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Cabo Verde: Governo garante condições para cobertura imparcial das Legislativas e destaca avanços na comunicação social

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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O Secretário de Estado Adjunto do Primeiro-Ministro, Lourenço Lopes, garantiu nesta segunda-feira, 27 de abril, que estão reunidas todas as condições para uma cobertura ampla, qualificada e isenta das eleições legislativas de 17 de maio e destacou os avanços registados no setor da comunicação social em Cabo Verde ao longo do atual mandato.

A afirmação foi proferida durante uma conferência de imprensa dedicada ao ponto de situação do setor público e privado da comunicação social, bem como à análise da cobertura mediática do processo eleitoral.

“Podemos dizer que estão garantidas as condições para que haja uma cobertura qualificada, alargada e isenta das eleições”, afirmou Lourenço Lopes, referindo-se ao trabalho dos órgãos públicos, nomeadamente a RTC e a Inforpress, que irão assegurar a cobertura em todos os círculos eleitorais, de Santo Antão à Brava.

Segundo Lourenço Lopes, estão asseguradas as condições ao nível dos profissionais, da logística e do financiamento, permitindo que os órgãos de comunicação social contribuam de forma significativa para o reforço da democracia, sublinhando que uma cobertura de qualidade exige tratamento equitativo de todos os partidos e candidatos. “Os órgãos de comunicação social não têm compromisso com nenhum partido político; o único compromisso é com a verdade”, reafirmou.

No que se refere à regulação do setor, destacou o posicionamento de Cabo Verde como referência no continente africano. “Cabo Verde é um exemplo em África em matéria de regulação dos media. Temos uma entidade reguladora verdadeiramente independente, que tem sido competente e que tem desempenhado plenamente o seu papel na fiscalização do setor da comunicação social”, afirmou, acrescentando que o reforço da ARC resulta da revisão do estatuto em 2020, que transferiu competências do Governo para esta entidade.

Relativamente ao setor público, Lourenço Lopes manifestou satisfação pelos resultados alcançados no atual mandato. “É com grande satisfação que me preparo para terminar este mandato 2021-2026 com ganhos significativos para a Inforpress e para a Rádio e Televisão de Cabo Verde”, destacou.

No caso da Inforpress, destacou o cumprimento de mais de 90% dos objetivos definidos, incluindo a assinatura do novo contrato de serviço noticioso com o Estado, em 2023, bem como a realização de investimentos ao nível da formação de jornalistas e o reforço da presença internacional, com a colocação de uma correspondente em Portugal.

Quanto à Rádio e Televisão de Cabo Verde (RCV), evidenciou o reforço do financiamento, que passou de 48 mil contos para 86 mil contos, no âmbito do novo contrato de prestação de serviço público. O governante destacou ainda o investimento na modernização tecnológica, com recurso a um aval do Estado de cerca de um milhão de euros, que permitiu a implementação de um sistema Full HD e a criação de estúdios digitais.

Relativamente aos órgãos privados, referiu que existem mecanismos estabelecidos no âmbito do processo eleitoral, nomeadamente a emissão de tempos de antena compensados pela Comissão Nacional de Eleições, defendendo, no entanto, a necessidade de reforçar os recursos disponíveis para garantir uma cobertura mais abrangente.

Lourenço Lopes destacou ainda a importância de uma comunicação social que represente a diversidade da sociedade cabo-verdiana e contribua para um processo eleitoral inclusivo e transparente, sublinhando igualmente o posicionamento do país entre os mais bem classificados da África lusófona e entre os primeiros a nível mundial em matéria de liberdade de imprensa.

A conferência de imprensa realizou-se no contexto da aproximação ao Dia Mundial da Liberdade de Imprensa, assinalado a 3 de maio, data que este ano coincide com o período de campanha eleitoral. “Num período mais tranquilo, sem os ruídos típicos da campanha eleitoral, será possível aprofundar esta reflexão”, concluiu.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Governo de Cabo Verde.

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Deputy Minister Mhlauli to lead Stats SA briefing to Portfolio Committee

Source: President of South Africa –

Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli, will lead a Statistics South Africa’s (Stats SA) briefing to the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation.

The briefing will focus on Budget Vote 14 and the tabling of the 2026/2027 Annual Performance Plan (APP) of Statistics South Africa.

