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The induction of the National Dialogue’s new steering committee will be held this weekend at the University of South Africa’s (Unisa) Muckleneuk’s main campus in Pretoria.

The National Dialogue was announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa last year and is aimed at addressing challenges facing South Africa.

In December the President confirmed the 99 nominees to the steering committee which were drawn from all sectors of society.

“The Steering Committee’s role is to steward the integrity of the process, ensure that participation is meaningful and accessible, and oversee a phased roll-out of dialogues across communities, sectors, and provinces. It is not a substitute for elected government, and it is not a platform for party-political campaigning.

“The Steering Committee induction will focus on governance, ethics, decision-making protocols, public accountability, and the realities of rebuilding trust in a context where many South Africans are understandably sceptical of consultative processes that do not lead to change,” a statement from the National Dialogue said.

The induction process will work towards “outlining the practical roadmap for the implementation roadmap and phased plan for dialogues” including:

• A public participation guide, including offline options for communities with limited connectivity. 
• An accessibility and translation pathway, to ensure participation across languages and disability contexts. 
• A clear reporting and feedback approach so that communities can see what happens after dialogues take place. 
• A weekly process update and a public log of priority issues raised and their status.

“The National Dialogue Steering Committee would like to reiterate its position that it remains committed to a transparent, inclusive, and non-partisan process which is citizen-led,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) Minister Parks Tau has welcomed the approval of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Extension Bill by the USA House of Representatives.

AGOA is critical legislation that allows for eligible sub-Saharan African countries to enjoy duty-free access to the US market.

“The renewal of AGOA will complement and support the implementation of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area and creation of regional value chains, as well as support American businesses that depend on inputs and products imported into the US market under AGOA.

“This will provide certainty and predictability for African and American businesses that rely on the programme,” the department said.

The US is the third largest export destination for South African goods and remains one of South Africa’s most important trade partners.

In 2024, SA-US total bilateral trade stood at some $15 billion, with South Africa’s exports totalling $8 billion and imports standing at $7 billion, resulting in a “trade surplus of US$1 billion”.

“Minister Tau emphasised that South Africa values its longstanding trade and investment relationship with the US…[which is] a critical partner in driving mutually beneficial economic growth, industrialisation, and job creation.

“AGOA has been important in this partnership for over two decades, supporting thousands of jobs in both countries and contributing to stable supply chains across key sectors, notably in automotive, shipbuilding, agriculture, chemicals, and apparel,” the DTIC highlighted.

Over the past year, the relationship between the two countries has come under increasing strain; however, the department emphasised that South Africa remains committed to “mature engagement regarding matters of mutual concern, ensuring that we are able to reach our shared economic goals”.

“SA…is the largest sub-Saharan African importer of goods from the US and the biggest source of foreign direct investment to the US from the African continent and a crucial supplier of raw materials to many US supply chains. 

“South Africa and the United States continue to engage with each other in the negotiation of an Agreement on Reciprocal Tariffs aimed at promoting mutually beneficial trade and investment relations and address trade barriers that affect bilateral trade,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, has emphasised the vital role of traditional leadership in maintaining community stability and enhancing local governance. 

He highlighted the ongoing review of the White Paper on Local Government and reiterated the ministry’s commitment to strengthening collaboration. The review aims to incite fresh thinking, honest reflection, and decisive action toward building a fit-for-purpose local government system that truly serves the people of South Africa.

In addition, he stressed the importance of effectively integrating traditional institutions into the evolving governance system.

The Minister was speaking during a follow-up engagement with the Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa (CONTRALESA), led by its President, Kgoshi Mathupa Mokoena, yesterday.

Deputy Ministers Dr Namane Dickson Masemola and Zolile Burns-Ncamashe, along with senior officials and the CoGTA leadership team, were in attendance. 

This gathering built on the engagement that took place with President Cyril Ramaphosa in December 2025, marking a strong start to the year and reinforced the partnership between CoGTA and traditional leadership structures.

