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Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Sindisiwe Chikunga has underscored the importance of forging stronger partnerships across government, business and academia to accelerate women’s economic empowerment.

Delivering the keynote address at the 8th Annual Regenesys Women in Business and Leadership Conference in Sandton on Wednesday, Chikunga said no single sector could achieve an inclusive economy on its own.

She emphasised the importance of ensuring that inclusive growth benefits all women, particularly young women, women with disabilities and in rural and township communities.

Held under the theme, “Building an Inclusive Economy – The Role of Government, Business and Academia”, the conference brought together leaders from government, business and academia to explore practical solutions for advancing women’s economic participation.

Chikunga said government, business and academia are the three pillars of a functional economy and must work together rather than in isolation.

“Government cannot legislate its way to inclusion without the productive capacity of industry players. Businesses cannot thrive without the enabling framework and stability of an innovative public service, and neither government nor business can build a workforce, or a citizenry, capable of driving inclusion — without academia.

“If we are to achieve real results, these three pillars must move in unison, not in parallel; in partnership, not in silos,” Chikunga said.

The Minister stressed that meaningful partnerships should focus on creating opportunities for women and other vulnerable groups by investing in education, skills development, entrepreneurship and access to finance.

She called for a new generation of public-private partnerships centred on human capital development, saying these collaborations can bridge financing gaps, accelerate service delivery, strengthen innovation and improve the quality of public services.

However, Chikunga warned that partnerships must be guided by equity, transparency, accountability, and sustainability, to ensure they benefit those most in need rather than entrench existing inequalities.

She acknowledged early childhood development, technical and vocational education, healthcare, digital infrastructure and innovative financing are key sectors where collaboration between government, business and academia could drive inclusive economic growth.

The Minister also highlighted Africa’s youthful population as both an opportunity and a challenge, warning that the continent’s demographic advantage could become a liability without sustained investment in the health, education and wellbeing of young people.

“A demographic dividend is not automatic. Without deliberate, massive and sustained investment in the health, education and wellbeing of our young people, our demographic bulge could become a demographic disaster — with youth unemployment, social instability, and lost potential as our legacy,” the Minister said.

Women’s financial inclusion

Turning to women’s financial inclusion, Chikunga outlined several priority areas requiring urgent action, including increasing women’s participation in economic decision-making, expanding access to financial resources and capital, and recognising the care economy as a critical enabler of women’s economic participation.

Among the measures proposed were specialised banking initiatives for women, expanded microcredit programmes, gender-responsive financial technology and strengthening public procurement opportunities for women-owned businesses.

The Minister also called for greater investment in affordable childcare, flexible workplace policies and shared household responsibilities to reduce the unpaid care burden that continues to limit many women’s participation in the economy.

Tribute to generations of women

Addressing delegates during Women’s Month, which this year marks the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Women’s March, Chikunga paid tribute to generations of women who fought against discrimination and exclusion.

She urged stakeholders to honour their legacy by translating commitments into measurable action.

“As we mark the Platinum Jubilee of the 1956 Women’s March, let us leave this conference committed to concrete action, with timelines and accountability, and with the understanding that we owe the next generation of women more than we inherited,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Sihle Zikalala will launch the Wentworth Rapid Response and Gender-based Violence (GBV) facility at the Wentworth South African Police Service (SAPS) in Durban on Thursday.

The facility will assist in the fight against GBV, ensuring victims receive prompt, coordinated and friendly support. 

“Wentworth faces high levels of violent crime, gang violence and drug-related offenses often leading to gender-based violence. The Centre will cater for Women and Children affected by sexual and physical violence,” the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) said in a statement.

It will also house the Department of Social Development Counsellors, who will give the necessary empowerment support. 

Zikalala said the launch of the GBV centre shows commitment by all stakeholders in the fight against gender-based violence.

Commending the citizen who donated the facility to the SAPS, Zikalala said the DPWI will also continue to make properties available to help fight against GBV. 

To date, DPWI has made available over 35 properties across the country in the fight against GBV. – SAnews.gov.za

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has recorded a strong start to its 2027 Online Admissions application period, receiving more than 210 000 Grade 1 and Grade 8 applications within the first four hours of the system going live.

The online system officially opened at 8am on Wednesday, with the department reporting that 210 055 applications had been successfully submitted by midday.

In a statement, Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Lebogang Maile, welcomed the strong response from parents and guardians, saying it reflected continued confidence in the province’s online admissions system.

“The system went live at 08:00 on Wednesday, 5 August 2026, and by 12:00 noon, the Gauteng Department of Education had already received 210 055 Grade 1 and Grade 8 applications, demonstrating the continued confidence that parents and guardians have in the Province’s Online Admissions System,” he said. 

