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The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Willie Aucamp, is proceeding with the determination of appeals lodged against several environmental authorisations granted for offshore oil and gas exploration projects. 

“This decision is intended to avoid any further ‘decision paralysis’. We have a legal and constitutional obligation to take decisions that promote inclusive economic growth and job creation, without compromising our constitutional mandate of protecting our environment,” the Minister said in a statement, on Wednesday.

Numerous appeals were lodged with the Minister, following the granting of environmental authorisations issued under the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (NEMA) for offshore activities involving exploration drilling and seismic surveys along South Africa’s west and south coasts. 

These appeals were lodged in terms of section 43 of NEMA.

Minister Aucamp reviewed the legality and implications of the interim decisions to defer these appeals pending the outcome of court proceedings.

This review was undertaken in light of the statutory framework governing environmental appeals, including NEMA, the National Appeal Regulations and the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act, 2000 (PAJA), as well as the constitutional obligation on government to perform its duties diligently and without undue delay.

“Upon reviewing the deferral, I have come to the conclusion that it would not be reasonable or procedurally fair to continue postponing the appeals. Allowing the matters to remain suspended pending lengthy litigation may stall decision-making within the environmental governance system,” the Minister said.

To ensure an independent and thorough assessment of the issues raised, an appeal panel will be appointed in terms of the National Appeal Regulations to consider the appeals and provide recommendations to the Minister.

Aucamp has emphasised that the appeal process is a critical safeguard within South Africa’s environmental governance system, ensuring that environmental decisions are subject to scrutiny and that the rights and legitimate expectations of all affected parties are respected.

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment will provide further updates on the progress of these appeals in due course. –SAnews.gov.za

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The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has warned the public not to engage with fake social media accounts linked to the prosecutorial body’s head, Advocate Andy Mothibi.

“The [NPA] has noted with serious concern the re-emergence of incidents in which individuals are impersonating…Advocate Andy Mothibi, using fraudulent phone numbers and social media profiles.

“It has been brought to the attention of the NPA that certain individuals are circulating messages while falsely claiming to be the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP). In some instances, these individuals are also using a profile picture of Adv Mothibi taken with the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, to mislead members of the public and create the impression that communication is legitimate,” the NPA said in a statement.

The prosecutorial body condemned the “acts of impersonation”, warning that it could lead to criminal prosecution.

“The NPA…warns members of the public to exercise caution when receiving messages or calls from individuals claiming to be Adv Mothibi. The NDPP does not communicate with members of the public through private or unfamiliar numbers regarding official matters.

“Such conduct is unlawful and may constitute offences, including fraud and impersonation. The NPA calls on those responsible for these actions to immediately desist from impersonating the NDPP and misusing his image,” the statement read.

Members of the public are advised to report the receipt of such messages to their local law enforcement.

“The NPA remains committed to protecting the integrity of its leadership and safeguarding the public from fraudulent conduct carried out in the name of its officials,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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The Department of Employment and Labour says eliminating silicosis in non-mining sectors remains a key priority as government works towards eradicating the occupational disease by 2030. 

The Department’s Acting Deputy Director-General for Labour Policy and Industrial Relations, Thembinkosi Mkalipi, said South Africa has an obligation as a member of the international community and the International Labour Organization (ILO) to reduce workers’ exposure to the disease.

Mkalipi warned that available research continues to show increasing cases of silicosis and stressed that government is focusing on sectors where workers remain vulnerable.

He was speaking during a seminar held in Kempton Park on Tuesday to mark the release of findings from the benchmark study on silicosis in non-mining sectors.

Silicosis is an irreversible and progressive occupational lung disease caused by inhaling crystalline silica dust. The disease leads to inflammation, permanent lung scarring and severe breathing difficulties. While treatment may include medication and avoiding further exposure, the condition is often fatal.

Workers in sectors such as construction, mining and stone fabrication are considered among the most vulnerable.

To determine the prevalence of silicosis in non-mining industries, the department commissioned research conducted by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the National Institute for Occupational Health (NIOH), the University of the Witwatersrand and the Wits Health Consortium.

The study analysed the prevalence of silicosis across industries between 2012 and 2018 and examined trends in deaths from silica-related diseases over the same period. It also sought to develop occupational health strategies and programmes to reduce exposure to respirable silica dust and support the elimination of silicosis in South Africa by 2030.

Head of Epidemiology and Surveillance at the National Institute for Occupational Health, Nisha Naicker, explained that the project was structured into three work packages.

“The first work package focused on prevalence assessment, the second on guiding prioritisation and implementation of elimination strategies, and the third on developing a toolbox of tools and methods for silicosis elimination,” Naicker said. 

Key findings from the first phase of the research showed that 225 workers participated in the study, with the majority having more than 10 years of work experience.

Most participants were from the brick-making sector (40%), followed by construction (34%). The ages of participants ranged from 24 to 65 years, with an average age of 45.