Details of the briefing are as follows:

Date: Wednesday, 29 April 2026
Time: 09h30
Venue: Parliament, Cape Town

The session will provide Members of Parliament with an overview of Stats SA’s budget allocation, strategic priorities, and planned performance targets for the 2026/2027 financial year. The engagement forms part of Parliament’s oversight role to ensure accountability, transparency, and effective service delivery.

Members of the media are invited to follow proceedings on the Parliamentary Channels.

Media enquiries: Ms Mandisa Mbele, Office of the Deputy Minister in The Presidency, on 082 580 2213 or mandisam@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Benin election: Wadagni’s landslide win raises questions about his legitimacy

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Narcisse Martial Yèdji, Sociologue politiste et enseignant-chercheur, University d’Abomey-Calavi de Bénin

Romuald Wadagni won the 2026 presidential election in Benin with over 94% of the vote. Wadagni, 50, is a technocrat who became an influential finance minister under Patrice Talon from 2016 until his election.

The Beninese political system is a pluralist democracy organised around a presidential system, with regular elections and political alternation. It is also characterised by a strict institutional framework governing electoral competition, particularly since recent reforms.

The outcome raises questions about the current dynamics of Benin’s political system. How should the 2026 presidential results be interpreted in a context marked by reforms to the party system and the electoral framework? Political sociologist Narcisse M. Yèdji offers some insights.

How do you interpret the 94% result?

With the current national political climate, the landslide victory raises several questions. At first glance, the results suggest very strong support for the presidential majority. Statistically, this means a very low dispersion of votes between the two competing duos: the winning ticket formed by Romuald Wadagni and Mariam Chabi Talata, and the one formed by Paul Hounkpè and Rock Judicaël Hounwanou. More broadly, such a scenario is typical of electoral contexts where the opposition plays only a formal role and has no real chance of winning.

That said, the enormous margin between the two main candidates may also reflect strong support for the winning pair, giving the impression of a broad consensus in their favour.

Clearly, recent changes introduced to the country’s party system and the electoral code have tilted the balance in favour of the ruling party. Such a victory was predictable. The margin, however, was not.

A comparison with the 2021 presidential election places the 2026 result in a broader perspective. The 2021 election was won by Patrice Talon with 86% of the vote. The race was slightly more open. It involved a larger number of candidates: three pairs in total.

The statements are not contradictory. In a context where the political offer is restricted, voters have several options: either to stay at home, or to cast a default vote. Therefore, the 94% may reflect strong popular support. Or, given the limited set of choices, it may reflect the option of a default vote. The 2026 landslide victory can thus be read as a reflection of growing electoral support for the incumbent administration.

The latest complete overhaul of the rules of political competition left voters without meaningful and credible alternatives, thereby increasing the likelihood of people voting by default.

However, what might appear to be a gradual consolidation of electoral support for the ruling party could, in fact, be the effect of these reforms. The endorsement system, in particular, has played a key role in shaping how votes are distributed. It is a system that requires any presidential candidate to obtain the formal support of a certain number of elected officials (members of parliament or mayors) in order to be eligible to run. The threshold, initially set at 10% (16 endorsements), was raised to 15% in 2024 (28 endorsements), making it harder for the main opposition party to enter the race, as it was unable to secure the required number of endorsements.

It is therefore misleading to view the presidential ticket’s success as mere coincidence. A more realistic reading points to a long-matured political project, executed with cold calculation by those in power.

Read more: Présidentielle au Bénin : comment les réformes politiques sous Patrice Talon ont remodelé la compétition électorale

There are two issues at stake. First, avoiding any risk of retaliation from a resentful successor. The long siege of more than 50 days imposed by security forces on former president Thomas Boni Yayi’s residence after the controversial 2019 legislative election lends weight to this argument. Second, to enable reforms and economic transformation projects to continue, while reducing political uncertainty.

In 2025, Talon had, in fact, hinted at his wish to pass the baton to a successor who would “not undo” his reform programme.

From this perspective, Wadagni’s success is no accident. It is the planned outcome of political system designed to ensure its own continuity.

How do you interpret the voter turnout?

A comparison with previous presidential elections highlights a mixed trend in voter turnout. The 2026 turnout was 63.57%. That is higher than 2021’s 50.17% turnout. However, civil society disputes that 2021 figure, claiming it was actually 26.47%. These turnout rates (for the 2021 and 2026 presidential runs) contrast sharply with recent legislative elections. Turnout was 27.12% in 2019; 38.66% in 2023; 36.74% in 2026.

This contrast reveals a hierarchy among elections. Presidental elections draw stronger turnout, even without real electoral options. For many citizens, electing the head of state is a central political moment.

