Category: South Africa Government

Source: Government of South Africa

After thorough consideration and consultation, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has upheld the 2017 decision to grant Eskom Environmental Authorisation to construct and operate a new nuclear power station in Duynefontein, Western Cape.

The decision was upheld after appeals were made by various environmental organisations.

“In considering these appeals, I have carefully reviewed the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAr), as well as the independent peer review conducted in respect of the project.

“In the end, my decision was made in respect of the principles of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998), and with full appreciation of the environmental, social and economic considerations involved,” the Minister said on Friday.

The original decision to grant the Environmental Authorisation was made in October 2017.

Various appellants challenged the decision, submitting appeals that ranged from comprehensive and detailed submissions to shorter, individual objections. 

This week, the Minister has decided, in terms of section 43(6) of NEMA, to dismiss the appeals, and confirm the decision to grant the Environmental Authorisation to Eskom.

The Minister’s decision to uphold the Environmental Authorisation does not automatically grant Eskom permission to begin with the construction or operation of the nuclear power station. 

The entity is still required to obtain several additional statutory authorisations before proceeding in accordance with section 24(7) of NEMA. 

The authorisations include:

• A Nuclear Installation Licence from the National Nuclear Regulator (NNR);
• Approval from the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA);
• Water use licences from the Department of Water and Sanitation, and
• Any other relevant approvals, including those from the Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources.

“As per section 24(7) of NEMA, the granting of an Environmental Authorisation does not exempt an applicant from complying with any other applicable legal requirements or obtaining permits from other competent authorities,” George said.

The Minister has emphasised that the protection and preservation of South Africa’s environment is a non-negotiable. 

“The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment supports South Africa’s transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future where inclusive growth, job creation and poverty reduction are central,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

In a significant step towards enhancing disaster response and firefighting capabilities at the local level, the Western Cape Government officially handed over firefighting vehicles, essential equipment and a financial grant to the Overberg District Municipality.

Western Cape MEC for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell, handed over the firefighting equipment to the Overberg District during a ceremony held this week at the Bredasdorp Fire Station.

The handover forms part of the Provincial Government’s ongoing commitment to supporting municipalities in fulfilling their constitutional mandate of disaster risk reduction, fire prevention, and emergency response.

Delivering the keynote address, Bredell said the investment in firefighting and disaster risk management is an important part of the provincial government’s response to climate change and population growth. 

“We need to be ready to respond to more severe floods, droughts and wildfires, and we need to be able to do this for a growing population, which elevates the risk profiles of these events,” he said. 

With its headquarters in Bredasdorp, the Overberg District Municipality governs four local municipalities of Cape Agulhas, Overstrand, Swellendam and Theewaterskloof.

The equipment includes firefighting vehicles (2 water tankers and 2 bakkies), portable firefighting equipment, protective gear for fire fighting personnel, communication and operational tools, and a financial grant allocation.

This strategic intervention will significantly bolster the district’s ability to respond effectively to fires and emergencies across its jurisdiction, particularly in rural and remote areas.

Bredell also acknowledged the crucial role private landowners play in the prevention and management of wildfires in the province. 

He said the provincial department is also supporting the Greater Overberg Fire Protection Association with R400 000 to do capacity building, as they play an invaluable role in firefighting.

During the 2024/25 fire season, the province provided R3.6 million to the Overberg District for aerial support during 23 fires, where ground teams were deployed at six of these fires.

“We are also planning the establishment of a 10-person provincial ground team in Bredasdorp to strengthen their ability to combat fires and keep residents safe.” 

Bredell said the equipment, together with the various support measures, totals support of R7.7 million for the Overberg District. 

“I want to thank the strong leadership and good management in place in the Overberg District, as this makes it easy for the province to provide support and invest in established services that are well run.”

He took the time to thank the men and women who work as firefighters. 

