Category: South Africa Government

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) says very cold and wet conditions, with light snowfall, are expected to set in from Tuesday evening in parts of the Eastern Cape, southern KwaZulu-Natal, the southern Free State and along the Lesotho border.

The weather conditions are due to the passage of a cut-off low weather system, which is expected to clear from the west by Thursday.

SAWS has advised farmers to take precautionary measures to mitigate the negative impact of the adverse weather conditions.

The weather service has issued several weather alerts as follows:

• Orange Level 6 Warning: Disruptive rain resulting in flooding of bridges/roads/settlements and damage to property/infrastructure is expected in places along the coast and adjacent interior between East London and Port Edward.
• Orange Level 5 Warning: Disruptive snow resulting in traffic disruptions, disruption to essential services and some communities being temporarily cut off is expected in places over the extreme north-eastern high ground of the Eastern Cape.
• Yellow Level 4 Warning: Disruptive rain resulting in flooding of bridges/roads/settlements and damage to property/infrastructure is expected in places along the coast and adjacent interior of KwaZulu-Natal, south of St. Lucia.
• Yellow Level 2 Warning: Disruptive rain resulting in flooding of bridges/roads/settlements and damage to property/infrastructure is expected over the south-eastern parts of the Eastern Cape and the eastern parts of KwaZulu-Natal, except in the extreme north-east.
• Yellow Level 2 Warning: Disruptive snow resulting in traffic disruptions, disruption to essential services and some communities being temporarily cut off is expected in places over the north-eastern high ground of the Eastern Cape.
• Yellow Level 1 Warning: Damaging coastal winds and waves leading to difficulty in navigation at sea for small vessels and personal watercraft, as well as localised disruption to beachfront activities, are expected between Cape Columbine and Cape Agulhas.

–SAnews.gov.za

 

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The South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested 16 684 suspects for various offences as part of ongoing efforts to combat and prevent crime through the nationwide Operation Shanela.

The operation, said the police in a statement, resulted in the arrest of 1 869 undocumented immigrants between 20 and 26 July 2026.

In addition, detectives arrested 2 547 wanted individuals linked to violent offences, including murder, attempted murder, rape, carjacking, illegal possession of firearms, and house and business robberies.

“This week, amongst those arrested is a popular traditional healer from KwaMashu for allegedly orchestrating the murders of African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) member Thamsanqa Kingdom Gcabashe and eThekwini Metro Police officials Lindokuhle Madonsela and Ndumiso Thusi,” police said.

On 25 July 2026, SAPS also arrested a 37-year-old alleged mastermind behind the murder of DA candidate councillor Sinovuyo Dyokwe. The arrest followed a joint, intelligence-driven operation involving Western Cape Serious Violent Crime Investigation (SVCI) detectives and the Special Task Force (STF) in Parklands.

“Operation Shanela continues to send a strong message that crime and lawlessness will not be tolerated in South Africa, whether committed by locals or foreign nationals,” police said.

The multidisciplinary operations resulted in significant arrests across several crime categories:

• 114 suspects were arrested for attempted murder, with Gauteng recording the highest number of arrests at 26, followed by the Eastern Cape with 24.
• 152 suspects were arrested for rape.
• 101 suspects were arrested for illegal possession of firearms. The Western Cape recorded the highest number of arrests at 38, followed by Gauteng with 20.
• 660 suspects were arrested for the illegal dealing in liquor.
• 230 suspects were arrested for dealing in drugs.
• 2 530 suspects were arrested for possession of drugs, with the Western Cape recording the highest number of arrests at 1 314.
• 1 383 suspects were arrested for assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm (GBH).
• 715 suspects were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Confiscations and recoveries

The operations also resulted in the following confiscations and recoveries across the provinces:

• 128 unlicensed firearms, including handguns, shotguns and rifles;
• 2 296 rounds of ammunition;
• Contraband goods worth more than R46 million;
• Various types of drugs; and
• 55 hijacked and stolen vehicles.

