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Public Works Entities Must Create Income-Generating Initiatives and Not Rely on Government Funding

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

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The Portfolio Committee on Public Works and Infrastructure has called on entities within the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure portfolio to explore innovative solutions to improve their financial sustainability, rather than relying solely on the parent department for funding and bailouts.

The committee today received a briefing from four public works entities on their 2025/26 annual performance plans and budget allocations. The entities include the Independent Development Trust (IDT), Agrément South Africa (ASA), the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), and the Council for the Built Environment (CBE).

The committee expressed concerns over the absence of both the Minister and Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure from the meeting. Members of the committee were not pleased with the Minister’s backlog in oral and written questions. In addition, the committee also raised alarm over the continued lack of transparency regarding the costs associated with the Minister’s overseas travel, which remain undisclosed.

Regarding the IDT, the committee raised serious concerns about the entity’s continued financial dependence on the department. Members of the committee questioned whether the entity has any concrete plans to improve its revenue-generating capacity and reduce its reliance on bailouts. The committee also urged the entity to promote inclusivity for categories of previously disadvantaged people, women, youth, and the people with disabilities.

The committee further expressed concern over the high legal costs incurred by the IDT and recommended that the entity strengthens its internal capacity to mitigate litigation risks, especially during ongoing projects.

The committee called on ASA to identify alternative revenue streams, as continued dependence on government funding is unsustainable. It criticised the weak transformation and job creation targets presented and called for bolder, measurable commitments. ASA’s ICT systems were also flagged and the committee encouraged the entity to work collaboratively with departments such as Human Settlements to broaden its impact. T

The committee further urged ASA to establish testing sites and laboratories to ensure compliance with technical standards, noting that current operations do not adequately support this function.

Committee Chairperson, Ms Caril Phiri, expressed concern over irregularities in contractor grading by the CIDB. She highlighted reports of contractors receiving higher grades without completing corresponding project scopes and urged CIDB to address and dispel public perceptions that grading statuses are being bought.

The committee also raised alarm over the CIDB’s claim that contractors involved in the recent collapsed building in George were not registered with them, but rather with the National Home Builders Registration Council.

The committee called for greater regulatory alignment and oversight between these entities, the national and provincial departments of human settlements, and all municipal councils to prevent such tragedies.

– on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

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Select Committee on Public Infrastructure Emphasises the Vital Role of Transportation in the South African Economy

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

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The Chairperson of the Select Committee on Public Infrastructure and the Minister in the Presidency, Mr Rikus Badenhorst, emphasised the vitality of the role of transportation in the South African economy when the Department of Transport appeared before the committee yesterday to brief it on the department’s strategic plan for the 2025-26 financial year.

Mr Badenhorst outlined the ambitious targets of the department for increasing rail freight and commuter services. He acknowledged the financial and structural challenges faced by the department, making more emphasis on the need for efficient and effective transport systems to stimulate economic growth.

The department’s presentation, detailed the alignment of the strategic plan with the Medium-Term Development Plan. Key targets highlighted included enhancement of economic growth through private sector involvement, reduction of road fatalities by 50% by 2030, the improvement of freight movement, and infrastructure investment. The department told the committee about the necessity of increased investment in transport infrastructure to bolster economic growth and job creation.

The committee raised concerns regarding the Driving License Card Account (DLCA), particularly the backlog in card production stemming from machine issues and procurement irregularities. The projected budget for the upcoming financial year indicated a revenue expectation of R321 million against expenses of R379 million. The department shared its insights into the budget allocation, underscoring the importance of infrastructure development.

Committee members expressed concern regarding governance within public entities, the department’s reliance on consultants, and the challenges of policy implementation amid fiscal constraints. The committee requested a detailed report on the Road Accident Fund (RAF) and the state of the entity’s governance.

Members of the committee highlighted the negative consequences of governance deficiencies on public entities and proposed the development of a taxi fare index to promote balance within the taxi industry. The regulation of scholar transport, and digital driver licenses were also discussed.

On digital drivers’ licences, the department confirmed that the current backlog stands at approximately 680,000 cards while efforts are underway to clear it within three months. The complexities of transitioning to a digital identification system were highlighted.