“It takes a special kind of person who runs towards danger when the rest of society tries to run away from it. Thank you for your brave work. This investment in equipment and training is also our contribution to your safety.” – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Transnet and Hotazel Manganese Mines (HMM), a joint venture operated by a wholly owned subsidiary of South32, have officially signed a 10-year contract to secure long-term rail and port manganese export capacity.

The contract was signed under the third phase of the Manganese Export Capacity Allocation (MECA3) framework.

The MECA3 agreement introduces a demand-led, multi-year capacity allocation model designed to enable improved planning, efficiency, and investment confidence across the manganese value chain, exporting manganese through critical channels, such as Saldahna and Ngqura to HMM’s global markets.

In a statement on Thursday, Transnet said the contract strengthens the collaborative partnership between the two organisations, and provides operational certainty for one of South Africa’s most established manganese producers.

HMM, located in the Kalahari Basin of the Northern Cape, has been a significant contributor to the global manganese supply chain for over four decades. HMM consists of two manganese mines located in the Kalahari Manganese Field in the Northern Cape province, namely Wessels and Mamatwan mines.

HMM and Transnet share a longstanding relationship stretching back to the 1970s, making rail an integral part of HMM’s logistics and export operations. Over the years, this partnership has evolved in support of growing volumes, infrastructure expansion, and South Africa’s broader export agenda.

“This agreement is a testament to the efficiency and reliability of our services. It also reflects our commitment to the mining sector, underpinned by reliable and predictable access to rail capacity for our manganese exporters.

“By securing dedicated rail and port capacity, the agreement provides HMM with the operational certainty needed to support its mining and export activities, which contribute to local jobs and the country’s economic prosperity,” Transnet Group Chief Executive Michelle Phillips said.

South32 HMM Vice President Operations Barry Bezuidenhout said securing long-term rail and port export capacity is vital for HMM to access international markets for its product.

“The signing of this agreement continues our position as a leading global supplier of manganese, as well as a major local employer in South Africa’s Northern Cape.

“We look forward to continuing our long standing mutually beneficial relationship with Transnet and working together to identify opportunities to grow rail logistics capacity in South Africa,” Bezuidenhout said. –SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

The Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina, has encouraged African universities to embrace the global digital revolution by becoming creators of artificial intelligence (AI) and innovation, rather than mere consumers. 

She cautioned that the erosion of local culture is a significant threat if indigenous knowledge is not integrated into new technologies.

During the opening of the University of Zululand’s (Unizulu) 4th International Education Week at the KwaDlangezwa Campus this week, which was held under the theme ’Building an African University through Collaborations and Partnerships,’ Gina emphasised that internationalisation should not compromise African identity.

This as Unizulu’s Internationalisation Office, in collaboration with the BRICS Student Commission, is hosting the 4th International Education Week. 

According to the university, International Education Week 2025 is more than a week of dialogue; it is a bold step toward building globally connected African universities grounded in indigenous knowledge, identity, and innovation.

The department stated that this aligns with the African Union’s Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) agenda for 2025. This agenda focuses on education and emphasises the development of human capital with skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). 

It aims to foster innovation and promote technological adaptation to drive Africa’s transformation into a knowledge-based economy.

The agenda prioritises strengthening STEM education and digital literacy, promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, adapting existing technologies for local use, and fostering cross-sector collaboration to align STI with national development goals.

The Deputy Minister stated that Unizulu was the premier institution to lead in this area of meaningful work. 

“We need robotics that can be fed our content and teach our children in our languages, before someone in India or China does it for us,” said the Deputy Minister, urging the university to lead in curating isiZulu data for generative AI.

Gina challenged South African universities, including her alma mater, Unizulu, to rise to the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the gig economy by forging international partnerships that preserve African epistemologies while promoting global competitiveness.

Highlighting her recent attendance at a high-level African AI summit in Tanzania, she emphasised the importance of data sovereignty for Africa’s innovation future.

“If this institution is not yet grappling with the challenges of solving industry and societal problems through AI and R&D (research and development), then a fresh start is needed.” 

