Category: South Africa Government

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, November 26, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, November 26, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

The start of the month of December signals the start of the much-awaited festive season we have all been secretly yearning for – probably since the end of the last festive season!

While we have been waiting for the arrival of December that is characterised by long hot days, scones and drinks on tap under a tree or on the stoep in our beloved villages or dorpies, the December holidays also have a dark side.

This holiday season on South African roads is also synonymous with serious and sometimes deadly accidents that steal the joy from families and friends of those involved in fatal vehicle crashes. 

While some can walk away from vehicle crashes with their lives intact – they likely do so with life altering injuries. In some instances, the accidents could have been avoided if one did not have that tempting ‘one last drink’ before getting behind the steering wheel, or more cautiously sent their vehicle in for a safety check, prior to embarking on a long-distance trip. 

Such precautions can mean the difference between life and death; the difference between becoming a statistic or not being one. 

Government’s Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act shows that government is equally concerned about the carnage on our roads. The act of which its implementation has been postponed to 1 July 2026, provides for the penalisation of drivers and operators of motor vehicles who are guilty of road infringements through a system of demerit points. The demerit system can result in the suspension or cancellation of driving licences. 

The Act’s system involves demerit points being allocated according to the severity of infringements committed. Under the system, vehicles are not punished by the system, but the operator /juristic person is held responsible for the use of the vehicle.

The thought of having so many demerits that lead to the cancellation of one’s drivers licence and having to go through the driving licence test again, is anxiety inducing. I for one, did not get my driver’s licence the first time around, but that is a conversation for another day!  

The nationwide rollout of the act which is also aimed at promoting safer roads through a uniform system of traffic law enforcement across the country, was meant to start on 1 December this year.

However, the Department of Transport has said that the deferment of the implementation date is due to time being needed to finalise the training of law enforcement officers and back-office personnel and the harmonisation of the law enforcement system used by the various municipalities to align with AARTO requirements.

And while one can say that the postponement is a bit of a drawback, it shows that government is keen on ensuring that things are done by the book.

As part of efforts to ensure safety and reduce the toll that accidents have on lives and livelihoods, in its tabled Budget Vote in July, the department said it aims to reduce road fatalities by 45% by 2029, so that the country reaches the United Nations target of halving road fatalities by 2030.

As is human nature to make mistakes, crashes are not the sole preserve of the December holiday period. Throughout the year, government not only calls for caution on the roads but also puts in place campaigns to remind road users of the importance of using roads safety.

The Easter Road Safety Report statistics show the effectiveness of such campaigns. 

“Easter 2025 had the lowest number of crashes and fatalities we have seen for the last three years. Crashes were reduced from 209 in 2024 to 141 in 2025 which is a 32.5 percent overall decrease compared to 2024,” the Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy said at the release of the stats in April.

The reduction was not only because of visible patrols, widespread and consistent law enforcement operations across the nine provinces; but also co-ordinated action by national, provincial and local government authorities.

The department also noted that the reduction in crashes was also due to partnerships between civil society and government. 

Government is also acutely aware that transport is not only the backbone of the economy with the annual commemoration of Transport Month in October, but that is also its responsibility to ensure the provision of efficient, affordable, accessible, safe, and reliable public transport adding that improving universal accessibility and safety at taxi ranks, train, and bus stations is on its list of priorities.

The bus crash that claimed the lives of 43 people in Limpopo in October; the crash between a minibus taxi and a truck along the N3 between Van Reenen and Montrose in the Free State, as well as crashes involving children in KwaZulu-Natal remain fresh in our minds.

The elevation of road safety is not only done over the course of long weekends and the Easter period but also throughout the year with law enforcement controls like Operation Shanela regularly reporting the arrest of drunk drivers. To date, the police have already launched various safety campaigns across the country which includes multidisciplinary roadblocks by law enforcement. 

And yes, while there are corrupt traffic officers who take bribes and let motorists get away with wrongdoing, not every officer is a rotten apple. When reported, such officers are brought to book.