Mr Badenhorst reiterated the committee’s commitment to oversight and accountability. He said the department serves as a catalyst for economic prosperity. He stressed the importance of collaboration of the department with other key role-players in the transport sector for further enhancement of the transportation system in the country.

– on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

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Committee on Electricity Calls for Watertight Procurement Policies to Strengthen Accountability

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

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The Portfolio Committee on Electricity and Energy received a briefing yesterday from the Department of Electricity and Energy on the Battery Energy Storage System Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme from the Minister of the department, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa.

The Minister told the committee that the engagement with the committee was to ensure accountability and transparency especially in the light of the recent allegations concerning conflicts of interest and procurement irregularities that have been levelled by the Umkhonto weSizwe (MKP) Party regarding the Battery Energy Storage Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme.

The Minister stated that the department had nothing to hide hence it agreed to appear before the committee and brief it as per the request of the MKP that brought the allegations. The Minister said: “We welcome the scrutiny from both the members of the committee and the public regarding the procurement process for the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS).”

He stressed the department’s commitment to ensuring that the procurement processes are upheld with the utmost integrity and fairness. “Our commitment to transparency is paramount. We must ensure that public resources are managed responsibly and that all stakeholders are held accountable,” said Dr Ramokgopa.

The Minister and the senior departmental officials and the Independent Power Producer (IPP) officials provided a comprehensive overview of the BESS procurement process. The presentation outlined the objectives of the program, which includes enhancing energy security, promoting Black Economic Empowerment (BEE), and ensuring transparency in the procurement of private sector generation capacity.

A key point of discussion amongst some committee members was the involvement of the former Chief Operating Officer of Eskom, who has been awarded a tender under the current IPP procurement process. Some committee members expressed concerns regarding the appropriateness of awarding contracts to an individual with such a recent history in a senior position at Eskom, questioning whether this could potentially lead to perceptions of favouritism or conflict of interest.

Members of the committee highlighted the importance of maintaining public trust in the procurement process and said that stringent measures should be implemented to prevent any appearance of impropriety. The committee stressed that it is vital for the integrity of the procurement process to be upheld and for public confidence in the decisions made by the Department of Electricity and Energy to be restored.

Members of the committee sought clarification on the governance mechanisms in place to verify declarations made by bidders, emphasising the need for due diligence beyond mere declarations to ensure compliance with BEE commitments. The committee questioned whether the procurement process had adequately considered the implications of awarding contracts to individuals with recent ties to Eskom.
In response to these concerns, Dr Ramokgopa reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering a diverse and competitive energy market. He said: “We acknowledge that while we have made progress, there is still much work to be done to ensure that the benefits of these projects are shared equitably among all South Africans, particularly those from historically disadvantaged backgrounds.”

Regarding the BESS procurement process the committee expressed concerns about the slow pace of the current IPP processes, questioning their effectiveness in contributing to industrialisation and economic growth in South Africa. In addition, members of the committee highlighted the perceived failure of the IPP process to create genuine long-term and sustainable transformation, particularly regarding the BEE within communities.

– on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

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President Ramkalawan Attends Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony for New Seychelles Public Transport Company (SPTC) Depot on Praslin

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

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President Wavel Ramkalawan attended the foundation stone laying ceremony and unveiling of a commemorative plaque for the new Seychelles Public Transport Company (SPTC) depot on Île Eve, Baie Ste Anne, Praslin, on Thursday morning.

The new depot represents a significant government investment of approximately 15 million Seychelles Rupees, strategically designed to meet the evolving demands of Praslin’s expanding transport sector. The comprehensive facility will feature a modern administration building, enhanced staff amenities, and a fully-equipped mechanical workshop, establishing the foundation for SPTC’s operational excellence on the island. This infrastructure investment will provide essential support for improved service delivery while accommodating both current operations and future expansion initiatives. 

In his welcoming remarks, Chief Executive Officer of SPTC, Mr. Geffy Zialor, highlighted the project’s importance to the company’s mission, stating that it represents a significant step forward in delivering a more reliable, efficient, and sustainable public transport system for all Seychellois. He emphasised that modernising infrastructure and improving commuter experience remain at the heart of SPTC’s long-term vision to serve the public better and support national development goals.

Addressing the ceremony, the Minister for Transport Antony Derjacques emphasized the project’s broader significance, stating that this development “signals our government’s steadfast commitment to ensuring that every island in Seychelles benefits from modern, reliable, and inclusive transport infrastructure.”

