Category: South Africa Government

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Employment and Labour calls for compliance with COIDA  

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, November 27, 2025

The Department of Employment and Labour’s Compensation Fund has called on employers in the building, electrical and construction sectors to improve their compliance with the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA).

This comes after the Fund hosted a Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases (COID) Sector Workshop in Durban on Tuesday aimed at boosting the submission of Return of Earnings (ROEs), improving payments of assessments, and educating industry stakeholders on their legal responsibilities.

The main objective of the Act is to provide compensation for disablement caused by occupational injuries or diseases sustained or contracted by employees or for death resulting from such injuries or diseases and provide for matters connected therewith.

Opening the session, KwaZulu-Natal Deputy Director for COID Services, Jabulani Gumede, thanked employers for attending and stressed that complying with COIDA is a legal requirement to prevent workplace injuries and occupational diseases.

Deputy Director for Employer Services, Vusi Maluleke, highlighted employers’ key obligations, including registration, record-keeping, and ensuring timely ROE submissions. He urged employers to register domestic workers and to verify Letters of Good Standing to avoid falling victim to fraud. 

KwaZulu-Natal Assistant Director for COID Services, Nontsikelelo Mhlonyane, outlined employer responsibilities when employees are injured or fall ill. She reminded employers that all workplace accidents must be reported to the Fund within seven days, while occupational diseases must be reported within 14 days of diagnosis. She also spoke on injury-on-duty leave management, COID benefits, additional pensions and fatal cases.

The Compensation Fund said it will continue engaging various sectors to strengthen compliance and ensure better protection for workers. – SAnews.gov.za

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President notes US counterpart’s attempt to ban SA from G20

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has noted US President Donald Trump’s intention to bar South Africa from attending the G20 Leaders’ Summit in the United States next year, calling his remarks “regrettable” and rooted in misinformation.

“South Africa is a member of the G20 in its own name and right. Its G20 membership is at the behest of all other members. South Africa is a sovereign constitutional democratic country and does not appreciate insults from another country about its membership and worth in participating in global platforms. 

“South Africa respects the sovereignty of all countries and will never insult or demean another country or its standing and worthiness in the community of nations,” the Presidency said in a statement issued on Thursday. 

In a post on social media platform, Truth Social, on Wednesday, President Trump said that South Africa would not be invited to next year’s Group of 20 Summit in the US. According to the post, this is due to the handover of the G20 Presidency and disinformation about white genocide.  

During the course of the 2025 G20 Leaders’ Summit last weekend, the South African government indicated that there would be no traditional handover ceremony between South Africa and the United States.

On Thursday, President Ramaphosa reiterated that South Africa would continue to play a full, active and constructive role in the G20 and called on member states to recommit to multilateralism, consensus and equal participation.

“It is regrettable that despite the efforts and numerous attempts by President Ramaphosa and his administration to reset the diplomatic relationship with the US, President Trump continues to apply punitive measures against South Africa based on misinformation and distortions about our country,” the Presidency said.

President Ramaphosa said the G20 South Africa 2025 Leaders’ Summit, held in Johannesburg, and attended by several Heads of State and Government, had been widely praised as one of the most successful summits in recent years. 

The summit adopted a declaration affirming the “indisputable strength and value of multilateralism” in addressing global challenges.

The Presidency said that because the United States did not attend the summit, the instruments of the G20 Presidency were formally handed to a US Embassy official at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation headquarters.

“As one of the founding members of the G20, South Africa has always valued the spirit of consensus, collaboration and partnership that defines the G20 as the premier forum for international economic cooperation,” the statement read.

The Presidency added that the United States had been expected to participate in all G20 engagements during South Africa’s Presidency but had elected not to attend the Johannesburg summit out of its own volition.

Despite the US government’s absence, The Presidency noted that American businesses and civil society organisations participated in large numbers in associated events including the B20 and the G20 Social. – SAnews.gov.za

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Gauteng hands over operating licences to public transport operators

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, November 27, 2025

The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has handed over 300 operating licences to compliant public transport operators during a ceremony held at the Ekurhuleni Council Chambers.

This handover forms part of the province’s ongoing programme to clear the operating license backlog and stabilise the public transport sector.

Since 1 September 2025, the department has issued a total of 525 operating licenses.

Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, said that the handover demonstrates government’s commitment to strengthening regulation and improving service delivery to operators and commuters.

“Today is more than a handover ceremony. It is a statement of our commitment to rebuilding a licensing system that is transparent, efficient and fair. We are working tirelessly to ensure operators receive services closer to their communities and within predictable timeframes,” Diale-Tlabela said on Tuesday.

