Minister of Small Business Development (DSBD) Stella Ndabeni, empowers the heartbeat of SA economy
PUBLISHER'S NOTE
As we approach mid-year 2025, we are poised to reflect on the progress made – and the possibilities that still lie ahead. Some of us in our personal and professional space are faced with a growing urgency to fulfil the commitments made in the year’s early promises.
Faced with pressing socio-economic demands and the ever-evolving needs of our communities, it also presents a time for government, the private sector and civil society to align around practical action and enduring impact.
In this edition, we are proud to spotlight public and private sector initiatives that are not only inspiring in their intent, but measurable in their outcomes.
Our front cover feature on the R500 million Spaza Shop Support Fund exemplifies what it means to invest in the beating heart of
township economies. Spearheaded by the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) and supported by the NEF and SEFDA, this initiative is more than a grant – it’s a call to action to formalise, sustain and grow the informal retail sector as a powerful vehicle for job creation and economic inclusion.
As the country prepares for the 2026 local elections, the Electoral Commission reminds us of the importance of trust, technology, and transparency. Their digital registration platform and national consultation on e-voting are quietly transforming how citizens engage with democracy.
As we celebrate Youth Month in June, education and youth development continue to take centre stage in our coverage. Motheo TVET College’s Thusanang House Building Project in the Free State is a remarkable example
of students gaining practical skills while contributing to their community’s built environment. Similarly, the MTN Foundation’s Digital Skills for Digital Jobs programme is changing the narrative around youth unemployment, bridging gaps in access, readiness, and opportunity across underserved communities.
We also profile impactful youth-centred initiatives like bumb’INGOMSO, which is transforming lives in the Eastern Cape through mentorship, health services, and leadership networks, and SOS Children’s Villages, which continues to provide holistic care and job readiness training for youth navigating life without stable parental support.
Urban safety, too, remains top of mind. The South African Cities Network’s latest report shows us that good governance, data-led strategies, and community partnerships can reverse even longstanding crime trends.
Let this issue be both a recognition of how far we’ve come and a motivator to do more – with intention, with collaboration, and with an unwavering focus on building communities that work for all.
Keep safe and enjoy the read!
Warm regards,
Nardine Nelson Publisher & CEO Kweda Media & Communications
42 MOTHEO TVET COLLEGE - Bridging classroom knowledge with real-world experience
46 PETROLEUM AGENCY SA
48 NWU - HONOURING A LEGACY…Desmond Tutu School of Medicine to open in 2028!
49 SOS CHILDREN’S VILLAGES - Youthcan! and Youthlinks programmes
50 ENVIROSAN - Revolutionising water management
52 SERITI GREEN - Ummbila Emoyeni wind energy facility reaches critical milestone
MUNICIPAL NEWS
70 CITY OF TSHWANE
73 KOUGA LOCAL MUNICIPALITY
74 CAPRICORN DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY
76 OR TAMBO DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY
77 GEORGE MUNICIPALITY
78 ETHEKWINI MUNICIPALITY
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Small businesses, particularly spaza shops, have long been the backbone of South Africa's informal economy, especially in townships and rural areas. They are often the only access point for essential goods and services, providing livelihoods for thousands of families. Yet, despite their importance, these businesses face challenges ranging from inadequate infrastructure and limited access to funding, to outdated business practices. In a groundbreaking move aimed at transforming these businesses into key drivers of local economies, the South African government has launched the R500 million Spaza Shop Support Fund.
Officially launched on 8 April 2025, by Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau and Small Business Development Minister Stella Tembisa Ndabeni, the Spaza Shop Support Fund is part of a broader effort to formalise the informal sector and stimulate inclusive economic growth. The fund aims to empower black-owned township convenience stores, including spaza shops, by providing them with the necessary tools, financial support, and training to grow and thrive in an increasingly competitive retail landscape.
This strategic initiative is not only about supporting small businesses but ensuring that they can help build local economies, create jobs, and ultimately reduce poverty in some of the most marginalised communities in South Africa.
The Vision Behind the Fund
The Spaza Shop Support Fund represents a significant step in the government’s efforts to uplift township and rural economies by enabling small, black-owned spaza shops to scale their operations and become pillars of community development. Minister Ndabeni-Abrahams articulated the broader objective of the fund during the official launch, stating, “Government recognises the important role that small businesses, including those operating in rural areas and townships, can play in creating jobs, growing our economy, and alleviating poverty.”
At its core, the fund is designed to formalise and support informal retail businesses, offering both financial and non-financial assistance. The support spans a wide range of needs, >
Minister of Small Business Development (DSBD): Stella Ndabeni
Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC): Parks Tau
from stock acquisition and infrastructure upgrades to training in essential business skills such as digital literacy, customer service, and food safety. These resources will help spaza shop owners formalise their businesses and operate in a manner that is not only compliant with local regulations but also competitive in today’s rapidly evolving retail landscape.
The Key Objectives of the Fund
The Spaza Shop Support Fund is aligned with several critical national priorities, and its objectives go beyond just providing financial assistance. The fund aims to:
Empower Local Entrepreneurs:
The primary goal of the fund is to offer financial assistance to spaza shop owners to enable them to improve their businesses. By providing grants and lowinterest loans, the fund will help spaza shops purchase necessary stock, upgrade infrastructure, and implement modern technologies that can enhance their operations.
Create Jobs and Stimulate Local Economies:
Small businesses, particularly in townships and rural areas, have the potential to create jobs and stimulate local economies. By empowering spaza shop owners, the fund will help generate sustainable employment opportunities, not only within the shops themselves
but also within their broader communities.
Increase Market Competitiveness:
In an era where larger retail chains are increasingly dominating the retail landscape, spaza shops need to become more competitive in order to survive. The fund will help businesses improve their infrastructure, increase access to highquality products, and adopt digital tools such as point-of-sale devices and inventory management systems that will allow them to operate more efficiently and offer better services.
Promote Economic Inclusion:
A key element of the fund is its focus
Package 1: Up to R100,000
on economic inclusion. By targeting spaza shops owned by young entrepreneurs, women, and people with disabilities, the fund seeks to create a more inclusive retail sector that gives marginalised groups the opportunity to participate in the country’s economic development.
Formalise the Informal Economy:
The South African government has long sought to formalise the informal sector, which constitutes a significant portion of the country’s economy. The fund is part of this larger effort, providing businesses with the tools they need to comply with local regulations, pay taxes, and operate legally, ensuring their long-term sustainability.
The first package provides up to R100,000 in financial assistance and is tailored to entrepreneurs who are in the early stages of formalising their businesses. This package includes:
Stock Grant: R40,000 to purchase stock through established delivery partners, enabling spaza shop owners to diversify their inventory and meet customer demand.
Infrastructure and Equipment Support: R50,000, provided as a blend of a grant and low-interest loan, to upgrade the shop’s infrastructure. This includes improvements to refrigeration, shelving, and security systems, which are critical for maintaining product quality and ensuring the safety of the premises.
Training Support: A further R10,000 worth of non-financial support, aimed at providing entrepreneurs with essential business skills such as digital literacy, food safety, point-of-sale device usage, and credit health. This training will empower owners to manage their operations more effectively and with greater efficiency.
"This fund marks another milestone in supporting rural and township economies, recognising the vital role small businesses play in job creation, economic growth, and poverty alleviation."
- Minister of the Department of Small Business Development, Stella Ndabeni
Package 2: Up to R300,000
The second package is designed for businesses that are fully registered and compliant with local laws. This more comprehensive package offers up to R300,000 in financial assistance and includes:
Stock Grant: Up to R40,000 to help with the purchase of initial stock, ensuring that businesses can offer a wide range of products to meet community demand.
