Category: South Africa Government

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More than 90 motorists arrested as festive season begins

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, December 3, 2025

Law enforcement officers have arrested more than 90 motorists and issued 5 626 traffic fines on the first day of the national festive season road safety campaign.

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) said the arrests, made on 1 December, were linked to offences including driving under the influence of alcohol, speeding, and reckless or negligent driving, among others.

“Of particular concern is that more than a third of the individuals had outstanding warrants of arrests against their traffic fines that they had ignored to pay. Motorists are advised to ascertain if they have outstanding traffic fines before embarking on their holiday trips in the coming weeks,” the RTMC said on Tuesday.

The festive period is likely to pose great challenges for law enforcement because of the increase in the number of vehicles and heavy rainfalls and infrastructure damaging storms. 

Moreover, the number of registered vehicles in the country has increased from about 13 613 451 in September to 13 646 029 in October.

“The increase in vehicle populations will most likely increase the burden on officers and cause more congestions on the roads during peak travel periods. Travellers planning long distance trips are advised to carefully consider their time of travel and avoid night time as more crashes occur after sunset.

“Motorists are further advised to take into consideration that heavy rains experienced by the country recently have compromised the quality of some of the roads. Therefore, travel must take place when visibility is clear to avoid possible potholes that can cause serious damage to vehicles and dent the joyous festive season spirit,” the RTMC said. –SAnews.gov.za

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Parliament concerned about threats to MPs

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, December 3, 2025

Parliament has noted with great concern the incidents of intimidation and threats directed at Members of Parliament (MPs) in the execution of their work.

“While the latest outcry has emerged during the processes of the Ad Hoc Committee, similar threats have also been made against Members of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) and others during oversight activities,” Parliament said on Tuesday.

Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee was established to investigate allegations made by the South African Police Service (SAPS) KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

In its statement, Parliament said it is aware of, and supports, the steps taken by MPs who have reported these matters to their local police stations. 

“We trust that the South African Police Service will investigate and address these cases expeditiously. Parliament relies on the security services for the assessment of threats and criminal investigations,” the statement said.

Where necessary, the Secretary to Parliament will engage the National Commissioner for updates and to ensure that these matters receive appropriate attention.

“Once again, Parliament calls on members of the public to remain the first defenders of their public representatives by supporting and safeguarding the democratic processes of our country. Parliament continues to take the safety of its members seriously.” –SAnews.gov.za

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Ithala Bank depositors to receive funds before Christmas

Source: Government of South Africa

In a significant development in Ithala SOC Limited, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has confirmed that depositors will regain access to their funds before Christmas.

Ntuli, joined by Finance MEC Francois Rodgers and Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC Reverend Musa Zondi, made the announcement during a media briefing on Monday.

The release of the funds follows months of intensive intergovernmental engagements involving the Presidency, National Treasury, and the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government.

Turning the corner at Ithala Bank

The Premier said the recovery plan marks major progress in resolving long-standing operational and structural challenges at Ithala SOC Limited, which he described as a pillar of developmental finance and an anchor of inclusive economic participation for historically marginalised communities.

Ntuli confirmed that all legal and administrative agreements required to unlock the repayment process have now been finalised.

“This marks a turning point for Ithala and a commitment to ensuring that such disruptions do not occur again,” Ntuli said.

He apologised for the distress experienced by families and businesses during the period of uncertainty, noting that many faced delayed rent and school fees, halted business operations, and immense financial strain.

“With the agreements now concluded, we move decisively into the operational phase,” he said, adding that the final approvals have been secured for depositors to start accessing their funds before Christmas.

He said detailed public instructions will now be issued on when and where funds can be collected, which branches and service points will operate, required documents for verification, and support for vulnerable or elderly depositors.

“To ensure accessibility, communication will be in isiZulu and English, and information will be distributed through branches, community radio, traditional leadership structures, government platforms, and social media.”

The Premier also warned the depositors to beware of scammers. “No official is authorised to request any fee to release funds. This process will be fully transparent, lawful, and people-centred,” he said.

He added that a long-term repositioning strategy for Ithala is being finalised to strengthen governance, stabilise capital structures, and reinforce its developmental mandate.

The Premier extended special appreciation to MECs Zondi and Rodgers, and the Executive Council for their support in concluding the matter.

Rodgers welcomed the release of funds to the depositors, noting that financial, administrative, and legal barriers have been overcome, with agreements successfully concluded with the relevant stakeholders.

Strengthening governance across the province

Providing an update on governance improvements, the Premier confirmed that KwaZulu-Natal recorded 474 pending misconduct cases as of 1 November 2025. Of these, 119 have been finalised, reducing the active caseload to 355.

