Category: South Africa Government

Source: Government of South Africa

Heads of State and Government have started arriving in Johannesburg ahead of the G20 Leaders’ Summit, which officially opens tomorrow and concludes on Sunday at the Nasrec Expo Centre, in Johannesburg, Gauteng.

The annual gathering is drawing not only world leaders but also hundreds of media representatives and international visitors. 

Government has confirmed that preparations are complete and it’s all systems go for the Summit.

South Africa assumed the year-long G20 Presidency in December 2024, becoming the first African state to host the prestigious global forum.

Among the dignitaries already in the country include European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, President of the European Council António Costa, Prime Minister of Vietnam Pham Minh Chinh, Premier of the People’s Republic of China Li Qiang, and United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Several other leaders are expected to arrive throughout the day.

Security has been tightened around the Nasrec Expo Centre, with multiple road closures in the vicinity. 

Earlier this week, the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) expressed confidence in the country’s readiness to ensure the safety of delegates and the public during the Summit.

“As the NATJOINTS, we have been meeting daily with all relevant role-players to ensure our security plan is well-executed,” NATJOINTS Chairperson, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, said.

Mosikili urged the public to familiarise themselves with the temporary road closures and to cooperate with law enforcement authorities. She added that roads will be closed off completely and movement from pedestrians, cyclists and motorists will be limited when convoys pass through. 

“Roads will be opened as soon as the convoys move past the affected routes,” she said.

At the Nasrec Expo Centre, local and international journalists from various media houses are already gathered in anticipation of briefings from government officials. 

SAnews observed a visible police presence throughout Johannesburg, with officers stationed at major intersections and access routes leading to the venue.

The city is awash with colourful G20-branded posters and banners, some featuring participating Heads of State.

According to Mosikili, additional police officers will be deployed over the weekend to bolster security.

“We will therefore not allow any disruptions, lawlessness and no damaging and defacing of G20 infrastructure, including posters. It is on that note, that we request everyone within the borders of South Africa to cooperate with law enforcement officers at all times, to enable us to deliver a successful event,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za 

  

Source: Government of South Africa

By prioritising investment in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), the world not only safeguards vulnerable communities but also strengthens global infrastructure and economies – proving that every cent spent on prevention helps protect lives and livelihoods.

This is according to the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, who delivered the opening remarks at the Group of 20 (G20) Ministerial side event on scaling up investment in DRR, held at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Sandton on Friday.

Delegates meeting this morning ahead of tomorrow’s G20 Leaders’ Summit are gathering at a time when the world faces increasingly complex and interconnected risks.

“Climate change, rapid urbanisation, ecosystem degradation, and widening inequality continue to expose millions to disasters that are predictable, preventable, yet devastating,” said the Minister.  

Hlabisa cited the 2025 Global Assessment Report, which has warned of a stark mismatch between rising global risk and current investment in resilience.

In South Africa, these realities are not theoretical with the KwaZulu-Natal floods of 2022, recurrent droughts, and mounting pressures on municipalities underscoring an urgent truth – the cost of inaction far exceeds the cost of preparedness. 

“Every rand invested in disaster risk reduction saves lives and protects development gains.” 
He informed delegates that government is committed to shifting from a reactive response to proactive, risk-informed planning. 

South Africa recently launched the Early Warning for All Road Map, endorsed during the DRR Working Group meetings in Cape Town, and is currently reviewing its Disaster Management System to better embed resilience in planning, budgeting, and infrastructure investment.

READ | SA launches early warning roadmap

“But government cannot do this alone. Scaling up investment demands bold partnerships between public institutions, the private sector, development finance institutions, researchers, and communities. It requires innovative financing mechanisms, resilient infrastructure, and a shared commitment to protect the most vulnerable.”

Friday’s side event is the flagship initiative of the Presidency, co-organised with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction. 

It advances the G20 High-Level Voluntary Principles for Investing in DRR, which provide practical guidance for moving from risk identification to funding solutions.

“Colleagues, resilience is not merely an abstract concept; it embodies the tangible ability of communities to endure and recover from shocks and adversities without losing hope, dignity, or their livelihoods.” 

Hlabisa believes that the true strength of our institutions lies in their proactive capacity to anticipate potential risks and mitigate them effectively before disasters unfold.

“It is the unwavering resolve of leaders, like those assembled in this room, that drives the imperative investment in resilience today. By doing so, we ensure that future generations inherit a safer, more robust world capable of withstanding unforeseen challenges.” 

