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President establishes Inquiry into DPP Chauke’s fitness to hold office

Source: Government of South Africa

President establishes Inquiry into DPP Chauke’s fitness to hold office

President Cyril Ramaphosa has established an inquiry into the fitness of Advocate Andrew Chauke to continue serving as Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

The Presidency announced in a statement on Monday that the inquiry was set up in terms of section 12(6)(a) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Act of 1998.

Pending the outcome of the inquiry, President Ramaphosa has suspended Adv Chauke with effect from 20 July 2025, on full pay.

“The inquiry will look into certain serious allegations regarding Adv Chauke’s fitness and propriety to hold office as a Director of Public Prosecutions and as a member of the National Prosecuting Authority. Adv Chauke was appointed Director of Public Prosecutions on 1 September 2011,” the Presidency said. 

The President has appointed retired Justice Baaitse Elizabeth (Bess) Nkabine as Chairperson of the inquiry, with Adv Elizabeth Baloyi-Mere SC and attorney Thenjiwe Vilakazi as additional members.

According to the Presidency, the process will be guided by the Constitution, the NPA Act, and the principles of natural justice to ensure that the inquiry is conducted fairly and impartially.

In consultation with the Minister of Justice, the inquiry Chairperson will determine the seat of the inquiry as well as the rules of procedure.

At the conclusion of the process, Justice Nkabine will submit a report with findings and recommendations to the President. – SAnews.gov.za 

DikelediM

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Eskom generating fleet shows ‘stability and improved reliability’

Source: Government of South Africa

Eskom generating fleet shows ‘stability and improved reliability’

Eskom says the current improvement in unplanned outages at generating units is a sign of the generation fleet’s increasing reliability.

The power utility has registered an Energy Availability Factor (EAF) month-to-date average hitting above 70% for the first time since 2021.

Unplanned outages are also on the wane.

“Between 19 and 25 September 2025, Eskom recorded an average of 9 514MW in unplanned outages, a significant improvement compared to 12 660MW during the same period last year. This represents a year-on-year reduction of 3 146MW in breakdowns – nearly equivalent to the entire output capacity of Duvha Power Station.

“This upward trend demonstrates increasing stability and improved reliability across Eskom’s generation fleet. These figures do not include Kusile Unit 6, which has been contributing to the national grid since 23 March 2025. While the unit is not yet in commercial operation, it is expected to reach this milestone by 30 September 2025,” Eskom said.

The power utility’s improvements have resulted in electricity demand being met for at 97% of the time during the current financial year with only 26 hours of load shedding recorded since April 1.

Other key performance areas at Eskom include:

  • Between 1 April and 25 September 2025, the Unplanned Capability Loss Factor (UCLF), which reflects the percentage of generation capacity lost due to unplanned outages, further decreased to 25.84%. This represents a week-on-week improvement of approximately 0.2%, although it remains about 0.3% higher than the 25.52% recorded during the same period last year.
  • Year-to-date, planned maintenance has averaged 5 233MW, accounting for 11.16% of total generation capacity. This reflects a slight decrease from the previous week and a 0.4% rise compared to the same period last year.
  • The year-to-date EAF further increased to 62.50%, excluding the contribution from Kusile Unit 6. This figure is below the 63.25% recorded during the same period last year.
  • From 1 April to 25 September 2025, Eskom generated 1 004.68GWh from OCGT plants while spending R5.953 billion on diesel – above last year’s 850.52GWh. Last week, diesel spending was just R15.03 million at a load factor of 0.41%, highlighting the impact of improvements in efficiency and reduced reliance on diesel.
  • The year-to-date load factor for OCGTs has decreased to 6.89%, reflecting a 0.27% decrease compared to the previous week. This figure remains higher than the 5.83% recorded during the same period last year.

“To further strengthen grid stability, Eskom is planning to return a total of 2 500MW of generation capacity to service ahead of the evening peak [today] and throughout the coming week,” Eskom said.

The electricity supplier acknowledged that although the grid is now more stable, load reduction remains “necessary in certain high-risk areas”.

Average reductions have ranged between 529MW and 5 44MW from April and June this year.

