Deputy Ministers visit Brits water treatment works

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy Ministers visit Brits water treatment works

Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo and Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, are conducting an oversight visit to the Brits Water Treatment Works in the North West.

The Brits Water Treatment Works is a critical infrastructure project of the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) aimed at strengthening water provision for the Madibeng Local Municipality and surrounding areas.

“The Brits Water Treatment Works is a key bulk water supply infrastructure project, funded by the Department of Water and Sanitation through the Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant (RBIG), at a value of over R80 million and implemented by the Magalies Water Board,” the DWS said in a statement.

The project is part of government efforts to “support Water Services Authorities in meeting their constitutional obligation to provide safe and reliable water”.

“Once fully operational, the upgraded Plant will increase its treatment capacity from 60 to 80 megalitres per day, improving the treatment of raw water, strengthening pumping and pipeline systems and enhancing the distribution network up to bulk reservoirs,” the statement said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) announces new dates and opens registration for inaugural congress set for February 2026

Source: APO

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Africa (https://FSC.org) is pleased to announce that registration is now open for its Inaugural Zamba Heritage Initiative Congress, rescheduled to February 10–12, 2026, at the JW Marriott Hotel, Nairobi, Kenya. Originally planned for September 2025, the Congress was postponed to ensure broader participation and alignment with key continental priorities.

Under the theme “From Commitment to Action: Africa’s Forest Legacy for All Forever,” the Congress will convene government leaders, private sector actors, civil society, and development partners to accelerate action for sustainable forest management, restoration, and inclusive green growth across Africa.

Key Highlights:

  • High-level dialogues on climate, biodiversity, and sustainable development.
  • Launch of innovative forest finance mechanisms and investment opportunities.
  • Regional cooperation to advance commitments under international and continental frameworks.

Registration is now open at : https://apo-opa.co/497jfAs

Join us in shaping Africa’s forest future.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Forest Stewardship Council.

Media Contact:
Israel Bionyi
Senior Regional Communications Manager
FSC Africa
i.bionyi@fsc.org

FSC Africa
www.Africa.FSC.org
T: +49 (0) 228 367 66 0 
F: +49 (0) 228 367 66 65 

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JMPD arrests more than 200 for drunk driving

Source: Government of South Africa

JMPD arrests more than 200 for drunk driving

The Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) has arrested some 227 motorists for drunk driving.

This after JMPD officers conducted roadblocks, patrols and operations across the city over the past week.

JMPD Chief of Police, Patrick Jaca, emphasised that the arrests are aimed at averting road accidents caused by drivers under the influence of alcohol.

“We are seeing very high numbers of accidents on our roads, and more people are being killed. It is our responsibility to ensure that this does not continue and that we reduce these numbers.

“Each arrest made represents a potential tragedy averted and a commitment to protecting innocent residents and visitors. We will build a force feared by transgressors but trusted by the people,” Jaca said.

The JMPD warned would be perpetrators that its festive season campaign continues unabated.

“Under our zero-tolerance approach, our officers will remain deployed 24/7 across major routes and hotspots to ensure compliance with the law.

“We urge all motorists to designate a sober driver before heading out. Utilise e-hailing services or public transport if consuming alcohol. Respect the rules of the road to ensure everyone reaches their destination safely.

“Our message is clear: if you choose to drink and drive, you will be arrested. Let us work together to make this festive season a safe one for all,” the law enforcement agency said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Les inscriptions sont ouvertes pour le Congrès de l’Initiative Zamba Heritage prévu en février 2026

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Afrique (https://FSC.org) a le plaisir d’annoncer que les inscriptions sont désormais ouvertes pour son Congrès inaugural de l’Initiative Patrimoine Zamba, reprogrammé du 10 au 12 février 2026 à l’hôtel JW Marriott, Nairobi, Kenya. Initialement prévu en septembre 2025, le Congrès a été reporté afin de garantir une participation plus large et une meilleure harmonisation avec les priorités continentales clés.

