MIL Africa Engine

Higher Education and Training (DHET) Deputy Minister Nomusa Dube-Ncube has undertaken an official working visit to London, United Kingdom, to represent South Africa at the Education World Forum (EWF).

Taking place from 17 – 20 May 2026, this year’s forum will bring together education and training ministers from over 130 countries around the world, alongside key multilateral organisations and strategic industry partners to learn from one another and explore how education, at all levels, in all settings and throughout life, can be reimagined to tackle today’s most pressing challenges and unlock opportunities for growth.

The forum will convene under the theme: “Educating for a Shared Future: Peace, Planet, Purpose and Pathways”. It resenting a cohesive vision that education, supported by strong international dialogue and partnerships, is the key to unlocking opportunities, mitigating crises and building a shared, sustainable future for all.

South Africa’s participation is anchored in the country’s most urgent developmental imperatives, including addressing youth unemployment through education pathways that produce work-ready and entrepreneurial graduates aligned to the demands of a changing economy.

The delegation will also highlight efforts to accelerate adaptation to the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) by integrating artificial intelligence, digital skills, and green economy competencies across universities, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, and community learning institutions.

Expanding access and reducing structural inequality remain central to the country’s agenda, with programmes such as the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), the Comprehensive Student Funding Model, and initiatives to reposition TVET colleges as institutions of first choice expected to feature prominently.

The visit will also promote entrepreneurship as a driver of economic inclusion, supported by initiatives such as the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) programme and skills development linked to the Just Energy Transition.

During the forum, the Deputy Minister is expected to participate in high-level plenary debates, bilateral ministerial meetings and multilateral engagements, while advocating for the priorities of the Global South.

These include decolonised curricula, multilingual artificial intelligence development, and equitable education financing as non-negotiable pillars of the world’s shared educational future.

Speaking ahead of the forum, Dube-Ncube said South Africa would participate as an active contributor to global education reform.

“South Africa goes to EWF not as an observer, but as a nation actively rebuilding an education system from the legacy of apartheid, adapting to a fast-changing world, while striving to ensure no young person is left behind,” the Deputy Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

President Cyril Ramaphosa has, in his capacity as African Union Champion on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response, commended the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Ugandan governments for their response to an outbreak of Ebola.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) declared an outbreak of the disease a public health emergency of international concern, with hundreds of cases reported. 

“I commend the Governments of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda for their swift leadership and transparency in declaring the Ebola Virus Disease outbreaks of the Bundibugyo strain in Ituri Province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and in Kampala, Uganda, following laboratory confirmation.

“Early detection, rapid reporting and decisive action remain critical to containing outbreaks before they escalate into a wider regional crisis,” President Ramaphosa said in a statement.

He pledged solidarity with the two countries and in particular, those “affected communities and frontline health workers”.

“I also commend neighbouring countries that have moved rapidly to strengthen preparedness, cross-border surveillance and emergency coordination.

“I further commend the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, under the leadership of the Director General, Dr Jean Kaseya, working together with the World Health Organisation, for its rapid support to affected countries, regional coordination efforts and mobilisation of partners around a unified continental response, building on the successful continental incident management model deployed during the mpox response.

“I also welcome the efforts of national authorities, Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), the World Health Organisation and partners to strengthen surveillance, laboratory systems, contact tracing, infection prevention and control, risk communication, case management and access to appropriate medical countermeasures,” President Ramaphosa said.

He called for close cooperation between the two countries’ governments and frontline responders and communities in an “environment of trust and transparency to stop these outbreaks at their source and prevent further spread”.

“Ebola does not respect borders. In a region marked by high population mobility, insecurity and humanitarian movement, the risk of regional spread is significant and demands urgent, coordinated action.

“I therefore urge affected and at-risk countries to intensify cross-border collaboration, strengthen surveillance at formal and informal points of entry, and ensure rapid information sharing, particularly in areas affected by insecurity and population displacement.

“As the chair of the Global Leaders Network for Women’s, Children’s and Adolescents’ Health, I make a special plea to ensure that women, children and adolescents are not left behind and that routine services do not backslide as we handle this crisis,” the President said.

He noted that the outbreak underscores a crucial reminder that African countries must continue investing in public health systems and regional health security.

“Preparedness requires sustained investment in national public health institutes, emergency operations centres, laboratory and genomic surveillance networks, trained health workforce and rapid response capabilities.

