MIL Africa Engine

As South Africans count down the hours to Bafana Bafana’s highly anticipated clash against Mexico tonight, eThekwini Municipality Mayor Cyril Xaba has called on the nation to rally behind the national team and embrace the spirit that united the country during the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

A wave of excitement is sweeping across the country as supporters don their green and gold and prepare to back Bafana Bafana in their crucial Group A encounter, scheduled for a 9pm kick-off.

The fixture evokes memories of South Africa’s historic opening match at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, a moment that captivated the world and brought millions of South Africans together in a celebration of pride, unity and football.

Expressing confidence in the team’s ability to rise to the occasion, Xaba said Bafana Bafana carries the hopes of a nation.

“On behalf of the people of eThekwini, we wish Bafana Bafana success as they take to the field today. The team carries the hopes and aspirations of millions of South Africans, and we are confident they will represent our nation with determination, excellence and pride,” he said.

Xaba urged football fans across the country to get behind the team, saying South Africa’s rich football heritage has always been defined by passionate support and national unity.

He also highlighted Durban’s proud football legacy and its role in hosting matches during the 2010 FIFA World Cup, a tournament that remains one of South Africa’s greatest sporting achievements.

The mayor’s remarks come after New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani recently reflected on South Africa’s hosting of the global showpiece, recalling the unmistakable sound of vuvuzelas, the spirit of the South African braai and the unforgettable atmosphere that defined the tournament.

Mamdani also acknowledged Durban’s contribution to the event’s success and the lasting memories it created for football fans around the world.

“The recognition of South Africa and Durban by international leaders reflects the enduring legacy of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, as well as the warmth, hospitality and passion for sport that our city is renowned for,” Xaba said.

As Bafana Bafana embarks on its latest World Cup journey, Xaba said eThekwini stands firmly behind the national team and believes it has what it takes to shine on the global stage.

“We believe they have what it takes to make the nation proud,” he said.

The mayor encouraged South Africans to once again display the unity, patriotism and enthusiasm that made the 2010 World Cup so memorable by supporting Bafana Bafana throughout its campaign. – SAnews.gov.za

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While South Africa has made progress in fighting tuberculosis (TB), as part of Government’s priority to ensure access to effective healthcare, Deputy President Paul Mashtile has called for more action to rid the world of the disease.

“I fully agree with the Minister’s [Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi] sentiment that ending tuberculosis (TB) in our lifetime is not impossible and that it requires solidarity, dedication, and commitment from all of us,” the Deputy President said on Thursday.

Addressing the closing plenary of the 9th SA TB Conference held at the Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg, Gauteng, Mashatile said that the country’s response to HIV and TB  is a reminder that disjointed responses prolong epidemics, while collective action bends the curve of history.

“In the mid-2000s, specifically between 2006 and 2008, the country experienced a significant TB epidemic, further aggravated by a growing HIV crisis. Subsequently, in the year 2008, Government, researchers, and civil society resolved to end fragmentation and ‘work as one,’ recognising that TB could not be tackled in isolation from HIV, poverty, and systemic health challenges,” he said.

At that time, a shift began toward a more integrated response, leading to innovations like joint TB/HIV strategies and community-based care models, culminating in the National Strategic Plan for HIV, TB, and STIs.

He said that progress since the integration of TB/HIV strategies, community-driven care, and innovations in diagnostics and treatment proves that unity delivers results. 

“Thus, the 2026 conference serves as a call for renewal and a call to rise together, across nations and sectors, to march towards a TB-free world. Yet even as we gather in unity, we must confront the stark truth that South Africa consistently ranks among the top eight countries globally for absolute TB incidence and stands first in the world when adjusted for population size.”

At the start of the conference on Monday, the magnitude of the country’s TB burden was laid out.

“Indeed, the picture does not look good. Nevertheless, as a country, we have gained momentum in our fight against TB by strengthening systems and embracing innovation and technology. As you have heard during the conference, this momentum is real,” he said.

He added that since 2015, South Africa has achieved a 61% reduction in TB incidence, surpassing the World Health Organization’s 2025 milestone ahead of time. Cases have declined from over half a million in 2015 to around 249,000 in 2024.

“This is proof of strong political commitment, scientific innovation, and the resilience of our communities. However, progress on TB mortality has been slow, with only a 17% drop since 2015, far short of the 50% target. This disparity serves as a harsh reminder that incidence reduction alone is insufficient to achieve triumph.”

The Deputy President stressed that lives must be saved, households must be protected, and dignity must be restored.