Sous le thème « De l’engagement à l’action : l’héritage forestier de l’Afrique pour tous et pour toujours », le Congrès réunira des dirigeants gouvernementaux, des acteurs du secteur privé, la société civile et des partenaires au développement pour accélérer l’action en faveur de la gestion durable des forêts, de la restauration et d’une croissance verte inclusive à travers l’Afrique.

Points forts :
• Dialogues de haut niveau sur le climat, la biodiversité et le développement durable.
• Lancement de mécanismes innovants de financement forestier et d’opportunités d’investissement.
• Coopération régionale pour faire progresser les engagements dans le cadre des initiatives internationales et continentales.

Les inscriptions sont désormais ouvertes à l’adresse suivante : https://apo-opa.co/497jfAs

Rejoignez-nous pour façonner l’avenir des forêts africaines.

Distribué par APO Group pour Forest Stewardship Council.

Media Contact:
Israel Bionyi
Senior Regional Communications Manager
FSC Africa
i.bionyi@fsc.org

FSC Africa
www.Africa.FSC.org
T: +49 (0) 228 367 66 0 
F: +49 (0) 228 367 66 65 

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Gauteng to intensify tavern crackdown following Bekkersdal shooting

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, December 22, 2025

Acting Gauteng Premier, Jacob Mamabolo, has condemned the escalation in mass shootings that have occurred in the province.

This after a mass shooting at a tavern in Bekkersdal claimed the lives of at least nine people and left 10 injured.

Earlier this month, another mass shooting in Saulsville, Tshwane, left at least 11 people dead and 14 others injured.

At least three other incidents – in Reiger Park, Westbury and Olievenhoutbosch – have been reported this year.

“We will intensify operations to shut down illegal taverns, remove illegal firearms from our streets and disrupt the networks that enable such violence.

“We call upon our communities to share any information regarding this shooting or any other criminal activity with the police. We will not allow criminals to terrorise our communities and turn them into scenes of carnage,” Mamabolo said.

He conveyed condolences to the affected families.

“Our hearts are heavy, and we convey our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the deceased. We also wish a full and speedy recovery to those who are injured,” Mamabolo said. – SAnews.gov.za

Manhunt for Bekkersdal mass shooting suspects underway

Source: Government of South Africa

Manhunt for Bekkersdal mass shooting suspects underway

Police have launched a manhunt to find suspects linked to the mass shooting perpetrated at a tavern in Bekkersdal in the early hours of Sunday morning.

The incident claimed 11 lives, with 10 others taken to medical facilities for injuries.

“It is reported that about 12 unknown suspects in a white kombi and a silver sedan opened fire at tavern patrons and continued to shoot randomly as they fled the scene. The tavern is licensed.

“Police have mobilised all the necessary resources, including Forensic Crime Scene Management and Crime Intelligence. The motive for the shooting will be determined by investigation,” police said in a statement.

Acting Gauteng Premier, Jacob Mamabolo, vowed that the provincial government will lend its support to the police as the investigation continues.

“The Gauteng Provincial Government will provide all the necessary support to the South African Police Service (SAPS) as they conduct a manhunt and investigation to find the perpetrators of this heinous act.

“We have full confidence in our law enforcement agencies and call on them to leave no stone unturned in ensuring those responsible are apprehended and face the full might of the law,” Mamabolo said.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the SAPS Crime Stop line on 08600 10111 or send tip-offs on the MySAPS App. – SAnews.gov.za

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Condolences for veteran NPA prosecutor

Source: Government of South Africa

Condolences for veteran NPA prosecutor

Justice and Constitutional Development Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has extended condolences on the passing of the National Prosecuting Authority Gauteng Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Riegel Du Toit.

“The Minister extends her heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and relatives of Advocate Du Toit during this difficult time.

“The Minister further conveys her sympathies to his colleagues and the entire prosecutorial fraternity who have lost a committed and respected public servant,” the department said in a statement.

