Category: News

Ramaphosa notes US statement on South Africa’s G20 participation

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has responded to what he described as a “regrettable” statement by US President Donald Trump regarding South Africa’s participation in the 2026 G20 meetings.

The Presidency said the 2025 G20 Leaders Summit in Johannesburg - attended by several heads of state and government - was widely regarded as one of the most successful gatherings of the forum. The summit concluded with a declaration underscoring the importance of multilateralism in addressing global challenges. Because the United States did not attend the summit, South Africa formally handed over the G20 Presidency instruments to a representative of the US Embassy at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation in Pretoria.

As a founding member of the G20, South Africa said it has always upheld the forum’s principles of consensus, collaboration and partnership. Ramaphosa noted that the US was expected to participate fully in all G20 meetings during South Africa’s presidency but chose not to attend the leaders’ summit “of its own volition”.

Despite Washington’s absence, South Africa welcomed the strong participation of US businesses and civil society organisations in related events, including the B20 and G20 Social.

The Presidency emphasised that South Africa’s membership of the G20 is recognised by all member states and grounded in its status as a sovereign democratic nation. It added that South Africa “does not appreciate insults from another country” regarding its legitimacy on the global stage and stressed that it would never demean the sovereignty or standing of another nation.

South Africa will continue to serve as a full and constructive G20 member and called on all partners to uphold the group’s multilateral spirit, consensus-based decision-making, and equal participation.

The Presidency also expressed disappointment that, despite efforts to reset relations with Washington, Trump “continues to apply punitive measures” against South Africa based on what it described as “misinformation and distortions” about the country.

W Cape issues alert as drunk driving arrests rise

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Western Cape transport officials have issued a serious warning to motorists after 24 arrests for driving under the influence of alcohol were made in just one week.

From 17 to 23 November 2025, the Provincial Traffic Services carried out 168 integrated roadblocks, vehicle checks, and speed control operations across the province.
 
During these efforts, over 30 000 vehicles were stopped and inspected, resulting in more than 9 000 fines being issued for various violations related to driver and vehicle fitness.

Officers also recorded 200 speeding offences during this period.

The officials reported that of the 46 arrests recorded, 24 were for driving under the influence of alcohol, three for reckless and negligent driving, six for goods overloading and another six for possession of fraudulent documentation. 

In addition, three arrests involved undocumented persons, while one person was arrested for wilfully damaging or tampering with a vehicle or throwing an object at a vehicle. 

One person was arrested for bribery, another for obstructing or hindering an authorised officer, and one for threatening or suggesting the use of violence against a traffic officer.

Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku expressed deep concern at the spike in drunk driving incidents.

“Every driver who gets behind the wheel after drinking is a danger not only to themselves, but to every person on the road. As we approach the festive season, we are intensifying enforcement to ensure that law-abiding road users can travel safely. Driving under the influence will not be tolerated, and we will continue to take decisive action against offenders,” said Sileku.

Chief Director of Traffic Management Maxine Bezuidenhout urged the public to take responsibility. 
“The high number of drunk driving arrests is deeply concerning. Even small amounts of alcohol can impair judgement and slow reaction times. Our officers will continue to take firm action against anyone who chooses to endanger others by driving under the influence. We urge motorists to act responsibly, respect the law, and help us prevent unnecessary incidents and loss of life on our roads,” said Bezuidenhout.

To prevent drinking and driving, motorists are encouraged to plan ahead by using e-hailing services or metered taxis, appointing a sober designated driver, arranging to stay over where they are socialising, or asking a friend or family member for a lift. 

They are also urged to refuse to travel in a vehicle with a driver who has been drinking.
“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility,” Sileku added.

Government proposes 20% online gambling tax

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National Treasury has encouraged the public to submit comments on a draft national online gambling tax discussion paper. 

Due to the surge in online gambling and its impact on society, it is proposed that a 20% tax is applied on gross gambling revenue from online betting, including interactive gambling, which would be in addition to the currently applied provincial taxes.

“The discussion paper provides an overview of the gambling industry in the country, considers the current legislative framework and international practices on the taxation of online gambling and proposes a new national online gambling tax for South Africa,” National Treasury said.