However, the higher turnout for 2026 (63.57%) should not be interpreted as a revival of political interest. Voter participation has steadily declined since 2006. It averaged at 74.85% in 2006 and 84.82% in 2011.

There is another important reading from the 2026 presidential elections. The relatively high voter turnout of 63.57% happened at the same time as the electoral choices narrowed. In other words, turnout does not appear to be conditioned by the perception of effective pluralism in the electoral process.

Ultimately, these changes reflect how citizens relate to elections. Presidential votes still hold some appeal. Yet, the broader electoral trend remains one of growing abstention and mistrust.

This trend can clearly be linked to a limited belief in the effectiveness of the voting process. It may also stem from a narrower range of electoral choices. If a restricted political offer appears not to affect electoral participation, this does not imply that those who went to vote fully trust the electoral process.

It is entirely possible to be distrustful of the system while still voting, especially when abstention is not perceived as the best option.

Finally, it may be indicative of shifting social expectations regarding political representation.

What are the main challenges facing the new president?

Several challenges await the new president. The first is political legitimacy. Many see his term as a direct continuation of Talon’s rule. For them, Wadagni is his designated successor.

Read more: Au Bénin, le bilan de Patrice Talon à l’épreuve des élections législatives

From this perspective, the new president appears to be both heir and hostage. He inherits the previous administration’s achievements. But he also inherits its liabilities. This raises a central question: can he build an independent authority of his own?

The central challenge of his term, therefore, is to distance himself from this divisive political legacy. He must build an image as an independent president. Wadagni has stated that his predecessor would “step aside” if he wins. But, doubts remain about whether this promised distance will become reality.

On the institutional front, the new president inherits a fragile executive branch. Parliament owes full allegiance to Talon. The Senate could also limit his room for action.

From the first challenge stems the second: restoring trust between politics and people. The outgoing president will sit in the Senate and is likely to remain, for years to come, one of the country’s most influential political figures. Meeting this challenge will undoubtedly depend on how the public will perceive Talon’s influence on government affairs from within the Senate.

Restoring trust between the political sphere and the people means winning back voters who have walked away from electoral processes. This will require credible actions that must prove renewed approach to governance.

The legitimacy of the new president’s policies may depend on this effort.

Beyond that, the deepest challenge might be national reconciliation. Recent political dynamics such as the electoral reforms appear to have contributed to deepening divisions among Beninese citizens. To ensure long term stability, the new president will need to take credible actions to ease tensions and rebuild social cohesion.

For this to happen, strong actions are expected quickly after his inauguration, especially on highly sensitive issues:

  • security issues in the northern border regions exposed to terrorist threats

  • economic and social issues, including the cost of living, improving purchasing power, youth employment, and reducing wage inequalities

  • political and institutional issues, including “political prisoners”, exiles, and those in similar situations; easing the tax burden; and rebuilding public trust in institutions.

Amid the profound political and institutional changes underway, Wadagni’s ability to meet all these expectations will shape his legitimacy. It will also determine the overall success of his seven-year term.

– Benin election: Wadagni’s landslide win raises questions about his legitimacy
– https://theconversation.com/benin-election-wadagnis-landslide-win-raises-questions-about-his-legitimacy-281005

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Humidity and heat are killers for tropical birds – waxbill and hornbill studies highlight the dangers

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Andrew McKechnie, Professor of Zoology and South African Research Chair-holder, University of Pretoria

Humans are not the only species negatively affected by increasingly hot and humid conditions. Intense heatwaves sometimes kill large numbers of wild animals. Eastern Australia’s giant fruit bats, known as flying-foxes, provide possibly the most dramatic illustration. In late 2018, two days of extreme heat in the far north of Queensland wiped out one third of Australia’s population of spectacled flying-foxes. The species is now red-listed as endangered.

Bat biologists have identified high humidity as a major risk factor for these mass mortality events.

In late 2020, South Africa saw its first documented heat-related mass mortality event involving wild birds. Air temperatures in the typically humid Phongolo Nature Reserve in northern KwaZulu-Natal exceeded 45°C, about 10°C higher than average conditions. Staff in the reserve started seeing dead and dying birds. Most of the victims were songbirds, which are known to be more sensitive to extreme heat than many other groups of birds.

Of these, the worst-affected species was the blue waxbill, a charming little finch with a powder-blue face and belly that spends most of its time foraging for grass seeds in small flocks.