In addition, potholes are being attended to through initiatives like the department’s Vala Zonke Pothole Patching Programme and provinces like Gauteng are also continuing to make progress in upgrading, maintaining, and rehabilitating roads to enhance their safety, accessibility, and economic connectivity while also taking unroadworthy vehicles off the roads.

As the year draws to a close, let us use the roads responsibly, not only during the upcoming festivities, but always. The ideal is not to drink and drive; or drive faster than Formula 1 drivers; or overtake carelessly. Nor is it to engage in road rage, and fall asleep at the wheel, among others. 

We should not have to wait for rules such as those contained in the AARTO Act to be responsible citizens. 
Our lives depend on it. Let us all be safe this festive season and not become a mere statistic. –SAnews.gov.za  

Neo Semono is a Features Editor at SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, has used his platform at the Science Forum South Africa (SFSA) to advocate for a research framework designed around African priorities rather than external influences. 

He recognised that African countries have to build robust science infrastructure and regional networks.

“To enable this fundamental shift, we believe Africa desperately needs what I call a sovereign research agenda for Africa. By this, I mean a research agenda that is designed, funded, and directed based on African priorities and concerns.

“Not based on the generosity of external donors – regardless of their benign intentions,” Nzimande said on Tuesday. 

To enable the development of a sovereign research agenda, the Minister believes that African countries must build robust and accessible science infrastructure to support young and women researchers, improve maths and science education in public schools, and increase investments in research and development. 

He is of the view that the leaders should focus on reversing the loss of critical skills by creating better working conditions for scientists and researchers.

Nzimande’s plan further calls for developing Africa’s capacity to process its own mineral wealth, curbing illicit financial outflows that drain resources needed for essential services. 

He is also calling for stronger links between science, technology, and industry to drive commercialisation and support tech-based small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). 

In addition, the strategy emphasises the importance of adopting emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and expanding pandemic preparedness, including achieving the goal of producing 60% of Africa’s vaccines locally by 2040.

The SFSA 2025 attracted a diverse gathering of over 6 000 participants, among them were scientists, policymakers, youth innovators, entrepreneurs, and representatives from civil society, all converging to engage in meaningful discussions about the future of science and technology in Africa.

The SFSA 2025, the National Advisory Council on Innovation (NACI) and the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) are currently hosting a five-day high-level session on strengthening science diplomacy and science advice across Africa and the Global South.

The Minister expressed the significance of this forum, which marked a decade of insightful dialogue and coincided with South Africa’s Group of 20 (G20) Presidency. 

“This year is particularly special as this forum celebrates 10 years of insightful dialogue and also coincides with the conclusion of our country’s G20 Presidency,” he said. 

This year’s theme is: “Placing Science, Technology and Innovation at the centre of Government, Education, Industry and Society.” 

Nzimande emphasised the need for a sustained increase in public awareness of the importance of science in everyday life.

Among the exciting features was the South African Tech Challenge 2025, which aimed to identify high-potential small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) whose technologies tackle societal challenges.

However, Nzimande’s address did not shy away from discussing the challenges faced by society in this pivotal moment of history.

He painted a picture of paradox, saying, “This era has seen the emergence of some of the most breathtaking technological advances in human history… At the same time, we have also witnessed alarming levels of social inequality.” 

He urged the audience to consider how to bridge these divides, asking, “how do we make sure our science and technology innovations facilitate pathways for social inclusion and social justice?”

The Minister called on those in attendance to envision a future where science and technology would serve not just as tools of advancement, but as instruments of inclusion and equity. 

“This is the moment for us to act,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

Western Cape transport officials have issued a serious warning to motorists after 24 arrests for driving under the influence of alcohol were made in just one week.

From 17 to 23 November 2025, the Provincial Traffic Services carried out 168 integrated roadblocks, vehicle checks, and speed control operations across the province. 

During these efforts, over 30 000 vehicles were stopped and inspected, resulting in more than 9 000 fines being issued for various violations related to driver and vehicle fitness.

Officers also recorded 200 speeding offences during this period.

