Category: South Africa Government

Sixteen people have been killed in a bus accident on the N1 in Touwsriver in the Western Cape, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) said.

According to the RTMC, the bus was transporting approximately 78 passengers, including children, from Cape Town to Idutywa in the Eastern Cape on Thursday.

“The crash resulted in 16 fatalities, 20 occupants sustained injuries and were transported to Worcester Hospital, and 43 occupants refused medical treatment,” said the RTMC of the overturned bus. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia has reiterated government’s commitment to a whole-of-government approach to managing irregular migration.

The approach includes strengthening border security, upholding the constitutional principle of the rule of law, stamping out corruption in the immigration system, cracking down on violence and lawlessness, and refining the country’s legislative framework.

It also involves collaboration with fellow African nations to forge a broader and more cohesive response to migration challenges across the region and the continent.

Cachalia said this work is being implemented through the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Migration, with dedicated work streams addressing key areas, including law enforcement and strategic communications.

The Acting Minister was addressing a meeting on Wednesday attended by the Deputy Ministers of Police, the Acting National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), and Premiers of all nine provinces, following recent demonstrations against illegal immigration.

Also present were MECs responsible for community safety, executive mayors of metropolitan municipalities, Deputy National Commissioners, Provincial, Divisional and District Commissioners, and chiefs of the various metro police departments.

While welcoming the peaceful outcome of the recent demonstrations, Cachalia said vigilance must be maintained, noting indications from organisers that protests may continue every Thursday until the local government elections.

He stressed the importance of sustained collaboration between political and law enforcement leadership.
Cachalia also called on provincial governments and Provincial Commissioners to strengthen their partnerships on safety and security matters.

Meeting participants expressed appreciation to members of the South African Police Service for their professionalism, dedication and service.

During discussions, concerns were raised about challenges associated with the repatriation of undocumented foreign nationals, along with calls for additional support from the IMC in provinces where repatriation centres have been established.

In response, Cachalia reaffirmed the government’s whole-of-government approach through the IMC on Migration and its dedicated work streams.

He undertook to convey the concerns raised during the meeting to the Inter-Ministerial Committee, chaired by Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Mamoloko Kubayi, when it convenes on Friday. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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As excitement builds ahead of the Hollywoodbets Durban July, the eThekwini Municipality has intensified clean-up operations across key routes, public spaces, and event precincts to welcome thousands of visitors, racegoers and stakeholders.

The Hollywoodbets Durban July will be held on Saturday, 4 July 2026, at the Greyville Racecourse in KwaZulu-Natal.

Municipal teams have been deployed to remove litter, clear illegal dumping hotspots, and improve the cleanliness and appearance of areas expected to experience high volumes of pedestrian and vehicle traffic during the event.

According to the municipality, the initiative forms part of the city’s preparations for one of Durban’s flagship annual events, and aims to ensure that public spaces are clean, safe, and welcoming for residents and visitors.
The municipality said the clean-up campaign also underscores the municipality’s environmental sustainability and responsible urban management.

“By enhancing the condition of public spaces, the initiative not only improves the city’s image but also promotes shared responsibility for keeping Durban clean and attractive.

“Residents and visitors are encouraged to support these efforts by disposing of waste responsibly, using the street litter bins provided, and refraining from littering and illegal dumping,” the municipality said in a statement on Thursday.

The municipality reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a culture of cleanliness and environmental stewardship before, during and after major events.

“Through sustained service delivery and partnerships with communities and stakeholders, the city continues to promote civic pride while ensuring Durban remains a safe, clean, and welcoming destination for residents and visitors alike.”

Repatriation operation

Meanwhile, eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba has overseen the clean-up of the drive-in site, which had been used as a processing centre for Malawian nationals awaiting repatriation.

Xaba thanked all stakeholders, who played a role in the successful operation, including national, provincial and local government departments, non-profit organisations, law enforcement agencies, and the Malawian government.