Blue waxbills made up nearly half the carcasses found by field rangers when they searched part of the reserve after the heat had passed.

The Phongolo mortality event added to the urgency of our research programme on the effects of climate change on Africa’s birds. The blue waxbills’ prominence among the victims identified them as a bellwether of the impacts of extreme heat on birds in the wetter south-eastern parts of the continent.

Since 2009, we have been leading a research team spanning the universities of Cape Town, Pretoria and several other local and overseas institutions. The over-arching goal of our research is understanding how climate change is affecting birds and other wildlife and developing methods to predict future effects.

Our expertise is mainly in behavioural ecology (Susie Cunningham) and evolutionary physiology (Andrew McKechnie). This combination has proven ideal for investigating how rising temperatures affect animals’ survival and reproduction.

Why humidity can be a killer

During hot weather, humans and other animals depend on evaporation to offload heat. Evaporation may take place by sweating (the major cooling mechanism for humans), through panting (your dog on a hot day) or other pathways. The process of changing liquid water (sweat or saliva) into water vapour uses heat, so it cools the source of the water (the body). But the air is like a sponge: when it’s already humid (wet), the air can’t hold much more water vapour.

These conditions impede evaporation and thus heat loss. On a 40°C day in a desert like the Kalahari or Sahara, evaporative cooling is efficient because the air is dry and sweat can evaporate as soon as it reaches the skin’s surface. At the same temperature on a humid day in the coastal tropics, however, sweat cannot evaporate and forms drops on the skin. This severely reduces rates of heat loss.

If body temperature increases more than a few degrees above normal levels, nervous system function is compromised, organ damage starts to occur and proteins begin denaturing. This breakdown of physiological functioning can rapidly lead to death.

The journey

In early 2022, just over a year after the waxbill event, our Masters student Nazley Liddle set out to examine the role high humidity had played in the deaths of the waxbills. She also aimed to predict areas where risks of mortality will increase in future.

Nazley investigated the waxbills’ capacity to regulate their body temperature over a range of air temperatures and humidity levels. Her results confirmed that high humidity severely compromises the birds’ ability to avoid dangerous hyperthermia (getting too hot).

For example, she found that blue waxbills can tolerate air temperature up to 48°C under dry conditions, whereas under humid conditions similar to those on the day of the Phongolo mortality event they are unable to maintain a safe body temperature if air temperature exceeds 45.7°C.

Nazley then modelled how the waxbills will fare under hotter, more humid future conditions. The modelling showed that likelihood of mass mortality events for waxbills (and other birds with similar physiology) will increase greatly in coming decades. This ranged across much of Kruger National Park, south-eastern Zimbabwe and large parts of southern and central Mozambique, including the ferociously hot Zambezi Valley.

Predicted risk of mortality becomes three to seven times higher when humidity is taken into account, compared to increasing temperature alone. Many of these areas will simply become too hot and humid during the wet season for the species to persist.

The blue waxbill study should set alarm bells ringing. Most of Earth’s 11,000 bird species occur in the tropics, many experiencing hot, humid conditions for at least part of the year.

Another recent paper from our team reveals similar increases in projected future risks of lethal hyperthermia for trumpeter hornbills. This large, fruit-eating forest species found in southern Africa plays a critical role in seed dispersal. Although biologists have often viewed tropical lowlands as safe habitats for birds from the point of view of their physiological functioning, our work is showing that increasing humidity coupled with rising temperatures poses a serious threat to birds, bats and other animals of the tropics.

There are worrying signs that climate change has already caused widespread declines in tropical birds. During 2025, several teams of researchers reported substantial declines in bird abundance, even in intact rainforests that have not been affected directly by human activities such as slash-and-burn agriculture.

Most recently, population declines of 25%-38% since 1950 among tropical birds have been attributed to increasingly extreme heat events. Tellingly, these declines have been more pronounced in songbirds compared to other groups. Rising temperature and humidity is a global-scale problem. The only long-term solution is halting human-driven climate warming.

– Humidity and heat are killers for tropical birds – waxbill and hornbill studies highlight the dangers
– https://theconversation.com/humidity-and-heat-are-killers-for-tropical-birds-waxbill-and-hornbill-studies-highlight-the-dangers-271634

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Ministry of Foreign Affairs Holds Consultative Session on National Human Rights Action Plan

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, April 28, 2026

HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Dr. Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad chaired Tuesday a consultative session on the National Human Rights Action Plan (2026-2030), focusing on key social protections.
The session was held in the presence of HE Minister of Social Development and Family Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr Al Nuaimi, and discussed fundamental areas, primarily the rights of women, children, persons with disabilities, and the elderly. 