The department said demand was evident even before applications officially opened, with 12 058 parents joining the online queue between 7:30am and 7:59am in anticipation of the system going live.

“The application process has since proceeded smoothly without any major technical incidents,” he said. 

According to the department, the highest demand has so far been recorded in the Ekurhuleni South and Tshwane West education districts.

Among secondary schools, Hoërskool Langenhoven in Tshwane West received the highest number of applications at 1 168, followed by Alberton High School with 1 098 applications and Hoërskool Akasia with 917.

At primary school level, Rachel de Beer Primary School received 474 applications, followed by Laerskool Akasia with 461 and Laerskool Voortrekker Eeufees with 411.

As South Africa’s largest provincial education system, Gauteng currently provides public education to more than 2.4 million learners through 2 111 public ordinary schools, comprising 1 417 primary schools and 694 secondary schools, including 37 Schools of Specialisation spread across the province’s 15 education districts.

The department said learner enrolment continues to grow, increasing by more than 23 000 learners over the past year alone – the equivalent of establishing about 19 new schools, each accommodating around 1 200 learners.

Since its introduction in 2015, the Gauteng Online Admissions System has replaced long queues outside schools with what the department describes as a fair, transparent and efficient digital application process.

The department noted that learner placements have increased every year over the past decade, with approximately 400 000 entry-grade learners successfully placed during the 2025 admissions cycle.

This year’s admissions process includes several enhancements aimed at improving the experience for parents and guardians.

These include improved system stability during periods of high demand, faster processing times, strengthened functionality, enhanced document verification, automated SMS reminders and notifications, as well as the ability for parents to view each school’s Language of Learning and Teaching, Home Language and First Additional Language offerings before submitting applications.

According to the department, the improvements were informed by consultations with parents, School Governing Body associations, principals, district officials and provincial call-centre agents.

Maile urged parents not to delay submitting applications.

“The MEC urges all parents and guardians not to wait until the closing days of the application period. Applying early allows sufficient time to upload supporting documents, resolve any outstanding matters and improve the likelihood of a seamless placement process,” he said. 

Parents have been reminded to complete all five application steps, apply to a minimum of three and a maximum of five schools, and upload or submit all certified supporting documents within seven days of submitting their applications.

The department also warned parents against fraudsters claiming to offer guaranteed school placements for a fee.

“The Department further cautions parents against fraudsters and scammers who falsely claim to represent the Gauteng Department of Education or promise guaranteed school placements in exchange for money. Online Admissions is completely free of charge. No individual, company or organisation is authorised to charge parents or influence learner placements,” the MEC said.

Parents requiring assistance can visit any of the department’s 48 decentralised walk-in centres, 15 district offices, the provincial head office or public schools across Gauteng, where trained officials are available to provide support free of charge. 

The application period closes at midnight on Friday, 4 September 2026. – SAnews.gov.za 

The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality says it will implement a High Court order directing it to restore the Inclining Block Tariff (IBT) for qualifying domestic electricity consumers for the 2026/27 financial year.

The order, granted by agreement between the parties in respect of Part A of the legal proceedings, provides a legal framework for reinstating the tariff, subject to the necessary regulatory approvals from the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA).

The municipality said it respects the authority of the courts and is committed to implementing the order transparently and within the prescribed timeframes.

Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe said the municipality recognises the impact that electricity costs have on households, pensioners, students and businesses.

“When residents expressed concern, we listened. When the court provided clarity, we accepted our constitutional responsibility to implement its order. That is what accountable government requires,” Lobishe said.

She said the municipality remains committed to ensuring that every qualifying domestic electricity consumer benefits from the implementation process.

The municipality emphasised that the interim agreement should not be interpreted as an admission that it acted unlawfully when implementing the tariff structure from 1 July 2026.

According to the municipality, the tariff structure formed part of the 2026/27 Budget and Tariffs adopted by the Municipal Council following the statutory budget, consultation and public participation processes prescribed by law.

It said the legal challenge relates to the implementation of the tariff structure, with the High Court proceedings divided into two parts. Part A sought interim relief pending the determination of the substantive review proceedings contained in Part B.

“Following constructive engagement between the parties, agreement was reached regarding the interim relief sought in Part A, and that agreement has now been made an Order of Court.”

The municipality said agreeing to the interim relief will provide certainty for residents while allowing the substantive legal issues to be determined by the court.

In terms of the court order, the municipality has been directed to restore the IBT applicable to qualifying domestic electricity consumers, obtain the necessary regulatory approval from NERSA for the consequential tariff amendments and implement the restored tariff structure retrospectively with effect from 1 July 2026.  

The municipality must also allocate the appropriate credits to qualifying domestic electricity consumers, in accordance with the implementation framework and timelines set out in the Court Order.