“This platform is an opportunity for the exchange of ideas and constructive criticism. As a Ministry, we remain committed to listening, learning, and working collaboratively to strengthen the traditional leadership institution – the oldest form of governance in our country,” he said.

CONTRALESA welcomed the Minister’s continued commitment and highlighted his longstanding background in traditional affairs. 

The leadership expressed gratitude for his willingness to engage and emphasised the importance of ongoing collaboration to address the long-standing challenges faced by traditional leaders. 

Both the Minister and Kgoshi Mokoena voiced deep concern about the 49 fatalities reported during the customary initiation season of summer 2025.

They agreed that preserving culture and protecting life should remain key priorities. A broad consultative meeting is scheduled for February to strengthen safeguards, enhance oversight, and improve community safety. 

The Minister reiterated that the department is committed to transparent engagement, meaningful partnerships, and advancing shared goals of community well-being, stability, and effective cooperative governance. – SAnews.gov.za

Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, has confirmed the resignation of Independent Development Trust (IDT) CEO, Tebogo Malaka, with effect from 31 January 2026.

Malaka was suspended in August last year, following the release of an independent report into the botched R836 million Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) oxygen plant project, which was intended to provide vital oxygen plants to hospitals across the country.

The report – drawn up by PricewaterhouseCoopers – recommended that Malaka face disciplinary action for her failure to prevent or act on violations which may have led to the state suffering losses.

Other officials recommended for disciplinary action include David Motsatse in his capacity as the BEC Secretariat and Dr Molebedi Sisi, the General Manager for Supply Chain Management at the IDT.

“While Ms Malaka resigned before the disciplinary process could be concluded, I welcome the fact that her resignation comes without a golden handshake. Importantly, her resignation does not immunise her from criminal investigations or any civil proceedings that may arise.

“This reaffirms our position that no individual in the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, or any of its entities, is above ethical governance, the law, or accountability – and that accountability does not fall away simply because someone resigns.

“We therefore urge law-enforcement agencies to conclude the criminal investigations without delay, and to act decisively should the evidence warrant prosecution,” Macpherson said.

The Minister vowed to continue to root out wrongdoing at the entity.

“Since the IDT board’s appointment last year, great strides have been made to bring governance stability to the entity.

“However, the resignation does not end the problems at the IDT but is a welcome step in our continued reform agenda in the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, which is anchored on ethical governance which puts the South African public first,” he added.

In a short statement, the IDT noted that Malaka will leave the entity “without exit compensation”.

“The Board has accepted the resignation and confirms that Mr Sfiso Nsibande, seconded from the Construction Industry Development Board, will continue to serve as Acting Chief Executive Officer to ensure organisational stability and continuity.

“In line with standard governance and employment practice, the terms of Ms Malaka’s departure remain confidential. The Board will now commence a formal process to appoint a permanent Chief Executive Officer.

“The IDT will continue to cooperate fully with any ongoing investigations that may result in criminal and/or civil proceedings against any current or former officials or employees,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister, Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has urged learners to take responsibility for their education and actively shape their future.

Speaking during a Back-to-School programme at Sivananda Technical High School, the Deputy Minister welcomed learners to the 2026 academic year and described education as a powerful tool for empowerment and long-term growth. 

“It is always a privilege to stand before bright young minds, with the hope and conviction that I am addressing the future leaders of our country,” Dube-Ncube said. 

She said the Department of Higher Education and Training was focused on creating clear pathways from schooling to post-school education and training, ensuring that learners are well prepared for opportunities beyond the classroom. 

“Think of my role as one of handing you the baton, encouraging you to take charge of your education and to shape your own destiny,” she said, adding that knowledge and informed choices remain key to success. 

The Deputy Minister acknowledged the challenges facing South Africa’s education system but emphasised that these obstacles are not insurmountable. 