Provincial takedowns

Free State: On 25 July 2026, members of the Bloemfontein Flying Squad intercepted a white Volvo Stralis 430 truck on the N1 near Glen, which was suspected of transporting stolen copper cable.

Centlec technicians confirmed that some of the seized cables belonged to the company, while Telkom and Eskom later identified additional cables worth more than R300 000.

A 43-year-old driver was arrested and charged under the Criminal Matters Amendment Act for tampering with essential infrastructure and possession of stolen property. He is expected to appear in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court.

Western Cape: On 19 July 2026, Crime Intelligence members arrested a 29-year-old suspect at an apartment in Richwood, Bothasig, which was allegedly being used as a gang storage facility.

Police seized seven pistols, 17 magazines, 1 030 rounds of ammunition and assorted drugs valued at R10 million.

Gauteng: On 23 July 2026, the Ekurhuleni Task Team arrested a 40-year-old suspect in Ebony Park. Police recovered nine unlicensed firearms, including five AK-47 rifles, rounds of ammunition and four stolen vehicles – a Mercedes-Benz, a BMW and two Volkswagen Polos.

In Eldorado Park on 22 July 2026, a 45-year-old suspect was arrested with two 9mm pistols, a shotgun, magazines and 37 rounds of ammunition. The suspect is allegedly linked to multiple business robberies, and the firearms were sent for ballistic examination.

Between 20 and 23 July 2026, the Gauteng Provincial Counterfeit Unit seized more than 572 000 counterfeit and illicit items worth over R27.5 million across Sedibeng, the West Rand, Tshwane and Johannesburg.

Major seizures included 41 120 counterfeit Rizla dispensers, 522 000 Trust condom packets and 4 200 Darling hair pieces.

Mpumalanga: On 21 July 2026, members of the Ermelo K9 Unit arrested two suspects, aged 42 and 47, on the N4 near Middelburg for allegedly possessing 204 kg of dagga valued at R1.2 million.

A bakkie allegedly used to transport the drugs was also confiscated. The suspects appeared in the Middelburg Magistrate’s Court on 22 July 2026.

North West: Police in Brits arrested a 26-year-old man in Oukasie following a shootout on 22 July 2026.

The suspect allegedly robbed his 68-year-old grandfather of a licensed firearm and fired shots at him. He later allegedly opened fire on police during a pursuit, wounding an officer and a bystander before being apprehended.

The stolen firearm and ammunition were recovered.

Limpopo: On 21 July 2026, the Provincial Commercial Crimes Unit arrested a 26-year-old female cashier, Sune Grobbelaar, in Mokopane in connection with alleged fraud involving R500 000 at a milling company.

Investigations allegedly revealed duplicate receipts and missing stock, which were identified through CCTV footage and audits.

Grobbelaar appeared in the Mokopane Magistrate’s Court on the same day and was remanded in custody. The case was postponed to 27 July 2026 for further investigation and a bail application.

Northern Cape: On 22 July 2026, SAPS members and Provincial Traffic officials seized 379.3 kg of dagga valued at R7.5 million. The drugs were allegedly concealed in mobile toilets on a truck at the N1 Weigh Bridge in Colesberg.

A 37-year-old foreign national was arrested and charged with dealing in dagga. The truck and trailer were also confiscated.

KwaZulu-Natal: Acting on a tip-off, members of the eThekwini District Tracing Unit arrested a 71-year-old suspect during an operation in Cato Manor.

The suspect allegedly modified replica firearms and manufactured homemade guns, which he allegedly sold, along with ammunition, to foreign nationals.

He was charged with possession of unlicensed firearms.

Eastern Cape: A multidisciplinary operation involving members of the Mount Ruth Rapid Rail Unit, Transnet and Ndevana SAPS led to the arrest of two suspects and the recovery of suspected stolen Transnet infrastructure valued at R10 million outside Qonce.

