Category: News

Over 113 new houses for KZN flood victims

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KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government has confirmed that over 113 new houses will be built within the next four months to provide permanent shelter for families displaced by the 2022 and 2025 floods.

The announcement was made by Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli during the recent Operation Siyahlola Oversight Programme, which monitors service delivery and infrastructure projects across the province.

Ntuli said the initiative forms part of KwaZulu-Natal’s accelerated disaster recovery plan, which aims to ensure that by 2027, every flood victim in the province will be accommodated in a safe, permanent, and fully serviced home.

The Premier highlighted that the houses will be built to high-quality, disaster-resilient standards, and will include special adaptations for people with disabilities, ensuring inclusivity, accessibility, and long-term comfort.

“These 113 houses represent a promise in action. Our designs are disaster-resilient and inclusive, catering even for people with disabilities. Rebuilding after disaster must mean building better and building for all,” Ntuli said.

Long-term housing plan
The Provincial Government, through the Department of Human Settlements, has made significant progress in fast-tracking the resettlement of flood victims, ensuring that affected families are moved from temporary shelters into safe, permanent housing.

According to the department, a total of 113 top structures will be completed between July and December 2025, supported by an additional R149 million allocations to prepare 692 serviced sites for further housing development.

A further R261 million has been ring-fenced from the Human Settlements Development Grant (HSDG) in the 2026/27 financial year for the construction of more top structures, while R25 million from capital balances will be used to complete 108 houses by October 2025.

“The 692 houses are scheduled for completion by December 2026, with beneficiaries expected to move in from December 2026 to January 2027. Working in partnership with affected municipalities, the provincial government will also embark on intensive social facilitation programmes to engage communities that resist the resettlement of flood victims or other developments in their areas.

“All Temporary Emergency Accommodations (TEAs) are planned to close by January 2027, as 837 houses will be completed by December 2026 and 375 flood victims temporarily accommodated at Montclair Lodge and Cornubia TRUs, while their permanent homes, targeted for completion by June 2027, are being built,” Ntuli said.

In addition, the Premier said seven parcels of rezoned land under the eThekwini Metro will be utilised for normal housing projects to address the municipality’s broader housing backlog.

Warning against unlawful resale of government houses
Meanwhile, Ntuli has issued a stern warning against the unlawful resale of government houses or unlawful accommodation of non-beneficiaries.

“Such actions will not be tolerated, and the Department of Human Settlements, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, will take strict legal action against offenders to protect the integrity of the resettlement programme and ensure that the rightful beneficiaries are accommodated,” Ntuli said.

KwaZulu-Natal was hit by catastrophic floods in April 2022, which claimed more than 400 lives, destroyed infrastructure, and left thousands homeless. The 2025 floods compounded the crisis, displacing even more families, many of whom remain in temporary accommodation.

The Premier has expressed gratitude to all government officials, municipal teams, engineers, and construction workers for their role in fast-tracking recovery efforts.

He also commended the communities that have embraced the relocation of flood victims and allowed these critical developments to proceed in their areas.

“Their cooperation has made it possible for the province to move forward with urgency and unity in restoring dignity to those who have lost so much. This housing and resettlement programme marks one of the most ambitious post-disaster recovery initiatives in KwaZulu-Natal’s history, reaffirming government’s commitment to rebuilding communities, restoring dignity, and ensuring no flood victim is left behind,” Ntuli said.

Ramaphosa attends 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development Summit

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President Cyril Ramaphosa is in Japan leading South Africa’s high-level delegation at the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development Summit (TICAD9) in Yokohama City.

President Ramaphosa, who arrived in Japan on Tuesday, will participate in the TICAD9 Summit from 20 - 22 August 2025 under the theme “Co-creating Innovative Solutions with Africa”. 

The summit is underpinned by three Plenary Sessions, which illustrate established areas of cooperation between the African Union and Japan, namely: Society: Realizing a Sustainable Future; Economy:

Promoting Trade and Investment; and Peace and stability: Ensuring Human Dignity and Human Security.
In a statement, the Presidency said the 9th TICAD Summit takes place at a time of unprecedented threats to global peace and security, ongoing conflicts in some regions of the world, distortions and disruption to global trade and a concerning revision by some states to unilateral action at a time when multilateralism and collective solutions to common challenges is crucial.

The Presidency highlighted that rising fuel, food and energy prices have severely impacted developing countries, entrenching poverty and fuelling higher levels of inequality in the face of constrained employment and job opportunities. 

“The debt and liquidity crisis on the African continent is worsening the challenging socio-economic environment and constraining the fiscal space for governments to cast a safety net over its citizens. 
“The AU discussions with the government of Japan under the auspices of TICAD presents an opportunity for the two sides to engage in discussions that seek to foster collective solutions to these challenges,” the Presidency said. 

