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Be safe on the roads this festive season

Source: Government of South Africa

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has called on all South Africans to take personal responsibility for reducing crashes and fatalities on the country’s roads as the 2025/26 festive season begins.

The Minister officially launched the 365-day Arrive Alive Road Safety Campaign in Kroonstad, in the Free State on Sunday, emphasising that safer roads depend on every driver, passenger and pedestrian making responsible choices. 

In her remarks, the Minister said the theme for this year’s campaign, ‘It Starts With Me’, reflects the critical role of individual behaviour in preventing loss of life.

“We have chosen this theme to highlight the point that each and every one of us has an important role to play in reducing road accidents and road fatalities,” Creecy said.

She stressed that most crashes are preventable and linked to human behaviour.

“Drivers, pedestrians and passengers make important choices on the roads every day. When we make the right choices, we arrive alive,” she said. 

Creecy said the festive period required heightened vigilance, as millions travel for holidays, family gatherings and year-end celebrations.

“Our festive season campaign is aimed at ensuring that each and every one of us will make the correct choices on the roads so that we can go home for our family reunions. We can enjoy well-deserved breaks, we can participate in celebrations, and we can all return safely home in January,” the Minister said. 

She highlighted South Africa’s commitment to the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety (2021–2030), which seeks to halve global road deaths by 2030. 

She announced a significant milestone for 2025. “For the first time in five consecutive years we have this year managed to reduce the road death toll by 700 people,” she said. 

However, she cautioned that the overall numbers remained deeply concerning.

“With over 9 400 fatalities on our roads already this year, we all agree that the accident rate is much, much too high, and there is still a lot more work that we have to do,” the Minister said. 

Evidence-driven enforcement

The 365-day campaign is based on evidence gathered throughout the year, which shows that human error accounts for nine out of ten accidents. The provinces of Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape, Eastern Cape and Limpopo collectively account for the majority of fatal crashes.

The Minister said pedestrians account for more than half of all those who are killed on the roads.

As a result, the campaign will focus on behaviour change, enhanced law enforcement and 24-hour patrols in high-risk areas.

“A massive public education and awareness campaign; partnerships with all levels of government and all aspects of civil society; enhanced law enforcement operations focusing on driver and pedestrian behaviour and 24-hour patrols particularly in high risk areas – intensified law enforcement operations. 

“Research shows weekends, late-night travel and fatigue periods are high risk. We will increase roadblocks, checks for vehicle roadworthiness, driver licenses, seatbelt and child-restraint use, as well as clamp down on speeding and drunken driving,” Creecy said.

Priority routes identified by the department include the N1, N2, N3, N4, N17, as well as notorious secondary roads such as the Moloto Road.

Creecy welcomed early signs of responsible behaviour from motorists following law-enforcement reports from the morning’s operations.

“There were several drivers who had been tested for alcohol use today, and none of them tested positive. That’s the way we need to behave when we get behind the wheel of a car,” she said. 

Public transport and cross-border focus

Public passenger transport, including minibus taxis, will come under increased scrutiny, supported by partnerships with SANTACO and the NTA. Cross-border operations will target driver fitness, vehicle roadworthiness, overloading and compliance with permit conditions.

Waybridges across major national routes, including Heidelberg (N3), Donkerhoek (N4), Mantsole (N1), Potchefstroom (N12) and Pinehaven (N14), will intensify inspections.

Community mobilisation and awareness

The Minister emphasised that enforcement alone would not reduce fatalities, public education and community involvement remain central.

Provinces have submitted 537 road safety education and awareness activities for the festive season, targeting taxi ranks, bus stations, malls, churches, toll gates, rest stops, sporting events and border posts.

The Minister urged motorists to prioritise vehicle checks, rest breaks, valid licences, seatbelts and sober driving. 

Passengers are encouraged to take responsibility for their own safety, while pedestrians are encouraged to wear visible clothing. “Please wear something that is white, not black, because it’s very difficult for you to be seen,” she said. 