“The primary causes are illegal connections and meter tampering – forms of electricity theft that compromise the integrity of the network and can lead to equipment damage, transformer overloads, and, in severe cases, explosions and prolonged outages. To safeguard the network and protect public safety, Eskom may implement load reduction by switching off power in these areas during peak periods.

“Eskom, however, is committed to eliminating load reduction within the next 12 to 18 months. This goal will be achieved by addressing 640 000 illegal connections, upgrading infrastructure – including the installation of smart meters – curbing illegal electricity vending, and expanding access to free basic electricity in priority areas.

“Customers are urged to avoid illegal connections, purchase electricity only from Eskom-accredited vendors, and regularise their accounts. These measures are essential to preventing load reduction and ensuring safe, reliable, and equitable electricity access for all,” Eskom explained.

To report any illegal activity, contact Eskom’s Crime Line at 0800 112 722 or via WhatsApp on 081 333 3323. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB

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President Ramaphosa establishes inquiry into Advocate Andrew Chauke’s fitness to hold office

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa has in terms of section 12(6)(a) of the National Prosecuting Authority Act of 1998 established an inquiry to determine the fitness of Advocate Andrew Chauke to hold office as Director of Public Prosecutions.
 
President Ramaphosa has suspended Adv Chauke, with effect from 20 July 2025, on full pay pending the finalisation of the inquiry.
 
The inquiry will look into certain serious allegations regarding Adv Chauke’s fitness and propriety to hold office as a Director of Public Prosecutions and as a member of the National Prosecuting Authority. Adv Chauke was appointed Director of Public Prosecutions on 1 September 2011.
 
The President has appointed retired Justice Baaitse Elizabeth (Bess) Nkabine as Chairperson of the inquiry, with Adv Elizabeth Baloyi-Mere SC and attorney Ms Thenjiwe Vilakazi as additional members.
 
 
In terms of the Constitution, the National Prosecuting Authority Act and the rules of natural justice, an inquiry as regards the allegations made against any Director of Public Prosecutions, should be conducted fairly and impartially.
 
In consultation with the Minister of Justice, the inquiry Chairperson will determine the seat of the inquiry as well as the rules of procedure.
 
At the end of the enquiry the Chairperson shall submit a report to the President.
 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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eThekwini renews groundbreaking partnership with leading universities

Source: Government of South Africa

The eThekwini Municipality has renewed its long-standing partnership with five leading institutions of higher learning, reinforcing its commitment to innovation, collaboration, and inclusive growth.

On Friday, the municipality signed a new three-year Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Stellenbosch University, the University of South Africa, the Durban University of Technology, and the Mangosuthu University of Technology.

The partnership will unlock new skills, spark innovation, and co-create solutions to tackle the city’s developmental and socio-economic challenges, building a smarter, more inclusive, and opportunity-filled Durban for all.

Established in 2011, this visionary partnership has become a cornerstone of eThekwini’s development strategy, a living example of what is possible when academia and local government unite to tackle real-world challenges.

EThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba hailed the renewal of an agreement, describing it as a powerful recommitment to the city’s transformation agenda.

“This agreement is more than a renewal, it is reaffirmation of the power of collaboration, the spirit of innovation, and our shared commitment to building a better future for the city and its people,” Xaba said.

He emphasised that by working hand-in-hand with universities, the municipality is building a city that is not only smart and sustainable, but also ”inclusive and just.”

At the heart of the collaboration is the Municipal Institute of Learning (MILE), a pioneering platform that has positioned Durban as a global centre for municipal learning and innovation.

Through MILE, the city has become a beacon of knowledge exchange, attracting thought leaders, researchers, and changemakers dedicated to improving urban life.

According to Xaba, the partnership is mutually beneficial: universities contribute cutting-edge research, innovation, and intellectual capacity, while the municipality provides fertile ground for applied learning, community engagement, and real-world impact.

Together, they are turning academic insight into tangible solutions to improve the municipality.

Through this impactful collaboration, eThekwini has also distinguished itself nationally, holding the highest number of PhD holders of any municipality in the country – a reflection of its dedication to intellectual growth and excellence.

Higher learning institutions have pledged to continue to work closely with the municipality to co-create solutions that respond more effectively to the city’s development challenges.

Xaba said investing in this partnership is a powerful reminder that no single institution can solve society’s challenges alone.