The team seized 49 rolls of overhead track equipment, 18 railway rails weighing approximately 40kg each, four transformer batteries and one bag containing damaged copper. – SAnews.gov.za

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The World Health Organisation (WHO) has urged the public to get tested and treated for Hepatitis.

This as the world observes World Hepatitis Day today.

“The World Hepatitis Day 2026 theme: ‘Hepatitis: Let’s break it down’, is a call to remove the barriers that stand between people and the services that can save their lives. Viral Hepatitis continues to be a major cause of preventable illness and death worldwide.

“The tools needed to eliminate viral Hepatitis already exist. Effective vaccines, accurate diagnostics, curative treatments for Hepatitis C, and lifelong therapies for Hepatitis B can prevent infections, save lives, and reduce liver cancer and cirrhosis,” the WHO said on its website.

The organisation noted that despite the availability of treatments, “millions of people remain undiagnosed, untreated, or unable to access care due to stigma, limited awareness, health system gaps, and persistent inequalities”.

“The 2026 campaign calls for turning proven science into action through stronger political commitment, sustained investment, and efforts to expand equitable access to prevention, testing, treatment, and care,” the public health agency said.

The public is urged to:

• Get tested for Hepatitis B and C.
• Promote routine Hepatitis B testing in Antenatal care setting and antiviral prophylaxis where needed, as part of triple elimination of HIV, hepatitis and syphilis.
• Vaccinate newborns with universal timely hepatitis B birth dose within 24 hours and ensure completion of childhood vaccination series.
• Learn the facts and talk to your healthcare provider about early testing and treatment.
• Help stop stigma by sharing accurate information.

What is Hepatitis?

The WHO describes Hepatitis as an “inflammation of the liver that is caused by a variety of infectious viruses and non-infectious agents”.

This can lead to serious illness including severe liver damage and cancer, which can cause death.

There are five main strains virus known as types A, B, C, D and E.

“While they can all cause liver disease, they differ in important ways including modes of transmission, severity of the illness, geographical distribution and prevention methods.

“In particular, types B and C lead to chronic disease in hundreds of millions of people and together are the most common cause of liver cirrhosis, liver cancer and viral hepatitis-related deaths. They are among the main infectious disease killers, causing an estimated 1.3 million deaths per year,” the health agency said.

Some 304 million people worldwide live with Hepatitis B or C, and for most, “testing and treatment remain beyond reach”.

The WHO’s Global Health Sector Strategy on HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections (2022–2030) aims to reduce new infections to just over 500 000 per year and reduce deaths to 450 000 by 2030.

“Without urgent and sustained action, however, viral Hepatitis is projected to cause an additional 9.5 million new infections, 2.1 million liver cancer cases, and 2.8 million deaths by 2030.

“These outcomes are largely preventable through the scale-up of Hepatitis B vaccination, improved access to prevention, testing and treatment for Hepatitis B and C, and targeted public education campaigns to raise awareness and reduce transmission,” the WHO urged. – SAnews.gov.za

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The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has assured residents that dialysis services continue at the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, despite recent supply challenges.

According to the department, the hospital experienced low levels of sodium bicarbonate solution due to delays in procurement processes.

“Contrary to reports that the hospital had completely run out of the consumable, the facility maintained continuity of care by implementing contingency measures. As a result, no dialysis treatments were missed, no procedures were cancelled or postponed.

“The department also confirms that the supply of dialysis filters used in intensive care was affected following regrettable delays in procurement processes. To minimise any potential disruption to patient care, the hospital temporarily sourced supplies from facilities within its cluster,” the GDoH said.

The department added that while these delays caused operational pressure, “they did not result in adverse patient outcomes”.

“Procurement processes had been fast tracked to replenish sodium bicarbonate solution together with approximately 60% of the outstanding dialysis filter and delivery is expected in due course accordingly.

“The department acknowledges that delays in procurement processes contributed to the temporary supply challenges and has prioritised interventions to restore normal supply levels. Measures are also being implemented to strengthen procurement planning, improve turnaround times and enhance supply chain management to minimise the risk of similar occurrences.