The Minister underscored the fundamental role of public transportation in connecting communities, declaring: “Public transportation is a service that touches lives daily. It provides access to schools, jobs, hospitals, and loved ones. By investing in infrastructure like this depot, we are ensuring that all Seychellois benefit from a modern, efficient, and people-centered transport network.”

The ceremonial foundation stone laying, conducted jointly by President Ramkalawan, Minister Derjacques, the SPTC CEO, and the Chairman of the SPTC Board, symbolized more than a construction milestone. It embodied the collective vision of a nation committed to equitable development and the principle that quality public services should remain accessible to all citizens.

The ceremony was enriched by cultural performances from students of Grand Anse Praslin Secondary School, creating an atmosphere of celebration and national pride that reflected the community’s enthusiasm for this vital infrastructure development.

This initiative reinforces the government’s dedication to decentralizing essential services while maintaining the highest standards of efficiency and accessibility. The project ensures that the Praslin community will benefit from world-class transport infrastructure that will serve as a catalyst for continued economic and social development.

The ceremony was attended by distinguished officials, including Minister for Land Use and Housing Billy Rangasamy, Honourable Members of the National Assembly, the Chairman and Board members of SPTC, as well as various dignitaries and community representatives.

– on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Rwanda : la Banque africaine de développement lance un projet pionnier de téléphérique à Kigali

Le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement (www.AfDB.org) a approuvé un don de 500 000 dollars pour réaliser une étude de faisabilité de la première phase d’un réseau de transport par téléphérique à Kigali, qui constituera la première expérience de système de transport urbain aérien en Afrique subsaharienne. Ce projet est une initiative de Ropeways Transit Rwanda Limited (RTRL) (https://TheRopeways.com). 

Les fonds, issus du Fonds de développement urbain et municipal (https://apo-opa.co/45CiAXv) du Groupe de la Banque, devraient ouvrir la voie au projet de téléphérique urbain de Kigali, une initiative de mobilité de 5,5 kilomètres évaluée à 100 millions de dollars qui promet de réduire les embouteillages dans la capitale rwandaise, de diminuer les émissions de gaz à effet de serre et de relier les communautés mal desservies aux emplois et aux services essentiels.

Le Fonds de développement urbain et municipal (UMDF), un fonds fiduciaire hébergé par le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement, apporte un soutien direct aux villes afin de mobiliser des financements et une assistance technique, de développer des partenariats, l’engagement des villes, l’identification de projets et des investissements.

La phase 1 du projet comprendra deux corridors de transport essentiels : le premier du parc de taxis de Nyabugogo au centre d’affaires (CBD), et le second du centre de congrès à la cité sportive de Kigali, reliant des sites publics tels que le stade Amahoro, la BK Arena et le nouveau tribunal de Zaria.

L’étude de faisabilité devrait permettre au projet d’attirer des investissements internationaux, notamment par le biais de plateformes telles que l’Africa Investment Forum (AIF). L’UMDF a financé l’étude de faisabilité d’un autre projet dans le pays, à savoir le projet d’amélioration des transports urbains de Kigali, afin de contribuer à attirer des investissements essentiels.

La construction devrait débuter à la fin de l’année 2026 et la mise en service est prévue en 2028. Une fois achevé, le téléphérique transportera plus de 50 000 passagers par jour sur un trajet de 15 minutes, s’intégrant ainsi dans l’infrastructure de transport existante de la ville.

Pour le président du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement, Akinwumi Adesina, « ce projet transformateur s’aligne parfaitement sur la vision de la Banque pour des infrastructures de mobilité urbaine durables, vertes et résilientes au changement climatique, ainsi que sur la Stratégie décennale de la Banque, qui met l’accent sur l’urbanisation, et sur l’Alliance pour l’infrastructure verte en Afrique (AGIA), une initiative de partenariat mondial menée par le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement, Africa50 et l’Union africaine. En finançant le système de téléphérique urbain du Rwanda, nous investissons dans un modèle évolutif de transport public inclusif et à faible émission de carbone que d’autres villes africaines pourront dupliquer. »

Le projet s’inscrit dans la taxonomie verte, la stratégie de mobilité électrique et la stratégie de financement climatique et naturel (CNFS) du Rwanda et s’aligne étroitement sur les objectifs climatiques nationaux du Rwanda, qui visent une réduction de 38 % des émissions de carbone d’ici à 2030 et la neutralité carbone d’ici à 2050.