Over the years, the gambling industry has evolved from traditional forms of gambling to the greater use of online gambling. 

This has been influenced by technological advancements and increased access to the internet and electronic communication tools, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic. Gambling is now easily available online and it is accessible almost anywhere and at any time.

“The growth of online gambling also brings challenges, such as problem gambling and social issues, which require continued monitoring and responsive regulation. 

“From a public policy perspective, there should be no problem with recreational gamblers as they do not place any external costs on society. 

“However, to the extent that problem gambling imposes a cost on society (negative externalities), it is in the public interest that such behaviour be regulated or reduced,” National Treasury said.

The draft national online gambling tax discussion paper has been released for public comments and is available on the National Treasury website: www.treasury.gov.za. 

The public can forward written comments to the email address: [email protected] by close of business on 30 January 2026.

Eskom turns the corner

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Global ratings agency, S&P, has upgraded Eskom’s foreign and local currency long-term credit ratings from B to B+, with a stable outlook.

According to the power utility, the upgrade also applies to Eskom’s senior secured and unsecured debt, while government-guaranteed foreign currency debt was raised from BB- to BB+.

“Eskom’s national scale rating improved from zaBBB+/zaA-2 to zaAV/zaA-1. The upgrade reflects the measurable impact of Eskom’s Turnaround Plan, which has stabilised generation, improved financial performance and strengthened governance. Operational improvements have been substantial: Eskom delivered electricity 97.9% of the time in the current financial year, compared to 96% in FY2025.

“This operational stability has been matched by strong financial performance, which includes our first profitability in eight years in FY2025,” the power utility said.

Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, reflected on the company’s turnaround.

“The turnaround plan has been pivotal in restoring Eskom’s operational and financial stability.

“We have moved decisively from a generation crisis to a phase of reliability and disciplined management. Our focus remains on providing affordable, secure electricity for South Africa while driving the transition to lower-carbon energy,” Marokane said.

Western Cape records 24 drunk driving arrests in one week as festive season nears

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The Western Cape Mobility Department has issued a stern warning to motorists following an alarming 24 arrests for driving under the influence of alcohol recorded in just one week.

Between 17 and 23 November 2025, Provincial Traffic Services conducted 168 integrated roadblocks, vehicle checks, and speed control operations across the province. Just over 30,000 vehicles were stopped and checked, resulting in over 9,000 fines issued for various driver and vehicle fitness violations. Officers also recorded 200 speeding offences during this period.

A total of 46 arrests were made for the following offences:

24 × driving under the influence of alcohol
3 × reckless and negligent driving
6 × goods overloading
6 × possession of fraudulent documentation
3 × undocumented persons
1 × willfully damaging or tampering with a vehicle, or throwing an object at a vehicle
1 × bribery
1 × obstructing or hindering an authorised officer in the execution of duty
1 × threatening or suggesting the use of violence against a traffic officer

Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku expressed deep concern at the spike in drunk driving incidents. “Every driver who gets behind the wheel after drinking is a danger not only to themselves, but to every person on the road. As we approach the festive season, we are intensifying enforcement to ensure that law-abiding road users can travel safely. Driving under the influence will not be tolerated, and we will continue to take decisive action against offenders,” said Minister Sileku.

Chief Director of Traffic Management Maxine Bezuidenhout urged the public to take responsibility. “The high number of drunk driving arrests is deeply concerning. Even small amounts of alcohol can impair judgement and slow reaction times. Our officers will continue to take firm action against anyone who chooses to endanger others by driving under the influence. We urge motorists to act responsibly, respect the law, and help us prevent unnecessary incidents and loss of life on our roads”, said Bezuidenhout.

Motorists are urged to plan ahead by:
-Using e-hailing services or metered taxis.
-Appointing a sober designated driver.
-Arranging to stay over where you are socialising.
-Asking a friend or family member for a lift.
-Refuse to get into a vehicle with a driver who has been drinking.

“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility,” Minister Sileku concluded.