Creecy said meaningful reductions in road fatalities depend on a united national effort that includes government, civil society, faith-based organisations, emergency services and the private sector. – SAnews.gov.za

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US’ G20 non-participation based on baseless, false allegations

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa says it is regrettable that the United States of America, which is a founding member of the G20 and which takes over the Presidency of the G20 from South Africa in 2026, chose not to participate in the G20 Leaders’ Summit and the final meetings leading up to it.

“It is even more unfortunate that the reasons the US gave for its non-participation were based on baseless and false allegations that South Africa is perpetrating genocide against Afrikaners and the confiscation of land from white people. 

“This is blatant misinformation about our country,” the President said. 

Addressing the nation on Sunday evening at the conclusion of South Africa’s G20 Presidency, President Ramaphosa said the US administration’s absence from the summit had been justified on false grounds. 

He said all G20 members attended all the G20 related meetings throughout the year except for one member country.

Despite the challenges and misunderstandings that have arisen, South Africa remains a firm and unwavering friend of the American people. “We offer the people of the United States nothing but goodwill and friendship,” the President said. 

He reminded the nation of the deep historical ties between the two countries, including the US’ solidarity during the anti-apartheid struggle and the influence of the US Bill of Rights on South Africa’s democratic Constitution.

“We have common interests, common values and a shared wish to advance the prosperity and well-being of the people of both our countries,” the President added.

He noted that while the US administration had withdrawn from the Summit, American delegations had participated in several G20-related activities throughout the year, including the Business 20 Summit and the G20 Social Summit.

“We were most pleased that many organisations, businesses and individuals from the United States participated in large numbers in G20-related activities. South Africa valued their constructive and enthusiastic participation,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa expressed concern about the harmful effects of disinformation campaigns aimed at undermining South Africa’s international standing.

“These people who are spreading disinformation are endangering and undermining South Africa’s national interests, destroying South African jobs and weakening our country’s relations with one of our most important partners,” he said.

He invited those responsible for fuelling division to participate in the newly established National Dialogue process and engage constructively. 

“We must remind these people that South Africa is a constitutional democracy, with a Bill of Rights that guarantees equality under the law. South African problems must be solved by South Africans themselves.

“We must never allow others to try to redefine our country and cause divisions among us or dictate who we are as a nation,” he said. 

Reaffirming South Africa’s sovereignty and standing within the G20, the President said attempts to exclude the country had no basis. 

This after US President Donald Trump said South Africa would not be invited to the 2026 G20 Summit in the US.

“We must make it clear that South Africa is one of the founding members of the G20 and South Africa is therefore a member of the G20 in its own name and right. We will continue to participate as a full, active and constructive member of the G20,” he said. 

South Africa, said President Ramaphosa, will continue to engage the United States government with respect and with dignity as equal sovereign countries, guided by dialogue, partnership and its commitment to multilateral cooperation. – SAnews.gov.za

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President thanks South Africans for successfully hosting G20

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has hailed South Africans for their unity, warmth and commitment after the country successfully hosted the G20 Leaders’ Summit and more than 130 meetings throughout the year.

It was the first time the gathering took place on African soil. 

Addressing the nation on Sunday, President Ramaphosa expressed profound gratitude to the public for supporting South Africa’s G20 Presidency and helping the country showcase the spirit of ubuntu to world leaders.

“Allow me to express my profound gratitude to you all, as my fellow compatriots, for ensuring and enabling our beloved country to host a series of successful G20 meetings throughout the year. For showing up for your country. For standing by your country…you remain proudly South African. And once again as your President, I say thank you,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa said global delegates were deeply moved by South Africa’s hospitality, sharing glowing impressions from various officials. 

One wrote, “Your people are extraordinary,” while another noted, “I’ve attended summits on six continents. I’ve never experienced warmth like this”.

A Japanese delegate praised ordinary workers, saying: “Your security guards smile while being vigilant. Your drivers share stories while navigating… everyone treats us like welcomed family.”

Others highlighted ubuntu, with one delegate remarking: “In other countries, hospitality is a transaction. Here, it feels like a tradition.”

International leaders echoed these sentiments. India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked “the wonderful people of South Africa,” while IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva praised the country’s incredible hospitality. Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz also commended South Africa’s “ambitious presidency in these turbulent times”.

