting with urgency to address this crisis. But no country can solve it alone. We need global cooperation, innovation and ambition,” George said.

The INC process was established by the United Nations Environment Programme in 2022, following the adoption of a resolution to develop a treaty addressing plastic pollution, including marine plastic. 

While the first part of INC 5 took place in Busan, Republic of Korea in November 2024, a final agreement was not reached, and negotiations have resumed in Geneva.

The expected treaty will cover the full life cycle of plastics, from production and design to disposal.
It will also align with existing global commitments on climate change, biodiversity and chemical safety. –SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

The Presidency has moved to clarify the costs associated with upcoming National Dialogue Convention, scheduled to start on 15 August 2025.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Presidency confirmed that all budgetary processes for the National Convention are in accordance with the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA). 

They have also committed to ensuring that all procurement and management of public funds will comply with the law and the relevant Treasury regulations.

This follows media reports on the expenses of the National Dialogue, particularly the first National Convention.

President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on Saturday that the first National Convention will proceed as planned this week, despite the challenges and calls for its postponement. 

The Presidency has announced that the Inter-Ministerial Committee, chaired by Deputy President Paul Mashatile and including all relevant government departments, is coordinating the government’s contributions to the National Dialogue. 

The committee has been working to mobilise resources for the convention and manage associated costs.

In response to the call for collaboration with various stakeholders to lower the costs of the National Dialogue, the President’s Office announced that the University of South Africa (UNISA) has offered to host the first National Convention and provide related goods and services at no cost.

“As it stands, venues have been secured for the plenary, two overflow venues with livestreaming, 10 breakaway venues, a dining area and work areas. 

“In addition, UNISA is providing facilities for an operations centre, which has been running over the past week, catering, ushers, AV services, printing of discussion documents, signage, conference bags, notepads, pens and Wi-Fi,” the Presidency said. 

The Presidency said the costs of the first convention are being funded from the existing budgets of the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) and the Presidency for secretariat support, communications and logistics. 

“The provisions in the Appropriation Act and the PFMA will be used to reimburse the Department of Employment and Labour and NEDLAC in the adjustments budget later this year.

“All procurement and management of public funds will adhere to the PFMA and applicable Treasury regulations. All funds will be accounted for through the normal public finance mechanisms.” 

According to the Presidency, donations have been received for the National Dialogue digital platform. 

“Some goods and services, such as the venue, screens for public viewing, and rail and road transport, are being provided at no cost. The reduced costs associated with the hosting of the National Dialogue, and the funding plan are done to reduce the cost to the fiscus.” 

The Presidency said it was committed to supporting the first National Convention to kick-start the citizen-led and inclusive National Dialogue.

“The total budget for the National Dialogue will be developed as the structure and form of the community dialogues are finalised by the convention, and will depend on in-kind contributions, donations and other resources that can be mobilised.” 

The National Convention will bring together 200 organisations from 33 different sectors to kickstart the National Dialogue process.

Delegates are expected to advocate for the importance and benefits of a National Dialogue, outline key discussion themes, agree on the approach and methods for public dialogues, and finalise the establishment of a broadly representative Steering Committee to coordinate the implementation of the National Dialogue moving forward.

on Saturday, President Ramaphosa stated through his Office that the National Convention must occur so South Africans can take ownership and control of the National Dialogue.

“Invitations have gone out to organisations across the country, and delegates are preparing themselves to attend the convention.

“It is at the National Convention that the people of South Africa will take over and run with the National Dialogue process,” the President said, adding that he understood the National Convention to be a call to action for citizens to lead an inclusive dialogue on the challenges facing the country. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

Sunday, August 10, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) has welcomed the conviction and sentencing of a serial rapist pastor in a harrowing case involving the sexual abuse of 12 minor children, including 10 boys and two girls, aged between seven and 14. 

The sentence was handed down by the Nquthu Regional Magistrate’s Court on 23 July 2025.