Mashatile outlines plans to tackle SA’s water crisis

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Deputy President Paul Mashatile has addressed the mounting water crisis facing South African municipalities, revealing a multifaceted approach to tackle systemic issues plaguing water and sanitation services nationwide.

Speaking in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) on Tuesday, Deputy President cited a report from the Department of Water and Sanitation, which shows a significant decline in the capacity of municipal water delivery.

As a result, national reliability has dropped to only 68%, and the quality of water in 60% of water supply systems is deteriorating.

Mashatile said this crisis stems from a combination of factors, including poor governance, lack of technical capacity, inadequate infrastructure investments, and financial mismanagement.

“I must highlight that government is taking decisive steps to resolve the systemic issues that continue to hinder the reliable provision of water and sanitation services to local communities.”

Through the Water Task Team, he said the government is tackling water security challenges by improving infrastructure, reforming institutions and expediting project management in a coordinated approach.

The South Africa National Water and Sanitation Indaba held in March this year proposed key interventions aimed at addressing the challenges of water provision and continuous disintegration of critical water infrastructure, amongst others.

Key recommendations included increased investments through financing options and ensuring the financial viability of the sector.

In addition, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has established a Water Partnership Office housed at the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) to help municipalities prepare projects for private sector investment.

“Through this office, the department is already implementing several public-private partnerships, such as the Olifants River Management Model Programme.”

According to the Deputy President, this programme has been introduced to address the bulk water needs, particularly in Limpopo, to promote economic development and ensure the delivery of bulk raw water to municipalities.

He explained that this model is based on a 50/50 public-private partnership.

In this arrangement, 50% of the project’s cost is contributed by the mining companies, while the remaining 50% is funded by the government through water infrastructure grants and the budget facility for infrastructure.

He announced that the DWS, Water Boards and water service authorities are working to increase collaboration with the Infrastructure Fund to put in place more blended finance water projects.

He also touched on the projects in major cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town, the Vaal Gamagara Water Supply Scheme in the Northern Cape, Lesotho Highlands and uMkhomazi Water Projects.

In combating corruption, the country’s second-in-command acknowledged the significant challenge of water tanker corruption and infrastructure vandalism.

“National Treasury has issued a circular cautioning municipalities against long-term reliance on water tankers, which can only be used as temporary emergency measures.”

The Deputy President stressed the importance of collaborative approaches, calling for increased community involvement and a culture of reporting suspicious activities to expose criminal networks within the water sector.

“As government, we call for increased community participation in protecting critical infrastructure. We also urge communities to report suspicious activities and embrace the culture of whistleblowing to expose criminal networks and corruption within the water sector.”

He stated that the government remains committed to addressing these challenges, viewing water infrastructure as a critical national priority.

“Water is life. Government remains committed to improving the provision of a reliable water supply, especially to township and rural communities.”

SAPS nabs 16 000 suspects across the country

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The South African Police Service (SAPS) continues to register commendable progress in the fight against crime through its nationwide Safer Festive Season Operation, which led to the arrest of 16 066 suspects across the country.

The operation, carried out between 17 and 23 November 2025, is running alongside Operation Shanela II to ensure safety and security ahead of the festive season.

According to the SAPS, in one week, 1 870 wanted suspects were tracked down and apprehended for serious and violent crimes, which includes murder, rape, car hijackings, house and business robberies, and drug trafficking.

The nationwide breakdown of arrests across various crime categories include:

-143 suspects were arrested for murder.  Gauteng recorded the highest number of arrests with 38, followed by KZN (26) and the Eastern Cape (25).
-178 suspects were arrested for rape, with the majority of arrests in KZN (39), followed by Eastern Cape with 25.
-170 suspects were arrested for attempted murder across multiple provinces.
-1 534 suspects were arrested for assault GBH [grievous bodily harm].
-2 778 suspects were arrested for possession of drugs, with the Western Cape recording the highest number of arrests with 1 649, followed by KZN with 390 and then Gauteng with 287.
-283 suspects were arrested for dealing in drugs, with the WC leading in arrestes (77) and followed by KZN (48).
-99 suspects were apprehended for illegal possession of unlicensed firearms.
-600 suspects were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
-890 were arrested for illegal liquor trade.
-449 were arrested for possession of dangerous weapons.