She noted that universities across the globe are redesigning their futures, adopting online learning, accelerating industry partnerships, and contributing to national innovation systems. 

She warned that institutions that fail to adapt are “digging their own graves.”

In the wake of South Africa’s Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20) and ongoing BRICS STI collaborations, Gina encouraged universities to leverage new funding streams and global research networks, especially in strategic technologies.

The Deputy Minister’s remarks made it clear that for African universities to remain relevant and competitive, they must embrace collaboration without compromising their cultural identity. 

“Relevance is the cornerstone of survival and growth. But as you collaborate, do not lose yourself,” she concluded.

International Education Week brings together local and international scholars, student leaders, and policymakers to explore global academic partnerships rooted in African identity. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

Correctional Services National Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale, has expressed concern over an incident at the Oudtshoorn Medium A Correctional Centre that left one inmate dead and other officials injured.

According to the department, the incident occurred this week during a routine search operation on inmates housed in room 005 of A-Section, where the offenders initially refused to comply.

“With the necessary intervention, officials were able to gain access and continue with the search. Tensions rose as some offenders resisted being searched, but officials managed to stabilise the situation and complete the operation. Several contraband items, including cellphones and narcotics, were confiscated.

“In a clear act of retaliation, on 7 August 2025…offenders from Room 005 launched a premeditated and violent assault on officials during unlock procedures. At the time, a total of 18 officials were on duty. Four of them sustained injuries, including stab wounds to the face, head, and back.

“One offender involved in the altercation sustained injuries and, despite receiving medical attention, sadly passed away. This loss of life is unfortunate and will be subject to further investigation in line with departmental procedures,” the department said.

National Commissioner Thobakgale reaffirmed the department’s commitment to safety within correctional facilities

“The safety of officials and inmates remains our foremost priority. Incidents of this nature are deeply concerning, and we are committed to thoroughly investigating all contributing factors,” Thobakgale said.

The department assured that the situation at the centre is “currently under control”.

“Offenders implicated in the stabbings have been placed in single cells pending disciplinary action. A-Unit has been re-searched, resulting in the confiscation of additional weapons. 

“All offender activities and visits have been suspended until further notice. The Department of Correctional Services remains committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the officials and inmates, whilst maintaining order across all its correctional facilities,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

As the country celebrates Women’s Month, the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) is thrilled to announce the finalists for the 2025 South African Women in Science Awards (SAWiSA).

This prestigious initiative has recognised and celebrated the achievements of women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) since 2003.

According to the department, SAWiSA highlights exceptional researchers, who can serve as role models for the next generation of young women and girls. 

This initiative aims to inspire them to pursue careers in science. The awards are part of a broader strategy designed to transform the research and scientific landscape.

The theme for the 2025 SAWiSA event is ‘Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science’. It aligns with global efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity in STEM by recognising the role of women in shaping scientific disciplines.”

This year, 30 outstanding finalists have been selected across four categories, including Distinguished Women Researchers, Distinguished Young Women Researchers, Doctoral Fellows, and Master’s Fellows. 

Their groundbreaking work spans a wide range of fields, including public health, paediatrics, inclusive innovation, gender studies, religion, and the circular economy – reflecting the depth and diversity of women’s contributions to science in South Africa. 

The 2025 SAWiSA winners will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony to be held on 21 August 2025, as part of the department‘s Women‘s Month celebrations.

This year’s ceremony will be held in Bloemfontein to reflect the department’s commitment to promoting the national visibility of the SAWiSA, and ensuring that the celebration of women in science reaches diverse regions across the country.  

The award ceremony is therefore hosted in a different province every year.

The 2025 DSTI Fellowships will be named after a trailblazer from the province, Dr Ivy Matsepe-Casaburri.  

Matsepe-Casaburri, born in the Free State, was one of South Africa’s most distinguished leaders in information and communications technology, education and science policy.

The department congratulates the following finalists, listed in alphabetical order by surname.