Infrastructure and Digital Transformation: A R250,000 blended finance component, which will allow spaza shops to invest in infrastructure upgrades, marketing, and digital tools such as point-of-sale devices, inventory management software, and accounting systems.
Non-Financial Support: R10,000 for implementing efficient stock management, accounting, and payment systems that can help streamline operations and improve profitability. This package also includes logistical support to help reduce costs related to deliveries and warehousing.
How the Fund Works: Financial and Non-Financial Support
The Spaza Shop Support Fund is designed with two key packages that cater to the diverse needs of spaza shop owners at different stages of business development. These packages are aimed at both new and existing businesses that meet the fund’s eligibility criteria.
Through these two packages, the fund provides a balanced approach that addresses the diverse needs of spaza shop owners, ensuring they can improve their infrastructure, scale their operations, and adopt modern business practices that enhance their competitiveness.
Encouraging Local Production and Supply Chain Strengthening
One of the most significant aspects of the Spaza Shop Support Fund is its focus on strengthening the broader supply chain. In addition to providing direct support to spaza shops, the fund seeks to create synergies with local manufacturers, black industrialists, and wholesalers. By fostering partnerships with these key stakeholders, the fund will ensure that spaza shops have access to high-quality products at competitive prices.
“The fund aims to bolster the broader supply chain by fostering partnerships with local manufacturers, black industrialists, and wholesalers,” said Minister Tau. “Through
"This fund is a key part of our strategy to boost local economies, strengthen township businesses, and foster sustainable growth through greater access to resources and training."
-
Minister
of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), Parks Tau
bulk purchasing arrangements and the promotion of locally produced goods, spaza shops will benefit from reduced costs and increased access to quality products.”
The fund’s emphasis on local procurement not only supports the growth of the spaza shops but also contributes to South Africa’s broader industrialisation agenda. By creating a more robust and self-sustaining local retail supply chain, the fund seeks to reduce South Africa’s reliance on imports and stimulate local economic development.
Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
To ensure that the fund reaches the businesses that need it most, there are specific eligibility requirements that applicants must meet. These include:
Ownership: The business must be 100% South African-owned. Foreignowned businesses, even those owned by naturalised citizens, are not eligible unless the owner was naturalised prior to 1994.
Business Location: The spaza shop must operate in South Africa’s townships or rural areas and serve the local community. >
Registration and Compliance: The business must be registered with the local municipality, and owners must comply with local by-laws and licensing requirements. Additionally, businesses must be registered with SARS for income tax and VAT.
Entrepreneurial Focus: The fund will prioritise entrepreneurs aged 18–35, as well as female-owned businesses or those owned by people with disabilities. Entrepreneurs interested in applying for the fund can visit their nearest Small
Enterprise Development Finance Agency (SEDFA) office for assistance or submit applications via the NEF or SEDFA websites. The government has also ensured that there is a streamlined and accessible application process to reduce barriers to entry for potential beneficiaries.
Local Government Support and Future Expansion
While the R500 million allocated for this fund is a significant starting
point, Gauteng Finance and Economic Development MEC, Lebogang Maile, highlighted the need for further contributions to fully achieve the desired outcomes. “R500 million will not be enough,” he said, emphasising the need for local governments to augment this fund and focus on building the productive capacity of the township economy.
Maile’s comments underscore the broader concern that the township economy is currently consumption-based, with little focus on local production. The Township Revitalisation Programme, which began in 2014, has sought to address this issue by focusing on building industrial parks and promoting local manufacturing in townships. According to Maile, the goal is to ensure that the money spent in townships circulates within the local economy and contributes to the creation of sustainable industries.
Conclusion
The launch of the R500 million Spaza Shop Support Fund is a gamechanging development for South Africa’s informal retail sector. By providing targeted financial assistance, infrastructure upgrades, and training, the fund aims to empower spaza shop owners, drive economic growth, and create sustainable jobs in the country’s most underserved communities.
With its focus on inclusivity, local production, and long-term business sustainability, the fund offers an opportunity for entrepreneurs to build more resilient businesses that will contribute not only to their local economies but to the national economy as a whole.
For more information on eligibility and how to apply for the Spaza Shop Support Fund, visit : www.spazashopfund.co.za.
SA PREPARES FOR 2026 LOCAL ELECTIONS
Digital registration advances while e-voting consultation begins for future elections
The Electoral Commission of South Africa has launched comprehensive preparations for the upcoming 2026 Local Government Elections (LGE), emphasising technological innovations to increase voter participation and streamline the electoral process. In a recent update, the Commission presented its strategic roadmap while encouraging both new and existing voters to utilise the online self-voter registration platform to manage their registration status remotely.
ntroduced in 2021, the self-voter registration platform represents a significant milestone in the Commission's efforts to modernise electoral systems and enhance accessibility. This digital innovation has already demonstrated remarkable success in maintaining an accurate and current voters' roll.
Since June last year, the Electoral Commission has engaged with 408 615 voters across its various registration platforms. Of these, more than 258 838 were first-time registrants, with young people comprising the majority of new voters.
Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo highlighted the effectiveness of the online platform: “We urge all eligible South Africans to use this modality to register, and those who are already registered to check and, if necessary, update their address details to ensure that they continue to shape affairs of their communities by participating in by-elections in wards where they are ordinarily resident.”
According to the legal framework governing municipal elections, several critical steps must be completed sequentially to ensure the successful election of local representatives. With ward boundary consultations currently under way, the Electoral Commission anticipates the elections will take place between November 2026 and the end of January 2027.
The electoral timeline is structured as follows:
• Municipal councils serve five-year terms
• Elections must be held within 90 days of the term's conclusion
• The term end date is calculated from the day following the previous general elections
• The current municipal councils were elected on 1 November 2021
• Based on this calculation, the elections must be held between 2 November 2026 and 30 January 2027
The Minister and Members of the Executive Council (MECs) have fulfilled their responsibilities thus far. The delimitation exercise commenced on 3 April 2025, enabling the Municipal Demarcation Board (MDB) to launch public consultations on ward boundaries. This process will culminate with the MDB transferring the finalised ward boundaries to the Commission by the end of October 2025. These wards establish the political boundaries within which the next municipal council elections will be contested. In the corresponding 2021 elections, 4 600 wards were delineated.
Upon receiving the ward boundaries, the Electoral Commission will verify that its network of 23 292 voting districts aligns with the ward structure. Where discrepancies arise due to ward demarcation changes, the Commission will undertake targeted communication and re-registration campaigns to ensure affected voters are registered in their wards of ordinary residence.
Electronic Voting Consultation
The Electoral Commission has initiated a national dialogue regarding electronic voting (e-voting) following a successful three-day e-voting conference in March 2025. This consultative public debate
process will span six months, providing all stakeholders the opportunity to express their perspectives on e-voting. Parliament will subsequently evaluate the feedback and determine the next steps in this gradual, phased approach.
At the conference, the Commission published a discussion document to catalyse nationwide deliberation on the integration of technology in electoral processes.
Key insights from the conference revealed:
• The Commission has not yet committed to adopting e-voting; the conference marked the beginning of comprehensive national consultations on the matter. The decision, which profoundly impacts citizens' voting experience, extends beyond the Commission's purview.
• Elections function within a broader ecosystem, requiring the Commission to carefully consider environmental and contextual factors rather than acting in isolation.
• Public trust is fundamental to the successful implementation of e-voting, necessitating an accessible and inclusive consultation process.
• Any solution adopted must address existing inefficiencies rather than perpetuating them, ultimately enhancing the experience for voters and other stakeholders.