Major seizures and recoveries stand as follows:
-1 818 rounds of ammunition were seized during the same period.
-150 unlicensed firearms were seized.
-984 dangerous weapons were recovered.
-Contraband goods worth more than R4 million were seized in the past week.
-61 stolen and hijacked vehicles recovered.

Highlights of takedowns conducted across the country are as follows:
North West: Four suspects were arrested after kidnapping and robbing a businessman at Madibeng Hills, Klipgat, on 20 November 2025. During the tracing operation, police confiscated items, including two Pioneer CDJs, a Dixon mixing console, power cables, and an iPhone.

Gauteng: Police successfully recovered a Freightliner hijacked truck transporting medicine valued at R2.5 million in Olievenhoutbosch, Tshwane, on 21 November 2025. A suspect was arrested on the scene. Still in Gauteng, the Counterfeit Unit, in collaboration with brand protectors, conducted operations across the province and seized counterfeit and illicit goods worth R1.8 million.

Limpopo: Police, in collaboration with private sector partners, executed an intelligence-driven operation in Modjadjiskloof targeting suspected scrapyard linked to illicit vehicle activities and seized seven vehicles for further investigation.

Western Cape: Four armed suspects, who were travelling in a Toyota Hilux, were arrested, and one suspect was fatally wounded in a shootout with police at Jakes Gerwel Drive in Mitchell’s Plain on 19 November 2025. An Ak-47 rifle and two pistols with ammunition were seized on the scene. Still in the Western Cape, the Provincial Counterfeit Unit, Anti-Economic Task Team and brand protectors executed an operation and seized counterfeit and illicit items, including card games, branded products, tobacco products, and accessories worth R1 million.

Free State: Police arrested a wanted suspect linked to the murder of a 73-year-old woman, Senyora Mofokeng, who was found dead at her house after collecting her pension money on 03 December 2023. In the Free State, a joint police operation conducted at the Vaal Plaza tollgate led to the arrest of two suspects linked to armed robberies at jewellery stores in Bloemfontein. Police intercepted the suspects’ vehicle at the tollgate and a shootout ensued after one of the suspects pointed members with a firearm. Both suspects, aged between 27 and 35 years, sustained injuries and were treated on the scene. Police seized two 9mm pistols, an AK-47 rifle with ammunition and jewellery believed to be stolen during recent robberies

Mpumalanga: A 42-year-old suspect was arrested for kidnapping, robbery, and raping a 30-year-old woman at Bhamjee sqautter Camp in Ngodwana on 17 November 2025.

Eastern Cape: Police arrested two more suspects at the Vaal Plaza in Gauteng, who were linked to an armed robbery of a jewellery store at a shopping mall in Gqeberha on 18 November 2025.  During the takedown at the toll plaza, a shootout ensued after one of the suspects pointed the police with a firearm. Both suspects sustained injuries and were arrested on the scene. Police seized two 9mm pistols, an AK-47 rifle with ammunition and jewellery believed to be stolen during recent robberies.

Still in the Eastern Cape, police intercepted an Opel Astra along the N2 near Jeffrey Bay and arrested three suspects for conspiracy to commit abalone poaching. Police seized 17 diving goggles, 5 torches, 17 pairs of diving boots, 17 pairs of flippers, 14 backpacks, 14 waist bags, 17 chucking tools, as well as a vehicle for further investigation.

Teenager Saved from Rip Current at Myoli Beach, Sedgefield

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A quick-thinking NSRI volunteer helped save an 18-year-old swimmer from drowning at Myoli Beach in Sedgefield on Monday morning (24 November 2025).

NSRI Wilderness, the Sedgefield satellite station, duty crews, NSRI lifeguards and the local water-safety network were activated at 11:08 following reports of a drowning in progress.

A volunteer checking NSRI pink rescue buoys along the shoreline spotted the teenager from Centurion being pulled out by a rip current. He grabbed the buoy stationed at Myoli Beach and entered the surf, reaching the teen about 50 to 60 metres offshore. Using the buoy, he kept the teenager afloat and gradually guided him back to shore.