The MEC emphasised that public transport remains the backbone of mobility in Gauteng, moving millions of commuters daily, and that regulatory stability is essential for safety, economic participation and job creation.

Furthermore, the strengthened provincial licensing system is designed to validate applications, improve data accuracy, and protect operators from fraudulent middlemen.

“We are taking a firm stance against corruption, fraudulent applications and individuals who extort money from operators under the pretext of consulting. These practices will not be tolerated. We are working closely with law enforcement agencies and our stakeholders to ensure that only legitimate operators are licensed,” the MEC said.

She emphasised that an operating license is not just a document, but an instrument of economic empowerment and responsibility.

“We expect operators to honour the rules of the road, provide safe and reliable services, and contribute to a public transport system that the people of Gauteng can trust. This partnership is key to building a stable, modern and accessible transport network,” the MEC explained.

The department will continue to implement measures aimed at eliminating the remaining backlog and strengthening the regulatory framework to ensure a safer and more efficient public transport environment for all Gauteng residents. –SAnews.gov.za

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Human Settlements team dispatched to assist distressed KZN families

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, November 26, 2025

Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane has dispatched a team from the national department responsible for emergency housing to work with KwaZulu-Natal officials to assist households affected by recent heavy rains at Umshwathi Local Municipality.

According to the preliminary assessment, about 400 people, including close to 200 children and 163 females, have been affected.

“The team is currently conducting a full assessment, which will determine the required intervention. There are four categories of emergency housing interventions provided by the department, namely, restoration, relocation, rebuilding and repairs.

“Should there be a need for the relocation of the affected households, the municipality will have to identify a piece of land that will be suitable for human settlement,” Simelane said in statement.

The Minister and the department has also conveyed condolences to the family of the deceased, who was swept away during the heavy rains.

The body of a woman  whose body was recovered from Injasuthi River in New Hanover under uMshwathi Municipality on Monday. The body was one of the three victims that were swept away.

“These are difficult times for our sector. We appeal to our communities to be vigilant, exercise caution and refrain from building structures on flood lines or areas prone to floods,” Simelane said.

KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi, visited flood-affected areas in uMshwathi today on Tuesday to assess damage and provide relief to the affected families.

Buthelezi called on the municipalities across the province to enforce bylaws preventing people to build houses without permission. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Remarks by Deputy President Paul Mashatile on the occasion of the Bilateral Meeting with Prime Minister of Finland Anti Petterri Orpo, OR Tambo House, Pretoria 

Source: President of South Africa –

His Excellency Prime Minister Anti Petteri Orpo, it is my distinct honour to welcome you and your esteemed delegation to South Africa, and to extend our sincere appreciation for the time you have taken to undertake this visit. His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa has requested that I convey his regrets for not being able to meet with you personally during your stay. 

Your visit comes at an opportune moment, following South Africa’s successful hosting of the G20 Leaders’ Summit this past weekend in Johannesburg, which was attended by His Excellency, President Alexander Stubb and his delegation. 

It also takes place after you have attended the 7th AU–EU Summit held in Luanda, Angola, which celebrates 25 years since its establishment. I also trust that you have enjoyed your stay in Luanda.

Your Excellency, I am joined by Deputy Minister of International Relations, Mr Alvin Botes, and senior government officials from the Presidency, International Relations, Trade, Industry and Competition, Electricity and Energy as well from the Digital Communication and Technology Departments. I will introduce them later.

Excellency, allow me to reiterate South Africa’s deep appreciation for Finland’s steadfast support during our G20 Presidency. This commitment was underscored by the participation of His Excellency President Alexander Stubb at very short notice, for which we remain sincerely grateful. Relations between South Africa and Finland continue to be warm, cordial and constructive.
 
Since the dawn of our democracy, Finland has recognised the importance of South Africa’s reconstruction and development efforts and has made a meaningful contribution through various development partnership agreements, as well as expanding trade and investment across diverse sectors. 

Our bilateral engagement has been further strengthened in recent years. A notable highlight was the State Visit by former President of Finland, His Excellency Mr Sauli Niinistö, in April 2023. The visit yielded several concrete and positive outcomes, including cooperation on water resource management, educational models for Early Childhood Development, programmes focusing on out-of-school youth and adult education, and a joint initiative to train young peace mediators. These practical projects reflect the substance and value of our partnership. 

Your visit today builds on these high-level engagements and serves to further consolidate our bilateral relations, particularly in the areas of trade and investment. We are encouraged that your delegation includes business leaders seeking to explore new opportunities in smart and sustainable mining, water and built environments, and the development of smart cities. 