“We, at the Department of Higher Education and Training, are committed to preparing the Post-School Education and Training sector so that you are equipped for the opportunities ahead,” the Deputy Minister said. 

She also encouraged learners to make use of technology and readily available information to explore funding opportunities and education pathways. 

“We live in an age where information is more accessible than ever. With data at your fingertips, you can explore opportunities, access funding, and plan your education, all from your phone. Knowledge is empowerment; it prepares you to build the future you desire,” Dube-Ncube said. 

Learners were urged to engage with information exhibitions hosted at the school, featuring partners such as the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), the National Skills Fund (NSF) and KHETHA. These platforms provide guidance on funding, skills development and career options. 

The Deputy Minister encouraged learners to consider Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges and other skills-based institutions as viable pathways to employment and entrepreneurship. 

“I encourage you to pursue learning that equips you with practical skills and opens doors to employment opportunities,” she said. 

Concluding her address, Dube-Ncube congratulated the Class of 2025 on completing their schooling and wished the Class of 2026 success as they begin a new academic year, urging learners to approach their studies with enthusiasm, dedication and a love for learning. – SAnews.gov.za 

Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille says the precautionary evacuation of tourists at the Kruger National Park, due to ongoing heavy rainfall, will ensure the safety and well-being of its visitors and staff members.

In a statement on Thursday, the Minister expressed her solidarity with tourists affected by the flooding in the park, which resulted in the precautionary evacuation of visitors from affected areas.

“We recognise that this situation has been distressing for tourists whose travel plans have been disrupted, and we thank them for their cooperation, patience and understanding during the evacuation process,” the Minister said.

The Minister confirmed that South African National Parks (SANParks), together with emergency services and relevant authorities, acted swiftly and professionally to manage the situation which is under control.

“SANParks has well-established emergency protocols, and their response ensured that all necessary safety measures were implemented efficiently and without loss of life. I call on all travellers to adhere to safety measures being communicated by SANParks,” de Lille said.

Continuous assessments are being conducted and access to affected areas of the park will only be reopened once conditions are confirmed to be safe. 

The Minister reassured both domestic and international travellers that South Africa remains a safe and welcoming destination.

She further thanked tourism stakeholders, including the private sector, who are assisting with alternative accommodation, park staff and surrounding communities for their cooperation and support during this period.

For any update on the situation contact SANParks 24-hour emergency call centre on +27(0)13 735 4363 and WhatsApp +27(0)76 801 9679. – SAnews.gov.za

Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube, on Wednesday undertook a back-to-school oversight visit to schools in Lethlabile, in the North West, as part of the Department of Basic Education’s Back to School programme. 

The visit formed part of government’s efforts to officially welcome learners back to school for the 2026 academic year, while assessing school readiness and reaffirming the department’s commitment to quality teaching and learning. 

Gwarube conducted monitoring visits at three local education institutions, engaging with learners, educators and the schools’ leadership to assess preparedness for the academic year. 

Her first stop was Tshenolo Primary School, where she warmly welcomed learners back to school at the start of the academic term. 

The Minister interacted with learners, creating an atmosphere of encouragement and motivation as they returned to the classroom. During the visit, Gwarube also supported the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) by assisting in the school kitchen and serving learners a warm, nutritious breakfast.

“This act underscores the importance of the NSNP in promoting learner well-being and readiness to learn. By ensuring that learners begin their day with a healthy meal, the programme reinforces the message that no learner can learn effectively on an empty stomach, and that nutrition remains a key pillar of academic success,” the DBE said in a series of X posts.  

The Minister further visited the Grade R classroom, where she distributed Learning and Teaching Support Materials (LTSM) and participated in a reading session with learners. 

The engagement aimed to promote early literacy and encourage a love for learning from a young age. 

Gwarube later proceeded to Eletsa Secondary School, where she was joined by North West MEC for Education, Viola Ntsetsao Motsumi. 