NSRI crew, lifeguards and an off-duty ER24 paramedic assessed the teen once he was safely on land. He was advised to see a doctor to rule out non-fatal drowning symptoms. A local doctor examined him shortly afterwards and released him without further treatment.

NSRI commended the swift action of the PRB volunteer and the effectiveness of the pink rescue buoy, saying the response helped save the young man’s life. The Sedgefield community water-safety network was also praised for its rapid assistance.

Western Cape gears up for season of major festivals boosting tourism, culture and jobs

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The Western Cape Government is pleased to highlight an exciting line-up of major cultural and tourism events taking place across the province in the coming weeks.

There will be something for everyone to enjoy, including the DStv Mitchells Plain Festival, MosJazz in Mossel Bay, the inaugural George Festival, Cederberg Festival, and new international features such as the Italian Film Focus. These events offer significant opportunities for community upliftment, economic growth, and job creation.

Provincial Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Ricardo Mackenzie, welcomed the many events. “We are entering one of the most exciting periods of our events calendar. Festivals drive tourism, support small businesses, create jobs, and build pride in our cultural identity. They are vital platforms for opportunity, especially for our youth, creatives, and local entrepreneurs,” said Minister Mackenzie.

The DStv Mitchells Plain Festival once again promises to draw thousands of visitors with food, entertainment, exhibitions, and community activities. The Italian Film Focus brings a unique international cinema experience to local audiences, expanding cultural exchange. These events continue to offer valuable marketplace opportunities for SMMEs and traders.

We also look forward to the HSBC SVNS returning to Cape Town, a flagship event that brings thousands of visitors to our province and continues to showcase the Western Cape as a world-class sporting destination.

MosJazz returns to Santos Beach with a diverse line-up of local and global jazz talent. The festival is a major tourism drawcard for the Garden Route, supporting accommodation establishments, restaurants, and local service providers.

The inaugural George Festival, supported by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport, is set to showcase arts, culture, food, sport, and entertainment in one of the province’s fastest-growing hubs.

Similarly, the Cederberg Festival highlights the cultural richness and natural beauty of the region, providing important platforms for rural tourism and small business development.

Adding to the vibrant cultural season, Unity on the Square brings its signature celebration of local music and heritage to the Cape Town CBD, while Jazzathon at the V&A Waterfront continues to spotlight some of South Africa’s finest musical talent in a free, family-friendly setting that draws both residents and visitors.

These events form part of a wider provincial effort to expand access to economic and cultural opportunities. The latest provincial events schedule can be accessed via the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport events calendar.

“As we approach the festive season, we look forward to working with organisers and communities to ensure that every event leaves a positive legacy. Whether it’s Mitchells Plain, Mossel Bay, George or the Cederberg, we want residents to benefit long after the festivities end,” added Minister Mackenzie.

The Western Cape Government remains committed to strengthening the province’s reputation as South Africa’s premier events destination while ensuring broad and meaningful social and economic impact.

Matric Exams Conclude in the Western Cape

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The final matric exams for 2025 will be written on Wednesday, 26 November, bringing an end to a session that saw 112 papers completed across the Western Cape.

On the last day, 1 470 candidates are set to write Agricultural Management Practices, Marine Sciences or Music Comprehension. The Western Cape Education Department says the exam period has run smoothly, crediting officials and school staff for their efficient management of what is described as a major administrative undertaking. The department also thanked the public for its support during the exam season.

Teachers were praised for the dedication and extra hours they invested to prepare learners for the final examinations, with the department noting that their contribution has built a strong foundation for pupils’ future studies and careers.

Marking will now begin, with 4 190 markers assessing more than 954 000 scripts at 12 marking centres across the province.

The national results announcement is scheduled for Monday, 12 January 2026. Western Cape candidates will be able to access their results at their schools or online via the WCED website the following day, Tuesday, 13 January.

The department congratulated the Class of 2025 on completing their exams and says it looks forward to celebrating their achievements next year.
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