Distinguished Women and Distinguished Young Women Researchers

Prof Jess Auerbach Jahajeeah, University of Cape Town.
Prof Jill Hanass-Hancock, South African Medical Research Council.
Prof Victoria Madden, University of Cape Town.
Prof Tebogo Mashifana, University of South Africa.
Prof Shanaaz Mathews, University of Cape Town.
Prof Zilungile Mkhize-Kwitshana, University of South Africa.
Prof Carolyn McKinney, University of Cape Town.
Prof Lucy Moleleki, University of Pretoria.
Prof Brenda Morrow, University of Cape Town.
Dr Maurine Musie, University of Pretoria.
Prof Sarojini Nadar, University of the Western Cape.
Prof Nombulelo Veronica Sepeng, University of Pretoria.
Prof Alison September, University of Cape Town.
Prof Mahloro Hope Serepa-Dlamini, University of Johannesburg.

Doctoral and Master’s Fellowships 

Kimberly Christine Coetzer, Stellenbosch University.
Ruby May Davies, Nelson Mandela University.
Nadine Zeta du Piesanie, University of Pretoria.
Samantha Filby, University of Cape Town.
Nolwazi Thabile Gazu, University of South Africa.
Jaymi January, University of the Western Cape.
Duduzile Kubheka, Stellenbosch University.
Nothando Clementine Madlala, University of Mpumalanga.
Kegomoditswe Malebo, University of the Free State.
Jacqueline Maphutha, University of Pretoria.
Linda Maqutu, University of Johannesburg.
Corine Mouton, Stellenbosch University.
Phelisa Ntayiya, University of Cape Town.
Nathma Samie, University of South Africa.
Nomthandazo Precious Sibiya-Dlomo, Durban University of Technology.
Motheo Meta Tjebane, University of Johannesburg. 

– SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

In a bold move to ramp up the fight against crime, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli, has handed over four state-of-the-art mobile police stations – a strategic R6 million investment aimed at restoring safety in high-crime areas across the province.

This landmark initiative is part of the Department of Community Safety and Liaison’s ongoing efforts to enhance police visibility, boost response capacity, and deliver measurable crime prevention outcomes in known hotspot areas.

The mobile units will be stationed in Inanda, Mbonambi, Bulwer, and Makhutha — areas that have consistently reported high levels of criminal activity.

The mobile units were handed over this week to the police stations by Ntuli, in his capacity as the executive authority for the department of Community Safety and Liaison

“We want to see crime prevention interventions that yield real, measurable results. These mobile police stations will close the gap in service delivery and help restore community confidence in law enforcement,” Ntuli said.

Equipped with modern operational technology, the mobile units will serve as fully functional on-site police contact point, allowing community members to report crimes, access essential police services, and engage directly with South African Police Service (SAPS) officers — all within their own neighbourhoods.

The handover of mobile stations follows the department’s 2024 fleet investment, which saw the delivery of 36 new patrol vehicles to the SAPS to address persistent challenges related to the shortage of crime-fighting resources in rural and high-density communities.

“We are working around the clock to ensure that community safety structures are operational, resourced, and active in supporting the work of SAPS. It is only through this integrated approach that we will turn the tide against crime,” Ntuli said.

The Premier also called on the private sector to partner with government by providing financial and material support to voluntary crime-fighting structures like neighbourhood watches, street committees, and community policing forums.

“These brave men and women are on the frontlines every day. With more funding and training, they can do even more to safeguard our streets and support law enforcement efforts,” he said.

The rollout of mobile police stations forms part of a growing portfolio of proactive safety interventions by the provincial government to build safer, more secure, and resilient communities throughout KwaZulu-Natal.

The Department of Community Safety and Liaison reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening partnerships between communities, SAPS, and other key stakeholders to foster a safer KwaZulu-Natal. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

Operation New Broom makes progress in Limpopo

Edwin
Thu, 08/07/2025 – 15:33