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The Electoral Commission (IEC) says South Africans responded to the call to register and update their voter details ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections, with 2.9 million registration transactions recorded during the voter registration weekend.

The Commission’s Chief Electoral Officer, Sy Mamabolo, said the turnout reaffirmed the nation’s strong and enduring commitment to electoral participation.

Addressing the media in Pretoria on Monday, Mamabolo said the Commission had achieved two significant objectives during this voter registration weekend, including the continued growth of the voters’ roll and improved registration yield from young persons.

“Over the two voter registration days, the Commission recorded 2.9 million registration transactions. This is an improvement from the 1.7 million transactions recorded during the voter registration weekend for the comparable election in 2021,” Mamabolo said.

He said the ongoing drive to ensure that eligible South Africans are registered and correctly assigned to their respective voting districts has increased the total number of registered voters to 28.5 million.

“Placed in context, the voters’ roll used in NPE2024 [National and Provincial Elections] contained 27.7 million voters. In between elections, the roll reduces by 34 000 voters per month, owing principally to mortality. Consequently, since NPE2024, 1.3 million voters were lost from the roll. 

“The increase in the voters’ roll is attributable to, amongst others, the efficiencies introduced by Voting Management Devices (VMDs), which have significantly enhanced the speed of processing voter registration applications, as well as the convenience of the online registration portal,” he said.

The Commission acknowledged political parties, local community leaders and prospective candidates’ efforts in assisting voters to register on the online portal, as well as at the registration stations. 

Mamabolo explained that of the total 2.9 million recorded transactions, 477 174 were first time registrations, accounting for 16% of the total registration activity and voters who inspected and updated their details account for 2.4 million, which represents 84% of the total activity.

“The Commission is encouraged by the positive response of young persons. Young people in the age cohort 16 to 29 accounted for 785 078 of total registration activity, which represents 27% of the total 2.9 million transactions. 

“Of the 785 078, 59% are female, while males represent 41%. Young persons have also dominated the new registration category. Of the total new registrations (477 174), 379 767 or 80% are young people in the age cohort between 16 and 29. 

“The figures indicate that the youth-focused campaign is finding resonance with young persons and that far from it, young people are not apathetic,” he said.

Mamabolo said the VMDs at registration stations were the predominant channel of registration, with over 2.5 million (88%) of the voters opting to visit a voting station.

“On the other hand, 362 296 (representing 12% of total registration activity) transacted through the online registration portal. The age cohort 16 – 29 account for 48% of online self-registrations. This is consistent with the trend of young people’s dominant use of this registration channel,” he said.

The highest volumes of registration transactions coincide with population densities. The highest was recorded in Kwa-Zulu Natal (691 504) representing 23%, followed by the Eastern Cape (534 773), representing 18% and Gauteng (502 229), representing 17%. 

Mamabolo said the total website visits recorded during the two-day registration period were 12 million. 

Citizens who have not yet registered are reminded that the Online Voter Registration Portal will remain available until the official proclamation of the 2026 Local Government Elections. – SAnews.gov.za

The North West Provincial Government will explore ringfencing funding to support green economy initiatives aimed at creating sustainable jobs, promoting innovation, and unlocking economic opportunities for young people in the North West Province.

North West Premier Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi made the announcement when he was addressing delegates at the 11th Annual Green Youth Indaba held at Sun City in the Moses Kotane Local Municipality.

The two-day indaba, held on 18 and 19 June 2026, brought together government leaders, industry experts, development partners, entrepreneurs, researchers, investors, and young people from across the North West and neighbouring provinces to explore opportunities within the green economy and discuss practical solutions to environmental and socio-economic challenges.

Mokgosi said the event came at an opportune time for the province, as it continues to grapple with high levels of unemployment, particularly among young people.

He stressed that awareness about the opportunities presented by green economy initiatives, including waste management, recycling, renewable energy and sustainable agriculture, must be intensified.

“As the provincial government, we are excited about this programme and commit to supporting green economy initiatives by exploring mechanisms to ringfence resources for programmes that drive inclusive growth and innovation,” Mokgosi said.

The Premier said the green economy is a critical sector that the provincial government must vigorously explore and invest in, as a means of driving economic growth and empowering the youth, women, and persons with disabilities.

He further highlighted the need for stronger collaboration between government, the private sector and academic institutions, amongst others, to ensure that young people are equipped with the skills required to participate meaningfully in emerging green initiatives.

Mokgosi encouraged young people to seize opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, waste management, sustainable agriculture, water conservation, and green technology, stressing that these industries have the potential to become major drivers of economic growth and employment in the province.

The Green Youth Indaba serves as a platform for knowledge-sharing and engagement on opportunities in the green economy and solutions that promote sustainable development and job creation.

The event was hosted by the Green Youth Network, a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting youth development, entrepreneurship, and sustainable skills development within the green economy.