Suspension cases have also declined from 52 to 46.

Ntuli said interventions underway include Operation MBO (a case-reduction and tracking programme), improved collaboration with organised labour, and mass training for presiding and investigating officers, with specialised focus on the Department of Health.

“These measures are part of the administration’s commitment to clean, ethical, and accountable governance,” Ntuli said.

Youth empowerment fund investigation

The Premier also outlined progress on the investigation into alleged irregularities in previous Youth Fund allocation cycles.

The probe covered applications from the 2023/24 and 2024/25 financial years.

Ntuli confirmed that the investigation report has been completed and reviewed.

“It [report] identified systemic gaps in processes and made recommendations for stronger internal controls.

Key outcomes include:
• Nineteen applications were validated and will receive funding before December 2025 ends.
• Thirty-eight applications were incomplete; applicants will have 30 days to rectify issues.
• Two applications were cancelled after it emerged the applicants were not KZN residents.
• The remaining 36 applications are undergoing final processing.

The Premier committed to meeting all affected beneficiaries and applicants to provide feedback and outline corrective steps.

“We want to assure the youth of KwaZulu-Natal that we will do everything to ensure the process is transparent and just,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Official Dinner Remarks by President Cyril Ramaphosa on the occasion of the South Africa-Mozambique Bi-National Commission, Maputo, Mozambique

Source: President of South Africa –

Your Excellency President Daniel Chapo,
Honourable Ministers,
High Commissioners,
Senior Officials,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
 
We are delighted to be back here in Maputo, which is a home away from home.
 
Ours is a special relationship that was forged in the crucible of struggle against colonialism and apartheid.
 
Many people in Mozambique paid risked life and limb – and endured great hardship – to secure our freedom. For that, we remain forever grateful.
 
South Africans and Mozambicans are bound together by a common heritage, geographic proximity and familial ties. We are one people.
 
Beyond our shared history, our people both yearn for a peaceful, secure and prosperous future.
 
Our bilateral relations are built on a strong foundation. They continue to grow.
 
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.
 
Many South African companies have invested in Mozambique.
 
Tomorrow after our session of the Bi-National Commission, President Chapo and I will attend the launch of yet another flagship project in energy, the Integrated Hydrocarbons Infrastructure Facility, a partnership between the Government of Mozambique and Sasol.
 
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.
 
Our cooperation straddles many areas, including energy, infrastructure, transport and tourism. There is a huge potential for further cooperation in agriculture, agro-processing and mining.
 
I believe that our Ministers have held fruitful discussions on the necessary steps to be taken collectively to further our partnership.
 
Once more, my Dear Brother, I extend our gratitude for your gracious hospitality. We feel truly welcome.
 
I thank you.

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President Ramaphosa arrives in Maputo to strengthen relations with Mozambique at the fourth Bi-National Commission

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa has this afternoon, 02 December 2025, arrived in Maputo, Republic of Mozambique on a working visit for the 4th South Africa-Mozambique Bi-National Commission (BNC) from 02 – 03 December 2025, at the invitation of His Excellency President Daniel Fransisco Chapo.

South Africa and Mozambique have strategic and fraternal relations developed during the fight against colonialism and apartheid.

President Ramaphosa will on Tuesday, 02 December 2025, lead the South African delegation at the State House in Maputo for the welcome ceremony and subsequently hold a tête-à-tête with His Excellency President Daniel Fransisco Chapo ahead of the South Africa-Mozambique Bi-National Commission.

On Wednesday, 03 December 2025, President Ramaphosa will address the opening of the 4th BNC with Mozambique at the State House in Maputo, and later visit the Inhambane Province to officiate at the launch of the Sasol Hydrocarbons Processing Integrated Infrastructure, in Temane, and address the South Africa-Mozambique Business Forum, in Vilankulo, respectively.

The relationship between South Africa and Mozambique is co-ordinated through a framework of a Bi-National Commission (BNC), which is co-chaired by the two Presidents.

The Inaugural Session of the BNC was held on 22 October 2015 in South Africa. The Second Session of the BNC took place on 25 August 2017 in Mozambique, while the Third Session of the BNC took place in Pretoria on 11 March 2022.

The South Africa-Mozambique 4th BNC will strengthen bilateral relations through assessing progress made in the implementation of decisions and commitments of the 3rd Session of the BNC, enhance economic cooperation and explore new areas of trade and investment, and exchange views on regional, continental and global issues of mutual interest.