South Africa, as a Member State of the AU, will prioritise support from the government of Japan for the Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan (STYIP) of Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want, especially in the priority areas of infrastructure development, peace and security, and health.  

“President Ramaphosa will advance South Africa’s Presidency of the G20 and pursue bilateral economic engagements with the government of Japan with a view to strengthening trade and investment ties between South Africa and Japan,” the Presidency said. 

The year 2025 marks 115 years of relations between South Africa and Japan. 

The two countries enjoy well-established bilateral relations within the framework of the Partnership Forum held at a ministerial level and maintain strong cooperation in the fields of trade and investment; science and technology; education; skills transfer and capacity building through development cooperation.

Bilateral trade between Japan and South Africa had been expanding since the establishment of full diplomatic relations in 1992. 

Japan is one of the major investors (over R90 billion) in the South African economy, with 260 Japanese companies, sustaining over 150 000 local jobs. 

Japan is the 4th largest economy in the world, and total bilateral trade between the two countries in 2024 was R132 billion, with South Africa recording a trade surplus of R52 billion. 

“President Ramaphosa will engage with leading captains of Japanese industry and business. 

“Japan is one of South Africa's major economic partners with sizeable investments in the South African economy, and the potential for further investments exists. A South African high level business delegation is also participating at the TICAD9,” the Presidency said. 

Also, at the margins of TICAD9 in his capacity as the chair of the Global Leader’s Network for Women’s, Children’s and Adolescents’ Health, President Ramaphosa will deliver a keynote address to parliamentarians, business and developmental agencies on the importance of increasing investments into women’s, children’s and adolescents health as an imperative for peace and security. 

President Ramaphosa is accompanied by Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola, Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology, Dr Bonginkosi Nzimande, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau, Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla, and senior government officials.

Second teenager apprehended for Philippi attack on members of parliament

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Western Cape serious and violent crime detectives. in pursuance of leads in the investigation into an attack on three members of Parliament in Philippi on Tuesday afternoon. worked through the night and in the early hours of Wednesday morning effected the arrest of a second suspect.

The 16 year old who was arrested in Browns Farm has since been charged.

The first suspect, an 18-year-old male was apprehended on Tuesday evening as he sought medical assistance at a facility in Lentegeur. It is believed he was shot during the attack on the three victims when one of the vehicle occupants allegedly fired a shot in response to the attack. He is currently under police guard in hospital.

Initial reports of the crime incident indicate the attack was perpetrated by three male suspects. The investigation continues with another arrest expected in due course.

The suspects face attempted murder and attempted hijacking charges.

DA Condemns Attack on MPs in Philippi

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The Democratic Alliance (DA) has condemned an attempted robbery attack on three of its Members of Parliament during an oversight visit in Philippi on Tuesday afternoon.

MPs Ian Cameron, Lisa Schickerling and Nicholas Gotsell were returning from an inspection at the police training college when their vehicle was targeted. Gotsell was struck on the head with a brick and hospitalised, but his condition is not critical. Cameron sustained minor injuries but managed to act in self-defence, preventing further harm.

DA Chief Whip in Parliament, George Michalakis, said the incident highlights the extent of South Africa’s crime crisis, which affects all citizens. “No South African is unaffected by crime. This is a portrayal of the out-of-control crime that South Africans face daily, and no one is exempt from it,” he said.

The DA has renewed its call for the Minister of Police to prioritise the resourcing of the SAPS in high-crime areas such as Philippi. The party expressed gratitude to the City of Cape Town Metro, the Western Cape provincial government, SAPS members who assisted, and the emergency medical teams for their swift response.

“We trust that law enforcement will bring the perpetrators to account, but urgent intervention is needed. The Minister must ensure that sufficient resources are allocated to crime-ridden areas to prevent future incidents and the loss of life,” Michalakis added.

All three MPs are now safe.

Eskom launches first-ever Renewable Energy Offtake Programme

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Eskom has announced the launch of its first-ever Renewable Energy Offtake Programme.

This marks a significant milestone in the utility’s strategic objective to facilitate a “competitive future energy industry” and integrate more clean power into the national grid.  

In a statement on Tuesday, the power utility said that it was transitioning its generation mix from predominantly coal to a blended portfolio with an increasing proportion of clean energy sources by 2040. 

The programme, unveiled through a Request for Proposal (RFP), invites large power users to procure 291MW of Solar Photovoltaic (PV) capacity through long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) from Eskom-owned renewable energy sites. 