According to the municipality, more than 20 000 Malawian nationals have been processed and repatriated from the Sherwood and drive-in sites. – SAnews.gov.za

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Government has processed over 500 buses for the repatriation of thousands of individuals back to their respective countries, Home Affairs Minster Dr. Leon Schreiber said.

“In terms of the repatriation process overall, there were over 30 000 individuals out of eThekwini alone that we’ve repatriated. The latest number of buses from the government side that we have processed is 525 buses, so indeed, we’re looking at tens and thousands that’s already been successfully repatriated,” the Minister said.

Schreiber, who is also part of government’s Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Migration, visited the Beitbridge border post in Musina on Wednesday.

“It’s a massive operation. It’s really impressive to see how we have managed to do this as the IMC as the collective. What we have done is to say, instead of having these decentralised locations across the country, where people have to be processed by Home Affairs and by the SAPS [South African Police Service], let’s create one facility where one can go, where we have a secure space where we can have all of the different government departments on site,” Schreiber said.

Speaking to media, the Minister described the process as complex.

“It is a major logistical operation and we’ve moved all of that work to Musina. At the moment, we have about 4000 people still at the Showgrounds. Our intention is to work through that and for all new arrivals to go to the temporary repatriation facility built by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure. I visited both sites earlier,” he said.

Schreiber described the sites as offering a much better environment that is dignified.

“We are going to have ablutions, water, food and all of the processing work  in one location. The message is the work continues,” he said.

The Minister’s visit follows planned demonstrations across the country, which took place on Tuesday, 30 June.

Earlier this week, government assured citizens that it is actively managing migration through lawful, coordinated and constitutional measures.

READ | Government reaffirms commitment to managing migration

“Our objective remains clear: a South Africa where immigration laws are respected and enforced, where borders are secure, where communities are safe, where businesses compete fairly, and where human dignity and constitutional values are upheld,” a statement issued by the IMC said. – SAnews.gov.za 

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A Limpopo councillor, initially arrested for allegedly attempting to bribe a Special Investigating Unit (SIU) investigator, has been rearrested on an outstanding Makhado warrant for theft by false pretence.

Thulamela Municipality councillor Netshivhumbe Gumani was arrested on Monday after being granted R10 000 bail for the alleged bribery matter, which was heard in the Molopo Magistrate’s Court in Mahikeng. 

“Gumani was arrested by the Makhado police on an outstanding Makhado warrant for theft by false pretence.

“The charges stem from allegations that Gumani solicited funds from several businesspeople in Limpopo to finance political activities linked to the 2014 youth league conference in Sekhukhune District,” the SIU said. 

He is scheduled to appear in court again on 18 September 2026.  

On the bribery allegations, the corruption-busting unit explained that Gumani attempted to offer a senior SIU investigator R70 000 to “obstruct justice in the ongoing investigation into tenders at the Mahikeng Local Municipality”.

“It is alleged that Gumani was facilitating the bribe on behalf of Anacot Trading, a company associated with questionable financial activities involving municipal contracts.

“The SIU investigation… found that the appointed service provider received approximately R179 million from Mahikeng Municipality for two lease agreements.

“Immediately after receiving the payment, the service provider transferred R28 million to Anacot Trading, owned by Shahzaad Mohamed Hussein. When the SIU contacted Hussein to explain why he received R28 million, he allegedly sent Gumani to the SIU to influence the outcome of the investigation,” the unit said.

Acting SIU Head, Leonard Lekgetho, assured that the unit maintains confidence in the strength of the case against Gumani.

“The alleged attempt to bribe an SIU investigator is a serious attack on the integrity of South Africa’s justice system and on the fight against corruption. No amount of intimidation or inducement will deter the SIU from fulfilling its mandate.

“We commend the investigator for acting with professionalism and integrity, and we will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to ensure that the matter is prosecuted to its conclusion,” Lekgetho said. – SAnews.gov.za

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A 56-year-old foreign national, alleged to have been housing undocumented individuals, has appeared in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court in the Free State, police said.