The veteran prosecutor, Du Toit secured lengthy sentences for the murder of German supercar specialist Uwe Gemballa and played a role in the prosecution of infamous Czech organised crime boss, Radovan Krejcir.

Du Toit was assigned protection after his name was found on a hit list during a raid at Krejcir’s home.

“Advocate Du Toit served the justice system with dedication and professionalism, contributing meaningfully to the work of the National Prosecuting Authority and the broader pursuit of justice,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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Weather Service issues disruptive rain, fire danger warning across South Africa

Source: Government of South Africa

Weather Service issues disruptive rain, fire danger warning across South Africa

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a weather warning for disruptive rains and severe thunderstorms across the country for today.

The warnings for rain are as follows:

  • Orange level 5 warning: Disruptive rain resulting in flooding of settlements (both formal and informal) and roads, low-lying bridges, as well as damage to mud-build houses is expected over the northern and eastern parts of Limpopo.
  • Yellow level 4 warning: Disruptive rain resulting in flooding of settlements (both formal and informal) and roads, low-lying bridges, as well as damage to mud-build houses is expected in the northern parts of Mpumalanga and southwestern Limpopo, except in the extreme southeast.
  • Yellow level 4 warning: Severe thunderstorm, leading to heavy downpours, excessive lightning, strong damaging winds and large amounts of small hail and/or large hail a populated are expected over Gauteng, extreme southwestern parts of Limpopo, southern parts of Mpumalanga, eastern parts of North West, eastern parts of Free State, as well as the western parts KwaZulu-Natal.
  • Yellow level 1 warning: Severe thunderstorms, leading to localised flooding of susceptible roads, settlements and low-lying bridges/areas, excessive lightning, strong damaging winds and large amounts of small hail and/or large hail are expected over the north-central parts of the Northern Cape.

The weather service also issued warnings for possible fire danger in parts of the Northern and Western Cape provinces.

“Extremely high fire danger conditions are expected over the over the western parts of the Northern Cape, as well as in places over the northern parts of the Western Cape. 

“Extremely hot and uncomfortable conditions are expected in places over Namakwa district in the Northern Cape, as well as in places over the Western Cape, except along the south coast and adjacent interior,” the SAWS said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Power system ‘stable’ as festive season demand approaches

Source: Government of South Africa

Power system ‘stable’ as festive season demand approaches

Eskom has assured that it will keep the lights on this festive season and meet demand.

In a statement, the power utility said the national power system remains stable and consistently meets “demand as Eskom’s generation performance continues to improve”.

“The success of the Generation Recovery Plan, combined with the intensified planned maintenance implemented last year, has strengthened the fleet and enhanced operational resilience.

“These achievements position Eskom to reliably meet peak festive season demand, support economic activity and reinforce energy security for South Africa,” Eskom explained.

The Energy Availability Factor (EAF) stands at some 66.12% – an improvement of 8.43% at the same time last year when the EAF stood at 57.69%.

“Year-to-date, EAF has increased to 63.85%, with the fleet achieving or exceeding the 70% benchmark on 39 occasions. These results demonstrate both recovery and sustained improvement in generation performance, reinforcing energy security and grid stability.

“The improvement in EAF is largely attributable to a continued reduction in unplanned outages, alongside a moderate decline in planned maintenance levels,” the power utility said.

Eskom has gone more than 217 days without implementing load shedding, with only 26 hours of load shedding recorded earlier this financial year.

“To maintain a stable electricity supply, Eskom will bring 4 670MW of generation capacity online ahead of the evening peak [today].

“Eskom published the Summer Outlook on 5 September 2025, covering the period 1 September 2025 to 31 March 2026, which projects no load shedding due to sustained improvements in plant performance from the Generation Recovery Plan,” Eskom said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Une campagne panafricaine célèbre les joies du retour au bercail, avec KFC

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Durant la période des fêtes, que pouvez-vous vous permettre chez vous, en ville, mais que vous n’imagineriez même pas faire de retour à la maison ?