Stakeholders wishing to contribute to the consultation can find the document at www.elections.org.za, and submit their input via email to evoting@elections.org.za with the subject “E-Voting Consultation”.
The Electoral Commission emphasises its commitment to transparency
throughout any advancement of the voting process, ensuring that any proposed e-voting system will meet or exceed the reliability and security standards of the current paper-based system.
Preparing for Democracy's Future
As South Africa moves toward the 2026 Local Government Elections, the Electoral Commission continues to enhance digital registration while separately laying groundwork for possible electronic voting in future electoral cycles. While the 2026 elections will maintain the established paper-based voting system, the ongoing consultation about e-voting represents a significant forward-thinking approach to democratic participation for elections beyond 2026.
The digital registration innovations already implemented, combined with respect for established democratic principles, aim to increase accessibility while maintaining the integrity that South African voters have come to expect. The coming months will be crucial as ward boundaries are finalised and voter education campaigns intensify, ultimately working toward elections that are both technologically supported and truly representative of local communities' needs and aspirations.
2026 LOCAL ELECTIONS AT A GLANCE
• Election Window: 2 Nov 2026 – 30 Jan 2027
• Ward Boundary Consultations: Finalised by Oct 2025
• Digital Voter Registration: 408 000+ registrations 258 000+ are first-time voters Youth leading the way
• E-Voting Update: Public consultations underway No final decision has been taken Have your say: evoting@elections.org.za
TURNING THE TIDE: MUNICIPAL STRATEGIES FOR SAFER SOUTH AFRICAN CITIES
The 2024 State of Urban Safety in South Africa report, released by the South African Cities Network (SACN), paints a complex yet actionable picture of urban crime in the country’s largest cities.
While the data reveals persistent and in some cases worsening trends in violent crime, it also highlights examples of municipal resilience, good governance, and collaborative efforts that offer a pathway toward safer, more inclusive cities.
Compiled from police data, local inputs, and the Urban Safety Reference Group (USRG), the report focuses on eight metropolitan municipalities and select secondary cities, drawing on evidence from the 2022–2024 period. For municipal leaders, it serves not only as a diagnostic tool but also as a call to action grounded in data and experience.
Urban Crime: A Concentrated Crisis
Urban areas account for the overwhelming majority of serious
crimes in South Africa. According to the report, approximately 75% of vehicle-related crimes and 55% of residential robberies take place in cities - not because cities are inherently dangerous, but because they concentrate populations, mobility, and economic activity. Cities like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Nelson Mandela Bay are disproportionately affected by violent crime, with murder rates well above national averages.
The concentration of crime in urban areas highlights the need for municipal governments to develop integrated safety plans that go beyond law enforcement. Urban crime, particularly
interpersonal violence, is often rooted in socio-economic inequalities, spatial exclusion, and weak local governance.
Rising Violence: Murder Rates and Risk Factors
Among the most sobering statistics in the 2024 report are the long-term increases in murder rates across several metros. Over an 18-year period:
• Cape Town’s murder rate rose by 20%.
• Msunduzi (Pietermaritzburg) experienced a 46% increase.
• Nelson Mandela Bay recorded a 67% surge.
These numbers are not just figures
- they reflect the lived reality of communities grappling with instability, under-resourced services, and high levels of trauma. The report emphasises that these patterns are closely linked to entrenched spatial inequality and the enduring legacy of apartheid planning, where informal settlements and townships remain under-serviced and disconnected from opportunity.
Urban
safety isn’t just a policing issue - it’s a municipal responsibility that starts with good governance, spatial inclusion, and community partnership.
Tshwane’s Turnaround: A Case Study in Improvement
Despite the concerning trends elsewhere, the City of Tshwane stands out as a relative success story. According to the report, Tshwane is now considered the safest metro in South Africa. The city has shown notable progress in reducing contact crimes and maintaining relative stability in murder and assault rates. This positive shift is attributed to a combination of factors:
• Political stability and effective interdepartmental coordination.
• Innovative local policing strategies such as data-driven deployments.
• Community outreach and urban revitalisation programmes, especially in crime-prone zones.
Tshwane’s case demonstrates that good municipal governanceparticularly where it enhances basic service delivery and addresses community needs - can directly influence public safety outcomes.
The Role of the Urban Safety Reference Group
Established as a knowledgeexchange platform, the Urban Safety Reference Group (USRG) plays a vital role in equipping cities with tools, policy guidance, and peer learning opportunities. Over the 2022-2024
period, the USRG helped to promote collaboration across municipalities and encouraged cities to integrate safety into broader urban planning frameworks.
Through USRG-led initiatives, cities have begun adopting more evidencebased approaches, shifting from reactive policing to prevention-focused models. These include:
• Safer cities audits and hotspot mapping.
• Cross-sectoral forums involving local police, community leaders, and planners.
• Data sharing agreements and performance tracking.
Such coordinated responses are essential for addressing the multi-layered nature of urban crime.
Pathways for Municipal Action
Drawing from the report’s findings, the following strategies are recommended for municipalities:
Localised Safety Strategies
Municipalities should develop or update integrated community safety plans aligned with developmental goals. This includes investing in urban design that promotes safety - such as lighting, access control, and visible public infrastructure.
Violence Prevention
Through
Urban Upgrading
Crime prevention must include spatial transformation. Upgrading informal settlements, improving public transport, and ensuring access to economic opportunities are longterm but vital levers for safer cities.
Targeted Youth Programmes
With youth often both perpetrators and victims of violence, municipalities can partner with NGOs and educational bodies to provide after-school programmes, mentorship, and pathways to employment. >
Leveraging Technology and Data
Several cities are beginning to harness GIS-based crime mapping, CCTV networks, and predictive tools to guide the allocation of law enforcement resources more efficiently. Investment in these systems should be scaled up.
Community Engagement
Trust between communities and local government is essential. Municipal leaders must actively engage residents in identifying risks and co-producing solutions. Community safety forums, when well-resourced, can become vital intelligence sources and catalysts for grassroots mobilisation.
Good News Deserves the Spotlight
While the report doesn’t shy away from exposing challenges, it is equally deliberate in celebrating progress:
• Tshwane is proof that strategic coordination yields real results.
• eThekwini, despite challenges, has shown success in piloting community-based safety initiatives in targeted wards.
• Mangaung has implemented municipal policing reforms and precinct-level safety audits, building institutional capacity.
These examples show that crime is not inevitable, and that municipalities have the tools - when guided by evidence and supported by collaborationto turn the tide.
Conclusion: From Analysis to Action
The 2024 State of Urban Safety in South Africa report is more than a statistical update. It is a tool for reflection, a framework for planning, and a challenge to municipal leadership. It calls on local governments to
strengthen the “whole-of-society” approach - where urban planning, social development, and justice systems work together to address crime and its root causes. As South Africa confronts deepening urban inequality, the role of municipalities has never been more critical. This report makes it clear: safer cities are possible, but only through proactive leadership, inclusive planning, and unwavering community partnership.
Urban SnapshotSafety
Key Stats & Shifts from the 2024 SACN Report
• 75% of vehicle thefts & hijackings happen in SA cities
• 55% of home robberies are in urban areas
• Murder up by 67% in Nelson Mandela Bay (2005–2023)
• Tshwane named SA’s safest metro
• USRG driving innovation & collaboration across cities
• Urban inequality remains a key risk factor
• Data-led policing & community partnerships show results
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Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO)
National Artisan Moderation Body (NAMB)
B-BBEE level 2
The Lesedi Skills Academy (LSA) is the brainchild of Lesedi Nuclear Services. Lesedi (a majority shareholder in the academy) is a leading African engineering, procurement and construction (EPC), and maintenance company with a long history in nuclear, industrial power, mining, oil and gas industries. The Lesedi Skills Academy, a private training provider and an EME (75% BO; 42,62% BFO), opened its doors in 2015.