The Minister urged all those who were in the room to seize the opportunity to cultivate strategic partnerships, mobilise the necessary financing, and turn innovative ideas into measurable actions that propel us forward. 

In addition, he stated that South Africa is fully prepared to collaborate with them to deliver tangible progress aligned with Agenda 2063, the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, and the Sustainable Development Goals.

“Together, we can build a future marked by resilience and sustainability, where communities thrive even in the face of adversity.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

With one day to go before the commencement of the G20 Leaders’ Summit, operations across all designated ports of entry remained stable and incident-free over the past 24 hours, said the Border Management Authority’s (BMA).

This is as various Heads of State and Government as well as high-level delegations continue to arrive for the G20 Leaders’ Summit at the weekend.

The BMA has so far facilitated the arrivals of Her Excellency, Ms Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Union, His Excellency Antony Albanese, the Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of Australia, His Excellency Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim, the President of Malaysia, the President of the European Council, Mr António Costa, Prime Minister of Vietnam, His Excellency Pham Minh Chinh, the People’s Republic of China Premier, Li Qiang and His Excellency Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, amongst others. 

According to the  BMA, more arrivals are expected today (21 November 2025).

Commissioner of the BMA, Dr Michael Masiapato, said that in the past week under intensified operational deployments, BMA officials successfully facilitated the arrival of delegates, Government officials, and technical teams for the G20 Sherpa meeting, the G20 Social Summit and the B20 Summit. 

“Despite the heightened security environment, increased traveller volumes and the complex coordination required across multiple ports of entry, all arrivals were processed efficiently,” Masiapato said on Friday.

He added that systems across key points of entry are fully operational, supported by BMA information and communication technology (ICT) technicians deployed strategically at OR Tambo International Airport, Lanseria International Airport and Waterkloof Air Force Base. 

“The dedicated G20 processing counters at these facilities are fully staffed to manage the increased volumes associated with summit arrivals.

“Enhanced security measures remain firmly in place. Strict access control protocols have been implemented across all operational zones within both inner and outer perimeters. The South African Police Service (SAPS) continues to conduct routine security sweeps, attending to unattended luggage and parcels in line with international security protocols at the priority areas within the airports. 

“To reinforce operational readiness, the BMA has deployed additional personnel from its back-office functions, while Regional Commanders and Executives are on the ground providing leadership and oversight during the arrival period,” he explained. 

High-visibility patrols and crime-prevention measures are being implemented to ensure full compliance with operational standards and to maintain proper command and control. Searches at designated screening points continue as part of the BMA’s layered security approach.

Masiapato said all BMA officials at land ports of entry identified as contingency support points for ground transport remain in close coordination with their respective regional and international counterparts. Patrols within all port corridors have been intensified to guarantee the free flow of traffic and prevent any potential traffic bottlenecks.

“The BMA remains committed to ensuring that South Africa hosts a safe, efficient, and world-class G20 Summit by guaranteeing secure border operations and uninterrupted facilitation at all times,” Masiapato said.

For Operation HI -TIVISE – Report suspicious activities on 0801 229 019, or via the BMA website platform on www.bma.gov.za 
At a briefing on Wednesday, Transport Minister Barbara Creecy said the country was ready for the hosting of the Summit.

READ | G20: Aviation sector ready to receive global leaders

“The aviation sector has completed all critical preparations to meet the rigorous standards expected for this historic event,” said Creecy.  – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, November 21, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

The G20 Sustainable Industrial Policy Report provides a strong foundation for collective action towards building diversified economic structures , said the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Zuko Godlimpi. 

“The report makes it clear that the world needs sustainable industrial policy now more than ever.  This is because our current systems of production and consumption which are rooted in fossil fuels, resource depletion, and ecological degradation are no longer compatible with a healthy planet or a just economy. The crises we face today are fundamentally tied to how economic value is created and distributed,” said Godlimpi.  

The Deputy Minister was speaking at the launch of the report titled: “G20: Removing International Ostacles to Sustainable Industrial Policy”, held at the headquarters of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) in Pretoria on Thursday.

READ | New G20 Report on sustainable industrial policy launch

The launch of the high-level G20 report was co-hosted with the Institute for Economic Justice (IEJ) ahead of the G20 Leaders’ Summit at the weekend.

The report acknowledges that while there is an urgent need for global cooperation to address  climate change, economic underdevelopment, inequality, poverty, and geopolitical instability, the current multilateral system is embattled with barriers that obstruct rather than enable transformative national policies.