“I therefore call on African Union Member States and international partners to strengthen support for pandemic prevention, preparedness and response through timely financing, technical assistance, medical countermeasures and direct support to affected communities. Solidarity must translate into concrete action,” President Ramaphosa said.

He pledged, in his capacity as Champion on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response, to continue working with the AU Commission, Heads of State and Government, Africa CDC and partners to “ensure that Africa’s response remains coordinated, adequately financed and anchored in the principles of solidarity, health security and sovereignty”.

“The peoples of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and the wider region must not face this threat alone. Africa has the experience, institutions and resolve to contain these outbreaks. What is required now is urgency, unity and collective action,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

Gauteng MEC for Economic Development, Agriculture and Rural Development Vuyiswa Ramokgopa has dismissed the CEO of the Gauteng Gambling Board and suspended its Chief Financial Officer, following the release of a forensic investigation report detailing alleged governance failures, procurement irregularities and financial misconduct at the entity.

Speaking at a media briefing in Johannesburg on Monday, Ramokgopa said the report, prepared by an independent legal team led by Advocate William Mokhare SC, revealed serious breaches of governance and abuse of public resources within the gambling board.

The report implicated CEO, Dr Karabo Mbele, in what Ramokgopa described as “serious governance failures and gross misconduct”, including interference in funding adjudication processes, approving funding before governance procedures had been concluded, authorising payments without supporting documentation and failures in compliance and oversight obligations.

“As a result, I have terminated the contract of employment of the CEO, Dr Karabo Mbele, with immediate effect,” Ramokgopa said.

The report also made findings against Chief Financial Officer Oscar Maripane, including failures in financial governance, procurement irregularities, non-compliance with the Public Finance Management Act and breakdowns in internal controls and statutory reporting obligations. 

Ramokgopa confirmed that Maripane had been suspended pending the outcome of an internal disciplinary process.

The MEC said the gambling board had become the subject of numerous whistleblower complaints since she took office on 1 April 2026. 

She said many whistleblowers had requested anonymity while reporting alleged misconduct, malfeasance and maladministration within the institution.

The findings of the forensic investigation corroborated many of the allegations raised by whistleblowers.

“It has become clear to me that the status quo at the Gauteng Gambling Board cannot continue,” she said, adding that the board currently had no constituted governing board following the resignation of several board members in December 2025. 

An administrator would be appointed while the process to establish a new board was underway.

Ramokgopa said stabilising governance and rebuilding public confidence in provincial entities formed part of the Gauteng Provincial Government’s broader economic and institutional reform programme.

The MEC said the provincial government was focused on implementing commitments made at the second Gauteng Investment Conference, where more than R205 billion in investment pledges had been secured. 

The province aimed to achieve 3% GDP growth by 2030, create 300 sustainable jobs, strengthen governance across public institutions and increase provincial revenue generation.

She also announced that the Gauteng Liquor Amendment Regulations had been approved by the legislature, including a 7% increase in annual liquor licence fees, the first increase in seven years.

Ramokgopa thanked whistleblowers for exposing alleged wrongdoing and said the provincial government would act decisively against corruption and maladministration.

“Corruption, maladministration and the abuse of public resources will not be tolerated under this administration, and no individual will be above reproach,” she said.

She also thanked former MEC Lebogang Maile for initiating the forensic investigation and Advocate Mokhare’s legal team for conducting what she described as a thorough inquiry involving the review of more than 80 000 pages of evidence over 12 months. – SAnews.gov.za

The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) has dismissed claims that a warrant of arrest has been issued for the arrest of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

“The IDAC notes with concern the rumours and enquiries that it has a J50 warrant of arrest for Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. This information is false and dismissed with the contempt it deserves.

“These rumours are clearly started to disrupt and distract the work of IDAC, as well as the responsibilities that General Mkhwanazi is discharging in the fight against crime,” the IDAC said.

The directorate warned against the spread of inaccurate information.

“Members of society are urged to be vigilant against false information circulated in social media platforms, aimed at destabilising and discrediting law enforcement in the country,” the IDAC added. – SAnews.gov.za

The Gauteng Department of Health has assured the public that it is fast-tracking the recruitment process for various positions at the Tembisa Hospital to ensure that service delivery is not affected.

The department is looking to fill medical, nursing, clinical support and therapeutic services, and administration positions at the facility.

“The Gauteng Department of Health wishes to assure the public that it is working with Tembisa Hospital to expedite the filling of posts, given the impact this has on providing efficient service to communities.