The Academy provides skills development and training (Mechanical Fitting, Boilermaking & Basic Welding), allowing young people, and previously disadvantaged individuals to enter the formal job market. Through focused quality training, employed and unemployed learners are provided with the knowledge and skills to progress in the Engineering and related fields.
ROMPCO’S MOBILE SCIENCE LAB AND VACATION CAMPS
INSPIRE
FUTURE STEM LEADERS
In Mpumalanga’s Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality, the Republic of Mozambique Pipeline Investments Company (ROMPCO) is transforming education for students in the Badplaas community. Through its mobile science laboratory and vacation camps, ROMPCO provides hands-on learning experiences, inspiring students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
For many students in underprivileged areas, science is often taught as theory rather than through practical experience. ROMPCO’s mobile science lab changes this by bringing fully equipped, interactive science experiments directly to local schools. “Our mobile laboratory has significantly increased student engagement in science,” says Chuma Mxo, ROMPCO’s Branding, Communications & CSI Manager. “By offering practical exposure, we’re making science more accessible and enjoyable.”
The impact is evident, with a notable increase in student participation in STEM subjects. Zwelakhe Madonsela from Osizweni Science Centre explains that from 2020 to 2023, participation in science has grown significantly, with one learner winning an SVP Award as the top achiever in 2022. “This shows the mobile lab’s role in transforming education,” Madonsela adds.
ROMPCO’s mobile science lab now serves over 1,400 learners across ten secondary schools, providing hands-on experiences in subjects like physical science, chemistry, and mathematics. Mrs. QD Segage, Head of Department for Commercial Subjects, highlights the lab’s value: “It moves between schools, allowing science teachers to conduct practicals, improving understanding and building confidence in these critical subjects.”
By combining mobile labs with intensive vacation camps, we’re making science tangible for learners while investing in communities - inspiring future innovators where it matters most.”
ROMPCO’s vacation camps complement the mobile lab by offering students an opportunity for intensive learning during school holidays. Held at Queen’s River Resort, these five-day camps offer extra tuition and motivational talks. “We bring together 215 learners from ten schools for each camp, guided by top educators,” says Professor Rufus Wesi, General Manager at Osizweni Science Centre. “These camps provide both academic support and inspiration.”
ROMPCO’s commitment to education underscores the power of corporate social investment. By collaborating with local schools and educators, ROMPCO is not only improving academic performance but also fostering future STEM leaders. “The private sector has a vital role to play in promoting a culture of learning,” says Mxo. “By working with schools, we can inspire curiosity and equip students with the knowledge they need to thrive in a technology-driven world.”
ROMPCO’s initiatives are a call to other businesses to invest in education, helping empower communities and contribute to a brighter future for South Africa’s youth. “The next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators starts in today’s classrooms,” concludes Mxo.
South Africa’s start-up growth path is to scale globally
How innovation, adaptability, and vision are reshaping our economy
By Tshepo Phetla | Head of Business Development, Telkom
The Future Is Global
South Africa’s next big economic leap will be driven by startups that think globally from day one. It’s time to shake off outdated business models and embrace a new era of agile, adaptable entrepreneurship
Initiatives like Telkom’s FutureMakers Programme are leading the way - arming entrepreneurs with the tools, mindset, and networks to scale smart, and scale global
Stories of Impact
Merrigo Technologies
• Born in the townships, built for the continent
• Solves last - mile logistics in underserved areas
• Now in talks with major retail partners thanks to FutureMakers
“We saw a problem - and pivoted fast. That’s how Merrigo was born.”
Think Beyond the Business Plan
Forget rigid business plans. Modern entrepreneurs thrive on adaptability. As Prof. Saras Sarasvathy puts it, success lies in using what you have - your skills, your network, your story
“Start with who you are, what you know, and whom you know.”
Zaka Finance
• Fintech for the unbanked and informal sector
• A neobank that gives people financial identities
• From spaza shops to shaping the future of township banking “FutureMakers helped me turn an idea into a solution.”
All RSA
• Online marketplace for locally made workwear
• Uses geo-location to cut delivery costs and boost local sale
• Creating jobs for youth - including founder Tyrone Gordon’s own children
“We’re reducing imports by building a proudly South African brand.”
Real Results, Real Impact
In 2024 alone, Telkom’s FutureMakers supported 428 SMEs
R399 million in revenue
69,500 jobs sustained
Connecting South Africa to the World
229,350 lives impacted
Through platforms like the UK - SA Tech Hub, Telkom is bridging the gap between local innovation and global investment. To compete globally, we must:
Break red tape Embrace innovation Strengthen global partnerships
Let’s back our entrepreneurs. Let’s build globally scalable businesses from our townships to the world stage.
South Africa’s start-up future isn’t local - it’s global. Are you ready to scale?
Think global
Indeed, global scalability is a key Telkom focus area – achieved through platforms like the UK-SA Tech Hub, which unites entrepreneurs, ecosystem partners, policymakers and thought leaders. The UK-SA Tech Hub is a UK government initiative that drives digital inclusion and growth by stimulating local economies, building digital skills and fostering international tech partnerships
South Africa must up its game to stay competitive in developing entrepreneurs and small businesses. We must remove barriers, embrace innovation and strengthen ties with global investors and entrepreneurs. There is massive potential for us to reignite the start-up sector to where – like our European and US counterparts – our small businesses contribute to 90% of all jobs
DIGITAL INCLUSION: STRENGTHENING LOCAL GOVERNANCE AND SERVICE DELIVERY
As digital tools become increasingly central to local government operations, digital inclusion must become a non-negotiable. It is the thread that connects innovation to impact, and policy to people. Municipalities that lead with inclusion - ensuring that services are designed for access, not just efficiency - will not only improve delivery, but also deepen trust and participation in the years ahead.
As municipalities across South Africa embrace digital transformation, one reality becomes increasingly clear: the full promise of digital service delivery can only be realised when all residents are included. Digital inclusion - the ability of individuals and communities to access and use digital technologies effectively, is not just a social imperative, it is a governance necessity.
For local government, the shift to digital platforms has introduced new efficiencies. Online billing systems, GISbased infrastructure mapping, WhatsApp chatbots, mobile apps, and data dashboards now help streamline service delivery and improve responsiveness. Yet these systems only succeed when the people they serve are empowered to use them.
Closing the Access Gap
Despite this progress, a significant digital divide persists. Many residents in rural areas, informal settlements, and lowincome communities still lack access to affordable data, devices, and digital skills. For these communities, online platforms
remain out of reach and so too do the benefits of digitised service delivery.
A municipality may launch a smart reporting app or an online housing registration system but if large portions of the community are unable to access or navigate it, the service risks deepening exclusion rather than solving it.
Municipalities must therefore see digital inclusion not as a separate issue, but as a foundational part of service planning and delivery. If inclusion is not prioritised from the outset, digital projects may fail to reach their intended impact.
Resourcing Digital Inclusion
Practical solutions do exist. Some municipalities have made strides by introducing free Wi-Fi hotspots in hightraffic public areas, enabling residents to access e-services without incurring data costs. Others are establishing digital help desks in community centres or libraries where residents can get assistance with online forms or account queries.
Importantly, partnerships with national and provincial departments, private
companies, and development agencies can amplify these efforts. Digital literacy training for youth, device donation schemes, and support for mobile-friendly platforms all contribute to inclusive progress.