“Investing in this partnership is a powerful reminder that no single institution can solve society’s challenges alone. It is through collaboration, shared vision, and collective action that we can build a city that is resilient, equitable, and full of opportunity,” the mayor said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Severe storm warnings issued across South Africa

Source: Government of South Africa

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued severe storm warnings for various provinces, urging residents and motorists to exercise caution as unpredictable weather conditions unfold.

The eastern parts of the country, particularly Gauteng, are currently experiencing intermittent rain that significantly reduces visibility.

According to the agency, this warning encompasses several provinces, including Gauteng, Free State, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal. 

Residents in these areas are advised to stay alert to changing weather conditions and prepare for potential disruptions.

A yellow Level 4 warning indicates the potential for severe thunderstorms accompanied by heavy downpours, primarily impacting central and northern KwaZulu-Natal. 

Those living in these regions are urged to be prepared for flash flooding in low-lying areas and on vulnerable roadways.

In addition, dangerous lightning and damaging winds may lead to localised damage to infrastructure, homes – especially informal settlements – vehicles, and agricultural livelihoods.

Another warning highlights disruptive rainfall anticipated in the southern parts of KwaZulu-Natal, which could create hazardous driving conditions due to slippery roads and reduced visibility, increasing the likelihood of minor motor vehicle accidents.

Meanwhile, two separate yellow Level 2 warnings have been issued in Gauteng and Mpumalanga. 

The SAWS warns of severe thunderstorms expected to bring heavy rain and localised flooding in the extreme eastern regions, which could result in potential damage to infrastructure and property. 

Today, the SAWS forecasts a significant drop in temperatures across the interior of the eastern half of the Eastern Cape, bringing very cold conditions that residents should prepare for, especially during morning and evening hours.

In Limpopo, the agency reported partly cloudy conditions in the southwestern Bushveld, and otherwise cloudy and cool weather with scattered to widespread showers and thundershowers.

In the Free State, it will be clear in the extreme west, but otherwise, it will be partly cloudy and cool to cold with isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms, which will be widespread in the extreme east.

“Motorists are urged to drive with increased caution, maintaining a safe following distance and adhering to local traffic advisories,” SAWS said. 

Those living in flood-prone areas should take proactive measures to secure their property and be ready for potential evacuations if necessary. 

Residents are encouraged to stay updated with local news for real-time weather information and advisories. – SAnews.gov.za

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Business ties with the United States strong and expanding – President

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa says engagements in the United States show that South African and US businesses remain deeply connected and committed to mutually beneficial partnerships well into the future. 

In his weekly newsletter to the nation, the President said the country will continue to advocate for the principle of reciprocity in investment and trade relations with the US. 

As the presence of US companies on South African soil continues to grow, President Ramaphosa said the country wants to expand the number of its companies operating in the US market, thereby creating more jobs for Americans. 

“As the official talks around trade tariffs continue, we take to heart the words of the US Chamber of Commerce representative at the recent dialogue, that expanding commercial partnerships happens one deal, one investment at time,” he said. 

Last week, the President addressed a Trade and Investment Dialogue between South African and US businesses on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The event, convened by the US Chamber of Commerce – the world’s largest business advocacy organisation with representation in more than 120 countries, including South Africa – drew senior government officials, business leaders and industry representatives from both countries. 

READ | Forum established to create enabling environment for US investors

President Ramaphosa said the discussions underscored optimism about South Africa’s economic reforms and growth prospects, with several US companies expressing interest in expanding their operations or investing in the country. 

As part of strengthening ties with the United States, the President and his delegation also used the opportunity to meet with members of the US Congress and Senate. Some ministers and officials also held meetings with representatives of the US administration.

“The optimistic, future-focused tone of this important engagement underscored how, beyond the headlines and debates around trade policy and political frictions, US and South African businesses are forging ahead,” the President said. 

Addressing the dialogue, the President of the US-Africa Business Center of the US Chamber of Commerce, Kendra Gaither, said that there was “no economic relationship more foundational than the ties that the US and South Africa have”. She said it was a vital relationship that merits dedicated attention. 

Later this year, the US Chamber of Commerce is expected to send a high-powered delegation, led by its CEO, to the B20 Summit, the official dialogue forum of the G20 for the global business community.