“The department is working closely with healthcare facilities and suppliers to safeguard the availability of essential medical consumables while ensuring that patient care remains uncompromised across all public health facilities in the province,” the GDoH said. – SAnews.gov.za

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By William Baloyi
South Africa is a nation of innovation, where scientific curiosity, research and technological advancement continue to shape solutions for some of society’s greatest challenges. Our scientists, researchers and innovators are contributing to global progress using science and technology to improve the lives of people in our country. 

The Lodox scanner, which was first developed in the mining industry to detect smuggled diamonds through low-dose, full-body X-ray imaging, is one such invention. Today, this technology is widely used in trauma centres and hospitals in South Africa and internationally, providing full-body images within seconds while exposing patients to significantly less radiation than traditional X-rays or CT scans. This innovation demonstrates how a solution developed for one sector can be transformed to improve healthcare outcomes and save lives.

South Africa’s contribution to science and innovation extends across several fields. In medicine, the country has a proud history of pioneering breakthroughs that have influenced global healthcare. The first successful human-to-human heart transplant was performed by South African cardiac surgeon Professor Christiaan Barnard at Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town in 1967, placing South African medical expertise at the forefront of international innovation.

Today, South African researchers continue to contribute to global health through advancements in infectious disease research, HIV prevention and treatment, vaccine development and healthcare solutions that respond to challenges facing communities.

Inventions and discoveries such as these have ensured that South Africa remains a hub of innovation and technology. Even on a global level, South Africa is at the frontier of scientific exploration through projects such as the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), hosted in the Northern Cape, which is pushing the boundaries of science and our understanding of the universe.

The SKA project is an international effort to build the world’s largest radio telescope, with a collecting area equivalent to approximately one square kilometre. Co-located in Africa and Australia, the project will generate groundbreaking scientific discoveries that will deepen our understanding of galaxies, black holes, the origins of the universe and the fundamental laws of nature. South Africa’s participation in this global project demonstrates our ability to host and contribute to some of the most advanced scientific initiatives in the world.

The country’s leadership in astronomy is further demonstrated through the MeerKAT radio telescope, located in the Karoo. This world-class facility has produced important scientific discoveries, including detailed observations of the centre of the Milky Way and research that is helping scientists better understand space phenomena. MeerKAT has positioned South Africa as a key contributor to global astronomy and serves as a precursor to the SKA.

South Africa is also at the leading edge of scientific research. In 2023, South Africa produced 25 775 scientific articles, placing the country 29th in the world and second in Africa after Egypt. South African research is widely used by researchers around the world, showing that our knowledge and expertise are trusted and valued internationally. Our research has demonstrated strength in health sciences, humanities and natural sciences, where local expertise continues to contribute to global knowledge.

South Africa’s contribution to medical innovation also extends to cancer research, where institutions such as the University of Cape Town are advancing research that responds to the needs of African populations.
 

Through initiatives such as the Cancer Research Initiative, UCT researchers are working across disciplines to improve cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment while building knowledge that can contribute to global efforts against the disease. This work demonstrates how South African science is developing solutions that are both locally relevant and globally significant.

The country is also making significant strides in agricultural innovation. Through advanced plant breeding, biotechnology, climate-smart agriculture and research into improved crop varieties, South African scientists are helping to strengthen food security and support farmers in adapting to changing environmental conditions. Plant breeders’ rights applications increased from 263 in 2022 to 318 in 2023, placing South Africa among the global leaders in agricultural innovation. These advances demonstrate how science can directly support livelihoods, economic development and resilience.

South Africa’s innovation journey also extends into space technology and Earth observation. Through initiatives such as SumbandilaSat, the country’s first locally developed microsatellite launched in 2009, South African engineers and scientists demonstrated growing expertise in satellite technology. These capabilities support applications such as environmental monitoring, disaster management, agriculture planning and the management of natural resources.