Planning for digital inclusion means understanding where the gaps are and allocating people, platforms, and support where they’re needed most. Inclusion cannot be an afterthought; it must be integrated into municipal ICT strategies, public participation processes, and community development plans.
Unlocking the Value of Participation
One of the most overlooked benefits of digital inclusion is its power to strengthen democracy. When residents can access information, submit complaints, attend virtual consultations, and track municipal performance online, they become active participants in governance not just passive recipients of services.
This participation strengthens transparency, boosts accountability, and helps build public trust all of which are essential for municipalities working to improve audit outcomes and community relations.
In short, digital tools do more than modernise operations they can transform relationships between municipalities and the communities they serve. But only if everyone can log on.
changing lives,one young person at a time!
In the heart of South Africa’s Eastern Cape, a powerful partnership is changing lives of young people - giving them tools, support, and confidence they need to protect themselves from HIV and build a healthier future.
bumb’INGOMSO , a dynamic youth development initiative, has since 2017 been rolling out innovative, youth-centred prevention programmes for young people at Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM) and parts of Amathole District.
The initiative works in a consortium with Small Projects Foundation, Beyond Zero, Masimanyane Women’s Rights International and Masibumbane Development Organisation, who are experts in the fields of community development, health, gender-based violence and education.
This partnership not only brings critical resources and expertise to the region, but also amplifies the voices and potential of young people in shaping healthier futures. Through education, empowerment, and access to services, this joint effort is turning the tide on HIV and AIDS at BCMM.
"Through education, empowerment, and access to services, bumb’INGOMSO is helping young people shape healthier, more hopeful futures."
Nokuthula Futwa, Project Director, bumb’INGOMSO
Project Director: Nokuthula Futwa
Addressing Root Causes and Building Resilience
Recognising the deeply rooted social and structural drivers of HIV – including poverty, gender-based violence, unemployment aggravated by unemployability, and limited access to quality education and healthcareBI has been implementing a unique, integrated project model to address various aspects of young people's needs, particularly those of adolescent girls and young women.
Key components of this model include facilitating access to the muchneeded youth friendly health services, information and links to available economic opportunities, social behaviour change communication, gender-based violence awareness, psychosocial support and shaping equal gender norms.
The approach is inspirational and intentional, motivating young people to believe that imminent possibilities are within reach, and supporting them to make healthy choices to reach their goals. It is also about igniting a sense of purpose and belonging among young people, inspiring them to want to be more than their current circumstances. bumb’INGOMSO believes that a positive mindset, coupled with ongoing empowerment, support and access to services and opportunities can shift both conscious and sub-conscious decision-making and behaviour.
Leadership Networks and Access to Services
As part of the programme, bumb’INGOMSO set out to build a leadership network which to date boasts a membership of 56 435 young people. These young people have participated in various behaviour change communication programmes through clubs, leadership network meetings, leadership workshops and debate leagues.
Over 423 clubs have been formed with about 10 young people per club. Close to 800 young people participate in debates annually and about 20 000 young people participate in workshops in various schools and communities annually.
BI also provides support services for young people through a toll-free call centre staffed by professional social workers, who are available to assist when support is needed. In addition, the Lingomso Youth Centre, located in Mdantsane, is
a safe space and a one-stop shop for young people needing internet connectivity to complete school assignments, access to sexual and reproductive health services, receive career guidance, and apply for higher education and job opportunities.
As young people gain knowledge and confidence, BI believes that it is important that they are able to access the services they need, be it information, health services, justice or education. That is why BI embarked on a process to strengthen response
Sanelisiwe Tshengwa
mechanisms, such as health and justice services, and to provide support through the BI call centre.
Recognising the importance of economic independence for young women, BI provides support at various levels - community, high schools and TVET colleges. The aim of these initiatives is to enhance young people’s opportunities to stay in education, gain their qualifications, and access employment opportunities.
"bumb’INGOMSO helped me find my footing in life; it made me understand myself deeply and identify what I wanted to do with my life."
- Sanelisiwe Tshengwa
Acknowledging that there are existing government structures, many of BI’s initiatives are implemented in collaboration with government departmentsHealth, Education, Justice, Social Development, and lately the Department of Labour, in line with government policies such as the National Adolescent and Youth Policy. All materials used for training in schools are in line with the comprehensive sexuality education programme implemented by the Department of Education.
Our model is centred around young people as leaders and innovators able to respond to the challenges they face in their lives. This is evident in the many projects that young people undertake as part of clubs within the leadership network - from taking care of their environment, to running/taking part in cleaning and recycling campaigns, addressing food insecurity through food gardens, taking care of vulnerable members in their communities, and advocating for services.
Inspiring Success: Sanelisiwe Tshengwa’s Journey
One young person who made a success of her life against all odds is Sanelisiwe Tshengwa (26), currently a Master's student at the University of the Western Cape, with an immediate plan to pursue her PhD. Tshengwa speaks highly of the key role bumb'INGOMSO played in shaping the person she is today!
“It was 2017 when I was in some kind of a gap year, my sister introduced me to bumb’INGOMSO, and my life has never been the same. I was young and not really thinking about what to make of the future. bumb’INGOMSO helped me find my footing in life; it made me understand myself deeply in such a way that I identified what I wanted to do with my life, and I became very clear about my shortand long-term goals, and the steps I needed to take to get there.
Above everything, Tshengwa says bumb’INGOMSO taught her the importance of connectedness with other peers who are navigating the same challenges in life. “I was quite a socially anxious person growing up, but through bumb’INGOMSO I overcame that. I learned how to interact with peers and how to reach out when I need help - that’s the power of sisterhood. The call centre and professional social workers were always there for everyone who needed support anytime - that was great!”
This is one of many great stories of how BI helps young people find purpose, self-identity, and the drive to change their circumstances and achieve great things in life.
youth empowerment, self-leadership, and agency. Nokuthula FutwaProject Director of bumb’INGOMSO - firmly believes that young people should lead conversations about matters that affect their lives and be part of decisions and solutions to their challenges.
“What has inspired me in this work is to see the light that shines through when a young person feels inspired, gets excited about their life and the possibilities. Our work with young people over the years has taught us that young people want to be heard and to be recognised, just like everybody else. Small efforts to sit and listen, engage in dialogue, and challenge them to reach for more, have seen many young people inspired to go for their dreams, which sometimes meant going back to school, just like Sanelisiwe."
“As we look to the future, we are coming to the end of the huge funding that had afforded us the opportunity to reach large numbers of young people with good quality services. Although the funding is coming to an end, the need is still here, and many young people and their families have come to rely on the availability of various bumb’INGOMSO initiatives in their schools, communities, or health facilities. We simply cannot close our door; we have to be innovative, do more with less, and build on existing networks - but the work has to continue,” Futwa concludes.
The Visionary Leadership Behind bumb’INGOMSO Behind the scenes, at the helm of the BI strategic direction, are visionary women who are passionate about
AECOM DRIVES CLIMATE RESILIENCE AND BIODIVERSITY ACTION FOR EARTH DAY 2025
As Earth Day 2025 shines a global spotlight on the theme ‘Our Power, Our Planet’, infrastructure consultancy AECOM has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability, climate resilience and environmental stewardship in South Africa and across the globe.
“We harness the power of innovation, engineering and collaboration to develop solutions that protect ecosystems, reduce emissions and enhance climate resilience. Our work in renewable energy, biodiversity conservation and climate adaptation reflects a deep commitment to using our expertise to drive global sustainability,” comments Nicole Bates, Associate Environmental Scientist at AECOM.
