Latest news with #GCIS
IOL News
14 hours ago
- Politics
- IOL News
Ramaphosa reaffirms South Africa's stance on Israel and US relations
President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa remains steadfast in its call for an immediate ceasefire, access to humanitarian assistance, an end to the ongoing occupation and the collective punishment of Palestinians. Image: GCIS President Cyril Ramaphosa said South Africa has not received any formal request from the US to reconsider the genocide case against Israel in the International Criminal Court. 'South Africa remains steadfast in its call for an immediate ceasefire, access to humanitarian assistance, an end to the ongoing occupation and the collective punishment of Palestinians,' Ramaphosa said. He was responding to EFF leader Julius Malema, who also asked whether he had received any formal communication from US President Donald Trump indicating that he was now persuaded that there was no white genocide taking place in South Africa. Ramaphosa said the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) communicated with the US Embassy through diplomatic channels following the announcement of Executive Order by Trump in February 2025, which accorded refugee status to white Afrikaner South Africans. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading He also said the department had pointed out that the determination of refugee status required a factual assessment, considering the prevailing circumstances and giving due regard to both subjective and objective factors. 'The department asserted that allegations of discrimination are unfounded and that sufficient structures and systems exist within South Africa to address any concerns that any group may have. Even if there are allegations of discrimination, these do not meet the threshold of persecution required under domestic and international refugee law.' Ramaphosa told EFF MP Nqobile Mhlongo that the official working visit to the United States on May 21, 2025, was aimed at enhancing bilateral relations and promoting South Africa's economic and diplomatic goals. 'The expenses for the visit, which covered travel, accommodation, and logistical support for the government members of the delegation, were borne by the respective government departments. The State did not cover the costs of the other members of the delegation,' he said. He also said Trump and he agreed on the number and composition of the delegation, which included government officials, business and labour leaders, and key stakeholders essential for achieving the visit's objectives. Ramaphosa said the meeting with Trump did not address the discontinuation of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programmes or reparations for descendants of enslaved people. 'The primary objective of the engagement was to reset the bilateral relationship between South Africa and the United States of America,' he said when responding to EFF MP Thapelo Mogale. Meanwhile, International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola has revealed that the Presidential Envoy to the US, Mcebisi Jonas, has yet to travel to the United States of America to undertake his duties there. 'The special envoy is yet to travel to the US on official business,' Lamola said. He was responding to DA MP Emma Powell, who asked for a complete list of all travel to the US undertaken by Jonas, including meeting schedules, costs of travel, and travel dates. Lamalo stated that the sensitive and confidential work of Special Envoys is never publicised. In April, Ramaphosa appointed Jonas with the responsibility to advance South Africa's diplomatic, trade, and bilateral priorities. This was after South African ambassador to the US Ebrahim Rasool was expelled by the US.
IOL News
14 hours ago
- Politics
- IOL News
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
IOL News
16 hours ago
- Business
- IOL News
South Africa and Nigeria strengthen ties through renewed mining cooperation
Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has revealed mining collaborations between South African and Nigeria during her post Cabinet meeting briefing on Thursday. Image: GCIS Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has revealed that South Africa and Nigeria are bolstering their bilateral relationship through high-level talks aimed at boosting trade, investment, and regional cooperation in the mining sectors. "South Africa and Nigeria's cooperation in the oil and gas sector. The Cabinet was apprised of the technical resolutions between South Africa and Nigeria following Minister Gwede Mantashe's visit to Nigeria to discuss cooperation in the mining, oil, and gas sectors as part of the South Africa/Nigeria Bi-National Commission. "Nigeria seeks to develop its mining sector through exploration and production of its vast mineral resources and to leverage South Africa's vast experience in the mining sector. South Africa has an interest in securing oil allocations and liquid petroleum gas from Nigeria, and also to learn from Nigeria's vast experience in oil and gas exploration," she said. On Thursday, Ntshavheni addressed the media following a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, which took various resolutions on some of the country's latest local and international political developments, including the establishment of the commission to investigate police corruption recently announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Ntshavheni indicated that the establishment of this commission is a sign that the government takes the allegations made by KZN Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi very seriously. "The establishment of the commission affirms the president's commitment to use constitutional processes to thoroughly investigate allegations of wrongdoing, uphold the integrity and public trust of institutions, and ensure people are held accountable to the laws of the country," she stated. On crime prevention, the minister welcomed the arrest of illegal miners found in Barberton, Mpumalanga, as well as those who have been arrested for various offences as part of Operation Shanela. "On crime prevention, the Cabinet welcomed the intensified police interventions through Operation Shanela. We saw the arrest of over 70,000 suspects across the country between the 27th of July and the 2nd of August 2025. In Mpumalanga, Operation Vala Umgodi has seen more than 1,000 illegal miners being arrested, while others have been released on bail. Another 50 are appearing today for bail application, and the police have indicated that those