Godlimpi said the report provided an invaluable framework for aligning industrial strategies with climate, development, and equity goals.

He further added that sustainable industrial policy offers a different path.

“It enables purposeful transformation; building diversified economic structures that respect planetary boundaries, while also expanding opportunity, strengthening resilience, and improving social outcomes. It is a framework for ensuring that the industries we build today support human and ecological flourishing tomorrow.”

Godlimpi emphasised that if there was an expectation for all countries to transition to sustainable, green, and inclusive industrial systems, then all must recognise that they cannot do so under unequal rules or limited resources.

“The transition to sustainable industry must be just. Among other things, workers must be supported with new skills. Communities must see tangible benefits, and developing countries must have access to the tools, technology, and finance required to build new industrial ecosystems. 

“As South Africa, we are proud to champion this agenda within the G20. Our Presidency has prioritised inclusive growth and industrialisation because we know what is at stake, not only for our own economy, but for the future of all developing nations,” he said. 

The report can be accessed on: 
https://iej.org.za/removing-international-obstacles-to-sustainable-industrial-policy/ 

–SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) has welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement declaring Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) a national crisis.

DWYPD Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga said the “bold and necessary” declaration marks a significant step toward strengthening South Africa’s multi-sectoral response to “one of the most devastating and persistent human rights violations affecting women, children, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups.”

President Ramaphosa made the announcement when he was delivering the keynote address at the closing ceremony of the G20 Social Summit at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre in Ekurhuleni, on Thursday.

He urged governments, communities, and social partners to intensify efforts to combat GBVF, empower women and youth, and strengthen South Africa’s health, education, and social systems.

“No society can thrive for as long as gender-based violence and femicide continues and the agency of women is denied. The violence perpetrated by men against women erodes the social fabric of nations. It imposes a heavy burden that constrains development and weakens inclusive growth.”

The President stressed the need for extraordinary and coordinated action, noting that “men and boys are critical partners in transforming harmful norms and advancing gender justice.”

“They must be actively involved in challenging inherited attitudes, power imbalances and social structures that normalise violence and silence survivors. We have agreed, among all social partners, that we need to take extraordinary and concerted action – using every means at our disposal – to end this crisis,” the President said. 

Chikunga reaffirmed the department’s role as the custodian of strategic leadership, advocacy, and coordination to mainstream the socio-economic empowerment of women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

She said the declaration underscores the government’s commitment towards accelerating the implementation of the National Strategic Plan on GBVF (NSP-GBVF), which includes six pillars: accountability coordination and leadership; prevention and rebuilding social cohesion; justice, safety and protection; response, care, support and healing; economic power; and research and information management.

Recognising GBVF as a violation of human rights, Chikunga said the national crisis declaration elevates GBVF to a top-tier priority that demands urgent and coordinated action across all spheres of government, civil society, the private sector, and communities.

“Government alone cannot end GBVF. It demands a united front—where communities, men, and institutions actively challenge harmful norms, protect survivors, and uphold justice,” the Minister said.

As the country prepares for the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, the department will launch the campaign under the theme “LETSEMA,” calling on men, women, boys, girls, and media houses to work together to End Gender Violence and Femicide.

The department said the campaign aims to bring together filmmakers, media professionals, civil society, academia, researchers, and development partners to co-create a shared agenda for GBV prevention through responsible storytelling and inclusive media representation. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, is calling for bold partnerships, innovation, and inclusive growth to transform historically marginalised coastal regions into vibrant economic hubs.

The Minister was delivering a keynote address at the strategic Pre-Investment Summit engagement on the Eastern Seaboard Development (ESD) corridor on Thursday.

“This summit is a defining moment to unlock the Eastern Seaboard’s immense potential. Through integrated planning, catalytic projects, and community participation, we will build a climate-smart, digitally connected, and socially inclusive South Africa,” he said at the gathering at Dan’s Country Lodge in Umthatha, Eastern Cape.

The Minister outlined several measures aimed at streamlining and advancing the goals of the ESD initiative. 

These measures include the establishment of a special-purpose vehicle and an investment facilitation task team to simplify approvals and accelerate deal-making. 

In addition, there will be a focus on advancing key projects in areas such as transport, renewable energy, industrial parks, and coastal tourism.

Furthermore, the initiative emphasises the importance of ensuring community ownership and actively engaging traditional leaders in economic development. 