The study also found that 81.78% of participants were male and that workers with more than 10 years of experience had an average of 20 years in their respective sectors.

None of the participants reported a prior diagnosis of silicosis. However, screening showed that 12.44% experienced symptoms suggestive of Tuberculosis.

Chest X-ray examinations identified one case of silicosis, representing a prevalence rate of 0.5%. The affected worker, a 45-year-old crusher operator in the mineral processing sector with 15 years of experience, is currently receiving medical care.

Deputy Director in the Department’s Inspection and Enforcement Services branch, Warren Mallon, emphasised that safeguarding the safety and health of workers is a fundamental right.

He said occupational accidents, injuries and diseases carry significant human, social and economic costs, reaffirming the department’s commitment to eliminating exposure to silicosis.

“The department’s National Programme for the Elimination of Silicosis was initiated in 2004,” Mallon said, adding that the programme includes training inspectors and requiring employers to report on workers’ exposure levels.

He said South Africa remains on track to eliminate silicosis by 2030 in line with ILO obligations, while the department’s Occupational Health and Safety Strategy 2024–2029 aims to achieve zero injuries and occupational diseases.

The study concluded that there is currently no single reliable method for collecting national data on silicosis cases.

Researchers recommended strengthening diagnostic processes, improving reporting under the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act and the Occupational Health and Safety Act, establishing a national silicosis register, analysing medical aid databases and conducting targeted surveys.

The research focused on sectors including construction, artificial stone manufacturing, brick manufacturing, pottery and ceramics.

Leading the third work package, David Rees of the University of the Witwatersrand said the study assessed silica exposure levels in 11 companies.

The findings showed that workers were at risk of silicosis in all sectors studied, except roof tile manufacturing.

Rees cautioned that the goal of eliminating silicosis could be undermined if exposure risks in workplaces are not addressed effectively. – SAnews.gov.za

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Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has placed the department’s Director-General, Dr Sandile Buthelezi, on precautionary suspension.

Buthelezi – along with Deputy Director General of Tertiary Health and Hospital Services, Dr Malixole Percival Mahlati and Chief Financial Officer Phineas Phaswa Mamogale – was arrested and appeared before the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court in Pretoria last week.

They face charges of fraud and theft related to the allegedly irregular appointment of two service providers at the department.

Buthelezi faces an additional charge of contravention of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).

“The Minister [suspended Buthelezi] after receiving delegations from the President.

“The Minister has also placed the Deputy Director General for Hospitals Services, Tertiary Health Services and Human Resource Development, Dr Percy Mahlati, on precautionary suspension until his cases are finalised, or until the expiry of his contract, whichever comes first.

“The Chief Financial Officer, Phaswa Mamogale, has also been placed on precautionary suspension until his cases are finalised,” the department said in a statement.

Buthelezi’s suspension also lasts until his “cases are finalised or until his contract comes to an end, whichever comes first”.

“Minister Motsoaledi would like to allow the law to take its course. All officials affected by the decision have been formally notified of their suspensions. 

“In the meantime, the Minister has appointed the Deputy Director General for National Health Insurance, Prof Nicolas Crisp as acting Director General for a period of three months. 

“Minister Motsoaledi would like to assure the stakeholders and public that the department will continue to function optimally according to its mandate,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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The bonds of solidarity created during the liberation struggle that united South Africa and Kenya against apartheid now fuel an economic and diplomatic partnership “forged in the fires of history”. 

This is according to Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong who delivered remarks at the Global South Africans Fireside Chat and Networking Dinner held in Nairobi, Kenya.

Morolong reminded the audience that long before the establishment of formal diplomatic relations in 1994, the East African country “stood firmly on the side of justice and freedom for the people of South Africa”.

“When the struggle against apartheid demanded international solidarity, Kenya answered that call. Kenyan leaders, institutions, and ordinary citizens extended moral, diplomatic and political support to South Africa’s liberation movement.

“Indeed, Kenya’s founding President, Jomo Kenyatta, once reminded the world that Africa’s freedom would remain incomplete until South Africa was free,” he reflected.

That shared destiny, Morolong added, “continues to guide the partnership between South Africa and Kenya”.

He emphasised the strategic importance of both nations – proffering Kenya as the “economic and logistical gateway to East Africa” and South Africa anchoring the “economic activity in Southern Africa”.

“Together, we are not just participants in Africa’s development story, we are co-authors of it. In continental platforms such as the African Union, our nations have consistently worked together to advance peace, democratic governance, and economic integration.

“We share a commitment to the idea that African challenges deserve African solutions, and African opportunities deserve African partnerships,” the Deputy Minister said.

Mutual trade

Morolong added that the relationship extends beyond diplomacy but also reaches “boardrooms, factories, financial institutions, and technology platforms across Kenya”.

South African companies in the banking, media and entertainment, mobile communications and clothing sectors often choose the country as a base for East African operations.