Commercial ties between the two countries remain strong, with more than 600 US companies already operating in South Africa. The country is the second-largest African destination for US exports. 

President Ramaphosa said South Africa is positioning itself as an investment destination for critical minerals, with the digital transition and the global move towards net zero driving global demand. 

The country also had the opportunity to engage with US industry around investment opportunities in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, technology and other key sectors. 

He further announced the establishment of a South Africa-United States Trade and Investment Forum, to be inaugurated at next year’s South Africa Investment Conference. The forum will serve as a bridge for deepening trade and investment between the two nations.

“These engagements with business take place alongside discussions with the US administration around a reciprocal trade agreement. Our Department of Trade, Industry and Competition has been meeting with the US Trade Representative to finalise an agreement that benefits both our countries,” the President said. 

The President also welcomed the US Chamber of Commerce’s support for the reauthorisation of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), describing it as “the cornerstone of US-Africa commerce”. 

“Predictable, preferential access to the US market isn’t just vital to South Africa’s own exports, but also to US companies that depend on reliable imports. We are also prioritising the African Continental Free Trade Area as a vital tool for strengthening US-South Africa trade and investment,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

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President El-Sisi Receives United Arab Emirates (UAE) President at Cairo International Airport

Source: APO


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Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received at Cairo International Airport the President of the United Arab Emirates, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who is on a fraternal visit to the Arab Republic of Egypt.

The Spokesman for the Presidency, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, said the visit comes within the framework of the historical and solid close relations between the two countries, which the President and the UAE President are keen to further strengthen and consolidate, building on the achievements made over the decades, since the founding of the United Arab Emirates by the late His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

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Eritrean Delegation Holds Bilateral Meetings with Various Dignitaries

Source: APO


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The Eritrean delegation, led by Mr. Osman Saleh, Minister of Foreign Affairs, met yesterday on the sidelines of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York with the Foreign Ministers of Egypt, Algeria, Iran, and Nicaragua, as well as the Vice Foreign Minister of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and the Archbishop of the Vatican.

In a productive meeting with Mr. Badr Abdelatty, the Foreign Minister of Egypt, discussions centered on critical issues of regional peace and security in the Red Sea and Horn of Africa. The two sides reiterated their firm commitment to strengthening the enduring friendly relations and cooperation between their nations. They further emphasized the need to uphold the sacrosanct and fundamental principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity of all States as the bedrock of international relations.

Similarly, Foreign Minister Osman and Mr. Ahmed Attaf, Algeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and National Community Abroad, held extensive discussions on deepening the historical and friendly ties between the two countries, as well as on coordination and alignment of their positions at multilateral fora. Addressing the dynamics of peace and security in the Red Sea and Horn of Africa region, both Ministers underscored the sanctity of international treaties and the principles of international law as fundamental pillars governing friendly relations among nations.

Minister Osman also met with Mr. Abbas Araghchi, the Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The two sides discussed the enhancement of bilateral relations and cooperation at multilateral forums.

Minister Osman further held talks with Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher of the Holy See, exchanging views on advancing friendly ties of cooperation between Eritrea and the Vatican.

The strengthening of bilateral relations and cooperation in multilateral matters and forums were also central to discussions between Minister Osman and Mr. Kim Son Gyong, the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.

In his meeting with Mr. Denis Moncada Colindres, Minister Adviser to the Co-Presidents of the Republic of Nicaragua on International Policy and Affairs, discussions focused on strengthening bilateral ties and addressing international matters of mutual concern. The two sides further reaffirmed their commitment to work closely together in defense of the principles of the UN Charter.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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Kenya Marks 2nd International End Postpartum Haemorrhage (EndPPH) Run at Ulinzi Sports Ground

Source: APO

The Ministry of Health, together with partners, joined Kenyans at the 2nd International EndPPH Run at Ulinzi Sports Ground to raise awareness on Postpartum Haemorrhage (PPH)—the leading cause of maternal deaths in Kenya, accounting for up to 45% of cases.

Despite progress in maternal and child health, PPH continues to claim the lives of too many mothers, especially in 13 hotspot counties such as Tana River, Garissa, West Pokot, Homa Bay, Migori, and Turkana, where lifesaving interventions are being prioritized.