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Fuel levy relief extended to June 

Source: Government of South Africa

Fuel levy relief extended to June 

The temporary reduction in the general fuel levy introduced by government that was due to come to an end in early May, has been extended to June, the National Treasury and Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources said on Tuesday.

“To provide further relief and to address concerns of higher inflation and negative impacts on economic growth due to increasing fuel prices, the following relief measures are proposed for May and June 2026,” the departments said in a joint statement.

On 31 March 2026, the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources jointly announced a temporary reduction in the general fuel levy of R3 per litre from Wednesday 1 April 2026, to Tuesday, 5 May 2026, to provide limited short-term relief to households from rising fuel prices, following the Middle East conflict. 

“The relief measure was designed to be fiscally neutral, and the government will implement mechanisms to recoup the foregone revenue within the fiscal framework approved during the 2026 Budget. Since this announcement, the continuation of the Middle East conflict has resulted in consistent pressure on global oil prices which has led to increases in domestic fuel prices,” the duo said.

READ | How the Basic Fuel Price is calculated: A breakdown

To provide further relief and to address concerns of higher inflation and negative impacts on economic growth due to increasing fuel prices, the following relief measures are proposed for May and June 2026: 

The extension of the temporary reduction in the general fuel levy: 
a. The Minister of Finance proposes that the R3 per litre reduction in the general fuel levy for petrol is extended until Tuesday 2 June 2026. Given the large expected increases in the price of diesel, the Minister of Finance proposes that the temporary relief for diesel is increased by 93 cents to R3.93 per litre, reducing the levy to zero, from Wednesday 6 May 2026 to Tuesday 2 June 2026. 

“The general fuel levy for petrol will remain at R1.10 per litre and the general fuel levy for diesel will decrease from R0.93 per litre to R0.00 per litre.”

b. For the month of June 2026, the Minister of Finance proposes that the level of relief is halved to phase out the relief before July. As a result, the amount of relief from the general fuel levy will be reduced to R1.50 per litre for petrol and R1.96 per litre for diesel, effective from Wednesday 3 June 2026 to Tuesday 30 June 2026. 

“This will increase the general fuel levy for petrol from R1.10 per litre to R2.60 per litre and increase the general fuel levy for diesel from R0.00 per litre to R1.97 per litre.”

c. From 1 July onwards, the general fuel levy for petrol will return to R4.10 per litre and the general fuel levy for diesel will return to R3.93 per litre.

“The estimated cost of the temporary fuel levy relief from April to June 2026 is R17.2 billion in foregone tax revenue. The fuel levy relief measure is designed to be revenue neutral and will be funded through a combination of higher-than-expected tax revenue and underspending and will not have an impact on the fiscal framework adopted by Parliament following the 2026 Budget,” said the departments.

Meanwhile, the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources has initiated a review of the formula whose conclusion will determine how fuel prices are regulated going forward. 

“It should also be noted that according to the Self Adjusting Slate mechanism the under recovery of importers of petroleum products must also be accommodated, and as such the Slate levy on petrol and diesel will also be adjusted for the month of May.”

Earlier this month, the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources said it is reviewing the local fuel price mechanism with the process to be completed in March next year.

READ | Fuel price mechanism under review

–SAnews.gov.za

 

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BMA announces successful bidders for major border overhaul

Source: Government of South Africa

BMA announces successful bidders for major border overhaul

The Border Management Authority (BMA) has announced the successful bidders appointed to lead the redevelopment of six of South Africa’s busiest land ports of entry, marking a major step towards modernising the country’s border infrastructure and strengthening economic growth. 

Speaking at a media briefing on Tuesday in Pretoria, BMA Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato, said the project represents a turning point in how South Africa manages its borders.

The redevelopment, to be implemented through public-private partnerships (PPPs), forms part of government’s broader efforts to enhance border security, improve the movement of goods and people, and support regional economic integration.

The process to appoint the bidders followed a rigorous and transparent procurement process.

“Following the publication and the subsequent closure of the Request for Proposals in search of public-private partners for these projects in 2024, a fair, transparent and competitive Supply Chain Management processes ensued during the course of 2025,” he said. 

In addition, a multidisciplinary team of financial, legal and technical experts was assembled to ensure compliance with governance standards and ensuring value for money.

