Category: South Africa Government

The Department of Health has welcomed the arrival of the first batch of HIV prevention medicine, Lenacapavir, to the country.

The initial consignment, comprising approximately 37 920 doses, was delivered to the country last week.

“This is part of integrated, differentiated and people-centred HIV prevention services, offering new hope for people who face barriers to existing HIV prevention methods.

“Lenacapavir will boost the country’s efforts to reduce new HIV infections to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 and sustain the HIV response after 2030 in line with the Global AIDS Strategy for 2026–2030,” the department said on Tuesday in a statement.

The official launch date is expected to be announced soon, along with a phased implementation plan.

“This six-monthly injectable arrived in the country last week on Thursday, and it is expected to expand HIV prevention choices, improve adherence, especially amongst the most vulnerable priority groups, including adolescent girls and young women, sex workers, men having sex with men, among others.

“Lenacapavir is a preventive medicine, not a vaccine, considered one of the most exciting HIV prevention advances in years. 

“The Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, is very excited about this development and will, in consultation with the President, announce the date for the launch to be led by the President,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire in the Middle East, expressing hope that it will pave the way for a permanent resolution to the conflict.

Speaking during the Credentials Ceremony at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guesthouse in Pretoria on Wednesday, President Ramaphosa said South Africa supports ongoing efforts to end hostilities.  

“We note the current initiatives and ongoing efforts aimed at achieving a comprehensive end to the conflict in the Middle East.

“We welcome the announcement of a ceasefire and are hopeful that it will lay the basis for a permanent resolution of the conflict,” the President said. 

President Ramaphosa reiterated South Africa’s long-standing position that peace should be achieved through dialogue rather than force. 

“South Africa once again calls for dialogue and mediation to prevent further loss of life and destruction of property, and to ensure a just, sustainable and lasting peace,” he said.

South A persfrica hasistently stood at the helm of calls for a ceasefire in the Middle East, maintaining that dialogue remains the only viable path toward a sustainable solution, and that no military intervention can deliver lasting peace. The country has further urged for a universal and unequivocal recognition of United Nations resolutions on peace and conflict resolution, which are meant to advance civilian protection and brokering ceasefire deals. 

In Pretoria today, President Ramaphosa once again called on all countries to uphold international law and respect sovereignty.

“We further call on all countries to respect international law and the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations.”

The President said South Africa’s international relations outlook is grounded in the values of its Constitution, including human dignity, equality and freedom.

“As a nation that emerged from a painful past of injustice and inequality, we seek a more just and equitable world order. We seek a global order defined by peace and friendship amongst all the nations of the world,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa stressed that global peace and security should be achieved through cooperation and adherence to international agreements.

“We strive to ensure that global peace and security is secured through dialogue and negotiation and not through force of arms – where international laws, treaties and agreements are upheld and respected,” the President said. 

He added that in a complex and interconnected world, global solidarity, multilateral diplomacy and respect for the multilateral system remains key to addressing challenges such as conflict, poverty and inequality. 

“In a world beset by profound and interconnected challenges – whether they be conflicts, the climate crisis or the proliferation of poverty and inequality – we know that global solidarity and deepening cooperation are our surest means to overcome them,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

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The South African Weather Service (SAWS) forecast indicates that warmer conditions are expected in most parts of the country in the late autumn and winter, while significant rainfall is expected mainly over the southern and eastern coastal parts of South Africa.

In its seasonal climate watch released on Tuesday, the weather service said the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is currently still in a neutral state.

Current predictions indicate a rapid shift over the next few months toward an El Niño state [associated with hotter and drier conditions], with further strengthening expected through spring and into the start of the next summer season.

“Caution is advised, however, as the prediction skill of the ENSO phenomena can be limited during the winter months, and therefore it is highly recommended to keep track of the forecasts during and after winter,” SAWS said.

Above-normal rainfall is expected over the south-eastern and eastern coastal areas during late autumn, with the eastern coastal areas remaining likely to receive above-normal rainfall during the winter season.

“This is likely to bring positive impacts for crop and livestock production. However, the south-western part of the country, which normally receives significant rainfall during the winter season, is expected to receive below-normal rainfall during this period. 