Sustainable Legacies strategy
At the core of AECOM’s approach is its Sustainable Legacies strategy, ensuring climate resilience is embedded across all projects. In South Africa and beyond, AECOM actively supports clients with climate risk assessments, integrating nature-based solutions into infrastructure and advancing decarbonisation strategies to reduce emissions. In addition, it focuses on social equity and resilience, ensuring that infrastructure development benefits communities most vulnerable to climate change.
Nicole Bates: Associate Environmental Scientist at AECOM
“Through our Sustainable Legacies strategy, we take a holistic approach to evaluating the impact of our operations and client work on biodiversity. This comprehensive assessment extends far beyond carbon emissions, focusing on broader ecosystem health and long-term environmental sustainability,” says Bates.
AECOM is actively supporting biodiversity conservation and ecosystem protection
through a range of comprehensive initiatives embedded in its projects and business strategy. At the core of this approach is a formalised biodiversity commitment, with a CEO-signed statement that aligns with the Global Biodiversity Framework and commits the consultancy to reversing nature loss by 2030.
Leading the clean energy transition
AECOM leads the clean energy transition by integrating solar,
wind and other renewable energy solutions into projects worldwide. Its engineers apply cutting-edge design techniques to optimise energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprints. It also works closely with clients on grid modernisation, energy storage and smart city solutions, ensuring infrastructure can support a sustainable, lowcarbon future.
An example is AECOM’s work on a large project in Saudi Arabia, where it has shaped sustainability standards for a futuristic, net-zero
city. It has also led coastal resilience projects that protect vulnerable shorelines from rising sea levels and extreme weather. In South Africa, AECOM has worked on infrastructure projects that integrate green building standards and enhance climate resilience through smart urban planning.
Climate resilience risk assessment
“Climate resilience is built into our risk assessments, project planning and engineering designs from the start. We incorporate flood protection, extreme weather adaptation and nature-based solutions into urban infrastructure to ensure long-term sustainability. Our data-driven approach helps cities and businesses anticipate and mitigate climate risks, safeguarding communities and assets against future climate-related disruptions,” explains Bates.
“We provide decarbonisation strategies, energy transition planning and carbon footprint assessments to help clients meet their ambitious net-zero targets,” she adds. AECOM’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) advisory team works with organisations to develop low-carbon infrastructure, optimise energy efficiency and implement circular economy principles, ensuring a smooth and achievable path to net zero.
ESG advisory practice
AECOM’s growing ESG advisory practice now includes specialists in nature-based solutions, ensuring that our projects incorporate sustainable, ecosystem-friendly designs. It goes beyond traditional project planning by embedding biodiversity and nature conservation considerations as fundamental elements rather than afterthoughts in urban development and infrastructure projects.
Now more than ever, social equity, community engagement and social value are at the heart of infrastructure projects, city planning, and urban regeneration. In many cases, they are the driving force behind decision-
making. “Resilience and adaptation should be priorities from the outset, not afterthoughts,” says Bates.
Local community support
Key priorities such as affordable housing, disaster preparedness, accessible healthcare and education and the preservation of green spaces require a comprehensive approach. By leveraging data, nature-based solutions and strong partnerships between governments and the private sector, AECOM aims to build long-term resilience and community support.
One of the biggest challenges in promoting sustainability is ensuring that projects align with the highest global standards while considering local environmental regulations and expectations. This can be especially complex when working in diverse regions with varying legal frameworks and environmental priorities. “Ultimately, I believe that collaboration, both internally and with our clients, is key to overcoming these challenges and driving meaningful sustainability outcomes in the infrastructure sector.”
Codes and standards
AECOM addresses these challenges by integrating sustainability into every part of its process. It has developed codes and standards to ensure that every project, whether local or international, meets rigorous environmental sustainability benchmarks. This includes everything from setting up sustainability monitoring systems on the ground to establishing strong partnerships with clients and stakeholders, ensuring that the right environmental practices are followed at every stage of the project lifecycle.
“We make strategic investments that positively impact both communities and ecosystems, assisting in protecting natural habitats while simultaneously supporting sustainable development. We are committed to ensuring that our work complies with evolving biodiversity regulations and best practices, positioning our projects to meet and often exceed global conservation expectations,” says Bates.
Preserving
biodiversity
By implementing these multifaceted efforts, AECOM is not only preserving biodiversity but is also fostering resilient ecosystems capable of thriving in the face of climate change and ongoing human development. Its approach demonstrates a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable progress.
“We believe sustainability is a responsibility and an opportunity to shape a better future. By combining engineering excellence, digital innovation and deep environmental expertise, we are helping to build resilient, low-carbon and naturepositive solutions that will benefit generations to come. Sustainability is at the core of what we do. We are proud to work alongside our clients and partners to drive meaningful change worldwide,” concludes Bates. >
About AECOM
AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings.
Our teams partner with publicand private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle - from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2024. Learn more at aecom.com.
RENEWABLE ENERGY IS KEY TO IMPLATS’ DECARBONISATION AMBITIONS
Energy and climate change are deeply interconnected. The energy sector plays a pivotal role in both driving and mitigating climate change. Weather patterns are shifting, prompting the need to accelerate the global journey to decarbonisation.
Impala Platinum Holding Limited (Implats), a leading platinum group metals producer, is uniquely positioned to have a long-lasting and positive impact on a global and local scale - we produce the metals critical to ensuring a low-carbon transition and we assist local communities to build resilience against climate change.
While our metals are needed for the global transition from fossil fuels to greener technologies, we also ensure that our mining and processing activities are conducted in an environmentally and socially acceptable way. Implats is decarbonising its operations to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, with a shortterm target to reduce carbon emissions by 30% by 2030, against 2019 as a base year.
Electricity
supply shift
A key focus of the Implats Group’s energy strategy is to strengthen the security of electricity supply in South Africa, reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and long-term input costs, by integrating renewable electricity into its electricity
supply options. Our energy activities include site-based projects and strategic contracts to deliver renewable energy at our operations, shifting our grid electricity supply to renewable electricity.
Latest reports indicate that some 17% of South Africa’s grid electricity is from renewables. Grid-based renewable electricity supply is classified as locationbased, while our projects and strategic contracts are market-based. By the end of FY2024, total renewable electricity accounted for 37% of our total electricity consumption (2023: 30%), with market instruments accounting for 53% of our renewable electricity mix. This marked a historic cross-over point for Implats.
A pipeline of renewable energy projects
To further bolster our energy initiatives, in January Implats signed a five-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with Discovery Green to supply wheeled renewable electricity to its Impala Refineries operation, which is based in Springs, east of Johannesburg. The strategic renewable electricity contract will significantly reduce Impala Refineries’ Scope 2 GHG emissionsby more than 852 000 tonnes CO2e over the initial five-year period of the PPA - and yield cost savings.
We also continue to develop a
pipeline of projects towards our 2030 decarbonisation targets. At Impala Rustenburg in the North West province, we completed a bankable feasibility study for a 140MW solar project which will generate some 9% (319 000MWh) of the site’s electricity needs and reduce our carbon emissions by approximately 344 000tCO2e per year. At our Marula operation in Limpopo, we have completed a bankable feasibility study for a 30MW solar project at the site, which will generate some 30% (70 000MWh) of green electricity and reduce our carbon emissions by approximately 74 000tCO2e per year. The Group has also already implemented several rooftop solar solutions (<1MW) at our South African operations.
Further afield, we completed construction of a US$37 million, 35MW solar photovoltaic plant at Zimplats, the first of such scale in our Group and the first and largest utility scale solar power plant in Zimbabwe. The second phase at Zimplats, a 45MW solar project, has been approved by the board and once completed will generate about 103 000MWh of green electricity and reduce our carbon emissions by some 64 000tCO2e per year.