South Africa and Mozambique have signed more than 70 Agreements and Memoranda of Understanding in various sectors including, among others, Agriculture, Defence, Border Management, Health, transport, Labour, Investments and Customs administration.

In terms of trade relations, Mozambique is South Africa’s main trading partner on the African continent and registered R119,4 billion worth of goods and merchandise in 2024 compared to R114, billion in 2023.

South African  exports to Mozambique totalled R19,4 billion in 2024 compared to R18,9 billion in 2023. Globally, Mozambique formed part of South Africa’s top five (5) export destinations in 2024.

President Ramaphosa is accompanied by Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr. Ronald Lamola; Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms. Angie Motshekga; Minister in the Presidency, Ms. Khumbudzo Ntshavheni;  Minister of Tourism, Ms. Patricia de Lille; Minister of Transport, Ms. Barbara Creecy; Minister of Finance, Mr. Enoch Godongwana; Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr. Parks Tau; Minister of Social Development, Ms. Nokuzola Tolashe; Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa; Minister of Home Affairs, Dr. Leon Schreiber; Minister of Higher Education, Mr. Buti Manamela; Acting Police Minister, Professor Firoz Cachalia;  Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Mr. Willem Aucamp; and the Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Ms. Nokuzola Capa.

Media Programme of the 4th South Africa–Mozambique Bi-National Commission

WEDNESDAY, 03 DECEMBER 2025

SA-Mozambique BNC Opening Remarks by President Ramaphosa
Time: 09:00
Venue: State House, Maputo

Closing Remarks,signing ceremony and joint press conference of the SA-Mozambique Bi-National Commission
Time: 11:00
Venue: State House, Maputo

Launch and tour of the Sasol Hydrocarbons Processing Integrated Infrastructure
Time: 14:00
Venue: Temane, Inhambane Province

Address to the South Africa–Mozambique Business Forum
Time: 19:00
Venue: Vilankulo, Inhambane Province

Note: Times to the engagements are guidelines and are subject to change without prior notice.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Jagersfontein Tailings Dam owner "ignored structural instability warning"

Source: Government of South Africa

The technical investigation into the failure of the Jagersfontein Fine Tailings Storage Facility (FTSF), has found that the owner of the tailings dam, Jagersfontein Development (Pty) Ltd, may have been aware of structural instability along the southern wall.

Water and Sanitation Deputy Ministers David Mahlobo and Sello Seitlholo officially released the long-awaited findings, which was presented to residents of Jagersfontein on Friday, 28 November 2025, more than three years after the catastrophic collapse on 11 September 2022, resulted in the tragic loss of life, leaving scores of people homeless as well as pollution of the environment and water resources.

The delegation, which included Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae and Kopanong Local Municipality Mayor Xolani Tseletsele, met community members at the Mayibuye Community Hall, where they relayed the findings of the report to the community.

Instability known since 2019

The technical investigation, conducted by experts from the University of Pretoria (UP) and the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), found that the owner of the tailings dam, Jagersfontein Development (Pty) Ltd, may have been aware of structural instability along the southern wall as early as 2019.

According to the report, the company attempted to stabilise the slope by adding large volumes of material to stabilise the slope, which was not effective, but continued to raise the dam wall and deposit more tailings into the dam.

The report further indicates that the construction/raising of the tailing’s storage facility was based on conceptual designs and that no detailed designs were done to enable the safe construction of the facility. In addition, there was no construction supervision by a registered engineering professional.

The investigation also revealed that when the dam breached on the southern wall of the tailings dam, one compartment collapsed, leading to containment of approximately 5.9 million cubic meters (mᵌ) of fine tailings being released downstream and causing flooding and destruction of infrastructure and property, including power lines. 

Two people were confirmed dead, and one person remains missing, and is presumed dead.

Design and construction failures

In addition to warnings of instability, the report identified critical engineering and regulatory failures. Among the most serious findings:

•    The facility was constructed and raised based on conceptual designs only, with no detailed engineering designs to support safe construction.

•    No registered engineering professional supervised the construction, raising concerns about compliance with industry standards.

•    Part of the southern wall was built on a pre-existing tailings dump of low structural strength, resulting in a weak foundation that contributed significantly to the collapse.

Addressing the community, Deputy Minister Mahlobo said he would have preferred to see the mine closed down in light of its non-compliance with government directives.

However, government will also have to consider the livelihood of residents who reside in the area as the mine provides job opportunities to some of the residents.

“It is a fine balancing act, saving jobs and saving lives,” Mahlobo said.