“Therefore, the relevant decision-makers are encouraged to advise farmers in these regions to practice soil and water conservation, proper water harvesting and storage, and other appropriate farming practices,” SAWS said.

The weather service warned that the wetter-than-normal conditions may increase the risk of localised flooding, temporary waterlogging, and poor drainage in vulnerable coastal and low-lying areas, particularly in settlements located near rivers, estuaries, and flood-prone zones. 

Such conditions may elevate the potential for waterborne disease outbreaks, contamination of water sources, and water-related injuries or accidents. 

In contrast, the south-western and southern coastal regions are expected to receive below-normal rainfall during winter, which may place pressure on local water availability and hygiene conditions in some communities if dry conditions persist.

Minimum and maximum temperatures are also expected to be above normal across most parts of the country during autumn and early winter. 

These warmer-than-usual conditions may increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially among vulnerable groups such as older persons, young children, people with chronic illnesses, and those working outdoors. 

Elevated temperatures may also heighten exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, increasing the likelihood of sunburn, skin damage, and other UV- related health impacts. 

“Communities are therefore encouraged to remain alert to both heat- and rainfall-related health risks by staying hydrated, limiting unnecessary exposure to heat, using sun protection, avoiding flooded areas, and ensuring safe water and sanitation practices. 

“Health authorities and disaster management structures are advised to strengthen public health messaging and ensure the timely dissemination of heat-health information, flood alerts, and hygiene awareness measures to support preparedness and response,” SAWS said. 

The forecast is updated monthly, and users are advised to monitor the updated forecasts, as there is a possibility for them to change, especially the longer lead-time forecasts.  

“Moreover, farmers are advised to keep monitoring the weekly and monthly forecasts issued by the SAWS. Farmers are also advised to keep monitoring advisories from the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, and make the necessary adjustments accordingly,” the weather service said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

 

 

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners to deepen diplomatic, economic and people-to-people relations between South Africa and their respective countries.

The President received letters of credence from the newly appointed Heads of Mission from 20 countries across the world during a credentials ceremony at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House in Pretoria, on Wednesday. 

The ceremony saw the Heads of Mission-designate present their credentials to the President and pledged their commitment to work with South Africa to further advance and strengthen diplomatic relations. 

Letters of Credence are official diplomatic documents presented to the President by Heads of Mission-designate who have been nominated by their respective governments to serve as ambassadors to South Africa.

Addressing Heads of Mission, the President said South Africa stands ready to partner with nations for trade, development and peace.

“In South Africa you will find a ready, willing, able and capable partner for trade, development, progress and peace,” he said.

President Ramaphosa said the envoys begin their tenure at a time when South Africa’s economy is recovering, supported by ongoing structural reforms.

“The structural reform agenda we embarked on in 2018 to overcome longstanding constraints to investment and growth continues to gain momentum,” he said.

He noted improvements in key economic indicators, including stabilised public debt and increased job creation, as well as progress made through investment drives.

“Last week, we held our sixth South Africa Investment Conference, where we secured R889 billion in cumulative investment commitments. This has encouraged us to set a goal of securing R3 trillion in new investment commitments over the next three years,” he said. 

The President said government is also investing heavily in infrastructure to support growth.

“We will be investing approximately R1 trillion over the next three years to build roads, dams, schools, hospitals and other public infrastructure,” he said.

President Ramaphosa emphasised the importance of strengthening cooperation among nations, particularly in addressing global challenges.

“As we pursue our apex priority of inclusive growth and job creation, we are firmly committed to deepen our cooperation and collaboration with all countries. We hope that your time in South Africa will contribute to building meaningful, sustainable economic partnerships,” he said. 

Expectations for Diplomats

He also outlined expectations for the diplomats, stressing the importance of mutual respect, non-interference and constructive engagement.

“As President, whenever I appoint Ambassadors and High Commissioners to your country, I expect them to promote good relations between our two nations. I expect them to respect your country’s sovereignty and promote trade and investment opportunities in our respective countries. 

“I also expect them to promote South Africa’s culture and value system and strengthen people-to-people relations,” he said.