The officials reported that of the 46 arrests recorded, 24 were for driving under the influence of alcohol, three for reckless and negligent driving, six for goods overloading and another six for possession of fraudulent documentation. 

In addition, three arrests involved undocumented persons, while one person was arrested for wilfully damaging or tampering with a vehicle or throwing an object at a vehicle. 

One person was arrested for bribery, another for obstructing or hindering an authorised officer, and one for threatening or suggesting the use of violence against a traffic officer.

Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku expressed deep concern at the spike in drunk driving incidents.

“Every driver who gets behind the wheel after drinking is a danger not only to themselves, but to every person on the road. As we approach the festive season, we are intensifying enforcement to ensure that law-abiding road users can travel safely. Driving under the influence will not be tolerated, and we will continue to take decisive action against offenders,” said Sileku.

Chief Director of Traffic Management Maxine Bezuidenhout urged the public to take responsibility. 

“The high number of drunk driving arrests is deeply concerning. Even small amounts of alcohol can impair judgement and slow reaction times. Our officers will continue to take firm action against anyone who chooses to endanger others by driving under the influence. We urge motorists to act responsibly, respect the law, and help us prevent unnecessary incidents and loss of life on our roads,” said Bezuidenhout.

To prevent drinking and driving, motorists are encouraged to plan ahead by using e-hailing services or metered taxis, appointing a sober designated driver, arranging to stay over where they are socialising, or asking a friend or family member for a lift. 

They are also urged to refuse to travel in a vehicle with a driver who has been drinking.

“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility,” Sileku added. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Leading voices in South Africa’s film, media and creative industries have called for a fundamental shift in how women are portrayed, insisting that storytelling, content creation and media platforms must move beyond victimhood and actively reclaim women’s power.

The women were speaking on Tuesday at the national launch of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children 2025 campaign at Gallagher Convention Centre. 

The panel, which was led by Dr Criselda Kananda, spotlighted the experiences and agency of women in the film, entertainment, television and media sectors, and how these industries can challenge harmful narratives and reshape social attitudes. 

Veteran foreign editor Sophie Mokoena criticised the persistent marginalisation of women leaders in newsrooms and international coverage.

“It’s very rare you will see stories about women’s leadership and their successes. Women around the world are competent and capable to lead, but they become victims of negative stories… The media will have to do better in covering the role played by women in building a better world,” Mokoena said. 

Mokoena reflected on the global footprint of South Africa’s former UN Women Executive Director, Pumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, noting that her impact on policy, advocacy and women’s empowerment remains underreported.

“Women have done a lot, and they are still doing a lot quietly. They don’t have coverage. Women are not just victims of gender-based violence. They are living, leading and fighting this scourge. The media’s role should be to tell those success stories,” Mokeona said. 

Music icon and cultural activist Sibongile Mngoma warned that harmful media content continues to shape harmful social attitudes.

“A sound mind thinks right because of what it consumes. If you are feeding society glamorised violence, drug abuse and alcohol abuse using celebrities as brand ambassadors, then that is what society becomes. We must empower women to speak and give them the resources to do the work,” Mngoma said. 

Screenwriter and filmmaker Lerato Mokoka highlighted the power of intentional storytelling and interrogation of bias in writers’ rooms.

“When we unpack scripts, we interrogate why we are saying what we’re saying and who we are representing. You begin to care for the character and realise they represent someone out there, a survivor. We aim to tell stories in a way that is impactful, not harmful,” she said. 

Youth advocate and communications strategist Dumi Le Roux said meaningful change requires centering young people in content creation.

“The tactic that works is having young people co-curate initiatives. Once youth are involved at the core of the table, authenticity finds expression… We create mobilisers and ambassadors who run with the narrative themselves,” Le Roux said. 

SABC Head of Content and producer Lala Tuku emphasised that women must own their stories at every level of production.

“Women’s stories – their complexities and nuance – can only be told by women. It’s not just about seeing a woman on-screen. The head writer, director and creatives behind the scenes must be women too. We must give power and nurture the female voice,” Tuku said. 

Legendary musician and broadcaster Dr Yvonne Chaka Chaka said radio remains a vital tool to reshape attitudes and uplift women’s voices.