“The vacancy rate is negatively impacting clinical oversight and supervision and resulting in lengthy waiting times, which lead to numerous complaints from patients.

“The department is working around the clock to ensure that all vacant posts are filled. Interviews have already been conducted for six doctors, one nursing position, and three clinical support and therapeutic services personnel who are expected to commence employment in June and July.”  

Of the 25 medical vacancies, 22 have been advertised, with eight in the shortlisting phase.

“Furthermore, eight nursing positions were advertised while two have been shortlisted. To fast-track the recruitment process, four clinical support and therapeutic services positions have been advertised, while three have been shortlisted. 

“The department can confirm that some medical equipment, such as defibrillators, monitors, and infusion pumps, has been delivered to the facility. Additionally, the procurement of medical equipment, including ventilators, examination lamps, mobile screens and anaesthetic machines, will take place within the current financial year, according to the demand plan,” the statement read.

The department added that repairs to the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Unit are being done in two phases.

The unit was engulfed in a fire in 2025.

“Phase one covered the less severely affected areas, and an assessment was conducted by Spire Fund, a donor supporting the remedial work. This phase has been completed, including clearing, cleaning, and refurbishment of the affected sections.

“Phase two relates to areas that were extensively damaged by the fire, and a detailed cost assessment is still underway, as rubble and debris needed to be removed to allow for comprehensive evaluation. This process is also being supported by Spire Fund.

“The final repair costs for Phase two will only be determined once the in-depth assessment has been completed,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

President Cyril Ramaphosa has used his weekly newsletter to push back at suggestions that investment conferences held across the country are “just for show”.

Government has, since the turn of the year, held business forums in several countries, hosted the SA Investment Conference, held provincial investment conferences with an Infrastructure Investment Summit convened by BlackRock, the asset manager company, held last week.

“These engagements are not ‘just for show’, as some people have suggested. They are an opportunity to connect investors with local opportunities, and bring together governments, business, banks and development finance institutions. 

“Around the world, investment conferences and summits are platforms to attract foreign direct investment in a global investor landscape that has become increasingly competitive. The fact that international and domestic investors are willing to commit capital to South Africa demonstrates confidence in our country as an attractive investment destination,” President Ramaphosa said.

The SA Investment Conferences kicked off in 2018, attracting investment in various sectors including energy, telecoms, infrastructure, automotive, mining and advanced manufacturing.

The President noted that of the R1.5 trillion in pledges drawn from the conferences, some R634 billion has “already been invested into factories, mines, data centres, power plants and other infrastructure, and have been creating jobs”.

“These include the R4.2 billion investment by BMW to electrify its Rosslyn plant in Gauteng and to support new energy vehicle production; the R500 million investment by Tetra Pak to upgrade its plant in KwaZulu-Natal; Corobrik’s R500 million investment to build its Kwastina plant in Gauteng; and the Newlyn PX terminal in the Port of Durban that began operating in 2024.

“Last year, I opened the Ivanplats Platreef mine in Mokopane that originated from a R2.8 billion investment conference pledge,” the president highlighted.

Furthermore, these investments are not only creating jobs but are “supporting skills development to better equip young South Africans for the rapidly evolving world of work”.

“For example, Microsoft has partnered with the Youth Employment Service to offer globally recognised certification in high-demand Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills. This forms part of a more than R5.4 billion investment by Microsoft to expand its cloud and AI infrastructure in South Africa by 2027.  

“We welcome all forms of investment, whether it is planned or new,” President Ramaphosa said.

Tackling the challenges

The President acknowledged that although much progress is being made, the “reality is that we are a long way from where we need to be”.

He highlighted that a primary economic indicator, Gross Fixed Capital Formation (GFCF), currently stands at around 14% of South Africa’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) – significantly lower than the 30% target by 2030 set out in the National Development Plan (NDP).

 “Our GFCF reached around 21% in 2008, driven by a sustained commodity boom, the start of Eskom’s build programme and infrastructure expansion ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. There has been a steady decline since then, as the global financial crisis and the period of state capture progressively undermined private investment and business confidence. 

“Since 2018, we have sought to arrest this decline. We have matched intent with action, moving to stabilise public finances, resolve the energy crisis and advance structural reforms,” he said.

However, there remains a “disconnect between improved investor sentiment and greater investment”.

