MIL Africa Engine

Source: Government of South Africa

BRICS Foreign Ministers have called for inclusive, globally representative governance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) under the United Nations, with meaningful participation from developing countries. 

The Foreign Affairs/International Relations Ministers held their annual meeting on the margins of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Friday. The meeting was chaired by India in its capacity as the incoming BRICS Chair for 2026. 

In a joint statement, the Ministers emphasised that AI should serve “for good and for all,” taking into account national policies, sovereignty, data protection, equitable access to resources, and innovation. 

They encouraged leveraging AI to address social, economic, linguistic, and cultural challenges, while supporting capacity building in developing countries.

“The Ministers looked forward to BRICS cooperation to help developing countries strengthen AI capacity building,” the statement read. 

The Ministers also underscored the transformative impact of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) on socioeconomic growth and digital transformation in BRICS nations. They reiterated support for a safe, open, secure, and interoperable ICT environment, while advocating for global norms and legal frameworks to prevent cybercrime, malicious software, disinformation, and misuse of digital technologies.

Highlighting the peaceful application of science and technology, the Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to international cooperation in areas such as health, vaccine development, tuberculosis, antimicrobial resistance, nuclear medicine, and traditional medicine systems.

They welcomed intra-BRICS initiatives, including digital health cooperation, vaccine manufacturing, and knowledge sharing.

On space security, the Ministers reiterated support for the prevention of an arms race and the weaponization of outer space, including the adoption of legally binding agreements and confidence-building measures to ensure global security. They also called for accelerated negotiations on the WHO Pandemic Agreement and its Annex on Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing.

The statement recognised BRICS’ role in fostering innovation, technological cooperation, Industry 4.0 initiatives, and startup engagement, as well as promoting ICT and AI for inclusive economic growth.

The Ministers noted the BRICS expansion process according to the BRICS Membership Expansion Guiding Principles, Standards, Criteria and Procedures, adopted at the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa. 

“The Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to consolidate and strengthen BRICS in line with the group’s spirit of mutual respect and understanding, sovereign equality, solidarity, democracy, openness, inclusiveness, collaboration, continuity, full consultation and consensus. 

“They emphasised the importance of partner countries contributing to BRICS cooperation in accordance with the Modalities of BRICS Partner Country Category adopted during the BRICS Summit at Kazan, Russia. 

“They reaffirmed that institutional development is a continuous and dynamic process that should reflect the group’s needs and priorities. They took note of the need to establish a common BRICS database to facilitate access to relevant documents and background information,” the statement read. 

The Ministers underscored their strong belief that extending the BRICS partnership with Emerging Markets and Developing Countries (EMDCs) would further contribute to strengthening the spirit of solidarity and true international cooperation for the benefit of all. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs/International Relations have raised concerns over the proliferation of trade-restrictive actions, whether in the form of indiscriminate rising of tariffs and non-tariff measures that threaten global economic stability.  

The Ministers held their annual meeting on the margins of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Friday. The meeting was chaired by India in its capacity as the incoming BRICS Chair for 2026. 

In a joint statement, the Ministers highlighted the risks posed by rising tariffs and protectionist measures, particularly when used as tools of coercion.

“They voiced serious concerns about the rise of unilateral tariff and non-tariff measures which distort trade and are inconsistent with WTO rules. They cautioned against such practices that risk fragmenting global trade and marginalising the Global South,” the statement read.

The Ministers emphasised the importance of strengthening international trade systems and avoiding practices that fragment global markets or disrupt supply chains. 

They called for adherence to World Trade Organization (WTO) rules and urged all nations to ensure trade policies promote economic development and inclusivity.

The BRICS grouping also reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing cooperation among member states to address challenges in global trade and to support the interests of emerging markets and developing economies.

The Ministers highlighted the pivotal role of BRICS countries in global food production and agricultural sustainability. 

They recognised that family farmers, smallholders, pastoralists, artisanal fishers, indigenous communities, women, and youth are essential for advancing sustainable agricultural practices and transforming food systems. 

They stressed the importance of technological innovation, mechanisation, and digital solutions to increase productivity, enhance resilience, and improve livelihoods.

The Ministers called for minimising disruptions and promoting rules-based trade in agriculture and fertilisers, ensuring continuous food supplies and essential inputs, while emphasising that such trade should be exempt from restrictive measures inconsistent with WTO rules. 

They also welcomed the initiative to establish a BRICS Grain Exchange, which may later expand to other agricultural commodities.