In the energy sector, South African innovation continues to contribute to finding solutions to some of society’s most pressing challenges. Through research in renewable energy, solar technologies, energy storage and advanced engineering, local scientists and institutions are creating solutions that can strengthen energy security and support economic development.

Our innovation and technology ecosystem is supported by institutions such as the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the National Research Foundation, universities and other research organisations that provide platforms for scientific discovery and technological advancement. These institutions play a critical role in transforming ideas and research into solutions that improve lives and strengthen the economy.

Furthermore, government’s investments in research, development and innovation are helping to grow the economy while supporting sustainable development. Science, technology and innovation provide pathways to address societal challenges, create industries, support job creation and build a more capable and competitive nation.

South Africa’s journey in science, innovation and technology demonstrates that investment in knowledge is an investment in the nation’s future. As National Science Month draws to a close, its legacy should extend far beyond a single month of awareness and celebration. It is also an opportunity to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, researchers and innovators to pursue careers that will shape the future. 

Government remains committed to creating an enabling environment through sustained investment in research and development, strengthening partnerships among academia and the public sector, and expanding access to quality science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.

By harnessing the power of science, innovation and technology, South Africa is not only improving the lives of its people but also reinforcing its position as a continental leader and a trusted global partner in advancing sustainable development. Together, we can build a more inclusive, competitive and resilient economy, ensuring that innovation continues to drive progress and create opportunities for all.

*Mr William Baloyi is the Deputy Government Spokesperson

 

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Industrialisation took centre stage at the opening of the ninth Southern African Development Community (SADC) Industrialisation Week, with leaders from across the region calling for accelerated industrial development to drive economic transformation, regional integration and job creation.

The Southern African Development Community, in collaboration with the Government of South Africa and the SADC Business Council, is hosting the 9th Annual SADC Industrialisation Week at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC) in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.

The week is the region’s premier public-private platform for advancing industrial development, promoting investment, strengthening regional integration and accelerating economic transformation.

Held from 27–31 July 2026, under the theme: “Resilient, Sustainable and Inclusive Industrialisation through Infrastructure Development, Agricultural and Critical Minerals Transformation in Pursuit of a Just World”, the event will serve as a high-level precursor to the 46th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government.

The week-long programme brings together policymakers, business leaders, investors, academia, researchers, development finance institutions, and other strategic stakeholders from across the SADC region and beyond. It will provide a platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, partnership building and the identification of practical solutions to advance industrialisation and sustainable economic growth.

The main goals of the week are to advance the SADC Industrialisation Strategy and Roadmap 2015–2063, which is centred on three pillars: industrialisation, competitiveness, and regional integration.

The 2026 edition of the week will focus on key strategic priorities, including strengthening regional value chains in agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods and critical minerals beneficiation; promoting infrastructure development in energy, transport, logistics, water and information and communication technologies (ICT); mobilising investment and fostering industrial partnerships; and advancing women and youth empowerment, innovation, entrepreneurship and digital transformation.

In his opening address, eThekwini Municipality Mayor Cyril Xaba said Durban was honoured to host the gathering, describing the city as a strategic gateway to Africa and is committed to promoting regional industrialisation, investment, and economic growth.

SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi said the event provides an important platform for member states and stakeholders to discuss the future of industrial development and that merely talking about change does not translate into action.

“This platform enables us to share experiences, forge effective partnerships, create opportunities, and identify innovative solutions. Aspirations alone will not bring about transformation; real implementation and the creation of opportunities for industries and businesses must lead the way,” Magosi said.

Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau said industrialisation remains a key driver of productivity, economic diversification, technological advancement, and greater resilience against external shocks.

Tau urged stakeholders to remain mindful of strategic vulnerabilities, while focusing on implementing outcomes that are measurable and visible. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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A 27-year-old suspect appeared before the Ndwedwe District Court on Monday in connection with the attempted murder of MK party member, Zanele Mbhamali and her husband.