“The message we have been taking to our meetings with investors is that we are creating the conditions for growth and providing the necessary policy certainty. As we reiterated at last week’s Infrastructure Investment Summit, we are improving project planning, funding and execution.

“Through this, we aim to narrow the gap between investment pledges, implementation and eventually job creation. 

“We aim to encourage the substantial private capital that is in reserve to be used for productive domestic investment. According to the South African Reserve Bank, by July 2025, South Africa’s non-financial companies held R1.8 trillion in reserves,” he explained.

The President emphasised that building a prosperous and inclusive South Africa requires collective action and productive investment at scale.

“That is why we are encouraged that the greatest number of pledges made at the sixth South Africa Investment Conference were from domestic investors. Local businesses – those who know our economic and social conditions best – are making substantial investments in our economy.

“As we forge ahead with efforts to attract new investment, we call on the local private sector to be at the forefront of rebuilding investment momentum in our economy. Their confidence will encourage more international capital to follow.

“It is now abundantly clear that the engagements and commitments made in conference halls are steadily and increasingly translating into the economic activity that creates jobs and opportunities for South Africans,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

The eThekwini Municipality says it is working closely with bulk supplier uMngeni-uThukela Water (UUW) to address elevated levels of 2-methylisoborneol (MIB) affecting water supplied through the Wiggins Water Treatment Works. 

The municipality confirmed that while some residents may notice changes in the taste and odour of their water, it remains safe for human consumption and continues to meet all required quality and safety standards.

In a statement issued over the weekend, the municipality said the issue is linked to increased concentrations of 2-methylisoborneol (MIB), a naturally occurring compound commonly associated with higher levels of blue-green algae in surface water systems.

“While MIB can cause an earthy or musty taste and odour in drinking water, it does not pose a health risk,” the municipality said.

The city’s bulk water supplier, UUW, has implemented several intervention measures to address the matter at the Inanda Dam and Wiggins Water Treatment Works.

These measures include intensified water treatment processes, more frequent filtration cycles, and enhanced monitoring systems.

“In addition, an advanced ozone treatment process was introduced in May as an additional intervention, achieving at least a 50% removal efficiency in conjunction with powdered activated carbon treatment systems. UUW has confirmed that the water continues to comply with the highest quality and safety standards and remains safe for human consumption,” the municipality said.

The municipality acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the taste and odour changes, assured residents that technical teams are monitoring the situation continuously and engaging regularly with UUW to ensure the best possible outcome for consumers.

Affected areas in the central system are included Bulwer, Glenwood, Sea View, Chesterville, Umbilo, Bonela, Isiphingo Beach, Isiphingo Rail, Orient Hills, Bluff, Prospecton Industrial, uMlazi T, Malaba Hills, Reunion, uMlazi V, uMlazi Mission A, eZimbokodweni, Lotus Park, Malukazi, uMlazi U, uMlazi Y, Durban Old Airport, Jacobs, Sherwood, Merebank East, Merewent, Mobeni, Mobeni West, Reunion, Bayhead, Beach, Bachwood, and Cave Rock.

Other affected areas include, Durban CBD, Durban Beachfront, Old Fort, Point, South Beach, Stamford Hill, Warwick, Austeville, Brighton Beach, Stanvac, Wentworth, Bayhead, Clairwood, Merebank East, Montclair, Rossburgh, Woodlands, part of Morningside, part of Overport, part of Essenwood, part of Westridge, part of Carrington Heights, part of Mobeni Heights, part of Lamontville, uMlazi V, and Prince Mshiyeni Hospital.

Affected areas in the south are include Athlone Park, Galleria Mall, Arbour Crossing, Kingsway Hospital, Two Cancer Centres, eZimbokodweni, Southgate Industrial Park, Lewis Drive, Amanzimtoti CBD, Athlone Park and Kingsway Hospital, Almond, Winklespruit, Warner Beach, Illovo Glen, Lower Illovo, Doonside, Launceston, Illovo Beach, Karridene Protea Hotel, Panorama Park, Umgababa, Umnini, Area Africa, Mfume, KwaSoni, Mashiwase, Nkwali, Lovu A, B and C, Bhekulwandle, Msarhweni, Lovu Phase 1 and 3, Lovu Landfill, Inkwali, KwaMakhutha, Mkhazini, and eMasomini.