Permit me to highlight that water management and digitalisation remain central pillars of our bilateral cooperation. The 2023 Memorandum of Understanding on Water Resources between South Africa and Finland is a significant milestone, particularly in its focus on innovation and technology. We also value the Letters of Intent concluded with several municipalities on water resource management. 

The visit by our Minister of Water and Sanitation, Minister Majodina, to Finland in August 2025, as well as the participation of a Finnish delegation in the inaugural Association of Water and Sanitation Institutions of South Africa (AWSISA) Technical Conference earlier this month, further demonstrates the strength of our collaboration in this area. 

Additionally, we appreciate ongoing cooperation in advancing innovation systems and start-up ecosystems. Work continues on digital infrastructure—especially low-cost connectivity in township areas—which will help create an enabling environment for inclusive development. In this regard, we value Finland’s active participation in the G20 Digital Economy Working Group. 

Honourable Prime Minister,

Beyond our strong bilateral ties, our relationship has increasingly evolved into a partnership in support of Africa’s broader development priorities. This was once again evident through Finland’s active participation in the Nordic–Africa Foreign Ministers’ Meeting hosted in Zimbabwe in October 2025. 

South Africa and Finland share the conviction that equitable representation in the United Nations and the wider multilateral system is essential for sustainable peace and development. We commend Finland’s consistent and principled support for the comprehensive reform of the United Nations, particularly the Security Council, and for its advocacy for a more just, inclusive and rules-based international order. 

South Africa recognises and deeply appreciates Finland’s continued partnership on key global challenges—including the strengthening of multilateralism and international law, peacebuilding and mediation, gender equality and human rights, and the global response to climate change. 

In conclusion, the history of our respective struggles and the lessons drawn from our shared solidarity remind us that, by working together, we can help build a better world—one in which the aspirations of all nations and peoples may be realised. 

Honourable Prime Minister, it is my pleasure to invite you to deliver your remarks. 

Thank you.

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Gondwe assists Elangeni TVET raise over R1m for Infrastructure projects

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, November 26, 2025

Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister, Dr Mimmy Gondwe, has assisted Elangeni TVET College in securing more than R1 million for critical infrastructure development and skills-enhancement projects.

The college achieved this milestone during its 3rd Annual Fundraising Gala Dinner, held recently in Umhlanga, north of Durban.

In collaboration with local businesses, the event raised a total of R1 075 400 through financial pledges, table sponsorships, individual contributions, and auction bids.

Approximately 150 representatives from businesses, industries, academic institutions, and individual entrepreneurs attended the gala, demonstrating strong community and industry support for strengthening the TVET sector and advancing national skills development agenda.

The Deputy Minister commended the college for hosting the successful event and forging meaningful partnerships with the business community to support key infrastructural development projects.

She also urged industries and communities to strengthen their support for TVET students, stating that “a culture of giving does not emerge accidentally, it is deliberately cultivated.”

“The event demonstrated what becomes possible when communities, businesses, and government work together with a shared purpose. Building a culture of giving is not just about raising funds; it is about opening doors of opportunity for young people who rely on the TVET system for a better future,” the Deputy Minister said.

Elangeni TVET College Principal, TJ Kula, expressed appreciation for the Deputy Minister’s support and participation as the keynote speaker.

“Her leadership in strengthening public-private partnerships across the TVET sector inspires our ongoing efforts to connect education, industry, and communities,” Kula said.

Elangeni TVET College is the second institution to receive direct fundraising support from the Deputy Minister. In August, Gondwe assisted Goldfields TVET College in the Free State in raising nearly R300 000. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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South Africa to strengthen relations with Mozambique at fourth Bi-National Commission

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa will at the invitation of His Excellency President Daniel Fransisco Chapo embark on a working visit to the Republic of Mozambique from 02-03 December 2025 for the 4th South Africa-Mozambique Bi-National Commission.  

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 in the 4th Bi -National Commission(BNC) at the capital city Maputo.

The BNC will be preceded by the Senior Officials Meeting (SOM) scheduled to be held from 30 November to 01 December 2025 and the Council of Ministers Meeting on 02 December 2025. On the margins of the BNC, a Business Forum will be held on 02 December 2025.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will also attend and participate in the Official Launch of the Sasol Hydrocarbons Processing Integrated Infrastructure in Inhassoro Town, Inhambane Province, on 03 December 2025.
 
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 in 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 African media who wish to cover the Maputo event can indicate their interest to Khutjo Sebata on Khutjo@presidency.gov.za by no later than midday Sunday, 30 November 2025. 