Looking ahead, in our energy and decarbonisation policy, we have committed to at least a 30% renewable energy mix for all new mines.
Creating a better future
POWERING SOUTH AFRICA’S FUTURE: CONLOG LEADS NATIONAL SMART METER ROLLOUT
Conlog, South Africa’s leading smart metering OEM, has secured the RT29-2024 contract from National Treasury - a major milestone in the effort of modernising the country’s utility infrastructure. This three-year national contract brings advanced smart metering solutions to municipalities across the country, with the aim of improving service delivery, strengthening revenue management and
With the utility sector facing ongoing challenges - from load shedding to massive, mounting municipal debt - this rollout couldn’t come at a more critical time.
Smart Meters on the Ground: Where the rollout has begun
Implementation is already underway in key municipalities. So far, 6,750 meters have been installed in Dihlabeng (Free State), and 13,500 in Emalahleni (Mpumalanga). These numbers are just the beginning, with installations set to increase steadily as more municipalities
Each new meter represents more than just a hardware upgrade - it’s a step toward smarter energy usage, better control for consumers and much-needed financial support for municipalities.
Built for Real Impact: What smart metering delivers
Conlog’s smart meters under the RT29 contract deliver tangible benefits to both municipalities and residents.
Key features include:
Accurate billing - No more estimated readings; customers are charged only for what they use
l-time usage visibility - Consumers can monitor and manage energy consumption with confidence
Tamper detection and theft reduction - Improved security helps ensure fair usage across the board
Advanced load management - Municipalities gain better control over demand, helping reduce the risk of load shedding
Improved revenue collection - Municipalities can track and recover revenue more effectively
Why Smart Metering Matters
• Boosts Municipal Revenue: Helps recover millions in unpaid bills and strengthens financial sustainability.
• Empowers Residents: Real-time usage insights give consumers more control over electricity spend.
• Built for South Africa: Locally designed APEX meters are tough, secure, and smart-grid ready.
• Jobs & Skills: Supports local manufacturing, contractor training, and municipal capacity.
A Smarter, More Sustainable Energy Landscape
These benefits go beyond convenience. With municipal debt to Eskom reaching R58.5 billion and unpaid customer bills at R348 billion, effective metering is critical. Early results already show promise - this rollout is generating over R5 million in additional revenue for municipalities each month.
The Technology at the Core: Meet the APEX smart meter
Driving this transformation is Conlog’s APEX smart meter - a locally designed, globally certified solution built for the real-world challenges of South African infrastructure. The APEX series, including the iDM.APEX1R and iDM.APEX3R models, offer:
• Cellular connectivity - Enabling real-time data monitoring and faster response times
• IoT-enabled architecture - Seamless integration with modern grid management systems
• Multi-layer security and compliance - Meeting stringent international standards
• User-friendly interfaces - Making it easier for consumers to access and understand their usage.
These meters don’t just collect data - they empower users and utilities to make smarter decisions, reduce waste, and improve overall service reliability.
Designed and Manufactured in South Africa, for South Africa
Conlog’s success with the RT29 tender goes far beyond the technology itself. As a proudly South African company headquartered in Durban, Conlog is deeply committed to local manufacturing, skills development and economic transformation.
Its meters are engineered to perform in harsh local conditions and are produced locally - supporting job creation and industrial growth. The company also runs training programmes to equip contractors and municipal staff with the knowledge they need to implement and maintain these systems effectively.
“We’ve created jobs, and we have the opportunity to create even more through this panel,” said Moodley. “Our technology addresses both the technical demands of energy management and the economic needs of the sector.”
The RT29 contract represents more than a procurement win - it marks the beginning of a smarter, more responsive utility future for South Africa. By blending advanced technology with a people-first approach, Conlog is laying the groundwork for greater transparency, improved service, and financial sustainability across the board.
For municipalities and consumers alike, this smart metering rollout signals a new era in energy and water management: one defined by control, efficiency and long-term resilience.
Want to Learn More?
For more information on Conlog’s smart metering solutions and the RT29 rollout, contact us at RT29@conlog.com or visit Conlog’s website.
Want a bank that’s serious about public sector growth?
Nedbank is committed to being the business banking partner for the public sector. Our bigger-picture approach to banking is designed to provide groundbreaking solutions for your municipality. With the expertise and knowledge of our community specialists, we can ensure continuity, accessibility and quick decision-making that guides your business growth.
Think bigger. Think Nedbank Commercial Banking. For more information email us at publicsector@nedbank.co.za.
Nedbank’s Public Sector Team delivers bespoke solutions to strengthen municipal and SOE finances and drive infrastructure investment.
Nedbank Commercial Banking’s Public Sector Team, led by experienced banker Monei Seleho, provides a comprehensive suite of innovative financial solutions to public sector clients including provincial and local government, as well as technical, vocational, education and training (TVET) colleges.
Working with Monei is a team of seasoned bankers with a wealth of experience in the public sector and who are based across the main regions of the country. They are committed and actively involved in community and enterprise development, which are initiatives through which Nedbank creates meaningful impacts in line with its sustainability framework.
‘In addition, we’re partnering with and offer expertise to municipalities to help build reserves, diversify risk, and ringfence funds meant for specific projects. Furthermore, we are providing sustainability funding for infrastructure development, such as for water, sanitation and energy, which aligns with the United Nations Sustainability Development Goals and our purpose of using our financial expertise to do good.’
Nedbank recognises that the public sector requires bespoke financial solutions to enable government to fulfil its broader service delivery mandate.
‘We understand that various spheres of government and their agencies face unique challenges, which is why we’ve established dedicated public sector teams across the country. Working alongside municipal leaders and other state-owned entities, we’ve tailored our approach to meet the unique needs and challenges of each province. This is to make sure that every solution that the team delivers adds real value and long-term impact,’ Monei explains.
‘We are experts in transactional banking, including value-added solutions, which can greatly benefit the municipalities by for example enhancing revenue collection and improving reconciliation. Revenue collection continues to be an area of concern, and Nedbank is developing solutions to strengthen it, identify revenue leakages and ensure municipal and provincial balance sheets are creditworthy. This financial stability is crucial to attracting investment and delivering essential services.
In the tertiary education sector, our Public Sector Team is using its expertise to partner with TVET colleges to deliver on our skills development mandate. At the core of our offerings is the understanding that local government is at the forefront of service delivery, infrastructure development and community empowerment. In particular, municipalities are central to the provision of basic services, which are a basic right for every citizen.
Nedbank’s Public Sector Team is committed to being a trusted partner to its public sector clients by ensuring that its products and services empower them to excel in serving communities and fulfilling their mandates.
Think bigger. Think Nedbank Commercial Banking.
For more information on our public sector offering, email publicsector@nedbank.co.za.
From left to right: Sithembiso Cele – Public Sector Provincial Manager: KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape; Nomvula Nyandeni – Public Sector Provincial Manager: Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West and Gauteng; Monei Seleho – Head: Public Sector; Mumsie Pillay – National Manager: Public Sector and Leiee Mosesi – Public Sector Provincial Manager: Western Cape, Northern Cape and Free State.
BUCKET TOILETS DECLINEBUT USE REMAINS ABOVE PRE-PANDEMIC LOWS
Authors: Celia Mamabolo, Moses Mnyaka, Kevin Parry
Bucket toilets remain the thorn in the flesh of several municipalities. Despite an overall decline in the use of municipal bucket toilets in 2023, some municipalities recorded an increase.
The municipal provision of bucket toilets
Service delivery can be measured from two different angles. The first is to approach the demand side, by collecting and analysing service-
related data from households. Examples include Stats SA’s population census and annual General Household Survey.