Speaking during the event, the Director General for Health, Dr. Patrick Amoth, emphasized the importance of sustained advocacy, timely interventions, and strong community awareness in saving lives.

The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with counties and development partners, is committed to ending preventable maternal deaths through quality care, innovation, skills building, and stronger health systems. With early detection and prompt treatment, no mother should die while giving life.

Run for Her – Together Against the Number One Killer of New Mums.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Health, Kenya.

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Equatorial Guinea, ConocoPhillips Sign Heads of Agreement (HOA) for Offshore Blocks, Unlocking $9B Investment Opportunity

Source: APO – Report:

Equatorial Guinea has signed a Heads of Agreement (HOA) with energy major ConocoPhillips for Blocks B/4 and EG-27 in a move set to unlock up to $9 billion in investments. The HOA outlines the terms for both blocks development and aims to reinforce the country’s position as a regional gas processing hub. As the country advances its national strategy to accelerate upstream growth and bring new production online, the HOA is seen as a pivotal step towards bolstering natural gas monetization in Central Africa.

Signed between ConocoPhillips, Equatorial Guinea’s Ministry of Hydrocarbons and Mining Development, national oil company (NOC) GEPetrol and national gas company SONAGAS, the agreement is not only a reflection of the government’s commitment to private-public partnerships, but ensures that these strategic blocks move towards the development phase at a rapid pace. Through the HOA, the partners have agreed to finalize the Production Sharing Contracts within six months, with the projects set to deliver over 20 years of production.

“This recent agreement is a strong reflection of the government’s commitment to working with foreign operators to advance the country’s exploration and production agenda. Block EG-27 and B/4 will not only support the country’s production growth, but unlock a wave of economic opportunities that will benefit the country for decades to come. By developing these blocks efficiently, we aim to restore production levels to those achieved before 2014 and maximize long-term value for the country,” stated Antonio Oburu Ondo, Minister of Hydrocarbons and Mining Development of Equatorial Guinea.

Both blocks are highly promising and feature commercial gas discoveries. Notably, Block EG-27 is estimated to hold up to 2.8 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of gas while Block B/4 is home to an estimated 0.7 tcf. The estimated capital investment to bring these reserves into production is $9 billion, demonstrating the project’s long-term potential and the commitment of all stakeholders. At a time when Equatorial Guinea is realigning its policies, engaging global investors and promoting offshore exploration and production, the deal stands to support production growth by ensuring the development of commercially-viable assets.

Under the leadership of the Ministry of Mines and Hydrocarbons, Equatorial Guinea has been rapidly advancing the development of the natural gas value chain under efforts to cement its position as a regional gas processing hub. The recent HOA exemplifies the country’s strategy to foster a stable, transparent and investor-friendly environment while accelerating resource development in the region, demonstrating the Ministry’s commitment to working with partners to drive projects forward.

In addition to supporting production, the agreement signals ConocoPhillips’ commitment to strengthening Equatorial Guinea’s gas market. It follows a series of milestones by the company in recent months, including the export of the inaugural LNG cargo from the Punta Europa facility in June 2025. Advancing the country’s flagship Gas Mega Hub (GMH) – an initiative that aims to monetize stranded gas reserves in both domestic and regional markets – this milestone underscores Equatorial Guinea’s potential to become a major global gas player. The recently-signed HOA aims to strengthen feedstock for the Punta Europa facility, thereby supporting the success of the GMH. In addition to bolstering production, the development of Blocks EG-27 and B/4 will enhance the value of Punta Europa midstream infrastructure, supplying additional volumes to the facility.

The agreement comes as the Ministry of Mines and Hydrocarbons works to attract new investments in gas exploration and production. With major initiatives such as the GMH, the Ministry is working towards improving security of supply and driving sustainable economic growth. To support greater investment, the Ministry of Hydrocarbons and Mining Development is also preparing to launch its 2026 licensing round. With goals to cement its position as a regional gas hub, the country is promoting investments in a variety of blocks, with the upcoming bid round set to pave the way for exploration and production.

The African Energy Chamber, the voice of the African energy sector, fully supports this agreement as it strengthens Equatorial Guinea’s position as a regional gas hub, attracts long-term investment, and creates jobs. By advancing these blocks, the country is monetizing its resources and driving sustainable growth in line with Africa’s energy future.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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