To facilitate the process, the municipality has established a multidisciplinary implementation team comprising officials from Legal Services, Electricity and Energy, Revenue Management, Information Technology, Finance, Customer Care and Corporate Services.

The multidisciplinary teams have commenced detailed planning to secure the required regulatory approvals, restore the Inclining Block Tariff within municipal billing and vending systems, identify qualifying customer accounts, recalculate electricity charges from 1 July 2026, validate all billing adjustments, process customer credits accurately, and communicate progress to residents throughout the process.

The municipality said qualifying customers will not be required to submit applications or lodge claims for the credits.

“Once the required regulatory approvals have been obtained and the technical implementation has been completed, qualifying credits will be processed automatically through the municipality’s billing systems and reflected on customer accounts in accordance with the Court Order. The municipality appreciates that residents will wish to know when implementation will be completed and when credits will begin reflecting on their accounts,” the municipality explained.

Transparency and accountability

While some implementation milestones depend on NERSA’s approval process contemplated by the court, the municipality said it will proceed with all aspects of implementation without unnecessary delay and provide regular updates to the public as each milestone is achieved.

Lobishe said transparency and accountability will remain the defining principles throughout implementation.

“We are committed to implementing the Court Order professionally, fairly and transparently while ensuring that residents remain informed throughout every stage of the process. Open communication and public accountability are essential to strengthening confidence in local government,” the mayor said.

She reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to constitutional governance, service delivery and ethical leadership.

“Local government exists to improve people’s lives. Every budget we approve, every tariff we implement and every service we deliver must ultimately advance that purpose. As we implement this Court Order, our focus remains firmly on protecting residents, strengthening public confidence and continuing to deliver reliable municipal services with professionalism and integrity.” – SAnews.gov.za

The clock is ticking for South Africans who missed the final voter registration weekend to register or update their details ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections.

Voters who were unable to visit a registration station during the weekend can register or update their details through the IEC’s Online Voter Registration portal before the registration period closes.

The registration portal can be accessed on: https://registertovote.elections.org.za 

The Electoral Commission (IEC) has urged eligible voters not to wait until the last minute, warning that registration channels typically become busier as the Friday, 7 August deadline approaches.

The Commission has also introduced voter registration via WhatsApp, providing another way for citizens to register or update their voter information using their mobile phones.

To use the service, voters can WhatsApp “Hi” to 0600 88 0000. The platform uses secure identity verification, including one-time-password authentication, ID document uploads, address verification and voting-station confirmation.

Some voters using WhatsApp may be directed to the IEC’s online registration platform to verify their residential address using an interactive map.

During the final registration weekend on 1 and 2 August, more than 1.7 million citizens interacted with the IEC, including 291 806 first-time voters.

The IEC said the registration drive also saw significant participation from young people. Of the 1.7 million transactions recorded during the weekend, 485 757 involved people aged between 16 and 29, while 46% of new registrations were by voters under 29.

Citizens can register from the age of 16; however, only those who are 18 or older are eligible to vote.

The IEC has also stressed the importance of ensuring that registration details are correct, particularly for voters who have moved. In local government elections, voters must vote at the voting station where they are registered, meaning those who have changed addresses should update their details before the deadline.

Voters can check their registration status by SMSing “myID” followed by their ID number to 32810.

The IEC’s contact centre, 0800 11 8000, is also available to assist with registration queries.
The 2026 Local Government Elections are scheduled for 4 November, with the formal election timetable set to follow the proclamation on Friday, 7 August.

Meanwhile, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa has urged all eligible South Africans to register and verify their voter registration details before Friday. – SAnews.gov.za

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has underscored the importance of partnerships, knowledge exchange and visionary leadership in unlocking Africa’s full potential amid a rapidly evolving global landscape.

The Premier was addressing delegates at the 10th Mbali International Conference, currently underway in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.

Hosted by the University of Zululand from 4 to 6 August 2026, the three-day conference is being held under the theme: “Africa Awakens: Possibilities, Progress, Partnerships in a Multipolar World.”

Marking a decade of promoting African intellectualism, thought leadership and progressive dialogue, the conference has brought together academics, policymakers, innovators and business leaders from across the continent to reflect on Africa’s role in shaping global development.

Addressing delegates, Ntuli said platforms such as the Mbali International Conference are critical to ensuring that African voices, ideas and experiences remain at the forefront of discussions on development, innovation and international cooperation.

“Africa’s progress depends on stronger collaboration between governments, academia, innovators, the private sector and civil society,” the Premier said.

Ntuli highlighted the importance of positioning KwaZulu-Natal as a province that contributes meaningfully to continental dialogue, economic development and the advancement of African -led solutions to African challenges.

He noted that the conference also provides a platform for delegates to explore new opportunities for cooperation in a multipolar world, where emerging economies and developing regions are playing an increasingly influential role in shaping the global agenda.