Une campagne panafricaine lancée par KFC célèbre précisément cet aspect de la vie à travers le continent, c’est-à-dire les vies parallèles que les jeunes mènent entre la ville où ils habitent et le lieu où ils ont grandi.

Au Kenya, retourner dans les zones rurales s’appelle « aller à Shagz », et il existe un tas d’autres expressions vernaculaires pour cela. Le choc culturel du retour à la maison est un aspect amusant de notre culture africaine partagée, le temps de Noël.

La campagne Home-Home de KFC montre que, s’il existe certaines parties de nous-mêmes que nous ne voulons peut-être pas ramener au bercail, la seule chose sur laquelle tout le monde est d’accord, c’est le goût savoureux de KFC.

« Dans la ville, tout passe ; vous pouvez montrer vos tatouages, porter n’importe quoi et parler comme vous le souhaitez », déclare Mukundi Munzhelele, directeur marketing de KFC, EW&I et Marketing Excellence. « Mais de retour à la maison, ça ne passe plus. Vous êtes censé revenir à vos paramètres par défaut. Heureusement, avec KFC, que vous soyez en ville ou de retour à la maison, vous pouvez toujours être vous-même. »

La campagne Home-Home a été lancée sur plusieurs marchés africains et se déroule tout au long de la saison des fêtes. Elle dispose de deux volets sur les réseaux sociaux, de plusieurs clips de la marque, et du hashtag #KFCHomeDos&Donts à la radio et sur les réseaux.

Ce dernier déploiement a attiré l’imagination des auditeurs dans toute l’Afrique, qui partagent ce qu’ils font à la ville et qui ne passerait jamais de retour à la maison, sous la forme de messages vocaux, de commentaires ou de réponses. Les participants gagneront des bons et des prix KFC.

La campagne a également lancé des tendances sur les réseaux, les influenceurs ayant adopté l’idée, avec des vlogs de voyage et du contenu « à la ville vs de retour à la maison » devenant le thème du moment. Les clips générés par les utilisateurs montrent des blagues faites aux parents, en les appelant par leurs prénoms ou en laissant la télévision allumée en allant se coucher !

Laisser de la vaisselle dans l’évier toute la nuit ? Porter des chaussures à l’intérieur, de faux ongles de toutes les couleurs ou des tenues glamour ? Parler un peu trop ouvertement ? Toutes ces habitudes courantes dans les grandes villes doivent être mises en veilleuse lorsque les jeunes Africains rentrent à la maison.

Certains ont même relevez les règles tacites qui s’appliquent lorsque vous partagez un seau de KFC en famille. C’est à papa que revient le plus gros morceau de poulet, alors qu’il faut une diplomatie à toute épreuve pour obtenir le dernier morceau. Une autre vérité éternelle est que celui qui va chercher la commande KFC n’est jamais celui qui paie !

Que le seau festif soit dégusté en ville ou « à la maison », la joie de partager KFC avec les amis et la famille reste la même.

La campagne KFC Home-Home a été conçue par KFC en collaboration avec l’agence Ogilvy.

« La campagne a commencé avec l’idée culturelle que de nombreux Africains urbanisés vivent des vies parallèles, entre le chez-soi en ville et les autres maisons dans les communautés de nos familles élargies », déclare Snooze Kambuwa, directeur exécutif de la création pour l’Afrique du Sud, Ogilvy. « Nous voulions célébrer cela, avec tous les subterfuges bon enfant et les changements de codes qui l’accompagnent. Mais nous avons également rappelé qu’avec KFC, vous pouvez toujours être vous-même, où que vous soyez. »

La campagne Home-Home de KFC se déroule au Ghana, en Tanzanie, au Sénégal, au Kenya, en Ouganda, au Rwanda, au Gabon et à Maurice, jusqu’au début janvier.

Distribué par APO Group pour KFC Africa.

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