President Ramaphosa emphasised that the G20 Social Summit, attended by more than 5000 participants, demonstrated how civil society remains central to South Africa’s vision of a “People’s G20”. 

He thanked the security services for ensuring all events took place without incident, mayors and municipal workers for preparing host cities, and ordinary South Africans who opened their cities, towns and businesses to delegates. 

The President called for the spirit of collective action shown during the G20 to continue beyond the summit.  

“These cities showed what can be done when a concerted and coordinated effort is made to fix potholes and street lights, to clean up our streets and maintain our infrastructure. This must continue past the G20 and must be expanded to areas of our towns and cities that have been neglected,” President Ramaphosa said. 

The President thanked the Deputy President, Ministers and Deputy Ministers, G20 Sherpas and government officials who guided the deliberations with wisdom and purpose.

“Most importantly, I wish to thank each and every South African… for showing the world the strength of our values, the generosity of our people and the power of what we can achieve when we work together,” the President said. 

Reflecting on the discussions, the President said South Africa used its presidency to put Africa’s development and global inequality at the centre of the G20 agenda. 

Leaders agreed on mechanisms for debt relief, increased climate financing and support for countries vulnerable to climate disasters, as well as commitments ensuring that nations rich in critical minerals benefit from their own resources.

“While some sought to create division and polarisation between nations, we used our G20 Presidency to reinforce our shared humanity. We fostered collaboration and goodwill. We affirmed that our shared goals outweigh our differences.  

“The Leaders’ Declaration adopted at the summit is a clear demonstration that the spirit of multilateral cooperation is alive and strong. The adopted declaration reinforces the importance of the G20 as the premier forum for international economic cooperation, and its continued relevance in the face of a rapidly changing global environment,” the President said. 

He said progress made in the domestic economy, including falling unemployment, improved public finances and a recent credit rating upgrade, reflects the green shoots of an emerging economic recovery. 

“We are also working together to confront some of our greatest social challenges, such as crime and the violence perpetrated by men against women.

“Just over a week ago, we classified gender-based violence and femicide as a national disaster. This classification should provide us with a broader range of measures to intensify our shared effort to end this pandemic,” the President said. 

President Ramaphosa concluded by urging the nation to work with greater focus and determination to address the many challenges the country is facing and make South Africa a peaceful, prosperous and great nation. – SAnews.gov.za

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Egypt: President El-Sisi Meets Prime Minister and Minister of Finance

Source: APO – Report:

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Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly and Minister of Finance Mr. Ahmed Kouchouk.

The Spokesman for the Presidency, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, said the meeting reviewed the key features and details of the second tax facilitation package, titled supporting and stimulating tax compliance. This package is part of a broader tax facilitation strategy that includes four packages; the first aims at opening a new chapter and building trust between the Tax Authority and taxpayers, and the second aims at stimulating tax compliance while continuing to support and simplify procedures, enhance automation, expand the base, and ensure tax compliance in future packages.

The Minister of Finance noted that the second package targets all segments of the tax-compliant community and aims to support compliant taxpayers through tax benefits and facilitations that enhance trust, promote voluntary compliance, help businesses grow, support their competitiveness, and guarantee the rights of taxpayers while ensuring liquidity for both taxpayers and companies. He also presented efforts to complete the tax reform process to encourage investment, within the framework of a “Trust Partnership” with the business community, through the launch of the tax facilitation initiative, which has proven successful in the first package.

Mr. Kouchouk pointed out that this initiative had presented a successful model for the desired change for the benefit of the business community and the Egyptian economy. A total of 400,000 cases in which old files were voluntarily closed, and 650,000 taxpayers filed new or amended returns with additional taxes of around 78 billion Egyptian pounds. Additionally, new and additional business volumes totaling about one trillion pounds were reported.

The Minister of Finance also highlighted the second package’s focus on improving the efficiency of the Value Added Tax (VAT) refund system, launching premium tax service centers, and introducing a series of incentives for tax-compliant individuals, along with several other reforms addressing requests from the business community, taxpayers, accountants, and tax experts.

The President gave directives to launch the second tax package, while emphasizing the importance of continuously developing the tax system, building new relationships based on trust, credibility, and certainty, improving all tax services, providing additional facilities, and fostering trust with investors.