The successful bidders, made up of concessionaires and consortia combining multiple companies, will oversee the redevelopment of the six ports:
•    Beitbridge Port of Entry ( Limpopo) – Baobab Concession. 
This concessionaire is expected to conduct the construction work in a phased approach for an approximated period of about three years. The Baobab Concession is made up of Yakani Group, Wendra Infraco, Matla Integration, Tau Capital, Navigator Holding & Baobab Community Trust.

•    Lebombo Port of Entry (in Mpumalanga) – Raulux Consortium. 
This consortium is expected to do the construction work in a phased approach for an approximated period of about three years. The Raulux Consortium is made up of Luxus Developments, Raubex, Exhantini Investments, Vulindlela Concessions, and Harith General Partners.

•    Oshoek Port of Entry (Mpumalanga) – Baobab Concession.
This concessionaire is expected to do the construction work in a phased approach for an approximated period of about two years. The Baobab Concession is made up of Yakani Group, Wendra Infraco, Matla Integration, Tau Capital, Navigator Holding & Baobab Community Trust.

•    Maseru Bridge Port of Entry (Free State) – Kgorong Consortium.
This consortium is expected to do the construction work in a phased approach for an approximated period of about two years. The Kgorong Consortium is made up of Motseng Concessions, IDEAS Infrastructure, Crowie Concessions & Thebe SPV.

•    Kopfontein Port of Entry (North West) – Kopfontein Consortium.
This consortium is expected to do the construction work in a phased approach for an approximated period of about two years. The Kopfontein Consortium is made up of Talis Property Fund, Unik Civil & Construction Engineers, and SSG Facilities.

•    Ficksburg Bridge Port of Entry (Free State) – Imbani Consortium.
This consortium is expected to do the construction work in a phased approach for an approximated period of about two years. The Imbani Consortium is made up of Imbani Projects, Reaga Infra Border Holdings, M&M Capital and Russet Trading & Investments.

Phased approach

Masipato explained that construction is expected to be rolled out in phases over two to three years depending on the site.

“Based on the current projections, we anticipate that construction will begin later this year or early next year for some ports with a phased rollout of the construction work for about a two-to-three-year period,” Masiapato said.

He said the BMA is confident the appointed bidders have the capacity to deliver on the projects.

“As the Border Management Authority, we have full confidence in them that they will deliver on these key national infrastructure projects within our border environment,” he said. 

The redevelopment will also involve extensive stakeholder engagement, including communities, municipalities, business chambers and cross-border traders.

“Although engagements have started over time, we just want to confirm that within the next few weeks, we will be amplifying our conversations with all critical stakeholders around the affected ports and that includes engagements with communities, municipal leadership, traditional leaders, Business Chambers, freight associations, and cross-border traders to appreciate their pressure points before construction starts,” the Commissioner said. 

Improving efficiency and tackling vulnerabilities 

Masiapato said the upgrades will pave the way for the implementation of the One-Stop Border Post model and smart border systems aimed at improving efficiency and coordination with neighbouring countries.

“All these infrastructure upgrades would allow us to implement the One-Stop Border Post (OSBP)… including the activation of smart borders with nonstop model for the movement of freight,” he said. 

He emphasised that the PPP model would also help address vulnerabilities in procurement systems.

“In fact, given the complexities and the vulnerabilities of the Supply Chain Management process, this public-private partnership model is seen as a critical strategy to close the vulnerabilities and shun any opportunities for any corrupt tendencies,” the Commissioner said. – SAnews.gov.za

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R12.5bn border overhaul to boost trade, security and traveller experience

Source: Government of South Africa

R12.5bn border overhaul to boost trade, security and traveller experience

Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber says South Africa’s R12.5 billion border infrastructure overhaul will transform the country’s ports of entry into modern, secure and efficient gateways for trade and travel. 

Addressing a media briefing on Tuesday, Schreiber said the redevelopment of six key land ports of entry marks a critical milestone in reforming the country’s immigration and border management system. 

“Today we take the next step on our journey to reform South Africa’s immigration and border management system into a modern, secure, efficient and truly world-class institutional ecosystem.”

The multi-year programme, implemented through a public-private partnership (PPP), will see the demolition and rebuilding of six high-traffic ports: Lebombo (Mozambique), Beitbridge (Zimbabwe), Oshoek (Eswatini), Kopfontein (Botswana), Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg (Lesotho).

“This project, worth an estimated R12.5 billion, constitutes the single biggest investment ever made by the South African government in upgrading our country’s border management system,” the Minister said. 