According to the CGE, the 59-year-old was convicted and sentenced to 10 life imprisonment terms for nine counts of rape and one count of attempted rape, seven five-year terms for seven counts of sexual assault, and seven five-year terms for exposure of a child to pornography between 2020 and 2022. 

The CGE also noted that the court did not deviate from the mandatory life sentences prescribed by the Criminal Law Amendment Act 105 of 1997 for rape where the victims are under the age of 18. 

“This decision affirms the seriousness with which our courts ought to treat crimes of this nature, particularly against minor children. The Commission welcomes this outcome, which sends a clear message that such heinous crimes will be met with the full wrath of the law. 

“It is hoped that this judgment will serve not only as justice for the victims, but also as a deterrent to potential offenders,” the Commission said in a statement. 

The CGE stated that it has conducted an own-initiative investigation related to this issue. 

This action aligns with its constitutional and legislative mandate to monitor matters of gender-based violence (GBV), promote accountability, and protect the rights of vulnerable and marginalised groups, specifically the minor children involved in this case.

“The matter required the coordination of multiple stakeholders in the criminal justice system and involved complex logistical and procedural challenges.” 

According to the CGE, the accused pastor lured children to his rented premises under the pretense that they were helping him with tasks and under the guise of offering spiritual or pastoral guidance, where the abuse took place. 

“He used his position of authority and trust within the community to manipulate and groom the children, exploiting their respect for religious and adult figures. 

“The Commission remains deeply concerned by the abuse of trust and authority within religious and community spaces.” 

This outcome is consistent with the key findings from the Commission’s KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Office during its investigation in the financial year 2024/25. 

The investigation focused on the implementation of Pillar 3 of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (NSP-GBVF), which emphasises access to justice, safety and protection, and effective coordination.

“As part of the investigation, the Commission engaged with key role players, including the SAPS, NPA, and the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, to assess the implementation of the pillar, including collaboration.” 

The Commission believes that this successful prosecution of this case demonstrates the importance and practical value of sustained interagency cooperation in ensuring accountability, promoting victim-centred justice, and removing systemic barriers to justice for victims of gender-based violence and child abuse.

Life imprisonment for self-proclaimed prophets

Meanwhile, the CGE said it has also noted with grave concern the recent arrests and sentencing of self-proclaimed prophets and pastors in Limpopo, Free State, and North West. 

This includes life imprisonment of Pastor Albert Tamasane on two counts for raping an 11-year-old girl, and three life sentences handed to Fezile Zozi in North West for raping women and minors between 2021 and 2023, under the disguise of spiritual revivals. 

In addition, Confidence Monyela of Limpopo was convicted on two counts of raping minors between the ages of 14 and 19, bringing into the spotlight the systemic issues that confront those who trust some men of the cloth.

“It raises fundamental questions about the abuse and sexual exploitation of women and minors at the hands of self-proclaimed prophets and pastors, taking into cognisance that some are still going on trial.

“These matters underscore the urgent need for child safeguarding mechanisms in all institutions, particularly those led by individuals in positions of trust,” the Commission added. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety has confirmed the death of four women in a bus accident that occurred on the R81 road in Sekgopo, Mopani District, Limpopo, on the evening of Saturday, 9 August 2025.

According to the preliminary reports from the provincial department, the driver lost control of the bus, causing it to overturn.

“Sadly, four women were declared deceased at the scene. Eight passengers sustained serious to moderate injuries, while 45 others, including the bus driver, suffered minor injuries,” the department said in a statement. 

The department said all injured passengers were quickly transported to Kgapane Hospital, Mankweng Hospital, and Van Velden Hospital for urgent medical care.

According to the SABC, the bus was transporting Zion Christian Church (ZCC) members from around the Giyani area to Moria when it overturned.

The exact cause of the accident is currently under investigation.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the deceased. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this time of immense grief. We also wish those injured a full and speedy recovery,” the department said.  