who are appearing today have other criminal offences." The minister also announced a new proposal for the diamond industry, which has been looked at to contribute 1% of its revenue to ensure job creation and skills development for the country's youth, while on the budget front, she stated that the country's budget should be tailored to support the country's developmental state objective. "Cabinet has considered a proposal on budget reforms aimed at a budgeting system that supports South Africa's developmental state goals while safeguarding long-term fiscal sustainability. The Cabinet also approved the 2024/29 budget principles and the 2026 NTF guidelines and budget process cuts. This is to avoid the situation that confronted us during the 2025/26 budget process. So, we have principles that will guide that process as part of strengthening the processes of the Government of National Unity. "The South African diamond industry is a significant player within the global diamond and jewellery industry, and it contributes substantially to the national economy. However, the global diamond industry continues to experience extreme challenges due to macroeconomic factors. "Consequently, the government granted budget approvals to the Department of Mineral Resources to participate in international agreements that will enable diamond producers and governments to be better positioned to promote and market natural diamonds globally. "For this to be realised, the government has further approved that the diamond industry be requested to contribute 1 percent of their annual revenues to support marketing of real and original diamonds to enable global growth and job creation," she said.
IOL News
20 hours ago
- Politics
- IOL News
'Zuma has no mandate': SA Government slams use of national flag in Morocco
Minister Ronald Lamola has slammed MK Party leader Jacob Zuma for abusing the South African flag during his meeting in Morocco last month. Image: GCIS The Department of International Relations and Cooperation Minister Romald Lamola has expressed concern to the Kingdom of Morocco over what he described as an 'abuse of the national symbol' following a visit by former president and Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party leader Jacob Zuma. Zuma met with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita in Rabat on July 15, 2025. 'While we recognize and respect Morocco's sovereign right to invite individuals and groups, DIRCO, on behalf of the Government of the Republic of South Africa, strongly protests the use of South African national symbols - in this instance, the South African national flag, during the meeting between Mr Jacob Zuma and the foreign minister of the Kingdom of Morocco,' said Lamola. Zuma, who was accompanied by the MK Party's Head of Presidency, Magasela Mzobe, was photographed alongside Moroccan officials with both South African and Moroccan flags displayed prominently. DIRCO spokesperson Chrispin Phiri said the department viewed this as a breach of diplomatic norms. 'The use of the South African national flag in a meeting with a member of a political party in opposition, which is a non-state actor, constitutes an abuse of existing protocol and decorum and undermines official bilateral relations between the Republic of South Africa and the Kingdom of Morocco.' He added that national symbols such as the flag inherently convey official state endorsement, and their use in such contexts 'elevates the perception of the encounter to that of a state-to-state engagement'. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading 'This characterisation is inconsistent with established diplomatic protocol, as the participants did not represent the official positions or engagements of the South African state.' Phiri stated that South Africa had made it clear to Morocco that such portrayals could not be recognised as official bilateral engagements and that any implications drawn from the meeting were 'firmly rejected'. 'The government of the Republic of South Africa holds the firm view that the use of its national symbols in contexts implying official state endorsement of non-governmental engagements is inappropriate, irrespective of the setting,' he said. 'In the spirit of fostering and maintaining cordial and friendly bilateral relations, and consistent with the fundamental principles of mutual respect between sovereign states and non-interference in internal affairs, South Africa respectfully encourages the Government of the Kingdom of Morocco to refrain from such actions.' He said adherence to these shared principles was essential for the continued development of positive relations between the two countries. Zuma's visit sparked widespread condemnation from political parties, including the ANC. IOL News previously reported that ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula labelled Zuma a 'sellout' for supporting Morocco. The Western Sahara, a sparsely populated desert region on Africa's northwest coast, was formerly a Spanish colony. Morocco annexed the territory in 1975, resulting in a decades-long territorial dispute with the indigenous Sahrawi people, represented by the Polisario Front. 'We, as the ANC, will fight side by side for the self-determination of the Sahrawi people. We are in solidarity with them, and Morocco must stop the occupation of Western Sahara,' said Mbalula. 'Zuma is no messiah. He is a sellout of note. Whatever his reasons, we are not surprised. The decision to steal the assets of the ANC to form a political party, and call it what it is, to divide our people, to weaken the African National Congress for his own personal aggrandisement, is what he has been. History will remember him for that.' Former MK Party secretary-general Floyd Shivambu also criticised Zuma's recognition of Moroccan sovereignty, calling it 'opportunistic' and a departure from the anti-colonial principles of liberation movements. 'This move contradicts our history of supporting oppressed peoples,' Shivambu said in a social media post. Dr David Nyekorach-Matsanga, chair of the Pan African Forum Ltd & Associates, issued a statement condemning Zuma's stance, calling it a 'betrayal of African solidarity' and a violation of African Union (AU) principles. 'Endorsing this occupation equates to endorsing colonialism,' the statement read. 'It dishonours the legacy of the late Muammar Gaddafi, a key defender of the Sahrawi cause. Western Sahara is a recognised member of the AU, and its right to self-determination is protected under Article 20 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights.'