La mise en œuvre du projet devrait suivre un modèle de partenariat public-privé, selon Imena Munyampenda, directeur général de l’Agence rwandaise de développement des transports.

L’étude de faisabilité prévoit de s’inspirer des systèmes de téléphériques performants de La Paz, en Bolivie, et de Singapour. Le système donnera une priorité d’accès aux personnes à mobilité réduite, aux possibilités d’emploi pour les filles, les femmes et les résidents à faible revenu, ainsi qu’à la création d’emplois, au renforcement des capacités et au transfert de technologies.

« Cette étude de faisabilité pionnière est une étape décisive », a souligné Solomon Quaynor, vice-président du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement chargé du Secteur privé, de l’Infrastructure et de l’Industrialisation. « Grâce à l’UMDF, la Banque africaine de développement pose les bases d’un actif d’infrastructure verte prêt à l’investissement qui offre à la fois impact et rentabilité. »

Un financement mixte

La structure de financement de 100 millions de dollars comprendra une répartition stratégique entre subventions, prêts concessionnels, financements mixtes et assistance technique. Le don de l’UMDF financera une évaluation du déficit de viabilité du projet.

Le gouvernement rwandais, le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement et d’autres partenaires du développement collaboreront pour offrir un financement mixte, ainsi qu’un financement commercial de la Société financière internationale (IFC), Africa50, la Banque pour le commerce et le développement (TDB), Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), ainsi que des investisseurs privés et l’Alliance pour l’infrastructure verte en Afrique (AGIA).

Distribué par APO Group pour African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

À propos du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement :
Le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement (BAD) est la première institution multilatérale de financement dédiée au développement de l’Afrique. Elle comprend trois entités distinctes : la Banque africaine de développement (BAD), le Fonds africain de développement (FAD) et le Fonds spécial du Nigeria (FSN). La BAD est présente sur le terrain dans 44 pays africains, avec un bureau extérieur au Japon, et contribue au développement économique et au progrès social de ses 54 Etats membres régionaux.

Pour plus d’information : www.AfDB.org

Contact médias :
Janet Onyango
Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement
media@afdb.org

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IMC to ensure prudence on the funding of the National Dialogue

Source: South Africa News Agency

IMC to ensure prudence on the funding of the National Dialogue

Cabinet has directed the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on the National Dialogue to ensure prudence with the funding of the initiative, following concerns raised by the public on how much government would spend on it.

“Cabinet has noted public concerns about the estimate Budget for the National Dialogue and wishes to clarify that the proposed Budget has not yet been taken through the established government budgeting processes or considered by the IMC that is chaired by the Deputy President. 

“Cabinet is fully cognisant of the current fiscal constraints and has directed the IMC to ensure prudence on the funding of the National Dialogue,” Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Thursday, in Cape Town.

Earlier this month, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that government would host a National Dialogue that will enable South Africans to participate in engagements that will confront the country’s challenges and forge a path into a better future.

An Inter-Ministerial Committee has been established under the chairpersonship of the Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, to coordinate government’s contribution to the National Dialogue.

“On this day, 70 years ago, 26 of June 1955, more than 3 000 delegates from various racial and social backgrounds, gathered in Kliptown, Johannesburg, to envision the South Africa, they want, that is democratic, and non-racial and which is based on the principles of equality, social justice, human rights and shared economic prosperity,” the Minister said.

This gathering culminated in the adoption of the Freedom Charter, which is a document outlining the aspirational principles of freedom and democracy in South Africa. 

“The Freedom Charter is the foundational document to the Constitution of the post-Apartheid South Africa, and it is still relevant in directing the redress of outstanding social and economic inequalities.

“The Freedom Charter was a result of a massive grassroots campaign involving various anti-Apartheid organisations and ordinary citizens, organised under the banner of the African National Congress, reflecting on their collective aspirations for a free and just South Africa.

“Seventy years after the adoption of the Freedom Charter and acknowledging that the challenges still facing our country require meaningful input from all of us, South Africans from all walks of life are invited to participate in a National Dialogue that will determine the future of the South Africa we want.