A full copy of the report can be accessed on the Department of Water and Sanitation’s website www.dws.gov.za – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Jagersfontein Tailings Dam owner ignored structural instability warning sings

Source: Government of South Africa

The technical investigation into the failure of the Jagersfontein Fine Tailings Storage Facility (FTSF), has found that the owner of the tailings dam, Jagersfontein Development (Pty) Ltd, may have been aware of structural instability along the southern wall.

Water and Sanitation Deputy Ministers David Mahlobo and Sello Seitlholo officially released the long-awaited findings, which was presented to residents of Jagersfontein on Friday, 28 November 2025, more than three years after the catastrophic collapse on 11 September 2022, resulted in the tragic loss of life, leaving scores of people homeless as well as pollution of the environment and water resources.

The delegation, which included Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae and Kopanong Local Municipality Mayor Xolani Tseletsele, met community members at the Mayibuye Community Hall, where they relayed the findings of the report to the community.

Instability known since 2019

The technical investigation, conducted by experts from the University of Pretoria (UP) and the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), found that the owner of the tailings dam, Jagersfontein Development (Pty) Ltd, may have been aware of structural instability along the southern wall as early as 2019.

According to the report, the company attempted to stabilise the slope by adding large volumes of material to stabilise the slope, which was not effective, but continued to raise the dam wall and deposit more tailings into the dam.

The report further indicates that the construction/raising of the tailing’s storage facility was based on conceptual designs and that no detailed designs were done to enable the safe construction of the facility. In addition, there was no construction supervision by a registered engineering professional.

The investigation also revealed that when the dam breached on the southern wall of the tailings dam, one compartment collapsed, leading to containment of approximately 5.9 million cubic meters (mᵌ) of fine tailings being released downstream and causing flooding and destruction of infrastructure and property, including power lines. 

Two people were confirmed dead, and one person remains missing, and is presumed dead.

Design and construction failures

In addition to warnings of instability, the report identified critical engineering and regulatory failures. Among the most serious findings:

•    The facility was constructed and raised based on conceptual designs only, with no detailed engineering designs to support safe construction.

•    No registered engineering professional supervised the construction, raising concerns about compliance with industry standards.

•    Part of the southern wall was built on a pre-existing tailings dump of low structural strength, resulting in a weak foundation that contributed significantly to the collapse.

Addressing the community, Deputy Minister Mahlobo said he would have preferred to see the mine closed down in light of its non-compliance with government directives.

However, government will also have to consider the livelihood of residents who reside in the area as the mine provides job opportunities to some of the residents.

“It is a fine balancing act, saving jobs and saving lives,” Mahlobo said.

A full copy of the report can be accessed on the Department of Water and Sanitation’s website www.dws.gov.za – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Mchunu to testify before Madlanga Commission

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, December 2, 2025

The Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System has confirmed that Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, who is currently on a leave of absence, will appear before the Commission on Tuesday at 14h00.

In a statement on Monday, Commission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels said the Minister’s appearance will take place at the Brigitte Mabandla Justice College, where strict accreditation and access control measures remain in place for members of the public.

“Any person wishing to access the public gallery of the auditorium is required to present positive identification for purposes of accreditation,” Michaels said.

Mchunu has been called to respond to testimony delivered by KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who alleged that Mchunu engaged in political interference in policing operations.

In his earlier evidence, General Mkhwanazi accused Mchunu of:

  • Pressuring police leadership to halt or redirect investigations involving politically sensitive individuals in KwaZulu-Natal.
  • Attempting to influence senior appointments within the SAPS provincial command structure to favour certain political factions.
  • Intervening in procurement and operational decisions, allegedly to benefit individuals aligned with political interests.

General Mkhwanazi told the Commission that these actions undermined the independence of law-enforcement structures and contributed to a climate where investigations involving politically connected suspects stalled or were deprioritised.

Mchunu has previously denied any wrongdoing, insisting that his engagements with police structures have always been lawful, procedural, and aimed at strengthening policing capabilities. His testimony today is expected to address each of Mkhwanazi’s claims directly and provide the Commission with his version of events.

The Commission is tasked with investigating allegations of criminality, political influence, and corruption across South Africa’s criminal justice system. Mchunu’s testimony forms part of a broader effort to scrutinise how political dynamics may have shaped policing decisions over the past decade. – SAnews.gov.za

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Oribi toll plaza user discount comes to an end

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, December 2, 2025

The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has announced that the temporary 100% Frequent User Rebate at the Oribi Toll Plaza will come to an end today at midnight.

The rebate was introduced on 08 May 2025 to provide financial relief to local commuters diverted onto the N2 South Coast Toll Road due to the temporary closure of the uMzimkhulu River Bridge on the R102 for repairs undertaken by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport. 