Addressing global food security, the Ministers lauded the successful convening of the Second United Nations Food Systems Summit Stocktake (UNFSS+4) in Addis Ababa in July 2025, noting that it provided an opportunity to link high-level ambition with local action in transforming food systems.

In addition to agriculture, the Ministers reaffirmed the strategic importance of critical minerals for zero- and low-emission energy technologies, energy security, and resilient supply chains. 

“They reaffirmed the need to promote reliable, responsible, diversified, resilient, fair, sustainable, and just supply chains of such minerals to guarantee benefit sharing, value addition and economic diversification in resource-rich countries, while fully preserving sovereign rights over their mineral resources, as well as their right to adopt, maintain and enforce measures necessary to pursue legitimate public policy objectives,” the statement read. 

The statement also reaffirmed the value of BRICS people-to-people exchanges, tourism, and ecotourism as drivers of sustainable development. Highlighting the growth and inclusivity of the bloc, the Ministers noted that the BRICS expansion enhances its global credibility, appeal, and voice for the Global South.

Looking ahead, India will host the BRICS Summit in 2026, providing a platform to further discussions on trade, economic cooperation, and strategies to strengthen global partnerships in a fair and equitable manner.

The Ministers expressed appreciation to India for holding the BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs/International Relations meeting on the margins of UNGA 80. 

They extended their full support to India for its BRICS Chairship in 2026 and the holding of the XVIII BRICS Summit in India. The Ministers also looked forward to the Standalone Meeting of BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs/International Relations in India in 2026. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) and the Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) have expressed concern over growing reports of hijacked eFiling profiles, saying they are working closely to protect taxpayers and maintain the integrity of the country’s tax system.

In a joint statement issued on Friday, SARS and the OTO responded to a recent Sowetan article highlighting an increase in cybercriminals targeting taxpayer profiles and resulting in financial losses. 

The institutions noted that at the time of publication, the OTO’s draft report had not yet been released for public comment and that the article contained “a number of factual inaccuracies.”

The organisations emphasised their distinct but complementary roles in South Africa’s tax administration. They are established in law to fulfil distinct yet mutually reinforcing roles for the sole benefit of taxpayers and the tax finance system for the country. 

“SARS not only respects but considers the role of the OTO as an indispensable partner to ensure the functioning of the tax ecosystem is fair and beyond reproach. In this regard SARS has and continues to work hard to address whatever complaints that have been laid with the OTO,” the statement read.

The statement also emphasised that the two institutions play a paramount role in the functioning of tax administration. Each institution respects the other’s mandate, while both being the cornerstone for the fiscal integrity of South Africa tax ecosystem.

The OTO will release its draft report on 1 October 2025, following extensive engagement with all stakeholders.

Rising cybercrime risks

The OTO has been investigating compromised taxpayer profiles for more than a year, after receiving numerous complaints from both individuals and tax practitioners.

“In today’s digitally interconnected environment, cybersecurity risks have escalated dramatically, posing significant threats to individuals, businesses, and institutions. 

“As personal and financial transactions increasingly migrate online, malicious actors exploit vulnerabilities in authentication protocols, data-sharing mechanisms, and user behaviour to perpetrate identity theft, fraud, and unauthorised system access. Even routine activities, such as accessing tax platforms or updating banking details, have become potential gateways for exploitation.” the statement said. 

It added that SARS, as the custodian of revenue collection and refunds payment, is a prime target for cybercriminals exploiting vulnerabilities in online systems.

Cooperation and security measures

SARS and the OTO stressed that they maintain a cooperative relationship, with a shared goal of restoring public confidence in the eFiling system.

SARS said it continues to enhance security protocols to mitigate risks and urged taxpayers to remain vigilant by safeguarding login details and reporting suspicious activity through official channels.

“The release of the OTO’s draft report has been delayed allowing SARS to provide detailed input on preliminary findings, ensuring a comprehensive and balanced analysis.

“Whilst consultations have been extensive between the parties, parts of the draft may still carry areas of difference, which is to be expected in any review of this nature. This cooperative approach aims to strengthen the report’s recommendations and foster meaningful improvements,” the statement added.

Commitment to taxpayers

Both SARS and the OTO reiterated their unwavering commitment to enabling taxpayers to comply with their obligations safely and confidently. 

The institutions urged taxpayers to remain cautious and report any irregularities through official SARS channels.

“We respect that the final report by the OTO will be made public soon, and SARS remain committed to continue its engagement with the public on its substance. The public must be assured though, that SARS continue to work with diligence to ensure the highest level of integrity and protection to taxpayers who uses the SARS digital platform,” SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter said.