IOL News
a day ago
- Business
- IOL News
Minister Parks Tau to embark on crucial visit to Japan and India amid US tariffs saga
Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau is expected to embark on a working visit to India and Japan. Image: GCIS Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau is expected to undertake a working visit to Japan and India in the coming days, amid South Africa's struggle with the impending 30% tariffs from the United States. The visit aims to strengthen trade relations with these two key economic partners and explore new collaboration opportunities. On Wednesday, department spokesperson Kaamil Alli could not confirm the working visit, stating that nothing had yet been finalised. However, a senior government official confirmed plans for Tau to undertake the trip within the coming day, saying Tau and the Presidency have been in recent talks about the trip, which is now more crucial than ever due to the US tariffs saga. The official noted that Japan's recent deal with US President Donald Trump, which reduced tariffs on Japanese exports, including autos and auto parts, to 15%, is an important lesson for South Africa. South Africa, India, and Japan have enjoyed mutually beneficial relations. Japan is one of South Africa's key economic partners, with significant investments in various sectors, including manufacturing, mining, energy, and automotive, while India is part of BRICS. This will be the second Japanese visit for Tau, who accompanied Deputy President Paul Mashatile, Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen, and International Relations Deputy Minister Thandi Moraka in March. The visit came after the Japanese government extended an invitation to the South African government to cement diplomatic relations between the two countries and explore new collaboration. A senior government official stated that the timing and delegation for Tau's upcoming trip to both countries remain unclear. However, the official emphasised the trip's heightened importance due to the ongoing US tariffs issue. He said after Japan had struck a deal with Trump, it was important that SA take a leaf from them. 'All I know is that the minister (Tau) and the Presidency have been in recent talks about the trip to India and Japan and how to weather this tariffs mess we are under…but it's not only that we have good relations with the country who both have a market here, especially in the motor industry,' the source said. In a recent trade agreement with the US, Japan successfully circumvented 25% tariffs by pledging investments. This deal lowers tariffs on Japanese exports, such as automobiles and automotive components, to 15% in return for Japan's commitment to investments and imports. The US tariffs, expected to kick in on August 8, could put approximately 30,000 jobs at risk in South Africa, according to Tau. He previously said the department had been working frantically to secure a trade deal with the US to avert the tariffs, but so far, no agreement has been reached. The Congress for South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) welcomed the news of the visit, saying the two countries were important to South Africa. 'India and Japan are major global economies and trading partners for South Africa… It's critical that these visits, plus others, are linked to increasing investment in South Africa to unlock growth and jobs and to opening export opportunities for South African companies, in particular agriculture, mining, motor, and other manufacturing sectors. 'Toyota is a major investor here, and we hope to see it and other Japanese companies expand their presence. Similarly for Tata and other Indian companies… Sourcing new export opportunities is key as we navigate the new tariffs announced by the US on South African exporters,' said Cosatu spokesperson Matthew Parks. Political analyst Dr John Molepo said the visit came at a crucial time for South Africa's economy. 'With the US tariffs looming, it is essential for South Africa to strengthen its trade relations with other key partners. He said the visit should yield tangible outcomes that will bolster trade, investment, and diplomatic relations between South Africa and these two countries.