It was presented in partnership with government, private sector stakeholders and sponsors as part of a collective effort to advance youth empowerment and create opportunities for young people in the green economy.

This year’s edition of the indaba was held under the theme: “From Youth Innovation to Green Enterprise and Economic Impact”. – SAnews.gov.za

The North West Provincial Government has introduced a groundbreaking HIV prevention intervention through its flagship Thuntsha Lerole Accelerated Service Delivery Programme, administering the province’s first Lenacapavir injection to strengthen HIV prevention and help reduce new infections.

The milestone was marked when North West Premier Kagiso Lazarus Mokgosi, accompanied by MEC for Health Sello Lehari, officially launched the rollout of the long-acting HIV prevention injection during the Thuntsha Lerole Phase 6 Accelerated Service Delivery Programme, held in Madibeng Local Municipality, Brits on Friday.

The Thuntsha Lerole Programme is an initiative led by the North West provincial government aimed at confronting the critical issue of service delivery in communities, through strengthened partnerships with government, the private sector as well as civil society organisations.

The provincial rollout comes two weeks after President Cyril Ramaphosa officially launched Lenacapavir nationally in Secunda, Mpumalanga, positioning South Africa at the forefront of innovative HIV prevention strategies.

Lenacapavir is a long-acting HIV prevention injection administered only twice a year, offering a more convenient alternative to daily oral Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) medication for people at high risk of HIV infection.

Speaking at the launch, Mokgosi welcomed the breakthrough and encouraged residents to take advantage of the new prevention option.

“We are proud to witness this historic moment in our province. As Co-Chairperson of the South African National AIDS Council in the North West, I encourage our people to come forward and protect themselves against HIV infection.

“We need groundbreaking interventions such as this now more than ever as we intensify our fight against HIV and AIDS,” the Premier said.

In a historic first for the province, 19-year-old Given Pashe from Letlhabile became the first recipient in North West to receive the Lenacapavir injection at the Letlhabile Community Health Centre.

After receiving the two injections, Pashe expressed excitement and relief.

“I am very happy. I felt no pain at all. The nurses helped me stay calm and explained the entire process thoroughly. I would encourage other young people to come and protect themselves,” he said.

The Department of Health has identified 31 healthcare facilities across the province to participate in the pilot phase of the programme. More than 12 000 doses have already been delivered to the province as part of the first consignment, with additional stock expected as the rollout expands.

The selected facilities include clinics and community health centres located in areas with high HIV burden and elevated risk of infection.

Members of the public interested in accessing the injection are encouraged to visit participating facilities to determine their eligibility. Individuals who test HIV-negative and meet the eligibility criteria will receive further clinical assessment and counselling before being considered for the injection.

Lehari reaffirmed the province’s readiness to implement the programme successfully.

“I am pleased that the Premier, civil society organisations and other key stakeholders are here to witness this important milestone. We have trained our healthcare professionals on the administration of Lenacapavir and have put systems in place to ensure proper management and monitoring of the programme.

“While this is currently a pilot initiative, we are committed to expanding access as we continue strengthening HIV prevention efforts across the province,” Lehari said.

The Department of Health emphasised that while Lenacapavir represents a breakthrough in HIV prevention, it does not replace other preventive measures. Condoms remain essential in preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and providing additional protection against HIV. – SAnews.gov.za

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia has called on citizens participating in the planned demonstrations against illegal immigration at the end of the month to protest peacefully and within the bounds of the law.

“Our message is clear: Everyone has the constitutional right to protest peacefully and within the confines of the law. However, criminality, intimidation, violence, the destruction of property and any attempt to undermine public safety will not be tolerated,” Cachalia said on Monday at a media briefing on government’s preparedness for the upcoming marches.

He warned those contemplating acts of lawlessness to refrain from doing so, stressing that police will enforce the law.

“Our message is equally clear: the full might of the law will be brought to deal decisively with anyone who seeks to undermine the safety, security and constitutional order of our Republic. We call on every South African to reject violence, to uphold the rule of law and to work with law enforcement in maintaining peace and stability,” Cachalia said.

He said the South African Police Service (SAPS) remains the lead law enforcement agency responsible for maintaining public order. 

“Should the operational environment require additional capacity, SAPS may request the support of the South African National Defence Force to augment existing policing capacity and ensure that sufficient operational resources are available,” the acting Minister said.

Cachalia assured the public that government has taken extensive measures to ensure that the country remains safe and secure. 

“The South African Police Service has elevated its operational readiness across all provinces, with comprehensive deployment plans in place to protect communities, critical infrastructure and key public spaces.

“There will be daily operational assessments and continuous monitoring of the security environment to ensure that our deployments remain responsive to any emerging risks,” he said.

Daily briefings will allow law enforcement to adjust operational plans where necessary and ensure that adequate resources are deployed at all times.

