More arrests made in Barberton
On Thursday evening, law enforcement indicated that about twenty more zama zamas are believed to be emerging to the surface.
Mpumalanga's acting police commissioner, Zeph Mkhwanazi, has assured the public that the situation is 'under control' following a massive raid on illegal miners.
Over 550 Zama Zamas have been arrested at the Sheba mine as part of Operation Vala uMgodi.
Mkhwanazi says that police have sufficient capacity to house all the suspects.
They have been split up and spread across various facilities.
Mpumalanga community safety MEC, Jackie Macie, says they're working closely with intelligence agencies to track where the gold is taken once it has been mined by zama zamas.
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More arrests made in Barberton
BARBERTON - As groups of the illegal miners apprehended in Barberton appear in court, more continue to surface from Sheba mine. On Thursday evening, law enforcement indicated that about twenty more zama zamas are believed to be emerging to the surface. Mpumalanga's acting police commissioner, Zeph Mkhwanazi, has assured the public that the situation is 'under control' following a massive raid on illegal miners. Over 550 Zama Zamas have been arrested at the Sheba mine as part of Operation Vala uMgodi. Mkhwanazi says that police have sufficient capacity to house all the suspects. They have been split up and spread across various facilities. Mpumalanga community safety MEC, Jackie Macie, says they're working closely with intelligence agencies to track where the gold is taken once it has been mined by zama zamas.
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Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni delivers Cabinet update on governance and economic resilience
Cabinet update: Strengthening governance and economic resilience in South Africa Image: Ntswe Mokoena/GCIS Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni delivered the Cabinet update to the media on Thursday, outlining the key outcomes from recent Cabinet meetings held on July 22 and August 6, 2025. On Thursday, the briefing held in Pretoria highlighted the government's concerted efforts across various sectors to strengthen governance, boost economic resilience, and foster social cohesion amidst ongoing national and international challenges. The Cabinet announced that it welcomes the appointment of the Madlanga Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference, and Corruption within the criminal justice system. Ntshavheni explained that the gazetting of the Terms of Reference reflects the government's resolve to harness constitutional mechanisms to investigate allegations of wrongdoing, uphold institutional integrity, and restore public trust. 'This inquiry is a crucial step toward ensuring accountability and transparency within our justice system,' she stated. In its fight against crime, the government reported that Operation Shanela 2 led to over 17,000 arrests nationwide between July 27 and August 2, 2025. Nearly 2,911 suspects have been linked to serious offences such as murder, attempted murder, carjacking, rape, and robbery, while 1,763 individuals were apprehended for assault and grievous bodily harm. Ntshavheni highlighted the ongoing efforts in Mpumalanga's Barberton area, where authorities arrested 550 suspected illegal miners during Operation Vala Umgodi. 'Although some suspects have been granted bail, this operation exemplifies our unwavering commitment to tackling illegal mining activities that threaten both safety and economic stability,' she affirmed. On the international front, the cabinet provided an update on negotiations with the United States regarding impending 30% tariffs that will take effect on August 7. Ntshavheni reassured that the government remains dedicated to reaching a mutually beneficial agreement. 'President Ramaphosa has personally engaged with US President Trump to bolster diplomatic efforts, emphasising the importance of maintaining open channels for constructive dialogue,' she said. To cushion industries' impact from the tariffs, the government is deploying targeted interventions such as establishing an Export Support Desk, a Localisation Support Fund, and the Export and Competitiveness Support Programme. She stated that these measures aim to strengthen affected sectors, protect jobs, and expand exports across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. She added that a significant stride in economic diplomacy involves the development of the South Africa-China Trade and Investment Package (2025–2029) by the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC). The plan prioritises trade in the top 100 products, establishing a permanent expo in China, and increasing investments in key sectors, including steel, tyres, automotive, batteries, pharmaceuticals, and the digital economy. Ntshavheni added that Deputy President Paul Mashatile's recent visit to China, which included engagement with major state-owned enterprises and the launch of the South African National Pavilion at the China International Supply Chain Expo, reflects efforts to position South Africa as a regional trade gateway. Looking ahead, the cabinet reviewed progress toward convening South Africa's first National Dialogue, scheduled for August 15–17 at UNISA. Ntshavheni said this initiative aims to mobilise over 13,400 ward dialogues and 50,000 citizen-led engagements over the coming year, laying the groundwork for a more united and inclusive nation. 'This dialogue is not simply about discussion but about action, laying the foundation for a more resilient South Africa,' she said. On climate change, the government is prioritizing South Africa's transition to a low-carbon economy. 'Our commitment to a low-carbon economy is central to our sustainable development goals. This analysis will guide our policies to balance economic growth with climate responsibility, ensuring a resilient and green future for South Africa.' Furthermore, the cabinet approved the publication of the country's second Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) for public consultation, proposing a 2035 emissions target range of 320–380 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent, affirming South Africa's dedication to climate action and a just energy transition. She stated that the cabinet received a report on the Ministerial Roundtable on Natural Diamonds held on July 30, 2025. Additionally, a proposal was approved for the industry to contribute 1% of its rough diamond sales revenue to support marketing efforts to foster economic growth and job creation. She announced legislative priorities, including the submission to Parliament of the Water Services Amendment Bill and the National Water Amendment Bill, which were designed to enhance water management and promote sustainable resource use. The Draft Children's Amendment Bill was also approved for public comment, seeking to strengthen protections against violence, neglect, and exploitation of children. She also stated that the cabinet approved the withdrawal of the South African Airways Soc Limited Bill from Parliament's legislative agenda, citing the collapse of negotiations as the reason for the decision. 'Ensuring legislative clarity moving forward is essential,' Ntshavheni noted. According to Ntshavheni, South Africa is preparing to host the African Union Water Investment Summit in Cape Town from August 13 to 15. 'The summit aims to mobilise investments in water security, climate resilience, and sustainable sanitation, aligning with G20 efforts to increase climate finance flows to developing countries,' she stated. 'We are committed to building a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable South Africa - one that faces challenges head-on and seizes opportunities for all its citizens,' she said. IOL Politics