The President underscored the importance of diplomacy conducted with tact and discretion.

“I always make it a point to inform them that they should never criticise their host countries publicly and in a confrontational manner but should always seek to raise issues privately and constructively.

“They should always seek to build relationships with various stakeholders in the host country. They should always choose to preserve dignity and partnership between our respective countries,” the President said. 

He said this approach aligns with principles of international diplomacy and fosters stronger bilateral relations.

“It is this approach that I believe builds strong relationships between nations and helps to advance the interests of our respective countries based on mutual respect.
 
“South Africa’s interest is to advance a better, more peaceful, more equal world, anchored in human rights and with respect for the dignity of all,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za 

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Johannesburg will take centre stage on Thursday as the Gauteng Provincial Government hosts the second annual Gauteng Investment Conference (GIC).

The GIC – which comes hot off the heels of the successful sixth South Africa Investment Conference – will be held at Melrose Arch, with Deputy President Paul Mashatile expected to deliver the keynote address.

Delivering the provincial budget speech last month, then Gauteng Finance and Economic Development MEC Lebogang Maile outlined that the provincial government is targeting some R200 billion in investment pledges.

“For the upcoming GIC, our objective is to secure new investment commitments. We remain determined to secure R800 billion in investments by the end of the seventh administration.

“This target is not aspirational. It is pipeline-backed and supported by structured engagement with domestic investors, foreign direct investors and sector leaders. It builds on the momentum of 2025, but it moves us from mobilisation to institutionalisation. We are institutionalising marketing, origination, facilitation and delivery

“But conferences are not judged by attendance numbers or headlines. They are judged by implementation. It is therefore important that we account not only for what was pledged, but for what has been delivered,” Maile said at the time.

From promise to progress

Last year, the GIC garnered some R312.5 billion in pledges in sectors including agro-processing, transport, infrastructure, property development and aviation.

These pledges are expected to provide some 114 000 job opportunities.

During the launch of the 2026 GIC on 17 February, Maile stated that as of February this year, at least 28% of the pledges have resulted in active projects.

“[Some] 17 out of 60 projects are now in a roll-out and this translates to R73 billion that has been unlocked for the real economy.

“This conversion rate is central to our credibility, as it demonstrates that Gauteng does not treat investment mobilisation as an event driven exercise. But rather, as a continuous life cycle from origination and structuring to facilitation and delivery,” he said at the launch. 

Maile highlighted that the GIC serves as a platform that “integrates project preparation, investor engagement, intergovernmental coordination and capital mobilisation across our strategic pillars”.

“It achieves this by bringing visibility, structure and accountability to the provincial investment pipeline. In so doing, the GIC accelerates delivery and converts intent into implementation, as it translates strategy into bankable projects, aligns provincial ambitions with investor expectations and ensures that economic policy matches execution.

“This approach strongly reinforces the objectives and ambitions of the Gauteng Economic Development Plan, which emphasises inclusive growth, industrial expansion, infrastructure acceleration, job creation and long-term competitiveness,” he said.

Driving Gauteng forward

Maile noted that as GIC 2026 comes around, the provincial government is “now elevating the model”.

“Our goal is to fortify Gauteng’s standing as the top sub-national investment destination in Africa — a status characterised by its credibility, project preparedness and execution discipline.

“We aim to secure R200 billion in new investment commitments. We seek to showcase high-growth sectors that align with global and continental trends, including advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, electric vehicle value chains, digital infrastructure logistics, agro-processing, green hydrogen and financial services,” he said.

Some key catalytic projects to be showcased at GIC 2026 include:

• Gauteng Rapid Rail Integrated Network extensions.
• The Lanseria Smart City.
• The aerotropolis around OR Tambo International Airport.
• The expansion of the West Rand SEZ [Special Economic Zone].
• The proposed Vaal SEZ focused on steel revitalisation and green hydrogen

This year’s conference is also aimed at strengthening the “entire investment lifecycle, building on the momentum of 2025”.

“We are institutionalising marketing, origination, facilitation and delivery. We are aligning with the African Continental Free Trade Area and African Union Agenda 2063 to deepen Pan-African value chains.