According to Eskom, this programme follows a successful Expression of Interest (EOI) process and extensive engagement with commercial and industrial customers, which revealed strong demand for direct contracting through long-term PPAs.

These agreements enable businesses to align with global sustainability standards, reduce carbon footprints, and green their supply chains, enhancing competitiveness. 

The RFP offers tailored solutions that meet operational requirements while contributing to South Africa’s decarbonisation goals. 

Successful bidders will enter PPAs ranging from 5 to 25 years, with renewable energy delivered in phases from multiple Eskom projects. The earliest project is expected to reach commercial operation by December 2027. 

Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, said the programme was a crucial step in reshaping the company’s generation mix.

“This is the next step in the focused execution of our strategy to integrate additional renewable energy into the grid, in line with global electricity industry trends for environmentally sustainable solutions that support broader decarbonisation objectives. 

“We have seen strong interest in Eskom’s capabilities in green energy supply, which this programme demonstrates. Just over a year into our turnaround strategy, we are not only focused on ending loadshedding but are also pivoting Eskom into a sustainable and competitive company while ensuring security of supply through a customer-centric approach,” Marokane said. 

Eskom Distribution Acting Group Executive, Agnes Mlambo, said the programme signalled Eskom’s innovation in building a resilient energy future.

“This programme demonstrates Eskom’s commitment to innovation and building a cleaner, more resilient energy future. By offering customised renewable energy offtake solutions, we are enabling our customers to transition to low-carbon operations while ensuring a secure and competitive supply, through customer-centred solutions,” Mlambo said. 

She added that structured engagement with the private sector would give impetus to Eskom’s efforts to create a sustainable pathway for clean power integration into the grid. 

Eskom said it continues to develop a balanced energy mix, comprising coal, nuclear, gas, renewables, and energy storage solutions such as Battery Energy Storage Systems and pumped hydro. 

The power utility added that a renewable energy business will accelerate deployment of green projects, targeting 2 gigawatts (GW) of construction-ready capacity by 2026 and scaling up to 32GW, including Green Hydrogen projects, by 2040

SA Agricultural Sector demonstrates remarkable growth and resilience

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The South African agricultural sector has demonstrated remarkable growth and resilience in the face of significant global trade headwinds, Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen notes as recent data show South Africa’s exports have not only remained competitive, but have increased in the second quarter of 2025 to US$161 million, up by 26% from the same period in 2024.

“However, it is important to examine this performance with a forward-looking perspective. The recent imposition of a 30% tariff on our exports by the United States (US) has brought to light the urgent need to diversify our export markets and enhance our competitiveness to mitigate the economic impact of losing preferential trade access.”

Minister Steenhuisen says the results of the second quarter of 2025 also highlight how urgent it is to resolve the ongoing tariff talks with the US. “Our capacity to gain steady, long-term access to this important market continues to be a top priority,” he adds.

The figures speak for themselves. In the first quarter of 2025, South African agricultural exports to the US were US$118 million, up by 19% year-on-year.

“This growth is not merely a statistical anomaly, but a reflection of a bountiful harvest, a surge in high-quality produce, and the efficient operation of our ports. The products leading this charge include a variety of fruits such as citrus, grapes, apples and pears, as well as nuts and wine. As we continue to engage in diplomatic negotiations and work towards a more favourable trade agreement, the focus remains on ensuring that our farmers and exporters can continue to thrive in the global marketplace, securing the future of our agricultural sector,” Minister Steenhuisen emphasised.

Government hands over houses to KZN flood victims

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Minister of Human Settlements Thembi Simelane, alongside KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Human Settlements and Transport Siboniso Duma and local municipalities' mayors, is leading a two-day programme to hand over homes to families affected by the 2022 floods.

The programme, taking place from 19–20 August forms part of Operation Siyahlola to assess interventions made in response to disasters that affected parts of KwaZulu-Natal.

The programme includes site visits to eThekwini, uMsunduzi and Impendle Municipalities to assess progress on disaster recovery interventions.

On Tuesday morning, Simelane received a briefing on temporary residential units and long-term housing plans in the Umgungundlovu District.

Together with uMgungundlovu District Mayor, Mzi Zuma, the Minister held an engagement with the affected communities in Impendle Municipality, where she introduced a contractor to begin building permanent homes for the families affected by recent disasters.

The delegation also handed over newly built houses in Copesville to flood survivors in uMsunduzi Municipality.

According to the department, central to the planned Operation Siyahlola is the delivery of permanent houses to families affected by disasters in eThekwini and uMsunduzi Municipalities.

“Minister Simelane and the provincial government will also hand over title deeds as part of the government-wide campaign to register and hand over 80 000 title deeds by 2029, thus unlocking over 16 billion asset value.