Note:Logistics to Maputo, Mozambique, to be arranged independently. 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Deputy President Mashatile to address the SLGA National members Assembly

Source: President of South Africa –

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Thursday, 27 November 2025, deliver a keynote address on the closing day of the  South African Local Government Association’s (SALGA) National Members Assembly (NMA) taking place on 25 – 27 November 2025 at Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal Province.

Over 1 000 local Government practitioners, Mayors, Councillors, policy makers and other sectoral stakeholders are participating in the 2025 National Members Assembly held under the theme: “Empowering Municipalities to Drive South Africa’s Growth Agenda through Economic Resilience and Sustainable Service Delivery.”

The National Members Assembly is the highest-decision making body of SALGA in between its National Conferences.

Details of the address are as follows:

Date: Thursday, 27 November 2025
Time: 10h00
Venue: Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, Durban, KZN

Media still not accredited must please RSVP with Motalatale Modiba on 072 515 3022.

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President, on 066 195 8840.

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Youth called to lead fight against GBVF

Source: Government of South Africa

EThekwini Municipality has called on young people to take a leading role in confronting the escalating challenge of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF).

The municipality made the call as the city officially launched the annual 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign at King Zwelithini Stadium in uMlazi, south of Durban.

Launched on Tuesday under the theme “Letsema: Men, Women, Boys and Girls working together to end Gender-Based Violence and Femicide,” the event set a firm tone of unity, accountability, and collective responsibility in protecting women and children across the municipality.

The programme began with a visit to Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital to assess the facilities and support services available for women and children.

The visit also sought to raise awareness on how communities and victims can report violations and access the necessary assistance.

Municipal leadership, alongside representatives from government and private sector institutions, gathered to discuss impactful interventions and strategies to combat the scourge of gender-based violence across the municipality.

Echoing the national call for unity in the fight against GBVF, eThekwini Deputy Mayor Zandile Myeni, urged young people in uMlazi to take an active role in preventing violence and encouraged families to stand together.

“We are here to echo the President’s message that Gender-Based Violence and Femicide is a crisis. Law enforcement alone cannot eradicate GBVF without the support of families, churches, and the broader community. GBVF affects people of all races, genders, and backgrounds,” the Deputy Mayor said.

Chairperson of the Community Services Committee, Zama Sokhabase, emphasised that gender-based violence and femicide remain among the most pervasive human rights violations affecting women and children in South Africa.

“Let us work together to halt gender-based violence,” Sokhabase urged.

City law enforcement agencies, including the South African Police Service, reaffirmed their commitment to working with communities and stakeholders to curb GBV.

EThekwini Civil Society Organisation Secretary Sazi Jali highlighted the importance of accountability.

“Ending GBVF requires our communities to stand together and uphold Pillar 1 of the National Strategic Plan, which focuses on accountability. This work begins within our families, where each of us must hold one another responsible for our actions.”

Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, together with Deputy Minister Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, officially launch the national campaign at Gallagher Estate in Midrand.

Observed from 25 November to 10 December, the 16 Days campaign forms part of a global United Nations initiative aimed at raising awareness, mobilising communities and strengthening accountability in efforts to end violence against women and children.

Earlier this year, government launched the 90-Day GBVF Acceleration Programme to fast track the implementation of the National Strategic Plan on GBVF.

The 16 Days of Activism coincided with the release of the five-year review of the National Strategic Plan (NSP) on GBVF, which identifies areas that need urgent strengthening. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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S&P bumps up Eskom rating

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, November 26, 2025

Global ratings agency, S&P, has upgraded Eskom’s foreign and local currency long-term credit ratings from B to B+, with a stable outlook.

According to the power utility, the upgrade also applies to Eskom’s senior secured and unsecured debt, while government-guaranteed foreign currency debt was raised from BB- to BB+.

“Eskom’s national scale rating improved from zaBBB+/zaA-2 to zaAV/zaA-1. The upgrade reflects the measurable impact of Eskom’s Turnaround Plan, which has stabilised generation, improved financial performance and strengthened governance. Operational improvements have been substantial: Eskom delivered electricity 97.9% of the time in the current financial year, compared to 96% in FY2025.

“This operational stability has been matched by strong financial performance, which includes our first profitability in eight years in FY2025,” the power utility said.

Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, reflected on the company’s turnaround.

“The turnaround plan has been pivotal in restoring Eskom’s operational and financial stability.

“We have moved decisively from a generation crisis to a phase of reliability and disciplined management. Our focus remains on providing affordable, secure electricity for South Africa while driving the transition to lower-carbon energy,” Marokane said. – SAnews.gov.za