“Like the adoption of the Freedom Charter, the national dialogue will follow an extensive consultation process including at district and provincial levels,” Ntshavheni said. 

The Minister was addressing a media briefing on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting, held on Wednesday. – SAnews.gov.za

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Lamola warns of rising global tensions and urges diplomatic solutions

Source: South Africa News Agency

Lamola warns of rising global tensions and urges diplomatic solutions

International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola has issued a stark warning about escalating global tensions, stressing the critical need for diplomatic intervention and multilateral cooperation.

”We find ourselves in an evolving global disorder that brings with it many perils for the weak and vulnerable,” Lamola said of the geopolitical challenges facing the world.

The Minister highlighted several flashpoints threatening international stability, including the conflicts in Sudan, which he called “not only a crisis but also a moral issue that demands our collective consciousness and humanity”.

The Minister was addressing a high-level session attended by the world’s largest economies and organisations during the third Group of 20 (G20) Sherpa meeting at Sun City Resort, in the North West.

Lamola told delegates that over 12 million people were displaced in Sudan’s humanitarian crisis, with armed conflicts increasing globally.

Lamola stressed the urgent need for global collaboration and fair development, inspired by the country’s historic Freedom Charter, adopted 70 years ago today.

He warned that the current global dynamics and State rivalries are fuelling fragmentation, with economic decoupling and proxy conflicts undermining global stability. 

“These international competition dynamics are exacerbating fragility in vulnerable regions, while also weakening multilateral institutions that underpin the rules-based international order.” 

He told the G20 Sherpas that South Africa has adopted an anti-war stance. 

“This is because we know too well that war offers no victors, only victims. Double standards in diplomacy and the paralysis at the United Nations Security Council have crippled conflict resolution, mediation and peace efforts. 

”These systemic challenges must be addressed to reclaim a global rationality that builds on stability, peace, certainty, and sustainability.” 

Global economic environment

Lamola noted the role of diplomacy in maintaining global stability, and the necessity for collective action to tackle economic and technological challenges.

“The current and troubling global economic environment signifies a major trend towards economic nationalism; some States are distancing themselves from the globalised trade framework that has prevailed for many decades and underpinned this rules-based system of non-discrimination and shared values,” he said. 

“We must avoid this path, as we all know well that trade is an engine for economic development and improvement in the standards of living across nations,” the Minister said. 

Critical minerals

On the exploitation of critical minerals, Lamola highlighted the deep-rooted economic injustices in this domain. 

“While the world runs on our resources, the value does not stay here. The minerals leave raw. The batteries, the solar panels, and the cancer treatments are made elsewhere. We export wealth but import back its transformed value,” Lamola said, pointing out that this is a phenomenon seen across Africa. 

The Minister used the platform to call for a transformative approach to resource management, proposing a “critical minerals framework that will rewrite peace and humanity, and revitalise our industrial strategies”.

He stated that the mission of South Africa’s G20 Presidency is clear, and that is to transform these “buried treasures“ into local jobs, factories and sovereignty.

“Equally, the value we will create will still empower the world, as we will seek to continuously export and strengthen global commerce, and our role in it.  This is not just economics; it is Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability – the theme of our Presidency.” 

Developmental goals

In addition, Lamola touched on the challenges facing international institutions, noting that “diplomacy and peace mediation and the United Nations Security Council have been crippled”.

With only 17% of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on track, he stated that multilateral cooperation is not just desirable, but essential.

He concluded his talk by reminding the delegates that as global tensions rise, the intergovernmental forum represents a crucial opportunity to reimagine international cooperation and tackle the systemic challenges threatening global stability.

“The G20 can lead in a moment of crisis. The G20 can help address the weaknesses of the multilateral system. The G20 can ensure that our collective humanity is not abandoned. Our deliberations can no longer be hollow; our shared prosperity, now more than ever, demands collaboration that pursues solutions that address some of the most pressing global challenges confronting humanity and impacting global growth and development.

“The G20 is a persuasive body that holds great influence in the world,” he urged.  – SAnews.gov.za

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Government welcomes progress made in the fight against crime

Source: South Africa News Agency

Government welcomes progress made in the fight against crime

Government has welcomed the progress being made in the fight against crime through initiatives such as Operation Shanela and Operation Vala Umgodi. 