“We are building on engagements in Davos, Italy and the Mining Indaba to convert diplomatic relations into structured pipelines. We are also placing municipalities at the centre of this model. Urban planning, infrastructure approvals 

“In 2025, we demonstrated that Gauteng can mobilise capital and in 2026, we are showing that Gauteng can convert capital into projects, jobs and leading to growth of the economy,” Maile said. – SAnews.gov.za

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EThekwini Municipality Mayor Cyril Xaba has extended heartfelt condolences to the family of Albert Mazibuko, a long-serving and award-winning member of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, who passed away over the weekend after a short illness.

The internationally acclaimed choral group confirmed Mazibuko’s passing in a statement on its Facebook page.

Xaba described Mazibuko (77) as a towering figure in South African music, whose artistry and dedication helped elevate the multi-Grammy Award-winning isicathamiya group to global prominence.

“Albert Mazibuko was more than a performer; he was a mentor and role model to generations of artists. His passing is not only a profound loss to his family and Ladysmith Black Mambazo, but to the nation as a whole,” Xaba said in a statement on Tuesday.

Mazibuko’s career spanned more than five decades, during which he helped secure five Grammy Awards and 19 nominations for the group, further cementing the global reach of isicathamiya and mbube music.

In paying tribute, Xaba also called on social partners to strengthen support for the creative industry to ensure that the legacy of cultural icons like Mazibuko continues to inspire and empower future talent.

He also encouraged young artists to draw inspiration from Mazibuko’s discipline, humility and enduring contribution to the arts.

“Mazibuko’s family and colleagues can take comfort in knowing that his remarkable career has left an indelible mark on South Africa’s cultural heritage,” Xaba said.

A memorial service will take place on 15 April in Durban. The funeral service will be held on 18 April in Entabamhlophe, Estcourt. – SAnews.gov.za

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Following the successful sixth South African Investment Conference, Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau has continued efforts to mobilise business leaders to invest in the South African economy.

Speaking during an engagement with the global think tank, The European House – Ambrosetti (TEHA), held at the Inanda Country Club in Sandton on Wednesday, Tau urged leaders to explore investment opportunities in South Africa.

The Minister emphasised that government has been working to create a conducive environment for investment and has made progress in addressing key constraints.

These include achieving four consecutive quarters of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth up to early 2026, securing a sovereign credit rating upgrade, removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list, and the end of load shedding.

“The sixth investment conference was also the platform on which we launched two instruments that directly address the frustrations investors have historically voiced.

“The first is the Fusion Centre — a coordinated government mechanism designed to fast-track regulatory approvals and resolve bottlenecks in real time, with defined timelines and enhanced transparency for investors. 

“The second is the planned Omnibus Fast-tracking Act, which will streamline licensing processes, digitise permits, and enable faster visa approvals for scarce skills. Herein, we are engineering a system that works for investors,” Tau said. 

He further highlighted energy, minerals and beneficiation, automotive and new energy vehicles and green industrialisation as some of the key sectors that will drive the South African economy going forward. 

Tau underscored that South Africa’s path to prosperity is anchored in strong partnerships between government and the private sector. – SAnews.gov.za

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Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister Zuko Godlimpi will on Wednesday visit sugar mills in KwaZulu-Natal in preparation for the reopening of the Sugarcane Crushing Season in May.

The Deputy Minister will start his visit with the re-opening of the Gledhow Mill. 

This follows a R1.8 billion expansion by the new owners, which was a commitment pledge made at the South African Investment Conference which took place on 31 March 2026 in Sandton, Gauteng.

Godlimpi will also sign Phase 2 of the Sugar Cane Value Chain Master Plan during the quarterly Executive Oversight Committee meeting. 

According to the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, Phase 1 of the Sugar Industry Master Plan (SIMP) was established as a partnership between government, the private sector and labour to stabilise and transform the sugar sector.

“The South African sugar industry remains a strategic agro-processing value chain, supporting rural livelihoods, small-scale growers, and regional economies, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga. 

“The industry is currently facing several structural challenges, including the risks of potential mill closures that could significantly affect cane growers, rural employment, and associated value chains,” the department said. 