It is also aligned with the National Development Plan 2030, the African Continental Free Trade Area, and the District Development Model.

In addition, CoGTA Deputy Minister, Dr Dickson Masemola, highlighted the necessity of unified leadership to ensure that the Eastern Seaboard does not become a “dream deferred.”

He called for inclusive economic approaches that prioritise social conditions over extractive models and advocated for the integration of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges to equip young people with skills for key sectors such as tourism, the ocean economy, agriculture, and renewable energy.

The KwaZulu-Natal CoGTA MEC, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, showcased catalytic projects in his province, including wind farms in uMzimkhulu, hydropower in Greater Kokstad, the Kokstad interchange, road upgrades, and small craft harbours in Port Shepstone and Hibberdene.

Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane has committed to aligning provincial planning with ESD priorities and fast-tracking key infrastructure projects, including the N2 Wild Coast Highway, Mtentu and Msikaba bridges, as well as renewable energy initiatives.

He reinforced the importance of integrated regional planning to unlock economic potential and creating sustainable jobs across the Eastern Seaboard corridor.

The Deputy Chairperson of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, Nkosi Langa Mavuso, advocated for traditional leadership as active economic partners in the development process. 

He emphasised that all initiatives must respect land rights and strengthen social cohesion, ensuring that development benefits communities equitably. 

Key actions

CoGTA Deputy Minister, Prince Zolile Burns-Ncamashe, detailed the next steps to make the ESD corridor a reality, including mobilising resources through innovative financing models, ensuring political stability and policy certainty, and streamlining agencies to cut red tape. 

He stressed the importance of land tenure reform, integrated spatial planning with traditional leadership, and investment in roads, water, energy, and sanitation as economic infrastructure.

Key actions include forming an investment task team, packaging catalytic projects for private sector engagement, and aligning agencies to deliver efficient, decisive action today that will define the region’s future.

The ESD corridor presents a unique opportunity to invest in transformative projects that will reshape South Africa’s coastal economy.

Investors are invited to partner with government and communities to unlock opportunities in renewable energy, logistics, agro-processing, tourism, and the ocean economy. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, has handed over a sewer infrastructure project that will help residents of Emfuleni in Gauteng.

The project, which was officially handed over on Thursday, provides much-needed relief, restores dignity, and enhances sanitation services for communities that have endured sewer spillages and unsafe living conditions for years.

The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs states that for many years, the bulk sewer line in the northern areas of Emfuleni has been poorly positioned, running through private properties and making maintenance extremely difficult. 

This has led to ongoing blockages, environmental hazards, and daily challenges for thousands of residents.

The department announced the completion of a 2.1 km upgrade, costing R68.2 million. The project was funded through the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) Schedule 6B and implemented by the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA). 

It represents a significant milestone for the residents of Boitumelo, Sebokeng North, and Evaton.

The project involved the complete upgrading and rerouting of the 1.5-metre diameter main outfall sewer pipeline, removing it from private properties and giving engineers proper access for future maintenance.

The department said the new system now safely channels sewage to the wastewater treatment plant, eliminating long-standing risks and restoring public health and dignity.

This transformative infrastructure intervention will benefit over 94 000 residents who were severely affected by sewer overflows and environmental pollution.

Hlabisa applauded MISA for its effective implementation and emphasised that the project is a clear demonstration of government’s commitment to restoring dignity to communities and ensuring that infrastructure serves the people as intended.

He urged residents of Emfuleni to jealously protect and safeguard the infrastructure, noting that proper maintenance and community ownership are essential for ensuring that the upgrades serve future generations. 

“As CoGTA, we want every rand spent to translate into real, lasting improvements in people’s lives,” he said.

Hlabisa also acknowledged that while the sewer challenge has now been addressed, other service delivery issues remain, including human settlements, electricity supply, access to clean water, and economic opportunities. 

He affirmed his commitment to walk the journey with the municipality, working urgently to change the service delivery realities that many communities still face 31 years into democracy.

Reflecting on future opportunities, the Minister highlighted the potential benefits of South Africa’s engagement with the Group of 20 (G20), particularly in attracting investments that can stimulate economic growth and uplift communities.

During the community engagement session, residents raised a broad range of issues affecting their daily lives. 

The Minister welcomed these contributions, stating that government must listen and act decisively. 

“My door remains open. We are ready to listen, respond, and work with all stakeholders to improve your lives,” he said.

He also emphasised that local communities must benefit from job opportunities, including those for persons with disabilities: “No one should be left behind when economic opportunities arise.”