“South Africa’s response to TB continues to evolve with purpose and determination, underpinned by a strong multisectoral foundation led by SANAC, which coordinates efforts across government, civil society, the private sector, and other partners to strengthen prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and accountability mechanisms.”

He said that the next phase of the response must build on this momentum by leveraging strategic information, innovation, and integrated service delivery to break down barriers to access and ensure that interventions reach the most vulnerable in a timely and effective manner.

“This requires a deliberate shift towards a more people-centered approach that prioritises community engagement, strengthens systems resilience, and ensures that leadership at all levels is held accountable for delivering measurable impact in the drive to end TB as a public health threat.”

The conference highlighted the importance of strengthening prevention, closing diagnostic gaps, improving treatment outcomes, and addressing the social and economic drivers of TB. It has also reinforced the need for stronger accountability mechanisms so that commitments made translate into measurable impact at the community level.

Action 

This as the country continues to demonstrate strong leadership in the fight against TB, driven by evidence-based interventions and data-driven responses.

One of the key milestones in the response has been the launch of the TB-data dashboard, which is accessible to the public. This platform enables more targeted interventions, strengthens data-driven decision-making, and fosters transparency by making critical information accessible to all stakeholders.

At the same time, South Africa remains at the forefront globally, among the first countries to adopt new and faster diagnostic technologies. This has significantly improved the ability to detect TB early and respond more effectively.

“We have also seen a rapid uptake of new tools and innovations across the TB programme. We have introduced service delivery innovations such as targeted universal TB testing, ensuring that high-risk groups, including TB contacts and people living with HIV, are routinely tested regardless of symptoms,” he said.

At the United Nations High-Level Meeting on TB, South Africa reaffirmed its pledge to implement TB vaccines as soon as they become available. This commitment said Deputy President Mashatile, is coupled with a recognition that ending TB requires addressing its root causes, including poverty, gender inequality, and the need for greater education on the TB epidemic.

“Together, these efforts reflect a comprehensive and forward-looking response, one that not only tackles the disease itself but also the conditions that allow it to persist.”

The “End TB Plan” by the Department of Health outlines priorities, activities, monitoring frameworks, stakeholder roles, and targets over a defined period. 

It emphasises integration with HIV programmes, primary health care, and TB in the mines. It builds on the broader National Strategic Plan for HIV, TB, and STIs 2023 – 2028; the TB Recovery Plan; and the World Health Organization’s global End TB Strategy.

The Deputy President also called on everyone to play their part in ending TB.

He said government leadership must provide policy direction and resources; health workers must be equipped with tools, training, and support; researchers must continue advancing scalable innovations and communities must remain active partners among others.-SAnews.gov.za 

 

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In support of the Bafana Bafana opening match against Mexico at the FIFA World Cup, the Madlanga Commission on Thursday donned their Bafana jerseys.

“As you all see, today we, the entire Commission, are donning the Bafana Bafana jersey. Since today is the opening of Bafana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, it is fitting to show them our unwavering support. We trust that they will do well,” Chairperson of the Commission, Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga said.

Justice Madlanga called on all South Africans to support the national men’s team as they go head to head against Mexico in the Group A game tonight at 9pm. –SAnews.gov.za

 

 

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Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela has moved to reassure South Africans that qualifications obtained before 2009 remain valid and continue to be officially recognised, despite ongoing reforms to the country’s qualifications system.

Addressing a media briefing on developments relating to the National Qualifications Framework on Thursday, Manamela said concerns that legacy qualifications would become invalid are unfounded.

“Every qualification that has already been awarded remains valid, recognised and recorded on the National Learners’ Records Database,” Manamela said.

Manamela’s remarks come amid the implementation of the Directive on Transitional Arrangements for Pre-2009 Qualifications, which seeks to transition South Africa from older qualifications to a modern occupational qualifications framework.

He stressed that the reform process is not intended to diminish the value of qualifications already earned by learners and workers.

“Let me state from the outset that this transition is not about invalidating qualifications that people have worked hard to achieve, nor is it about diminishing the value of learning that has already taken place. The legacy qualifications, as they are called, have contributed meaningfully to workforce development and economic participation over many years.

“However, these qualifications have favoured the classroom over the workshop. What we are introducing are qualifications that guarantee practical experience and workplace placement. It is about modernising the system to make the Skills Revolution a reality,” Manamela said.

While some pre-2009 qualifications are being phased out and replaced by occupational qualifications, the Minister assured that learners, who have already completed those programmes, retain full recognition of their credentials.