The matter was remanded to 03 August 2026 for the accused, Velile Ntshangase, to secure legal representation.

The suspect was arrested by the KwaZulu-Natal Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) following an incident that occurred on 23 June 2026 at approximately 22:30.

It is alleged that Mbhamali and her husband were travelling home along Road P100 towards Ndwedwe when unknown suspects opened fire on their vehicle.

Members of the KZN Political Killings Task Team received the docket on 10 July 2026 and immediately commenced investigations, which led to the arrest of Ntshangase.

Further investigations revealed that a second suspect linked to the case was shot and killed by unknown assailants at his residence on 29 June 2026 after returning home from work.

Police investigations into the matter is ongoing. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Public Works and Infrastructure Deputy Minister Sihle Zikalala says 11 of the 13 Welisizwe bridges planned to be constructed at the Zululand District Municipality in KwaZulu Natal have been completed, adding that the two remaining bridges are at a technical assessment stage.

Speaking at the handover ceremony of two Welisizwe bridges at the Ulundi Local Municipality, Zikalala said in KwaZulu Natal the programme is well on its way to reaching set targets, having completed 41 of the 51 planned bridges.

The Welisizwe bridges are part of rural infrastructure investment by government.

“During the construction period of these two bridges, the employment of local labour was intensified to help alleviate poverty within the Zululand District Municipality.

“[A total of] 161 jobs were created, and of these, 152 were EPWP, five were artisans, two special workman trainees, and one clerical,” said Zikalala.

During the 2023 budget vote, Zikalala announced a R3.8 billion allocation for the Welisizwe bridges programme targeting six provinces including the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu Natal, Free State, Mpumalanga, Limpopo and North West.

Zikalala said the Welisizwe programme supports localisation, SMME development, job creation, and transformation in the construction sector, with construction material and bridge components sourced locally.

Across the six provinces, 288 Welisizwe bridges have been targeted for construction and of those, 130 have been completed with 48 others currently under construction.

“Plans are now well advanced in consultation with the Department of Transport for the submission of the Phase Two application.

“This next phase will provide for the construction of additional rural bridges and the expansion of the Welisizwe programme to the Northern Cape, Western Cape and Gauteng provinces which were not included in the first phase,” said the Deputy Minister.

The Welisizwe Rural Bridges Programme is aimed at ensuring that rural communities are able to go on with their daily lives, and easily and safely reach schools, workplaces and other amenities.

The initiative also forms part of the Strategic Integrated Project and supports government’s economic recovery programme.

This initiative is managed by the department of Public Works and Infrastructure, the South African National Defence Force and Provincial Transport Departments. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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The eThekwini Municipality has urged residents to take immediate precautions following a Level 4 disruptive rain warning issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS), which is in effect from Tuesday until Wednesday evening.

According to the forecast, widespread disruptive rainfall is expected across KwaZulu-Natal, with the eThekwini region among the areas expected to significantly be affected.

The municipality warned that widespread showers and thundershowers are anticipated, which could pose a serious risk to lives, property and infrastructure.

“The disruptive rainfall may result in flooding on settlements, roads, bridges, and low-lying areas. Poor visibility and slippery road surfaces are expected to make driving hazardous,” the municipality said in a statement.

READ | Snowfall expected as cold front moves across South Africa

Residents living in flood-prone areas, particularly informal settlements, have been urged to take the necessary precautions to safeguard themselves and their families.

Motorists have also been advised to drive cautiously, reduce speed, and maintain a safe following distance on wet and slippery roads. Where possible, residents are encouraged to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.

“Where possible, residents are encouraged to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. The Municipality’s Disaster Management Directorate and emergency services are on high alert, ready to respond to any incidents,” the municipality said.

The weather warning remains subject to updates, and residents are encouraged to monitor the municipality’s official communication platforms for the latest information.

The public has also been warned not to attempt to cross swollen rivers or streams, especially where water levels exceed ankle height.