“We live in a country where it is sad and hurting to be a woman. At Women Radio, we promote women’s issues 365 days a year. We empower women to speak, to be opinionated, and to respect themselves and each other,” she said. 

Veteran actress and advocate Nakedi Ribane said representation must move beyond stereotypes and poverty-driven narratives.

“Until the lion tells its story, the tale of the hunt will always glorify the hunter. We must tell our stories the way we want to. Productions must reflect who we really are families with professionals, children who grow differently from what is usually portrayed. Poverty should not be romanticised,” she said. 

As the country enters 16 Days of Activism, the panel’s message was clear, transforming society begins with transforming stories and ensuring women, in all their diversity, hold the pen. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has addressed the mounting water crisis facing South African municipalities, revealing a multifaceted approach to tackle systemic issues plaguing water and sanitation services nationwide.

Speaking in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) on Tuesday, Deputy President cited a report from the Department of Water and Sanitation, which shows a significant decline in the capacity of municipal water delivery.

As a result, national reliability has dropped to only 68%, and the quality of water in 60% of water supply systems is deteriorating.

Mashatile said this crisis stems from a combination of factors, including poor governance, lack of technical capacity, inadequate infrastructure investments, and financial mismanagement.

“I must highlight that government is taking decisive steps to resolve the systemic issues that continue to hinder the reliable provision of water and sanitation services to local communities.”

Through the Water Task Team, he said the government is tackling water security challenges by improving infrastructure, reforming institutions and expediting project management in a coordinated approach.

The South Africa National Water and Sanitation Indaba held in March this year proposed key interventions aimed at addressing the challenges of water provision and continuous disintegration of critical water infrastructure, amongst others.

Key recommendations included increased investments through financing options and ensuring the financial viability of the sector.

In addition, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has established a Water Partnership Office housed at the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) to help municipalities prepare projects for private sector investment.

“Through this office, the department is already implementing several public-private partnerships, such as the Olifants River Management Model Programme.”

According to the Deputy President, this programme has been introduced to address the bulk water needs, particularly in Limpopo, to promote economic development and ensure the delivery of bulk raw water to municipalities.

He explained that this model is based on a 50/50 public-private partnership.

In this arrangement, 50% of the project’s cost is contributed by the mining companies, while the remaining 50% is funded by the government through water infrastructure grants and the budget facility for infrastructure.

He announced that the DWS, Water Boards and water service authorities are working to increase collaboration with the Infrastructure Fund to put in place more blended finance water projects.

He also touched on the projects in major cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town, the Vaal Gamagara Water Supply Scheme in the Northern Cape, Lesotho Highlands and uMkhomazi Water Projects.

In combating corruption, the country’s second-in-command acknowledged the significant challenge of water tanker corruption and infrastructure vandalism.

“National Treasury has issued a circular cautioning municipalities against long-term reliance on water tankers, which can only be used as temporary emergency measures.”

The Deputy President stressed the importance of collaborative approaches, calling for increased community involvement and a culture of reporting suspicious activities to expose criminal networks within the water sector.

“As government, we call for increased community participation in protecting critical infrastructure. We also urge communities to report suspicious activities and embrace the culture of whistleblowing to expose criminal networks and corruption within the water sector.”

He stated that the government remains committed to addressing these challenges, viewing water infrastructure as a critical national priority.

“Water is life. Government remains committed to improving the provision of a reliable water supply, especially to township and rural communities.”

Confronting GBVF head-on

Meanwhile, as South Africa marks the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children Campaign, he said the country refuses to accept gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) as normal.

“To fight GBVF effectively, we need to continually raise awareness, improve coordination and mobilise resources among our institutions. All of us must be activists against GBVF starting in our homes, communities, work and in leadership roles.

“We must declare that this scourge will not persist under our watch,” he added.

The Deputy President was responding to questions from NCOP delegates representing their provinces regarding his delegated responsibilities. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

South Sudan delegation learns from South Africa’s communication model

Edwin
Tue, 11/25/2025 – 11:53