“About 239 suspects were arrested across the country between 1 and 15 June 2025 through Operation Vala Umgodi,” Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said.

Briefing media in Cape Town on Thursday, on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting, Ntshavheni said the suspects were arrested for illegal mining-related offences and various other crimes, including attempted murder, possession of unlicensed firearms, possession of unpolished diamonds, unlawful possession of explosives and contravention of the Immigration Act of 2002.

“Operation Vala Umgodi has, since its inception in December 2023, led to the arrest of more than 27 000 suspects and the seizure of more than 600 firearms that included imitation firearms (toy guns) and 16 000 rounds of ammunition,” Ntshavheni said.

Ntshavheni said between 16 June to 22 June 2025, the South African Police Service (SAPS), through Operation Shanela, arrested 15 372 suspects. 

“Some of the key arrests include 2 400 wanted individuals linked to serious and violent crimes (murder, attempted murder, rape and robbery), 159 arrested for murder, 100 arrests for rape, 1 173 arrests for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, 2 602 for drug possession and 64 for hijacked or stolen vehicles,” the Minister said.

According to SAPS, these successes stem from proactive policing tactics, including high-visibility patrols, roadblocks, stop-and-search initiatives and intelligence-led suspect tracing.

“SAPS remains committed to relentless, multidisciplinary crime prevention through Operation Shanela and related initiatives. The National Commissioner of Police, General Fannie Masemola, applauds the dedication of all police officers and partners who collaborated with the police,” the South African Police Service said in a statement earlier this week. – SAnews.gov.za

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Cabinet briefed on ongoing recovery efforts in the EC

Source: South Africa News Agency

Cabinet briefed on ongoing recovery efforts in the EC

Cabinet was, at its ordinary meeting on Wednesday, updated on ongoing recovery efforts in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, following the recent devastating floods. 

At a national level, the National Joint Flood Coordination Committee, as well as the Interministerial Committee of Disaster Management have been activated and have met on several occasions to assess the situation and decide on how to support the affected provinces.

Briefing the media on Thursday in Cape Town, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the National Disaster Management Centre and respective provincial and municipal disaster management centres continue to provide reports on assessments and response measures.

“The immediate priority remains to provide emergency shelter and relief materials needed by affected communities to stabilise the situation,” Ntshavheni said. 

She said work also continues to restore basic services such as water, sanitation and electricity. “This includes ensuring that those affected obtain identity (ID) documents and temporary ID certificates to access essential services”.

“An assessment of damage to homes and infrastructure and a plan for reconstruction is under way. Once completed, it will allow for the preparation of a comprehensive rehabilitation programme,” Ntshavheni said.

The Eastern Cape Provincial Government has confirmed that the official death toll from the recent floods has risen to 101, following additional recoveries by search teams.

The numbers are likely to increase, as there are still individuals who have been reported missing by their families and search operations continue in the affected areas.

 The provincial government has extended heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones and “are now left with a profound and multifaceted impact on their lives”. – SAnews.gov.za

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R378 million secured for water security in eThekwini

Source: South Africa News Agency

R378 million secured for water security in eThekwini

A funding package of R378 million has been secured to assist the City of eThekwini with reducing significant water loss.

This is part of the work of the Presidential eThekwini Working Group (PeWG), Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni announced on Thursday at a post Cabinet media briefing.

This stride coincides with a 30% reduction in sewer and water repair backlogs in the city.

Addressing members of the media in Cape Town, the Minister said Cabinet was updated on the workings of the PeWG during its meeting on Wednesday.

The PeWG is a multi-stakeholder mechanism to address critical service delivery, infrastructure, and socio-economic challenges within the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, with the goal of positioning the city as an investment and tourism hub.

“Domestic travel to eThekwini is also on the rebound, increasing by 33% year-on-year and contributing over R17.4 billion in economic value. International tourist arrivals also rose by 9.8%, bringing in R3.3 billion,” Ntshavheni said.

The working group was established by President Cyril Ramaphosa in April 2024 to respond to the challenges of the municipality and to accelerate support from national and provincial government to rebuild the municipality.

It operates across three spheres of government and includes representatives from the private sector and labour. – SAnews.gov.za

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