Schreiber said the six ports account for the majority of cross-border movement and are critical to economic performance.

“Together, they account for over 80% of cross-border trade and passenger flows through South Africa’s land borders,” he said. 

However, he noted that ageing infrastructure and inefficiencies have long constrained operations, in turn, enabling criminal activity.

“Congestion, outdated infrastructure, and fragmented systems have slowed down trade and increased the cost of doing business.

“Weaknesses have been exploited through illegal migration, illicit trade, and fraudulent practices that undermine both revenue collection and the rule of law,” Schreiber said. 

The redevelopment aims to shift border operations from manual and fragmented systems to integrated, technology-driven processes.

“We are moving from fragmented, manual processes to integrated, digital systems; from duplication and delay, to coordination and convenience [and from] vulnerability to control.”

Schreiber said the impact of the upgrades will be felt across the economy.

“Shorter turnaround times. Reduced congestion. More predictable movement of goods and people. These improvements go directly to the heart of economic growth,” the Minister said. 

He cited studies showing that improved efficiency at borders can significantly boost trade.

“Studies estimate that even a 5% reduction in border clearance time can increase intra-regional exports by around 10%,” he said. 

The reforms are also expected to strengthen enforcement and revenue collection.

“Enhanced surveillance, improved infrastructure, and integrated data systems will allow for more targeted and effective enforcement. A further critical outcome is the protection and enhancement of revenue,” the Minister said. 

Schreiber said the project will also create jobs and improve the daily experience of travellers.

“For South Africans, this project means shorter queues, lower costs, and more reliable movement of goods. It means stronger protection against illegal immigration, illicit trade, and criminal activity.” 

He described the initiative as a strategic intervention aligned with government priorities and a catalytic investment for the country. 

Highlighting the focus on high-impact areas, Schreiber referenced the Pareto principle.

“The Pareto principle states that roughly 80% of outcomes are generated by just 20% of inputs.

“In this case, the six ports of entry we are focusing on account for roughly 11% of South Africa’s 53 land ports of entry but they generate 80% of traffic volume – and likely also about 80% of illicit activity.” 

He said targeting these ports would maximise impact.

“This is smart government in action. This is how we unlock trade and economic growth to deliver better lives for the people of South Africa,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Science and innovation take centre stage at freedom month engagement

Source: Government of South Africa

Science and innovation take centre stage at freedom month engagement

Science, Technology and Innovation Deputy Minister, Dr Nomalungelo Gina, has led a Freedom Month community engagement in Mbazwana, under the uMhlabuyalingana Local Municipality, in KwaZulu-Natal.

The engagement highlighted the role of science, technology and innovation (STI) in improving service delivery and expanding opportunities in rural communities.

The engagement, held at Oqondweni Hall on Friday, 24 April, brought together almost 250 community members, including youth and older people. The engagement formed part of national Freedom Month commemorations aimed at reflecting on South Africa’s democratic progress and future development priorities.

The session focused on the intersection between democracy and science, demonstrating how innovation can be used to strengthen governance, promote inclusion and deliver practical solutions to everyday challenges faced by communities.

Partner institutions of the engagement included the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, Department of Social Development, the Electoral Commission of South Africa, and the South African Police Service (SAPS).

Addressing the gathering, Gina emphasised that since the advent of democracy in 1994, South Africa has increasingly invested in science and innovation as key tools for transformation, inclusion and socio-economic development.

She noted that democracy is not only defined by political rights, but also by equitable access to knowledge, innovation and practical solutions that address everyday community challenges.

“All the institutions that you see here today are using science, technology and innovation to improve service delivery to communities countrywide. For example, South Africa uses digital technology to manage social grants for millions of citizens because digitalisation increases efficiency and financial inclusion.

“Access to scientific knowledge and innovation is essential for meaningful participation in our democracy and for building a more equal and prosperous society,” the Deputy Minister said.

The engagement featured practical demonstrations and information-sharing sessions aimed at showcasing how STI is applied in real-world contexts.

A drone demonstration by SAPS drew significant interest, with a live display of how technology is used in policing, particularly in search-and-rescue operations.

Warrant Officer Owen Howard demonstrated a Matrice M30 drone equipped with advanced imaging capabilities, including thermal cameras and a laser rangefinder.

“Years ago, SAPS did not have this technology to locate a missing person in the bush, for example. Now we can use thermal imaging to help find missing persons without immediately deploying a helicopter,” Howard explained.