The Minister of Finance also reviewed developments in the preparation and implementation of property tax facilitation measures. He explained that the tax vision aims to reduce the tax burden, considering both the social and economic aspects, simplify tax procedures, implement digital transformation, and address the cons identified through practical application. The facilitations offered by the state include simplifying tax returns, extending the assessment and collection period to seven years, raising the exemption threshold for private housing, suspending or waiving taxes in times of crisis, eliminating tax debts and late fees in specific cases, improving the tax appeal process, introducing electronic tax payments, and setting a cap on late fees not exceeding the principal tax amount.

The meeting reviewed the financial and economic performance and efforts to regain investor confidence, in line with a comprehensive and consistent economic vision to increase the competitiveness of the Egyptian economy. The Minister confirmed that economic activity is moving in a positive direction, with private investments growing by 73% in the last fiscal year, noting balanced and encouraging indicators that help restore investor confidence in the Egyptian economy. He emphasized the commitment to maintaining a large primary surplus to increase spending on human development and social protection programs, and to effectively contribute to stimulating manufacturing and exports.

The Minister of Finance reviewed the plan to develop the customs system, which was prepared in full cooperation between the Ministry of Finance (Customs Authority) and the Ministry of Investment and Foreign Trade. The plan reflects the needs of production projects and business chambers, aiming to address the challenges faced by the business community and implement policies that support and encourage investors. This will contribute to increasing exports and enhancing the competitiveness of the Egyptian economy through simplifying procedures and developing the customs system.

The Minister outlined three key areas of the customs development plan: reducing customs release times, facilitating and automating the customs system, and strengthening control measures to limit smuggling. He mentioned plans to apply a unified and fast inspection system, expand pre-clearance procedures, accept electronic payments, and train customs staff to improve their technical capabilities.

The Minister of Finance presented efforts to reduce the budgetary debt-to-GDP ratio as a national priority, stressing the continued implementation of the budget debt management strategy. He added that the private sector has shown strong confidence in the potential of the Egyptian economy and investment climate, leading to major investment deals such as the “Ras El-Hekma” and “Alam El-Roum” projects.

President El-Sisi emphasized the need to build on the current improvement in economic indicators and work towards increasing private investments to confirm the private sector’s ability to drive growth and development. The President also stressed the importance of investing in human resources through innovative programs and initiatives, alongside training, to ensure performance improvements that serve the economy. Furthermore, President El-Sisi underscored the importance of taking necessary measures to implement digital transformation in the Ministry of Finance’s operations, including in customs and taxes, while stressing continued governance in all procedures.

– on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

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Egypt – Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation in a Meeting with Ambassadors of 7 African Countries: His Excellency (H.E.) President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi Regularly Emphasizes Boosting Cooperation and Integration with the Continent’s Countries to Create a Joint Economic Future

Source: APO – Report:

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  • Joint African Action is the Only Way to Face Challenges and Conflicts and Build a Development Model Based on the Exchange of Expertise
  • The Egyptian Private Sector Plays a Pivotal Role in Infrastructure Development in Many Countries… We are Open to Transferring Our Development Expertise and Experience
  • Integration with African Countries is an Extension of Egypt’s Historical Role in Supporting the Continent’s Interests
  • Maximizing the Benefit from South-South Cooperation and Triangular Cooperation to Expand the Scope of Development Solutions and Build Cross-Border Partnerships

H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, held an expanded meeting with 7 African country ambassadors, including Algeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, Cameroon, Uganda, and Senegal. This took place during the activities of the First Egyptian-African Economic Conference, organized by “Al-Ahram Hebdo” newspaper under the theme “The Africa We Want: Integration and Partnership for the Future.”

The meeting discussed efforts to achieve development in the continent and the joint relations between Egypt and sisterly and friendly countries to face the challenges confronting African nations, strengthen interconnectedness through joint infrastructure projects, increase trade exchange rates and joint investments, and create effective partnerships between the private sectors.

Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, reaffirmed that H.E. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, regularly emphasizes boosting cooperation and integration with the continent’s countries to create a joint economic future. She clarified that joint African action is the only way to face challenges and conflicts and build a development model based on the exchange of expertise.

Dr. Al-Mashat pointed out that achieving development in the African continent depends on strengthening ties and integration among the continent’s countries, which constitute an economic bloc rich in resources, capable of playing a pivotal role in the global economy. She noted that Egypt is keen to exert every effort to halt the disputes and conflicts that impede development in the continent’s countries.

Minister Al-Mashat reiterated that the relations linking Egypt with its African partners are not merely diplomatic messages but an effective commitment to boosting joint action, through the entry of the Egyptian private sector into the continent via important infrastructure projects and the implementation of connectivity projects like the Cairo-Cape Town project. This is in addition to continuous cooperation to exchange expertise with the continent’s countries in preparing feasibility studies for projects, and maximizing benefit from Egypt’s expertise in the field of international cooperation and development finance.

Dr. Rania Al-Mashat indicated that Joint Committees are considered one of the innovative mechanisms for strengthening relations, with the Egyptian-Algerian Joint Committee recently convened. These committees contribute to enhancing priorities and exploring areas of joint cooperation.

Minister Al-Mashat also referred to the green transition file and the resources the continent possesses to become a center for renewable energy in light of its unique natural resources. In this regard, Egypt and the continent’s countries are enhancing their partnership with the World Bank to implement its initiative to make renewable energy accessible to 300 million people on the continent.

Dr. Al-Mashat underscored the role of the African Development Bank and other international institutions in advocating for enhanced private sector participation.

The Minister said: “As Egypt’s Governor at the World Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and other institutions, there is a growing global interest in fostering cooperation with Africa. The EBRD recently added Sub-Saharan African countries to its countries of operation, which reflects the global trend toward the continent.”

Dr. Al-Mashat noted that the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation launched a South-South and Triangular Cooperation Strategy in 2024 to maximize the benefit from South-South Cooperation and Triangular Cooperation to expand the scope of development solutions and build cross-border partnerships. She mentioned that integration with African brothers is an extension of Egypt’s historical role in supporting the continent’s interests.

During the meeting, the African ambassadors reaffirmed their appreciation for the efforts undertaken by H.E. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to promote joint African action, attempt to establish fundamental solutions to the challenges facing the continent, and achieve interconnectedness and integration among countries at various levels, particularly given the continent’s rich natural and human potential.

The participating ambassadors also expressed their appreciation for the efforts of the Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation through economic diplomacy and coordination in international forums to raise the continent’s voice and demands.

The African ambassadors proposed a number of initiatives and suggestions, most notably enhancing inter-African tourism by linking Egyptian tourism networks with tourism channels in the continent’s countries to create new routes, including eco-tourism and forest and natural areas tourism, and benefiting from Egypt’s ability to attract foreign tourists to redirect part of the tourist movement towards other African countries, in addition to enhancing cooperation in the fields of: “education, health, communications, and the exchange of expertise between governmental institutions and the private sector in the continent’s countries.”

– on behalf of Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation – Egypt.

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Qatar, Bangladesh Discuss Strengthening Humanitarian Cooperation

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, November 30, 2025

HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Dr. Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad has held talks in Doha with HE Khalilur Rahman, Bangladesh’s National Security Adviser, who is currently visiting the country.

The meeting focused on bilateral relations and ways to bolster cooperation, particularly in the humanitarian field.

The visit comes as Qatar continues to position itself as a key humanitarian actor in the region and beyond.

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SADC parliaments urged to drive climate action, protect women and youth

Source: Government of South Africa

SADC parliaments urged to drive climate action, protect women and youth

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called on parliaments across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to strengthen legislation, oversight and public participation in response to the worsening impacts of climate change. 

“Climate change impacts such as persistent droughts, extreme weather events (including floods and cyclones), land degradation, and shifting rainfall patterns profoundly undermine sustainable development in SADC, particularly affecting women and youth.

“To effectively address climate change, it is imperative that we allocate sufficient resources to climate change mitigation and adaptation programmes, particularly those that focus on vulnerable groups,” he said. 