“Minister of Defence and Military Veteran Angie Motshekga and I are satisfied that the necessary coordination mechanisms across the  Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster are in place to respond swiftly and effectively to any eventuality.

“As part of strengthening our national state of readiness, we will this week be engaging with Premiers across all nine provinces to ensure there is a coordinated, whole-of-government approach to maintaining peace, stability and the uninterrupted functioning of essential services,” the acting Minister said.

Police will continue to monitor and assess its operational preparedness on the ground.

“Over the weekend, I met with all Provincial Commissioners, together with the Divisional Commissioners responsible for operational policing, to review our plans, assess our state of readiness and ensure that every province is fully prepared.

“To all South Africans, I want to assure you that Government is prepared. Our law enforcement agencies are coordinated, our operational plans are in place, and we will continue to monitor the situation daily,” Cachalia said.

As part of our ongoing efforts to promote peace and stability, the JCPS Cluster led by Minister Mamoloko Kubayi met with the leadership of the Zulu Royal House, led by Prime Minister Thulasizwe Buthelezi.

“We appreciate the constructive engagement and the commitment shown by traditional leadership in supporting messages of peace, tolerance and non-violence.

“We acknowledge that many South Africans have genuine concerns about issues affecting our country.

“Government hears those concerns. However, those concerns must always be expressed lawfully, peacefully and without resorting to violence or intimidation,” the acting Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za

The South African Police Service (SAPS), working with other law enforcement agencies, has dealt a significant blow to transnational organised smuggling syndicates, following the seizure of suspected stolen copper worth more than R12 million at City Deep in Johannesburg.

A multidisciplinary team comprising Gauteng Crime Intelligence, Interpol, Border Police City Deep and private security partners conducted an intelligence-driven operation that led to the discovery and seizure of a large consignment of suspected stolen copper.

“The operation followed intelligence received from the Zambian authorities regarding the hijacking of three trucks transporting copper blocks. Preliminary investigations revealed that trucks displaying false Tanzanian registration plates were allegedly used in the commission of the crime,” the police said in a statement.

One of the trucks was later recovered in Zambia, where investigators discovered that it was displaying registration numbers belonging to a South African logistics company. The truck had allegedly been used to transport suspected stolen copper.

“Further investigations established that two trucks carrying approximately 121 tonnes of copper slabs entered South Africa through the Beitbridge Border Post on 10 June 2026, allegedly using fraudulent customs documentation,” the police said.

Acting on intelligence, the multidisciplinary team conducted a follow-up operation on 18 June 2026 in City Deep, where they seized 26 bundles of copper with an estimated value of R12 680 000.

Intelligence also established that the original serial numbers on the copper had been deliberately filed off, apparently in an attempt to conceal their origin.

No arrests have been made at this stage, and investigations are continuing. Police are pursuing all available leads as part of efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible. – SAnews.gov.za

A government delegation led by Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Mmamoloko Kubayi has met with the Prime Minister of the Zulu Kingdom, Inkosi Thulasizwe Buthelezi, and members of the Royal House to discuss planned protests against illegal immigration at the end of the month.

The engagement focused on the planned 30 June demonstrations and sought the support of traditional leadership in encouraging communities to address concerns about illegal immigration through lawful and peaceful means.

“The engagement was constructive and successful. The Royal House reaffirmed its commitment to peace, stability and the rule of law, and undertook to encourage its followers to ensure that any demonstrations remain peaceful and within the confines of the law. 

“The Royal House also committed to discouraging acts of violence, intimidation and criminality, while supporting efforts to preserve social cohesion and public order,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said on Monday.

Government welcomed the outcome of the meeting and expressed appreciation for the Zulu Kingdom’s willingness to work with all stakeholders to promote peace, protect lives and property, and ensure constitutional rights are exercised responsibly.

Government also requested the Zulu Kingdom to lend its voice in condemning violence, intimidation and any attacks directed at foreign nationals.

Following the engagement, the delegation proceeded to one of the repatriation centres in Durban, where hundreds of Malawian nationals had gathered to be processed ahead of their return to Malawi.

The site visit sought to assess whether the repatriation process was being conducted in an orderly, efficient, safe and humane manner, while ensuring that all legal and administrative procedures were being followed.

The visit also provided the delegation with an opportunity to engage officials on the ground and monitor the progress of the operation.

The Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster again reaffirmed its state of readiness to safeguard the safety and security of all people in South Africa.

According to government, comprehensive operational plans are in place, and law enforcement agencies remain fully prepared to maintain public order, protect lives and property, and uphold the rule of law.

“The JCPS cluster therefore urges and reminds citizens that all gatherings must be exercised responsibly and without violence, intimidation, incitement, damage to property or disruption of essential services.

“Government urges all communities to reject misinformation, refrain from taking the law into their own hands, and allow law enforcement agencies to carry out their constitutional mandate.” –SAnews.gov.za