“Working with all stakeholders, including traditional leaders and community members, the government is convinced that interventions aimed at settling all flood victims will continue to yield positive results,” the department said.

On Wednesday, Simelane is scheduled to hand over houses at the Illovo Infill and Cato Crest housing projects, both built for victims of the 2022 floods in eThekwini.

Upgraded Coedmore bridge reopens

Meanwhile, eThekwini Municipality Mayor Cyril Xaba has officially reopened the Coedmore bridge, which was severely damaged during the April 2022 floods.

The R47 million project included the construction of a 150-metre access road, installation of traffic-calming measures, and enhances surface drainage systems to improve water management.

Speaking at the recent opening of the bridge, Xaba said the state-of-the-art bridge will benefit residents by eliminating their travel time, which had increased due to detours.

“The bridge has been widened and is now two lanes. Following the damage caused by the floods, we are building back better and have rebuilt three bridges of this nature, with state-of-the-art, resilient infrastructure. So, even during heavy rains, the structures will not collapse,” Xaba said.

The project also benefited local communities, as it created 10–15 job opportunities per month, with community-based subcontractors contributing to specialised works including earthworks, concrete placement, steel fabrication, drainage installation, landscaping, and electrical services.

Xaba said this inclusive approach ensured that economic benefits were shared locally, while building skills and capacity in the area. 

Mayor Xaba noted that while completion was initially scheduled for late last year, delays were caused by unfavourable weather and unforeseen geotechnical complexities at the site.

“This rebuilt bridge is one of the three best bridges in the city. We are happy that we have these unique bridges, which have brought hope to people. We are not concerned about heavy rains as these bridges have been built to be resilient,” the mayor said.

Authorities dismantle major transnational rhino horn trafficking network

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Six suspects appeared in the Pretoria magistrate’s court on Tuesday in connection with a scheme involving the trade of 964 rhino horns that were destined for illegal markets in Southeast Asia. 

Investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly defrauded the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) by securing permits under false pretences to buy and sell rhino horns domestically, while funnelling them into illegal international markets. 

Under South African law, domestic trade is permitted with a valid DFFE-issued permit in terms of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) of 2004.

International commercial trade in rhino horn is banned under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

“After a seven-year investigation, the Wildlife Trafficking Section of the Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit has dismantled a major transnational rhino horn trafficking network.

“The six suspects, between the ages of 49 and 84, face charges of fraud, theft, and contravention of the NEMBA, with additional charges of racketeering and money laundering under consideration,” the department said.

The six suspects, five men and one woman, surrendered to the Hawks at Sunnyside Police Station.

The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has hailed the arrests as a decisive victory in South Africa’s fight against international wildlife crime.

“This complex investigation, which was also supported by the Enforcement unit of the Department (the Green Scorpions) and the National Prosecuting Authority, is a powerful demonstration of South Africa’s resolve to protect its natural heritage.

“The Hawks’ work shows that our enforcement agencies will not hesitate to pursue those who plunder our wildlife for criminal profit. The illegal trade in rhino horn not only destroys biodiversity but also undermines the rule of law and the foundations of environmental governance,” the Minister said.

Silwerskermfees celebrates its 13th year in Cape Town

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The Silwerskermfees returns to Camps Bay, presenting a rich selection of South African and Afrikaans film content that highlights the work of emerging talent through a diverse range of short films and documentaries.

The festival takes place over four days from 20 to 23 August 2025 at The Bay Hotel and Theatre on the Bay.

Additionally, select community screenings will take place in Grassy Park and Wynberg through a partnership between the festival and the Sunshine Cinema, with the awards ceremony to be held at the CTICC .
  
The film programme features 33 films and documentaries of varying lengths, showcasing a diverse array of work from award-winning filmmakers as well as rising local talent. 
 
Closer to home is Finding Optel, the story of a 16-year-old amateur detective, Claire Abrahams, who finds lost items in her neighbourhood. When the community’s beloved dog Optel goes missing, Claire is determined to track her down. 
 
Another heartfelt documentary, Carissa, tells the story of a young woman in a small Cederberg town who is driven out of her grandmother’s home and finds herself on the rooibos farm of her estranged grandfather. She dreams of success and excitement in the city, but the farm changes her irrevocably.  
 
‘Storytelling and the arts are woven into the fabric of Cape Town. The City has proudly supported Silwerskermfees over the last four years, recognising its vital role in showcasing the power of film to spark dialogue, elevate diverse voices, and foster cultural understanding. Through this festival, we celebrate creativity, inspire new perspectives, and strengthen our community’s connection to the rich South African stories,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.  
 