“These companies represent more than corporate presence. They represent confidence in Kenya’s future, belief in Africa’s markets, and commitment to shared prosperity.

“They create jobs, transfer skills, support entrepreneurship, and help connect African economies in ways that strengthen the continent as a whole,” he said.

Furthermore, trade between the two countries reaches hundreds of million of Dollars.

South Africa’s exports to Kenya have reached some US$660 million while in the converse, exports to South Africa from Kenya stand at approximately US$50 million.

“These trade flows highlight the complementary strengths of our economies.

“South Africa brings industrial capacity and manufacturing expertise, while Kenya contributes agricultural excellence, logistics networks, and one of Africa’s most dynamic digital innovation ecosystems,” Morolong said.

He added that current strong trade between the two countries represents “only a fraction of what we could achieve tomorrow”.

Morolong explained that with the implementation of the (AfCTA) African Continental Free Trade Area represents a “transformative project for the continent”.

The agreement – the largest of its kind in the world – seeks to unlock opportunities on the continent by:

• Reducing tariffs across the continent
• Removing non-tariff barriers
• Promoting regional value chains
• Supporting industrialisation
• Encouraging African countries to trade more with each other rather than exporting raw materials to distant markets

“For Kenya and South Africa, this agreement is more than a trade framework.

“It is a continental development strategy. It allows South African manufacturing to integrate with East African supply chains. It enables Kenyan innovation and logistics to reach Southern African markets. It turns borders that once divided markets into bridges that connect opportunity,” he explained.

Addressing South Africans in the diaspora directly, the Deputy Minister described them as “ambassadors of South Africa’s spirit” and “bridge builders between markets, cultures, and opportunities”.

“You are bridge builders between markets, cultures, and opportunities. You represent the ingenuity, resilience, and diversity that defines South Africa.

“And in cities like Nairobi, where African innovation and entrepreneurship are thriving, your role becomes even more important. Because every partnership you build, every investment you make, and every collaboration you foster strengthens not only South Africa, but Africa as a whole,” he said.

Better Africa, Better World

Turning to continental positioning, the Deputy Minister emphasised the importance of nation branding, describing it as “about identity, credibility, and shared narrative”. 

“South Africa’s national brand is built on resilience, diversity, innovation, and democratic progress. Kenya’s national brand reflects entrepreneurship, technological leadership, creativity, and regional connectivity.

“When these two national brands align, they amplify each other. They send a message to investors, entrepreneurs, and young Africans across the continent that Africa is open for partnership, innovation, and growth. And perhaps more importantly, they help Africa tell its own story, confidently, authentically, and on its own terms,” Morolong said.

The Deputy Minister reaffirmed the enduring principle that “Africa rises when Africans work together”.

“So let us deepen our partnerships. Let us expand trade. Let us unlock the promise of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

“And let us continue building an African future defined not by limitations, but by possibility.

“Because when Kenya and South Africa walk together – Africa does not merely move forward, Africa leads,” Morolong concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has welcomed the latest Statistics South Africa Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figures, which position the agricultural sector as the primary engine of South Africa’s economic resilience.

According to the latest data released by Statistics SA, South Africa’s GDP increased by 0.4% in the fourth quarter of 2025, contributing to an annual real GDP growth rate of 1.1% for the year.

The agriculture, forestry and fishing sector recorded significant growth of 17.4% in 2025 compared to 2024, making it one of the strongest performing sectors of the economy.

While some traditional pillars like mining faced headwinds, contracting by 0.6% due to declines in coal and platinum group metals, agriculture boosted the primary sector with a 0.4% increase in the final quarter, fuelled by strong performances in field crops and horticulture.

Agriculture a “beacon of hope”

Steenhuisen emphasised that the figures represent more than just statistics; they represent a lifeline for national development.

“The agricultural sector is no longer just a contributor to the fiscus; it is a beacon of hope for job creation and national prosperity. No mistake should be made – this success is not merely the result of putting seeds in the ground.

“We are witnessing the evolution of a high-tech, scientific, and economically sophisticated industry. This is the new era of farming that offers our youth a diverse range of careers in tech-driven production, global logistics, and scientific research,” the Minister said.

He added that the 2025/26 financial year results solidify agriculture’s role as an important stabiliser of the South African economy.

The Ministry and the Department of Agriculture reaffirmed its committed to creating an environment where innovation and technical skills can continue to drive growth in the sector.

Strengthening agricultural partnerships

Meanwhile, Steenhuisen has held a meeting with Kuwait Ambassador to South Africa, Salem Al-Shebli, to explore agricultural investment opportunities between the two countries.

The discussions also included the intention to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will strengthen collaboration and unlock new opportunities for growth, trade and innovation in the agricultural sector.

“South Africa continues to build strategic partnerships that support food security, investment, and the development of the agricultural sector,” the department said in a statement on Tuesday. – SAnews.gov.za

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