Notwithstanding the challenges faced by the industry, the dtic and government development finance institutions like the Industrial Development Corporation remain committed to supporting the reopening of the sugar cane mills to preserve jobs and sustain the rural livelihoods in KZN. 

This commitment comes from the appreciation that livelihoods would be negatively impacted should there be a disruption in the sugar industry operations. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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The Special Tribunal has declared the R14 million in funding awarded by the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) to the Madumelani Community Project as unlawful, invalid and set aside.

The ruling, which was welcomed by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), comes after the unit exposed an intricate scheme by brothers Tshimangadzo and Ndoweni Mukutu, who fraudulently obtained funding intended for the construction of a cultural village in Hammanskraal.

The cultural village that the two had claimed they would build was already established in 2015 through legitimate R300 000 in NLC funding by the Maubane Cultural Village and Community Arts Centre.

In her judgment, President of the Special Tribunal, Judge Margaret Victor, found that the scheme concocted by the two brothers was “clearly fraudulent”.

“The available facts and context are clear. South Africa is in the midst of a catastrophic corruption epidemic.

“In this case, the facts are such that the conduct of the antagonists is unconscionable, which justifies the piercing of the corporate veil. Money earmarked for a cultural village, a pride and joy of any community, has been lost to a fraudulent scheme,” Victor said.

The brothers have also been ordered to pay back the funding money.

Web of lies

According to the SIU, the two brothers weaved a scheme with “extensive planning and deliberate misrepresentation, including the unlawful use of the Madumelani Community Project’s constitution”.

Cited as one of the respondents in the judgment is Dzata Accountants – a firm already identified by the SIU as one of five firms that helped in the looting of NLC coffers.

The accounting firm allegedly prepared false financial statements for the grant application.

“The SIU investigation found that the original members of the Madumelani Community Project… did not apply for NLC funding and were unaware of the grant application process. Instead, Tshimangadzo Mukutu fraudulently submitted the application, falsely claiming to be a director of the organisation.

“Further evidence from the SIU’s probe revealed that the brothers had previously approached the project’s members, obtained a copy of its constitution under the pretext of assisting with funding applications, and later used it without authorisation.

“Several individuals listed as members in the application confirmed that they had no knowledge of the submission and that their signatures had been forged. The probe also uncovered misrepresentation regarding the purpose of the funding,” the corruption busting unit said.

Follow the money

The false takeover of the legitimate project also included the appointment of fictitious office bearers and the “opening of a bank account through which millions of rands were disbursed”.

“Following the disbursement of funds in February 2018 into a newly opened bank account, substantial payments were channelled to various entities and relatives, including companies associated with T Mukutu,” the SIU stated.

Between March and July 2018, the following transactions were made:

• Nine transactions with RUM Management Consultancy, owned by Ndoweni Mukutu, totalling some R3 070 000.
• Ndhava Management Consulting, owned by Tshisimba Collin Mukondoleli, received a payment of R4 999 000
• Thwala Front, owned by Mukondoleli’s wife, Kharivhe Fulufhelo Promise, was paid R1 400 000. At least R1 million of that money was paid to a money trading account.
• R50 000 was paid in salaries
• R400 000 was recorded as a hardware purchase

“The SIU found that the Mukutu brothers, along with Mukondoleli and his wife, and Tshilidzi David Netswinganani, who acted as the treasurer and one of the signatories, had ‘hijacked’ the NPO.

“In April 2018, five payments totalling R4 650 000 were also made, with R3 519 000 going to Mudonde Events and Investment owned by N Mukutu. These also included a payment of R3 million to a trust associated with Advocate William Huma, a former NLC Board member.

“Last year, the Special Tribunal ordered Huma to reimburse R21 million in misused grant funds, and the SIU obtained a preservation order for R10 million from the sale of his luxury residence,” the SIU said.

The corruption busting unit welcomed the ruling.

“The order of the Special Tribunal is part of the implementation of the SIU investigation outcomes and consequence management to recover financial losses suffered by State institutions due to corruption, maladministration, or malpractice.

“In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996, the SIU refers any evidence it uncovers that indicates possible criminal conduct to the National Prosecuting Authority for further action,” the SIU said. – SAnews.gov.za

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