The Tax Ombud added that OTO takes the hijacking of taxpayer eFiling profiles very seriously. 

“As an independent institution, the OTO ensures objective oversight and the fair treatment of taxpayers. The OTO upcoming draft report reflects extensive engagement with all stakeholders and is aimed at driving real, practical solutions,” OTO said. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Cape Town puts road safety in focus for Transport Month

DikelediM
Sun, 09/28/2025 – 12:45

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities Steve Letsike has expressed concern and called for accountability after a video circulating on social media showing young girls in Limpopo engaging in illegal alcohol consumption in the presence of local well-known male artist “Tsaka RSA”.

In a statement, the Deputy Minister condemns the “uncharacteristic behaviour from the adult male artists who are committed to exploiting vulnerable young girls”. 

Letsike has since formally engaged the South African Police Service to help in calling the artist to question and investigate the case of underage drinking. 

“Underage drinking not only breaks the law, but it also poses serious risks to the health, safety, and future of our youth,” the Deputy Minister said. 

The Deputy Minister highlighted that Limpopo province is largely rural, and alcohol (all types, including traditionally brewed alcohol) is used mostly in traditional and cultural practices and rituals. This sometimes, she said, exposes adolescents to alcohol use at a young age. 

Letsike added that early initiation to alcohol use among adolescents is a cause for concern.   

“Often co-existing with this alcohol use is teenagers engaging in risky sexual behaviours whilst intoxicated. Alcohol use during adolescence has been linked to impaired brain development, poor academic performance, risky behaviour, accidents, and long-term dependency. It also places young people atgreater risk of violence, gender-based violence, and road fatalities,” Letsike said.

She further emphasised that parents, guardians, schools, communities, and the alcohol industry have a critical role to play in addressing this challenge.

Preventing underage drinking requires:

• Parental guidance and supervision to set clear rules and model responsible behaviour.
• Stricter enforcement of alcohol laws, particularly around sales to minors.
• Awareness and education programmes in schools and communities to highlight the dangers of alcohol misuse.
• Youth-focused alternatives and opportunities that promote positive lifestyles and healthy choices.

Although the legal drinking age of alcohol in South Africa is 18 years, statistics show an alarming increase in alcohol use, with binge drinking being more prevalent among youth younger than 18 years.

Letsike said the prevalence of alcohol consumption among teenagers or high school learners in rural provinces, such as Limpopo, is a cause for concern.

“The World Health Organisation highlights that South Africans consume about 10 litres of pure alcohol in a year, which is much higher than the worldwide consumption. The increasing incidents of underage alcohol consumption among young people below the legal drinking age,” the Deputy Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), in partnership with uMngeni-uThukela Water (UUW), led a community river clean-up at Msuthinja River in Mandeni Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal, in commemoration of World Rivers Day.

The event brought together community members, officials from Mandeni Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), and Msinsi Holdings.

World Rivers Day is an annual international event aimed at raising awareness about the importance of protecting rivers. Founded in 2005, the event, endorsed by the United Nations, raises public awareness about river health and the threats of polllution and over-extraction. 

This year, World Rivers Day is celebrated today. The day promotes sustainable water management through education and community action, encouraging activities like river clean-ups and riverside events to foster stewardship for these vital ecosystems.

During the river clean-up held recently, both DWS and UUW sent a clear message that it is wrong in all aspects to throw foreign objects into the river. 

Water Education Specialist from UUW, Dudu Duma urged the community to be cautious about polluting Msuthinja river, as it contributes into uThukela River where water is extracted for purification. She encouraged the community members to protect Msuthinja River from pollution.

The department highlighted that the province of KwaZulu-Natal has experienced a lot of challenges in the past, including water supply disruption, and water leaks due to vandalism of water infrastructure. 

“The sub-standard treatment of effluence from some of the municipality’s Wastewater Treatment Works also contributes to the contamination of the water courses in the province. It is therefore imperative for the communities not to exacerbate the situation by polluting the water courses that runs through their areas,” Duma said. 

The department said the river clean-up activity was extended to a public education programme at Sundumbili Plaza Taxi Rank, where community members of different ages were educated about the disadvantages of polluting rivers. 

“The team also visited Sundumbili Primary School, and the message of keeping rivers free from pollution was also reiterated. The learners further engaged with the officials on the impact of river pollution and were encouraged to grasp the teachings on the three R’s: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle, which are beneficial in reducing pollution in the air and inside water,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za