In addition, the department has urged all road users, especially public transport operators, to exercise utmost caution, strictly adhere to road rules, and prioritise the safety of all passengers.

“Let us work together to ensure that every journey ends with the safe arrival of all travellers.” 

The MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Mme Susana Violet Mathye, is visiting injured passengers in various hospitals today. 

She is also expected to visit the accident scene later this afternoon. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola has condemned the recent killings of South African Police Service (SAPS) members, warning that it is not only an assault on the Justice and Crime Prevention Security Cluster, but a direct attack on the authority of the rule of law and the state.

Masemola was speaking on Saturday during a visit to the families of 51-year-old Warrant Officer Vuyisile Sintwa and 45-year-old Sergeant Simon Masenye, attached to the Johannesburg Trio Task Team. 

The officers were shot dead on Friday while transporting a suspect from court back to prison.

The officers were escorting an awaiting trial prisoner, Jabulani Moyo, when they were ambushed in the Roodepoort town centre. Moyo remains at large, and a massive manhunt is underway.

According to the Commissioner, the SAPS has sadly lost three police officers in the last 24 hours, in the line of duty.  

In the last financial year, 27 men and women in blue died in the line of duty, and six police officers have lost their lives to criminal attacks and ambushes, from 1 April 2025 to date.

“These are not just numbers; they were mothers and fathers who have left families behind to fend for themselves. Most of them were breadwinners in their households, but most importantly, they were members who dedicated and laid down their lives in the line of duty by ensuring that all people living in South Africa are safe and protected from callous criminals.“

Masemola said they cannot remain silent, and “it cannot be business as usual when criminals have declared war on the authority of the state.“ 

“I am making this call again to all police officers in the country, do not die with the tools and resources that we have given you. The men and women in blue must act appropriately when circumstances allow them to act. Remember to always use force that is proportional to the threat. 

“I plead with you, do not let your guard down, always be a step ahead of these criminals to ensure the safety and security of the people of this country,” he said. 

The Commissioner said the Johannesburg Trio Task Team is a unit that is responsible for investigating house and business robberies as well as car hijackings.

He stated Sintwa had 23 years of service, having joined the organisation in 2002, while Masenye had 17 years, and both were attached to the Johannesburg Trio Task Team. 

He told reporters that the probe into how these detectives were shot and killed by Moyo is still ongoing. 

“This investigation is being led by the Hawks, and we are relying on the bystanders and witnesses as well as evidence gathered at the filling station where they stopped from the Roodepoort Magistrate Court and where the shootings happened. We are following up on every piece of information that will assist us in solving this case.” 

In addition, Masemola said they have established a multidisciplinary team led by crime intelligence operatives who have been on the ground actively searching Moyo. 

“A lot of questions have been raised on whether the awaiting trial prisoner was handcuffed. It is standard procedure that all awaiting trial prisoners must be appropriately restrained and placed at the back of a van. On whether Moyo was handcuffed or not and why members were travelling in a sedan, all these questions are under investigation…

“For now, our focus is on finding Moyo. We believe he has the answers we are looking for, and we will not rest until we find him,” he explained. 

Police have offered a R150 000 cash reward for anyone who has information on Moyo’s whereabouts, warning that he is dangerous and should not be approached. 

“He has no regard for life, and we are warning anyone who has information to come forward and not approach this killer.” 

The Commissioner also announced that the SAPS is offering a reward of R150 000 for information leading to the identification of at least 10 suspects involved in the shooting and killing of 47-year-old Sergeant Lawrence Mtshweni. 

He was fatally shot while responding to a business burglary in Schoemansdal.

He also took the time to salute and thank all police officers out there who risk their lives daily to serve and protect the people of South Africa. 

“Let me thank you for being patriotic and for loving the badge and the South African flag. Do not let this deter you. Continue where your colleagues left off; we cannot afford to lose you. Be decisive in your approach. You know what you were taught,” Masemola said. – SAnews.gov.za