In September, a further three-month extension was granted to align with the bridge construction schedule. While work on the bridge is still underway, significant progress has been made. 

As a result, the 100% rebate will be cancelled at 23h59 on 02 December 2025, with motorists reverting to the standard Frequent User Discount, as outlined in the Government Gazette No. 52073, Volume 716, published on 07 February 2025. 

“SANRAL extends its sincere appreciation to all motorists who registered for the Frequent User Discount during this period. Your cooperation and willingness to sign up ensured the smooth implementation of the rebate and helped ease the impact of the temporary diversion. 

“As traffic volumes are expected to increase during the upcoming festive period, SANRAL encourages road users to register for electronic toll tags or update their existing accounts,” KwaZulu-Natal provincial head Dudley Mbambo said.

Tagging vehicles in advance ensures quicker passage through toll plazas, accurate billing, and full access to available discounts. 

To make registration more accessible, Self-Service Terminals (SSTs) remain available at the following locations:
•    Oribi Toll Plaza (Port Shepstone)
•    Astron Service Station (Umtentweni)
•    Oribi Plaza Shopping Centre (Port Shepstone)
•    Juice Junction, opposite Pick n Pay Centre (Hibberdene)
–SAnews.gov.za

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Preparedness is key to disaster response

Source: Government of South Africa

The Director-General (DG) of the Department of Cooperative Governance, Mbulelo Tshangana, has emphasised the vital roles of preparedness and partnership as the foundations of effective disaster response.

Speaking at the official opening of the Africa, Europe, and Middle East (AEME) Earthquake Response Exercise on Monday, Tshangana welcomed this unprecedented event – the first of its kind on the African continent. 

This as the Government of South Africa, through the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC), is currently hosting the AEME Earthquake Response Exercise 2025 at the Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape.

READ | SA hosts Earthquake Response Exercise 2025 in Gqeberha

The DG stressed that the primary goal of the exercise is to save lives and livelihoods.

The AEME Earthquake Response Exercise is an international disaster simulation event, organised by member countries of the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG). 

Its purpose is to test and strengthen regional and international emergency response capabilities. 

The exercise is particularly focused on enhancing preparedness, coordination, and response to significant disasters, especially large-scale earthquakes and their secondary effects.

In his keynote address, the DG highlighted the importance of global collaboration before, during, and after disasters.

The gathering, which will conclude on Friday, 5 December 2025, also brings together international, national, provincial, and local responders, forming a complete ecosystem of disaster management excellence.

The exercise brings together national responders, provincial and municipal stakeholders, international Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) teams, Emergency Medical Teams (EMTs), United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) experts, and humanitarian partners from across the AEME region.

Countries in attendance include Russia, the United Arab Emirates, Iceland, Estonia, Poland, Kenya, Malaysia, and the United Kingdom. 

Tshangana also expressed appreciation for the presence of Martijn Viersma, the INSARAG Global Lead, acknowledging his support for this important meeting.

The gathering follows the successful Group of 20 (G20) Leaders’ Summit, which was held for the first time on the African continent. 

As part of the G20, the Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group reached a significant declaration emphasising that partnerships are essential, as disaster response is a collective responsibility.

READ | Investment in disaster risk reduction essential for global safety, economies 

The DG highlighted that this exercise comes at a crucial time when disasters are becoming more frequent and complex due to climate change, infrastructure vulnerabilities, and rapid urbanisation. 

In this context, he stressed that effective planning and strong coordination are vital for successful disaster response.

“Working together as we are meeting here today is not optional but is essential, and it can be the difference between life and death during disasters,” the DG said.

He highlighted that the exercise is more than a simulation but also a strategic investment in resilience. 

DG Tshangana also reflected on South Africa’s progress in strengthening disaster readiness through improving frameworks, professionalising response systems, revitalising fire services, and deepening cooperation with global partners through the NDMC.

He also expressed gratitude for their solidarity and commitment to global humanitarian cooperation and urged South African participants to use this platform to refine their systems, test their readiness, and strengthen their capabilities.

“This event, held in Nelson Mandela Metro, has great significance as this municipality is prone to disasters, especially flooding. To this effect, the exercises are vital for ensuring an effective and coordinated response to future humanitarian crises.” 

During simulation exercises, teams will have the opportunity to test their preparedness and exchange valuable skills with one another. 

This week’s programme will emphasise the development of a common operating picture for large-scale disaster response and will include workshops, tabletop exercises, and field simulations to build practical skills. – SAnews.gov.za