The Deputy President delivered his remarks virtually to the 58th Plenary Assembly Session of the SADC Parliamentary Forum on Sunday. He told delegates that that although he would have liked to be with them, he was unable to attend owing to some other pressing Government commitments.

The session, held at the Durban ICC, is themed “The impact of climate change on women and youth in the SADC Region and the role of Parliaments in climate change mitigation and adaptation”.

Deputy President Mashatile said the focus underscores the necessity of collective action by parliaments to address and develop sustainable solutions for this pressing challenge.

“The success of these initiatives hinges on investment in robust monitoring and evaluation capacities, particularly in monitoring the impacts of climate-related programs. It is crucial to ensure these programmes are inclusive, effective, and aligned with their intended objectives, particularly in reducing vulnerabilities and promoting gender equity,” the Deputy President said. 

G20 outcomes highlight Africa’s priorities

He noted that the plenary follows Africa’s historic hosting of the 2025 G20 Leaders’ Summit. He said the summit placed the interests of the continent and the Global South at the heart of global decision-making.

“A significant achievement was the adoption of the G20 Declaration centred on the themes of solidarity, equality, sustainability as key pillars of inclusive growth,” he said, adding that the declaration emphasised the African philosophy of Ubuntu.

The Deputy President outlined several commitments made by G20 leaders, including support for debt treatment reforms, improved representation of Sub-Saharan Africa at the IMF through the creation of a 25th Executive Board chair, global renewable energy targets, and expanded energy access through initiatives such as Mission 300.

He said leaders also expressed support for sustainable industrial policy, youth employment targets through the Nelson Mandela Bay initiative, resilient food systems under Ubuntu Approaches on Food Security and Nutrition, and the AI for Africa Initiative.

Deputy President Mashatile added that African representation on global platforms was strengthened. 

“The leaders welcomed the African Union as a full member of the G20 and called for a transformative reform of the UN Security Council to make it more representative and inclusive,” he said. 

Climate change hitting women and youth hardest

Deputy President Mashatile warned that the SADC region remains extremely vulnerable to climate shocks such as persistent drought, extreme weather and land degradation conditions that worsen existing inequalities.

“Climate change disproportionately affects women and young people, increasing their work burdens, escalating health risks, and heightening the dangers of gender-based violence and exploitation,” he said.

He stressed that women, as primary providers of food, water and fuel, face extended journeys, thereby increasing their workload, exposure to risks and adverse health consequences.

“This situation exacerbates the vulnerability of girls, leading to a significant rise in school dropouts among adolescent girls. This phenomenon often contributes to unequal gender roles, increasing their risk of child, early, and forced marriages as a coping mechanism for impoverished families. Furthermore, it exposes them to physical and sexual abuse,” he said. 

Parliaments must lead mitigation and adaptation

The Deputy President outlined a strong mandate for SADC parliaments, saying they must legislate, oversee implementation and amplify community voices in climate governance.

“Immediately, we must enact and strengthen our policies to align with regional agreements such as the SADC Protocol on Gender and Development [and] international climate agreements such as the Paris Agreement,” he said.

He urged MPs to promote gender-sensitive legislation, enable renewable energy expansion, and support sustainable critical mineral value chains.

“As we implement these transformative reforms, we must strengthen oversight and accountability. This work will entail Parliaments holding governments accountable for their performance in implementing domestic climate laws, regional commitments, and international obligations,” he said. 

The Deputy President referenced South Africa’s recent progress, the Climate Change Bill which was signed into law by President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2024, outlining a national climate change response.

He said the law aims to build resilience while supporting jobs and new opportunities in the green economy. Parliament has also recommitted to clean governance and anti-corruption measures as part of strengthening climate action frameworks.

‘Together, we can make a difference’

The Deputy President called for unity and decisive leadership across the region.

“It is imperative that we work together to ensure that our laws and policies reflect the urgent need to address our challenges, including climate change and its disproportionate impact on women and youth.

“As leaders in our communities, let us commit ourselves to meaningful and impactful action…Together, we can make a difference and ensure that our region thrives in the face of environmental challenges,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Tembisa Hospital employee arrested in SIU’s ongoing investigation

Source: Government of South Africa

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has welcomed the arrest of Zacharia Tshisele, an employee at Tembisa Hospital, for alleged corruption.