In the event of an emergency, residents can contact the City’s Disaster Management Centre on 031 361 0000. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

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South Africa and Nigeria have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation on migration, governance and regional security, following high-level diplomatic engagements aimed at easing tensions and deepening relations between the two countries.

The engagements come as migration and immigration continue to dominate discussions across the continent, with African leaders placing greater emphasis on finding coordinated responses to cross-border movement, public safety and governance challenges.

President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Special Envoy to Nigeria and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, concluded a diplomatic mission to Abuja, where he delivered an official message from President Ramaphosa to Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

President Tinubu appointed a high-level Nigerian government delegation to engage with the South African delegation in structured discussions.

According to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), the talks were “candid, constructive, and forward-looking”, focusing on restoring mutual goodwill and strengthening bilateral relations.

A key focus of the engagements was managing migration-related challenges, while preserving the strong historical ties between the two countries. 

Three areas of concern

During the discussions, Lamola outlined three issues that have contributed to recent tensions between South Africa and Nigeria.

The first related to the purported installation of an unrecognised traditional ruler, styled as an “Igbo King”, in the Eastern Cape, in March this year.

Lamola said the development had generated widespread concern in South Africa, particularly as the country continues to consolidate the constitutional role of traditional leadership in the democratic era.

The second concern centred on the involvement of some foreign nationals, including Nigerian citizens, in organised crime, illicit drug trafficking and financial fraud.

According to DIRCO, more than 500 Nigerian nationals had been processed through South Africa’s criminal justice system for various offences as of 7 July 2026.

Lamola said the figures underscored the need for stronger cooperation between the two countries on cross-border law enforcement and security.

The third concern related to incidents where law enforcement officers encountered violent resistance while conducting criminal investigations, particularly in hijacked residential and commercial buildings in areas, such as Hillbrow in Johannesburg and Sunnyside in Pretoria.

These unlawful enclaves, Lamola said, have compromised public safety for both South Africans and foreign nationals.

“Regrettably, these incidents have fueled negative perceptions surrounding Nigerian nationals living in South Africa over the years. Addressing these challenges firmly, fairly, and within the bounds of the law is vital for the well-being of both our nations,” Lamola said. 

Law enforcement and due process

The two delegations also reviewed the arrest and processing of more than 500 Nigerian nationals in South Africa.

Lamola clarified that these law enforcement measures are evidence-based, targeting individual criminal conduct rather than profiling the broader, law-abiding Nigerian diaspora.

The Nigerian delegation acknowledged the importance of holding offenders accountable, while stressing that all detainees should receive constitutional due process, fair trial protections and humane treatment.

Rejecting xenophobia

A significant outcome of the talks was a shared commitment to reducing inflammatory rhetoric and preventing hostility towards foreign nationals.

Lamola reiterated that South Africa remains firmly opposed to xenophobia, racism and all forms of discrimination.

He stressed that while government would continue to act decisively against crime, criminality could never be used to justify violence or intimidation against foreign nationals.

“Law enforcement remains the exclusive prerogative of the State. While South Africa will not tolerate criminal activity by any individual regardless of nationality, we equally will not permit vigilante action or xenophobic violence against foreign nationals residing in our country. To this end, arrests have taken place and relevant investigations are still underway,” Minister Lamola stated.

Migration a growing continental priority

The engagements come amid growing continental discussions on migration, which has emerged as one of the key issues occupying African leaders and policymakers.

Migration, border management and public safety have featured prominently in recent African Union and Pan-African Parliament discussions, with leaders calling for balanced approaches that strengthen security while protecting human rights and preserving regional integration.

Lamola reiterated that shared migration and public safety challenges are best resolved through formal diplomatic channels, institutional security partnerships, and strict adherence to constitutional rights.

The two governments reaffirmed that bilateral diplomacy and Pan-African solidarity remain the essential frameworks to ensure peaceful coexistence, safeguard human rights, and deepen historical ties between South Africa and Nigeria. – SAnews.gov.za

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