Ekuhlengeni Psychiatric Hospital, Ohlongeni, D1060, Adams, Adams Central, Zwelisha, Mkhazini, Umnini, Ilfracombe, Magabheni, Ehlanzeni, Thoyane, Umkhomazi, Craigieburn, Amahlongwa, Amalundi, Crowder Farm, Malukazi, Clansthal, V-Section, Malundi, Amahlongwa, Saiccor Village, Naidooville, Crowder Farm and Lewis Drive, are also affected by the taste and odour changes. – SAnews.gov.za
 

The 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) opened in Baku with a strong call for more inclusive, resilient and people-centred approaches to urban development, as global housing shortages and climate pressures intensify.

Convened by UN-Habitat, the forum has brought together governments, civil society organisations, local authorities, businesses, women’s groups and youth advocates to address a wide range of urban challenges.

Key issues under discussion include housing rights, gender equality, climate resilience, governance and private-sector innovation.

Outcomes from the discussions are expected to shape the “Baku Call to Action,” the outcome document of WUF13, and contribute to advancing the New Urban Agenda.

In her opening remarks on Sunday, UN-Habitat Executive Director Anacláudia Rossbach urged participants to ensure the outcome document reflects diverse voices and priorities emerging from the forum.

Local governments key to urban transformation

The World Assembly of Local and Regional Governments gathered mayors, governors and regional leaders, reaffirming the central role of local authorities in advancing sustainable urban development and strengthening multilateral cooperation.

Participants emphasised that local governments remain central to implementing the New Urban Agenda and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) beyond 2030, particularly as cities face mounting pressure from housing shortages, inequality and climate impacts.

Discussions explored multilevel governance, innovative financing, local public services and community-led approaches to housing and resilience.

Cecilia Vaca Jones, Executive Director of the Breathe Cities initiative at the Clean Air Fund, emphasised that local governments must be recognised “not only as implementers but as political leaders shaping the future of the New Urban Agenda.”

“Clean air belongs in the heart of the urban agenda and not only in environmental conversations,” Jones said.

Delivering climate-resilient housing

At the Business Assembly, participants explored how innovation and collaboration across the housing value chain can help accelerate the delivery of adequate, affordable and climate-resilient housing.

Stakeholders identified regulatory barriers, infrastructure gaps, financing constraints and operational risks that continue to slow housing delivery in many parts of the world.

Discussions also highlighted emerging solutions, including AI-enabled planning, modular construction and low-carbon materials.

“The tipping point comes when green infrastructure stops being treated as visual and architectural premium and starts being treated as measurable climate infrastructure,” CEO and Founder of SmartSylvan, Parisa Kloss said.

Participants also called for stronger coordination among governments, financial institutions, developers and service providers to accelerate housing delivery and strengthen long-term resilience.

Placing gender equality at global urban policy

The Women’s Assembly underscored the need to place gender equality and housing justice at the centre of global urban policy.

Discussions explored how housing systems can become more equitable and responsive to the needs of women and girls, particularly in relation to safety, mobility, economic opportunity and participation in shaping urban environments.

Kaori Ishikawa of UN Women highlighted that despite growing representation in political institutions, women continue to face discrimination in housing security, income and access to opportunities.

The Children and Youth Assembly stressed the urgency of involving young people directly in shaping urban futures.

With nearly 70% of the world’s children and youth expected to live in urban areas by 2050, discussions focused on the realities many young people already face, including inadequate housing, unsafe living conditions and limited opportunities.

Discussions among grassroots and civil society organisations focused on strengthening collective action to advance the right to adequate housing and inclusive urban development.

Azerbaijan’s Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, Farhad Hajiyev, stressed that “the future of cities will not be decided only in conference rooms [but] also by the generations growing up in today’s urban areas.”

Stakeholders called for greater recognition of grassroots initiatives as long-term drivers of transformation, grounded in equity, dignity, redistribution and equitable access to housing, land and public services.

Discussions also examined sustainable urban planning, affordable housing, climate resilience and the role of civil society in urban governance, while emphasising accountability and stronger collaboration between communities, governments and technical partners.

A shared call for inclusive urban futures

Across all sessions, a common message emerged: “Addressing the global housing crisis requires coordinated, multi-stakeholder action centred on equity, resilience and human dignity”.

From grassroots movements and youth leadership to local governments, women’s organisations and private-sector innovation, participants highlighted the importance of collaboration and shared responsibility in shaping safe, sustainable and inclusive cities for all. – SAnews.gov.za