The session concluded with the community expressing concerns about outstanding issues across various departments. 

However, there was also jubilation, as residents showed gratitude for the completed sewer project, which has now been formally handed over to both the municipality and the community.

The Minister said he is committed to returning to Emfuleni to provide feedback on all matters raised. 

“Working together, we will ensure that the urgent issues receive the necessary attention. This is only the beginning of restoring Emfuleni to the community it deserves to be,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa has received notice from the United States indicating a possible change of approach regarding its participation in the G20 Leaders’ Summit, describing the development as a “very positive” sign.

Speaking during a press briefing following his trilateral meeting with European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, President Ramaphosa confirmed that discussions with Washington were ongoing.

READ | President Ramaphosa, EU leaders reaffirm the deepening of partnerships

“We have received notice from the United States, a notice which we are still in discussions with them over about a change of mind about participating in one shape, form or other in the Summit,” he said on Thursday evening.

President Ramaphosa noted that the message from the US came just hours before the start of the Leaders’ Summit, prompting urgent engagement to understand the implications and practicalities of its potential participation.

“This comes really at the late hour before the Summit begins, and so therefore we do need to engage in those types of discussions to see how practical it is and what it finally really means,” he said. 

Despite the timing, the President struck an optimistic tone, saying South Africa viewed the shift as encouraging. 
“In a way, we see this as a positive sign, very positive because, as I’ve often said, boycott politics never work. It’s always best to be inside the tent than being outside of the tent,” the President said. 

He emphasised the importance of the US presence in global governance structures, saying its engagement strengthens multilateral cooperation.

“The tent is G20, all countries are here and the United States being biggest economy in the world needs to be here. So, it’s pleasing to hear that there is a change of approach, and so we are still discussing how that will manifest,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa is expected to continue high-level engagements with global partners ahead of the commencement of the G20 Leaders’ Summit at the weekend.

Earlier in the day the President said the G20 process is moving ahead decisively with or without the United States after US President Donald Trump threatened to block the adoption of any joint declaration under South Africa’s G20 Presidency. 

Speaking to members of the media as he left the G20 Social Summit to address the B20 gathering, President Ramaphosa expressed confidence that negotiations were nearing completion, despite the United States objections.

READ | We will have a declaration, President Ramaphosa says ahead of G20 Summit

He further told journalists he was encouraged by the progress made across multiple G20 tracks, praising the engagements he had held throughout the day.

– SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa has received notice from the United States indicating a possible change of approach regarding its participation in the G20 Leaders’ Summit, describing the development as a “very positive” sign.

Speaking during a press briefing following his trilateral meeting with European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, President Ramaphosa confirmed that discussions with Washington were ongoing.

READ | President Ramaphosa, EU leaders reaffirm the deepening of partnerships

“We have received notice from the United States, a notice which we are still in discussions with them over about a change of mind about participating in one shape, form or other in the Summit,” he said on Thursday evening.

President Ramaphosa noted that the message from the US came just hours before the start of the Leaders’ Summit, prompting urgent engagement to understand the implications and practicalities of its potential participation.

“This comes really at the late hour before the Summit begins, and so therefore we do need to engage in those types of discussions to see how practical it is and what it finally really means,” he said. 

Despite the timing, the President struck an optimistic tone, saying South Africa viewed the shift as encouraging. 
“In a way, we see this as a positive sign, very positive because, as I’ve often said, boycott politics never work. It’s always best to be inside the tent than being outside of the tent,” the President said. 

He emphasised the importance of the US presence in global governance structures, saying its engagement strengthens multilateral cooperation.

“The tent is G20, all countries are here and the United States being biggest economy in the world needs to be here. So, it’s pleasing to hear that there is a change of approach, and so we are still discussing how that will manifest,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa is expected to continue high-level engagements with global partners ahead of the commencement of the G20 Leaders’ Summit at the weekend.

Earlier in the day the President said the G20 process is moving ahead decisively with or without the United States after US President Donald Trump threatened to block the adoption of any joint declaration under South Africa’s G20 Presidency. 

Speaking to members of the media as he left the G20 Social Summit to address the B20 gathering, President Ramaphosa expressed confidence that negotiations were nearing completion, despite the United States objections.

READ | We will have a declaration, President Ramaphosa says ahead of G20 Summit

He further told journalists he was encouraged by the progress made across multiple G20 tracks, praising the engagements he had held throughout the day.

– SAnews.gov.za