Guesthouse owner, Lyndon Adentuji Odili, was arrested for contravening the Immigration Act, 2002 (Act 13 of 2002). Odili was granted R10 000 bail, and his case has been postponed to 31 July 2026 for further investigation.

Hs arrest followed a swift intelligence driven response by law enforcement on Tuesday after a tip-off was received by the South African Police Service (SAPS) of several undocumented individuals having been spotted at a guesthouse along Raymond Mhlaba Street in Bloemfontein.

“The information suggested that the individuals were allegedly being hidden at the premises in reaction to the multidisciplinary operation targeting anti-foreigner sentiments during a planned (protests) on the same day.

“Upon arrival at the establishment, police conducted a thorough search of the premises. A total of 18 undocumented foreign nationals were found inside without the necessary legal authorisation to reside in the Republic of South Africa.”

This as government assured citizens that it is actively managing migration through lawful, coordinated and constitutional measures, as planned demonstrations against illegal migration took place across the country on Tuesday.

“The owner of the guesthouse, Mr. Odili, was subsequently summoned to the scene. Following a consultation, he was arrested under Section 40(1) of the Criminal Procedure Act, 1977 (Act 51 of 1977),” the South African Police Service (SAPS) said in a statement on Wednesday.

Odili faces 18 counts of aiding, abetting, assisting, enabling, or helping illegal foreigners in contravention of the Immigration Act.

Separate dockets have also been opened against the 18 undocumented individuals for illegal entry and stay within the country.

The Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General, Thabang Lesia, has commended officers for their swift reaction to the information, reiterating that business and property owners, who deliberately bypass the country’s immigration laws to harbour undocumented individuals will face the full might of the law. – SAnews.gov.za

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Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson will launch the National Built Environment and Construction Safety Framework at the second Public Works and Infrastructure Summit.

“The National Built Environment and Construction Safety Framework is a multi-sector approach aimed at improving construction safety, prevention of building collapses, and fight against illegal building activities,” the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) said ahead of Friday’s launch.

Hosted by the Council for the Built Environment (CBE), the Summit will be held under the theme: “From Collapse to Confidence.” 

The summit will also strengthen regulatory systems, improve accountability, and embed a culture of safety across the sector. 

“This year’s Summit will bring together government, municipalities, regulators, financiers, academia, industry leaders, contractors and built environment professionals to drive practical solutions for safer, more accountable infrastructure delivery. 

“The Summit aims to strengthen collaboration, improve infrastructure management, and accelerate sustainable reform across the built environment sector,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Bafana Bafana received a hero’s welcome when they landed at OR Tambo International Airport after their historic 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.

The national senior men’s team was greeted by supporters, who turned out in large numbers to celebrate the team reaching the knockout rounds of a FIFA World Cup for the first time in its history.

Addressing a media briefing in Johannesburg on Thursday, captain Ronwen Williams thanked South Africans for supporting the team throughout the tournament.

“Thank you everyone for your support and for this incredible welcome. To experience the unity of the country at a moment like this is amazing.

“The prayers, the support and all the well wishes that were sent our way meant so much to us as a team. We went out there carrying the support, love and belief of [millions of] South Africans,” Williams said.

Bafana Bafana’s journey came to an end on Sunday after a 1 – 0 defeat to tournament co-hosts Canada in a last-32 match at Los Angeles Stadium.

“It’s been a wonderful journey. When we look back at how far we’ve come as a team, especially under Coach Hugo Broos, we can be proud. This achievement at the World Cup is the cherry on top because we’ve been doing excellent work for a long time. We’re just proud and happy that the country is happy,” Williams said.

The team’s coach said he was pleased with their performance during the World Cup.

“It was not easy, but we made it. It is historic for South African football that the team reached the second round of the World Cup, and that was our goal from the beginning. We worked hard. It was not easy, but we succeeded. That’s the most important thing,” Broos said.

Broos said the experience gained at this World Cup would help the team improve and prepare for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

 “That has to be our next objective. And, of course, we want to qualify again for the 2030 World Cup. I think if South Africa can achieve that over the next three or four years, you will immediately see how far South African football has progressed.