The leaders addressed the Class of 2026, encouraging learners to remain focused, disciplined and confident as they prepare for their final year of schooling. 

The oversight visit concluded at Itumeleng Crèche, where the Minister and MEC engaged with young learners during a reading session and observed play-based learning activities. 

The visit underscored the importance of early childhood development in building a strong foundation for lifelong learning. – SAnews.gov.za

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has encouraged learners across the country to approach the 2026 school year with renewed focus, discipline and a commitment to academic excellence. 

In a series of back-to-school messages shared on its official social media platforms, the department highlighted the importance of structured planning, consistent revision and the responsible use of educational resources as key pillars for academic success. 

According to the department, a successful school year requires focus, structure and commitment, with learners urged to approach their education with purpose and a clear plan for growth. 

For primary school learners, the department emphasised the importance of following classroom rules and routines to create a positive learning environment. Learners were also encouraged to practise foundational skills such as reading, writing and counting regularly, keep their stationery and books organised, and remember that learning improves with consistent effort. 

Secondary school learners were advised to create weekly study schedules that balance schoolwork and rest, revise classwork daily to strengthen understanding and memory, and make responsible use of teachers, libraries and online learning resources. 

The department also encouraged early preparation for assessments to reduce stress and improve performance. 

“The 2026 school year presents an opportunity for learners to refocus on their academic goals. Through structured planning, consistent revision and the responsible use of educational resources, learners can strengthen their study practices and enhance overall academic performance,” the department said. 

The department reiterated its commitment to supporting learners, parents and educators throughout the academic year, in line with the Read to Lead campaign and the goals of the National Development Plan 2030. 

Parents and guardians are encouraged to support learners by fostering positive study habits at home and engage with schools to ensure a conducive learning environment. – SAnews.gov.za

The Limpopo Provincial Government has deployed multi-disciplinary teams to assist various areas affected by the recent heavy rainfall and flooding in the province – including in the Vhembe, Mopani, parts of Sekhukhune, Waterberg and Capricorn Districts. 

The teams will work to restore connectivity and ensure the safety of residents. 

The Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) is actively involved in rescue operations, working closely with municipalities to remove debris and restore essential services where possible. 

Residents have been urged to remain calm and be vigilant as the province responds to the situation, while adhering to guidance issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS) and the PDMC. 

North West Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, said the scale of the impact required urgent and coordinated intervention.

“We are facing a state of disaster in several districts of our province, necessitating an urgent and coordinated response involving both provincial and national government resources. We have mobilised rescue teams and advise that learners in severely impacted areas should not be compelled to attend school until support is ensured,” the Premier said in a statement. 

The Premier has directed the MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, Basikopo Makamu, to oversee a comprehensive assessment of the situation. 

This includes evaluating the extent of damage and associated costs to inform an effective recovery strategy, as well as the possible invocation of disaster management provisions and requests for assistance from the National Disaster Management Centre. 

According to SAWS, warnings of up to level 09 remain in place, with continued heavy rainfall expected and flooding likely to persist. 

The provincial government is disseminating safety messages through various communication platforms, urging residents to avoid crossing flooded rivers and to keep children away from unsafe water bodies.

While a limited number of fatalities have been reported, particularly drownings during the December storms, the province said it continues to closely monitor the situation. Attention is being given to communities that have been cut off due to flooding. 

Provincial Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are experiencing challenges accessing some areas due to damaged roads, but efforts are underway to reach affected communities through alternative means. 

MEC Makamu has also been coordinating with district management teams and local leadership to explore funding options for the repair of damaged infrastructure. He reiterated the need for residents to prioritise safety during this period. 

The Limpopo Provincial Government acknowledged the significant disruption caused by the floods and reaffirmed its commitment to restoring normalcy. 

“The dignity and livelihoods of all residents remain a priority and the province will continue to collaborate with all relevant departments and agencies to support those affected,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za