NATED Report 190-1 Programmes

The Minister also reassured students enrolled in National Accredited Technical Education Diploma (NATED) Report 190-1 programmes [legacy, historically theory-based post-school courses offered by Technical and Vocational Education and Training colleges], that their qualifications will not lose recognition during the transition period.

He encouraged students currently enrolled in N4 to N6 programmes to continue with their studies as planned, assuring that their qualifications will not lose recognition.

He said the department is working with Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), industry partners and government departments to expand workplace placement opportunities required for students to complete their National N Diplomas.

“The NATED Report 190-1 programmes require a separate approach because of their relevance within the education and training landscape. The department has already issued Circular TC 0134(b) outlining teach-out arrangements, achievement dates and learner support measures. Replacement occupational qualifications have already been developed and are being implemented,” Manamela said.

Teach-out is an educational arrangement that allows current students to complete their qualifications or degrees, even if an institution closes, restructures or phases out older programmes.

Work integrated learning 

On the Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programme for all students who have acquired the necessary theoretical component of their training, the Minister assured NATED students, and the broader public, that this is being attended to.

“We have completed the data verification process for all students who require the 18 or 24 months of workplace-based experience to qualify for their National Diplomas, and we are in the final stages of securing funding for their stipends through various partnerships with industry and other government departments to support placement of students for experiential learning. 

“The department, with the support of the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), facilitates the placement of approximately 21 000 TVET students in workplaces annually. The department is also prioritising engagements with employers in the public and private sector to expand the availability of WIL opportunities, while exploring funding mechanisms in collaboration with SETAs and the National Skills Fund and employers,” Manamela said.

The Minister urged learners, employers, Skills Development Providers and other stakeholders to consult official information published by the Department of Higher Education and Training, the South African Qualifications Authority and the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations for clarity on the transitional arrangements.

He emphasised that the reforms are designed to strengthen the qualifications system without disadvantaging learners who have already completed their studies.

“As government advances the transition towards a modernised occupational qualifications system, our foremost priority is to protect the value of qualifications, uphold public confidence in the skills development system, and ensure that every learner is afforded a fair and meaningful pathway to success and employability,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela has announced a series of transitional arrangements aimed at modernising South Africa’s qualifications system, while ensuring continuity for learners, training providers and employers.

Speaking at a media briefing in Pretoria on Thursday, Manamela said the implementation of the Directive on Transitional Arrangements for Pre-2009 Qualifications forms part of government’s broader efforts to strengthen and future-proof the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).

The directive, published on 3 June 2024 under the National Qualifications Framework Act (Act 67 of 2008), seeks to ensure an orderly transition towards a modernised qualifications framework; accelerate the development and implementation of occupational qualifications, and strengthen the responsiveness, quality and credibility of qualifications within the Post-School Education and Training system.

It also aims to improve alignment between education, training and labour market needs, and reinforce accountability among Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), quality councils and other implementing bodies.

“The Directive established the policy framework for transitioning South Africa from pre-2009 qualifications towards a modern occupational qualifications system that better reflects workplace requirements, technological advancement and the evolving needs of our economy,” Manamela said.

He explained that the reform is intended to bridge the gap between classroom-based learning and practical workplace experience by introducing qualifications that place greater emphasis on hands-on training and work-integrated learning.

Over 900 qualifications registered

The Minister highlighted that significant progress has already been made since the Directive was issued. To date, 948 occupational qualifications and part-qualifications have been registered on the National Qualifications Framework.

He said that of the 1 475 pre-2009 qualifications that had reached their registration end date, 630 were granted learner enrolment extensions, following consultation and engagement with stakeholders.

“The remainder were deregistered owing to the absence of learner enrolment or their replacement by occupational qualifications. All affected qualifications allowed currently enrolled learners sufficient opportunity to complete their studies,” Manamela said.

Differentiated approach to extension

The Minister said government has adopted a differentiated approach to managing the transition, and they have been categorised to ensure that each is managed according to its level of readiness and its impact on learners and the skills development system.

Category A refers to occupational qualifications that are already registered on the National Qualifications Framework. Because they are not pre-2009 “legacy” qualifications, they do not require gazetting or further enrolment extensions.

“They will continue to be managed through the existing administrative processes of the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) and South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), and learners and accredited Skills Development Providers may continue with approved enrolments and delivery,” the Minister said.