“When you’re competing at that level, you learn a lot, and you learn quickly. I think that’s exactly what happened to us at this World Cup,” the coach said. –SAnews.gov.za

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The Department of Social Development has welcomed the appointment of Dina Pule as the Minister of the portfolio following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s changes to the National Executive.

“The department extends its heartfelt congratulations to Minister Pule on her appointment and looks forward to her leadership as the department continues to advance South Africa’s social development agenda, strengthen social protection, and improve the lives of vulnerable individuals, families and communities,” the department said.

This as the Presidency on Wednesday held a Swearing-in Ceremony of the new Ministers and Deputy Ministers at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

READ | New Ministers, Deputy Ministers sworn in

President Ramaphosa announced changes to the National Executive in a statement on Tuesday night.

The Department of Social Development also extended its sincere appreciation to Acting Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga for her dedicated leadership and stewardship during her tenure as Acting Minister from 14 May 2026.

“The department is grateful for her guidance and commitment in ensuring continuity and stability during her tenure. We remain committed to working closely with Minister Pule to build on the progress made in delivering integrated social development services and implementing government’s priorities in service of all South Africans,” it said.

Chikunga, who is the Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, was appointed acting Minister following the removal of the then Minister Sisisi Tolashe from her position. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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South Africa will mark National Science Month (NSM) throughout July with a nationwide programme aimed at promoting scientific literacy, innovation and public engagement in science, technology and innovation (STI).

The month-long campaign will officially launch on 4 July 2026 at the Vaal University of Technology Southern Gauteng Science and Technology Park in Sebokeng under the theme, “Science, Technology and Innovation are for everyone”.

Led by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and implemented through the National Research Foundation’s South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA), National Science Month seeks to build a society that is informed about science and able to engage critically with scientific and technological developments.

This year’s launch coincides with Nelson Mandela Month and will honour the legacy of former President Nelson Mandela by highlighting his contribution to democracy through science-focused activities and community engagement.

The initiative provides an opportunity for scientists, educators, innovators, research institutions and communities to showcase how science and technology are improving lives, transforming communities and addressing some of the country’s most pressing challenges.

Since its introduction in 2000, National Science Month has encouraged voluntary participation from South Africans while providing a platform to showcase grassroots innovation, scientific research and technological advances.

The initiative also aims to strengthen South Africa’s reputation as a nation of scientific discovery and innovation.

A key focus of this year’s programme is inspiring young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and innovation.

Schools are encouraged to participate in science competitions and activities, including discussions on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, while initiatives like the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists continue to nurture the country’s next generation of researchers and innovators.

Increasing youth participation in science-related fields is essential to supporting South Africa’s future economic growth and global competitiveness.

South Africa’s research sector continues to strengthen its international standing. In 2023, the country produced 25 775 scientific publications, ranking 29th globally and second in Africa. 
South African research continues to have significant international influence, particularly in health sciences, the humanities and the natural sciences.

The country has also made notable advances in agricultural innovation, with applications for plant breeders’ rights increasing from 263 in 2022 to 318 in 2023, placing South Africa among the world’s leading countries in this field.

Investment in health research has also grown significantly, more than doubling from R4.7 billion in 2013/14 to R10 billion in 2022/23.

Health research now accounts for nearly a quarter of South Africa’s total research and development expenditure, reflecting the country’s commitment to improving healthcare through innovation.

South Africa is also expanding its presence in the space sector, having launched nine objects into space during 2023. Universities, including the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, continue to develop critical skills through programmes such as nanosatellite development, supporting the growth of the country’s future space industry.

Throughout July, National Science Month activities will demonstrate how science contributes to everyday life, from improving access to clean water and advancing healthcare to addressing climate change and creating new economic opportunities.

Government has called on all South Africans to participate in National Science Month activities and discover how science, technology and innovation can help shape a more prosperous, inclusive and sustainable future. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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