The arrest follows an extensive SIU investigation into procurement irregularities at the hospital.

“During the investigation, the SIU uncovered evidence that Tshisele received unlawful gratification from various service providers at Tembisa Hospital between 01 January 2020 and 01 September 2023,” they SIU said in a statement.

In April 2025, the SIU referred the matter to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), and the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) for criminal prosecution and asset recovery.

“In November 2025, Tshisele paid R13 530 904.27 to the SIU, representing a portion of his ill-got gains. The SIU’s civil investigation to recover all proceeds of corruption from Tshisele remains ongoing,” said the unit.

“As reported in our interim report, the SIU has found that the total value of corrupt payments linked to officials and employees of the Gauteng Department of Health (GDOH) and Tembisa Hospital amounts to R122 228 000.00.

“The SIU has identified at least 15 current and former officials involved in activities such as corruption, money laundering, collusion, and bid rigging in connection with improperly appointed service providers at Tembisa Hospital. These individuals abused their positions throughout the procurement process to benefit these providers and enrich themselves.

“The number of identified officials is expected to increase as the investigation continues. The officials range from entry-level clerks to management-level staff,” said the SIU.

To date, the SIU has disciplinary referrals against 13 officials. Of these, 108 referrals were delivered to the GDOH concerning maladministration and the irregular appointment of service providers at Tembisa.

The SIU said it reaffirms its commitment to fighting corruption and ensuring accountability in public institutions.

The SIU is directed by Proclamation No. 136 of 2023 to investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration in the affairs of the Gauteng Department of Health and the Tembisa Hospital.

In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU has also referred any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during its investigation to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action.

Under the SIU Act, the SIU is also authorised to initiate civil proceedings in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to address any wrongdoing identified during its investigation in order, inter alia, to recover any losses suffered by the State. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Côte d’Ivoire – Autonomisation des jeunes : les programmes du gouvernement favorisent l’insertion professionnelle

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le gouvernement ivoirien poursuit ses efforts pour garantir un emploi décent à tous les jeunes du pays. À travers ses actions en faveur de l’insertion professionnelle et de l’entrepreneuriat, plusieurs dispositifs ont été mis en œuvre pour répondre aux besoins spécifiques de la jeunesse.

Parmi ces actions phares figurent le financement de projets, qui a bénéficié à 348 019 jeunes, les Travaux à Haute Intensité de Main-d’Œuvre (THIMO) avec 74 600 bénéficiaires, ainsi que les formations qualifiantes à visée d’insertion, qui ont concerné 49 672 jeunes. Selon le bilan gouvernemental 2011-2025, 2 014 142 jeunes ont été accompagnés à travers les dispositifs d’insertion professionnelle et de service civique.

À Katiola, les résultats de ces programmes sont bien visibles sur le terrain. Zoumana Coulibaly, aujourd’hui couturier, a été agent de salubrité il y a trois ans dans le cadre du programme THIMO. Grâce à cette opportunité, il a pu acquérir une machine à coudre et poser ainsi les bases de son activité actuelle.

« En passant par le programme THIMO, j’ai pu travailler, économiser de l’argent et enfin diriger mon propre atelier de couture », se réjouit-il.

Les jeunes porteurs de projets ou désireux de développer leur activité entrepreneuriale bénéficient également d’un appui financier. C’est le cas de Denis Coulibaly, bénéficiaire du Programme Agir pour les Jeunes. Le financement que le gouvernement lui a octroyé lui a permis de développer son exploitation et de s’imposer comme un fermier reconnu dans sa ville.

« Au départ, les poulets occupaient à peine un bâtiment. À ce jour, nous avons des porcs, des poulets, des pintades et des dindes », dit-il avec fierté.

À travers ces différents mécanismes d’accompagnement, le gouvernement entend offrir aux jeunes des perspectives durables d’insertion et d’autonomisation, tout en faisant de la jeunesse un véritable moteur de développement économique et social.

Distribué par APO Group pour Portail Officiel du Gouvernement de Côte d’Ivoire.