Under Category B, which includes pre-2009 qualifications and National Accredited Technical Education Diploma (NATED) programmes, qualifying programmes will receive targeted extensions ranging from six months to 24 months, depending on factors such as learner impact, sector readiness, availability of replacement qualifications, and labour market requirements.

Manamela emphasised that these extensions are not blanket measures, and each qualification has been assessed on its own merits.

“The qualifications approved for extension will be included in the Government Gazette to be published on Monday, 15 June 2026, and the complete list of affected qualifications and their replacement occupational qualifications will also be published on the SAQA website, ensuring public accessibility and transparency,” the Minister said.

Category C, which relates to regulatory unit standards that continue to underpin important statutory and industry programmes, has been granted extensions of up to three years to allow regulators and industries sufficient time to review programme requirements and transition to replacement occupational skills programmes.

The Minister noted that this approach ensures continuity in regulated sectors, while protecting the public interest and avoiding disruption to economic activity.

With respect to trades, which fall under Category C, the position differs depending on the availability of replacement occupational qualifications.

“Where occupational qualifications have already been developed and implemented, no further extension is required. However, for trades where replacement occupational qualifications have not yet been fully developed or implemented, targeted transitional arrangements of approximately one year may be considered to ensure continuity, while development processes are finalised,” the Minister explained.

The SAQA website will comprehensively indicate the qualifications that have received extensions; the applicable duration of each extension; the associated teach-out [an educational arrangement that allows current students to complete their qualifications or degrees, even if an institution closes, restructures or phases out older programs] arrangements where applicable, and corresponding occupational qualifications that will replace the affected pre-2009 qualifications.

To improve implementation and oversight of the transition process, government has established a Technical Task Team mandated to identify and resolve implementation bottlenecks, monitor progress against clear timelines, and ensure that the transition proceeds in a structured and orderly manner.

“It will bring together dedicated workstreams responsible for communications and advocacy; legal and regulatory matters; SETA coordination; data management; assessment to certification; quality assurance; TVET [Technical and Vocational Education Training] rollout of new qualifications; funding norms and standards, and monitoring and evaluation.

“This integrated governance structure will strengthen accountability, improve coordination across institutions and ensure that implementation challenges are addressed proactively,” Manamela said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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South Africa’s growing potential in advanced manufacturing and clean technology took centre stage on Wednesday as Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister Alexandra Abrahams visited Cape Town-based battery technology company Balancell.

The visit forms part of government’s efforts to support innovative local businesses, strengthen industrial competitiveness and position South Africa to benefit from emerging global industries.

Balancell designs and manufactures advanced lithium-ion battery systems for the electric mobility, mining and industrial sectors, with its products already being used locally and exported to international markets.

The company is increasingly being recognised as an example of how South African innovation can compete on the global stage while contributing to local economic growth and job creation.

During a tour of the company’s facilities, Abrahams met with management to discuss opportunities to expand production, increase local value addition and unlock new export markets.

Discussions also focused on creating a policy and regulatory environment that supports innovative manufacturers operating in highly competitive global industries.

The engagement explored challenges and opportunities affecting Balancell’s ability to scale operations, commercialise new technologies and attract investment, while identifying measures that could improve the operating environment for high-growth manufacturing firms.

“Balancell represents the kind of innovation and industrial capability that South Africa needs to support and celebrate,” said Abrahams.

“It is encouraging to see a locally developed company producing world-class battery technologies and creating solutions that are finding application both locally and internationally.”

The Deputy Minister said engagements with businesses provide government with valuable insights into the realities faced by South African companies seeking to grow and compete globally.

“One of the most valuable aspects of visits such as these is the opportunity to hear directly from businesses about both their successes and the challenges they encounter. This allows government to better understand where support may be required and how we can work with stakeholders to unlock opportunities for growth and investment,” she said.

Among the issues discussed were the commercialisation of new technologies, access to testing and certification processes, and ways to ensure innovative South African companies can compete effectively in domestic and international markets.

Abrahams welcomed Balancell’s achievements, describing the company as an example of the talent and expertise that exists within South Africa’s manufacturing sector.

“What we have seen today demonstrates that South African companies have the talent, expertise and determination to develop advanced technologies that can compete globally. Balancell’s achievements are a testament to the innovative potential that exists within our economy,” she said.

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition said it will continue engaging with businesses across the country to identify barriers to investment, support enterprise growth and create conditions that enable South African firms to compete successfully in local and international markets.

The engagements form part of government’s broader efforts to accelerate economic growth, attract investment and create sustainable employment opportunities. – SAnews.gov.za

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