Alongside the film screenings, Silwerskerm is running an extensive programme of masterclasses and panel discussions, facilitated by industry experts and filmmakers.
  
This year, the festival continues its partnership with Sunshine Cinema to provide screenings in communities.
 
The two free solar-powered community film screenings will take place on  Wednesday, 20 August 2025 at Wynberg Civic Centre, showcasing The Heart Is a Muscle and Thursday, 22 August 2025 at Grassy Park Civic Centre showcasing Finding Optel. Free tickets can be booked on Quicket. With an amazing lineup, experience unforgettable stories and celebrate the art of filmmaking like never before at Silwerskermfees 2025. 

For booking information, visit Tickets – Silwerskermfees and for film screenings visit kykNET Silwerskermfees 2025 on Quicket 
 
For more information on this and other events hosted in Cape Town visit eventsincapetown.com 

Operation Shanela 2 continues to sweep across the country: 17 087 Suspects arrested

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PRETORIA – From the pulse of Gauteng’s urban sprawl to the quiet valleys of the Eastern Cape, a coordinated crime-fighting effort known as OPERATION SHANELA II continues to sweep across South Africa, re-affirming the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) response to crime.

In just seven days, from 11 to 17 August 2025, police collectively arrested 17,087 suspects that include 1 276 wanted individuals who were tracked down in different parts of the country. 

SAPS continues to intensify its fight against gender-based violence and femicide. Just this week alone, police arrested 166 suspects for rape. Also, amongst those arrested is a traditional leader accused of raping a 17-year-old victim in KwaZulu-Natal.
 
Other key arrests include:
▶️ 128 murder suspects were arrested with majority arrested in the Eastern Cape (26) followed by Gauteng (25) and Western Cape (25)
▶️A total of 132 suspects were also arrested for attempted murder throughout the country
▶️A staggering figure of 3 020 suspects were arrested for being in possession of drugs. Most of these suspects were arrested in the Western Cape (1 658)
▶️Police also arrested 300 suspects countrywide for dealing in drugs
▶️Drunk driving remains a stubborn threat to public safety. This week alone, 819 suspects were arrested for driving under the influence.
 
Notable seizures and recoveries:
▶️In the last seven days, SAPS seized 165 unlicensed firearms. Police in KwaZulu-Natal seized 45 unlicensed handguns while Western Cape seized 34. In the Eastern Cape’s OR Tambo District alone, 15 firearms were confiscated in three separate operations, including a stolen firearm linked to a 2022 case in Qumbu.
▶️In addition, 2 331 rounds of ammunition were seized during nationwide operations
▶️65 hijacked and stolen vehicles were also recovered in the past week.
 
Provincial highlights for the past week:

FS: In Sasolburg, Free State, a young couple was caught selling Schedule 5 substances from their home - an operation that ended with 58 bottles of cough syrup and 22 containers of Alprazolam tablets confiscated.

Still in the Free State, police seized R3.1 million worth of illicit cigarettes in Viljoensdrif and arrested two suspects on 15 August 2025 for possession of illicit cigarettes.

MP: A cross border operation led by the SAPS Acting Provincial Commissioner of Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi culminated in the tracing of three suspects involved in the murder of Sergeant Lawrence Mtshweni. The sergeant was shot and killed by more than seven suspects during an armed robbery at a store in Schoemansdal , Mpumalanga on Friday, 08 August 2025.

GP: In Randburg, Gauteng, counterfeit goods worth R2.8 million were seized in a multi-disciplinary operation. Police also arrested two suspects in Braamfontein for the murder of a university student.

KZN: A house robbery in Paradise Valley escalated into a high-speed chase and shootout on Underwood Road. Four suspects were injured and arrested, while one remains at large. The recovered items included firearms, electronics, and luxury handbags, evidence of a planned and violent crime spree.

Still in KZN, an intelligence driven led by the Zululand District Task Team and Ulundi Crime Intelligence resulted in the arrest of one suspect who was found in possession of prohibited rifles and ammunition at Ngwabe area in Nongoma in the early hours of Sunday, 17 August 2025.

LIM: six suspects were arrested for extortion at a chrome mine in Sekhukhune, underscoring SAPS’s reach into industrial crime.

1 919 newly trained constables deployed to capacitate and boost grassroots level of policing

On Friday, 15 August 2025, Acting Police Minister, Prof Firoz Cachalia, together with Deputy Ministers, Dr Polly Boshielo and Mr Cassel Mathale, welcomed 1 919 newly trained constables to the ranks of the SAPS.

They will be deployed to bolster crime-fighting efforts, especially at the 30 stations with the highest crime rates. 
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