Exploring careers in tech

The HSRC also used the platform to engage with the community on the role of research in shaping public policy and improving service delivery.

Information technology expert Nqubeko Mbhele highlighted how research findings have informed government interventions in areas such as health, education, safety, employment and social support.

“By engaging directly with households and communities, the HSRC ensures that people’s lived experiences inform decision-making processes, helping to strengthen democracy,” Mbhele said.

Mbhele also promoted the HSRC’s internship programme, which has provided workplace experience and research skills to more than 7 000 unemployed graduates since 2005. The programme spans fields such as science, engineering, technology, humanities and social sciences.

Mbhele encouraged local youth to pursue further education in order to such opportunities created through democracy.

Community members welcomed the engagement, describing it as informative and empowering.

Lindiwe Mabika said the session had provided valuable insights that would help shape her future ambitions in the health sector.

“The information I received today will help me plan for a better future. I am also encouraged by the opportunities available through programmes like the HSRC internships. Hopefully, I will be one of its beneficiaries in the future,” Mabika said.

Senamile Khumalo, 36, representing Heifer Project South Africa, said the engagement demonstrated the importance of access to information in rural communities. Heifer is a non-profit, public benefit organisation dedicated to ending hunger and poverty in rural South Africa.

“I am particularly hopeful that the youth in the area stand to benefit the most from initiatives like these. It was also encouraging to learn about government programmes that can assist in protecting the young and the elderly in our community,” Khumalo said.

She encouraged local youth to participate in agricultural development initiatives offered by her organisation, which provides training in livestock management and supports small-scale farming enterprises.

Assessing the DDM

The engagement also provided an opportunity for Deputy Minister Gina to assess how science, technology and innovation are being applied locally to improve service delivery, as well as to demonstrate the impact of the District Development Model (DDM).

As the DDM champion for the uMkhanyakude District Municipality, Gina is responsible for ensuring alignment between national, provincial and local government plans. The model seeks to accelerate development through integrated planning, with a focus on infrastructure, job creation and rural development.

The uMhlabuyalingana Local Municipality remains largely rural, with many residents dependent on subsistence farming. Key economic activities include fruit processing and livestock farming aimed at alleviating poverty.

According to municipal data, approximately 18% of the population has no formal education, while 57% did not complete Grade 12. Only about 8% have completed matric or higher, underscoring the need for increased access to education and skills development.

Officials said initiatives that integrate science, technology and innovation with community development are critical to addressing these challenges and building more inclusive, resilient local economies.

The engagement formed part of ongoing efforts to bring government services and opportunities closer to communities, while reinforcing the role of innovation in advancing democracy and improving lives. – SAnews.gov.za

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Durban business indaba to unlock opportunities for SMMEs

Source: Government of South Africa

Durban business indaba to unlock opportunities for SMMEs

Industry leaders, corporates, government institutions and SMMEs are set to convene for the Durban Business Indaba on 29 April at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.

Wednesday’s engagement, hosted by eThekwini Municipality, will focus on addressing key barriers and unlocking opportunities for small, medium and micro enterprises (SMME) growth in the city.

The high-level session will tackle critical issues, including access to funding, tax compliance, market entry, and business sustainability amid a challenging economic environment.

Held under the theme: “Enabling SMME Growth through Funding, Compliance, Market Access and Strategic Partnerships”, the Indaba will feature speakers from organisations, including Proudly South African, the South African Revenue Service (SARS), the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency, and Illovo Sugar, among others.

The programme will focus on practical solutions to support business growth, expand market access through corporate partnerships, strengthen localisation, and improve the competitiveness of South African products.

The Indaba forms part of the broader Durban Business Fair Exhibition, scheduled to take place from 30 April to 2 May, at the Durban Exhibition Centre. The event marks 28 years of connecting SMMEs with markets and economic opportunities.

The exhibition will be officially opened by Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni, underscoring government’s ongoing support for enterprise development.

City Economic Development and Planning Committee chairperson, Themba Ntuli, said hundreds of businesses are expected to showcase their products and services, creating opportunities for trade, networking and investment.

“This platform equips SMMEs with the insights, tools, and connections needed to enable meaningful economic participation,” Ntuli said.

The Durban Business Fair continues to serve as a flagship empowerment initiative, supporting entrepreneurs to expand market access, gain critical knowledge, and connect with investors and key stakeholders.

Businesses are encouraged to RSVP and participate in shaping the future of SMME development in eThekwini. Attendance can be confirmed via email at zamani.shezi@durban.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

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