Ntuli commended the organisers of the conference for sustaining a platform that continues to promote intellectual engagement, African excellence, and fosters partnerships aimed at building a more inclusive and prosperous continent.

The conference is expected to reaffirm the role of dialogue, innovation and collective action in advancing Africa’s development agenda while inspiring new hope for future generations to contribute to the continent’s growth and transformation. – SAnews.gov.za

South Africa will use the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to advocate for a stronger, more inclusive multilateral system while continuing to push for reforms that ensure Africa is permanently represented on the United Nations Security Council.

Speaking during a media briefing in Pretoria on Wednesday, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), Ronald Lamola, said South Africa remains firmly committed to the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law, arguing that the current global crisis demands stronger rather than weaker multilateral cooperation.

“We believe that the answer to the current crisis of multilateralism is not less multilateralism, but better and more inclusive multilateralism,” he said. 

Lamola said South Africa’s participation at this year’s General Assembly comes at a critical juncture as conflicts continue to rage across different parts of the world, placing increasing pressure on the international rules-based order.

According to the UN provisional schedule, the High-level Meetings of the 81st Session are set to get underway with the opening date of the session set for 8 September 2026, and the general debate is scheduled for 22-26 September,as well as 28 September 2026.

He stressed that the consistent application of international law, including international humanitarian law, remains essential to protecting civilians, preserving the sovereignty of states and maintaining international peace and security.

“South Africa remains firmly committed to the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter and international law, including international humanitarian law. Their consistent application is essential to protecting civilians, preventing conflict, preserving the sovereignty of states, and maintaining international peace and security,” the Minister said. 

Equal application of international law
Lamola warned against the selective application of international law, saying doing so undermines the credibility of the international system.

“International law cannot be applied selectively. The credibility of the international system depends on the equal application of its rules, regardless of the power or influence of the states involved.
“When respect for the UN Charter and international humanitarian law erodes, it threatens not only those directly affected by conflict, but the integrity of the entire international order.”

He said South Africa would continue working closely with the international community to uphold these principles during the General Assembly.

Bangladeshi Presidency

South Africa will work closely with Bangladesh, which assumes the Presidency of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

The Minister welcomed this year’s theme, “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations that Delivers for All,” saying it reflects the need for a multilateral system that is more effective, responsive and capable of addressing global challenges.

“South Africa will continue advancing these principles in close cooperation with the international community, particularly with Bangladesh, which holds the Presidency of the General Assembly during the 81st session,” Lamola said. 

He said the theme speaks directly to rebuilding confidence in multilateral institutions at a time when international cooperation is under increasing strain.

Germany’s leadership

Lamola also commended Germany for its stewardship of the 80th Session of the General Assembly.

He noted that South Africa had demonstrated its support by seconding an official from the Department of International Relations and Cooperation to the Office of the President of the General Assembly to advance Africa’s priorities.

“We also commend the Presidency of the Federal Republic of Germany during the 80th session of the General Assembly.

“South Africa demonstrated its commitment to that Presidency by seconding an official from the Department of International Relations and Cooperation to the Office of the President of the General Assembly, specifically to support the advancement of the African agenda,” he said.

Lamola further acknowledged Ms Thandekile Tshabalala for her contribution during her secondment.

High-Level Week

South Africa’s participation in the High-Level Week of the General Assembly will begin on 22 September 2026, when world leaders gather at the UN Headquarters in New York to deliberate on pressing global issues. 

The country’s delegation is expected to use the platform to advance its foreign policy priorities, including strengthening multilateralism, promoting peaceful resolution of conflicts, advancing sustainable development and advocating for reforms of global governance institutions.

New UN Secretary-General process begins

This year’s General Assembly also coincides with the process to elect a new United Nations Secretary-General as the term of António Guterres draws to a close.

Lamola paid tribute to Guterres for his leadership during a period marked by multiple global crises.

“This 81st session of the General Assembly will also mark a change in guard as Secretary-General Guterres term draws and end. The process for the election of a new Secretary-General has begun.

“We commend the outgoing Secretary General for his leadership and commitment to multilateralism that is addressing the lived experience of all global citizens,” the Minister said. 

Renewed push for Security Council reform

South Africa will continue advocating for comprehensive reform of the United Nations, including ensuring that Africa finally secures permanent representation on the Security Council.

“We look forward to working closely with the next incumbent in a manner that reforms the UN so that it is fully reflective of a post-colonial society, with Africa finally being represented on the Security Council,” he said. 

Lamola said reforming the United Nations remains critical to ensuring the institution reflects contemporary global realities and is better positioned to respond to the challenges facing developing countries.

He said South Africa would continue to champion a rules-based international order founded on equality among nations, respect for sovereignty and the peaceful resolution of disputes. – SAnews.gov.za