The second is to measure service delivery from the supply side. Stats SA’s annual Non-financial census of municipalities survey does this by asking municipalities for data on the number of households or consumer units that they service.
In this context, bucket toilets are provided by municipalities to communities, often as a short-term option until permanent sanitation solutions are in place. However, challenges often derail
the development of more sustainable alternatives, making it difficult to replace bucket toilets once they are introduced.
Where are the bucket toilets?
In 2023, 37 municipalities out of 257 provided bucket toilets as a service (Figure 1). These are located across five provinces: 13 municipalities were in Free State, 12 in Northern Cape, 7 in Eastern Cape, 3 in North West and 2 in Western Cape. This leaves Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo and Mpumalanga without bucket toilet services.
Free State had the highest number of households using a bucket toilet, accounting for almost half of the national total.
A closer look at the data shows which municipalities bear the biggest burden. Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality serviced the highest number of bucket toilets in 2023. Despite its position on top of the list, the city has cut down on bucket toilet use over the last decade. In 2013, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality serviced 30 202 households with this type of sanitation, reducing the number to 6 010 in 2023.
Bucket toilet prevalence above pre-pandemic lows
The decline recorded by Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality follows a general national trend. Municipalities nationwide recorded a peak of 100 618 households using the service in 2013. From this point municipalities made progress, reducing the number to a low of 42 434 in 2019 (Figure 2).
The pandemic threw a spanner in the works. Bucket toilet prevalence
climbed to 47 214 households in 2020 but reduced to 45 105 in 2022. The number edged lower to 44 970 in 2023, still above pre-pandemic lows.
The Bucket Toilet Divide: Improvements and Regressions from 2022 to 2023
Five municipalities managed to cut down on bucket toilet use in 2023 compared with 2022, with Mafube Local Municipality making the biggest positive impact (Figure 3). Two other municipalities in Free State also recorded declines.
Four municipalities, however, recorded an increase in the use
of bucket toilets. Dawid Kruiper in Northern Cape registered the highest increase of 2 781 households using the service. That was followed by Ditsobotla, with a rise of 780 households.
In summary, municipalities have cut back on the provision of bucket toilets over the last decade. However, overall prevalence remains above pre-pandemic lows, with several municipalities recording increased use.
MTN FOUNDATION’S DIGITAL SKILLS PROGRAMME Opens Doors for South African Youth
MTN believes that everyone deserves the benefits of a modern, connected life. Yet, for many youth and women across the African continent, access to digital tools, skills, and opportunities remains limited. As digital transformation accelerates, closing the digital divide and addressing the digital skills gap becomes critical to ensuring inclusive participation in the evolving economy.
In South Africa, the challenge lies in creating platforms that provide accessible training in digital and financial literacy, career readiness, mentorship, and job placement. Through initiatives such as the Digital Skills for Digital Jobs programme and the MTN Skills Academy, the MTN Foundation is empowering young people to participate meaningfully in the digital economy. These initiatives are active in several MTN markets and are key components of the Group’s Ambition 2025 strategy, which includes a target to train 1 million unemployed youth.
In 2024, the Foundation allocated R15 million to the rollout of the Digital Skills for Digital Jobs initiative in South Africa. This investment directly targets one of the country’s most pressing issues: youth unemployment. According to Stats SA’s Q3 2024 Labour Force Survey, unemployment among youth aged 15–24 sits at 60.2%, and at 40.4% for those aged 25–34. In contrast, the national unemployment rate stands at 32.1%. These figures underscore the urgent need for action. The Digital Skills for Digital Jobs programme is strategically aligned
with the International Finance Corporation’s warning that by 2030, 230 million jobs will require digital skills - a target Africa is at risk of missing. The Digital Skills Gap Index further highlights this concern, identifying 12 African countries among the 20 weakest performers globally in digital skills readiness. MTN’s approach is holistic, aiming not just to train, but to transform, equipping youth with practical tools and linking them to real employment pathways.
Building Skills for the Future
Since its launch in 2023, the Digital Skills for Digital Jobs programme has reached 1,800 unemployed youth across South Africa. The programme includes industry-relevant training in areas such as software development, data analytics, cyber-security, and artificial intelligence (AI). These are high-demand skillsets, and the programme is designed to be inclusive, placing particular focus on increasing the participation of women.
Women remain underrepresented in the global technology workforce. According to PwC, only 22% of AI professionals are women, and just one-third of tech employees globally are female. The MTN Foundation’s programmes aim to challenge this imbalance by creating more accessible opportunities for women and fostering greater gender diversity in the digital sector.
This isn’t just about digital training - it’s about creating sustainable pathways to employment, inclusion, and economic participation for South Africa’s youth.
All training offered is accredited by the Media, Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority (MICT SETA). Alongside technical instruction, participants receive support in career development, life skills, and personal growth. This blend of training ensures that young people are
not only digitally capable but ready for the demands of the modern workplace.
Expanding Access Through the MTN Skills Academy
A key component of the Foundation’s digital strategy is the MTN Skills Academy - a low-data, mobile-friendly platform that delivers digital and financial literacy courses online. Designed to meet the needs of underserved communities, the platform integrates accessibility features to accommodate learners with disabilities and helps overcome barriers such as limited connectivity, high data costs, and the lack of access to physical training centres.
Both initiatives speak to MTN’s broader commitment to creating a bold, inclusive, and connected future - one where no one is left behind.
By giving young people access to the right tools and support, the MTN Foundation is not just teaching skills - it’s enabling futures, building a more inclusive, resilient digital economy for all.
The Skills Academy is open to individuals aged 15 to 24 and provides tools for career mapping, enabling learners to make informed decisions about their future. The content is developed with input from industry experts to ensure relevance and alignment with market needs. By offering training remotely, the platform allows learners in rural or remote areas to upskill without the burden of travel costs or urban relocation.
Recognising that training alone is not enough, the MTN Foundation also focuses on supporting youth as they transition into the workforce. The Foundation’s broader strategy includes work readiness programmes, exposure to entrepreneurship development, and links to job opportunities. By addressing employability from multiple angles, MTN ensures that its programmes go beyond education and contribute to long-term economic empowerment.
The integrated approach adopted by the Foundation reflects a deep understanding of the barriers that South African youth face in accessing and applying digital skills. From the affordability of devices and connectivity to the lack of support for job seekers post-training, the MTN Foundation’s interventions are designed to create sustainable pathways to employment.
Digital literacy is no longer a luxury - it is essential to participation in the modern economy.The Digital Skills for Digital Jobs programme and the MTN Skills Academy demonstrate how targeted, strategic investment in youth development can yield meaningful outcomes. By investing in skills development and removing structural barriers, the MTN Foundation is helping to shape a future where more young South Africans can benefit from the promise of a digital world.
THUSANANG HOUSE BUILDING PROJECT
BRIDGING CLASSROOM KNOWLEDGE WITH REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE
Thusanang House Building Project, currently underway at the Motheo TVET College Botshabelo Campus, is an inspiring initiative that offers students a unique opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to a real-world construction environment. The term “Thusanang,” which translates to “helping each other,” encapsulates the project’s spirit of collaboration and community. By engaging in this project, students not only enhance their construction skills but also develop a sense of camaraderie and mutual growth, preparing them for both
professional and personal success.
At the heart of this initiative is a vision to create a functional saloon, which will serve as a business enterprise managed by students. This saloon is not merely a building; it represents a vital community resource that will offer various services to both students and the wider Botshabelo community. By running this establishment, students will gain invaluable experience in entrepreneurship, learning how to operate a business while simultaneously honing their construction skills. This
dual focus on construction and business management is a significant aspect of the Thusanang project, as it aims to equip students with a well-rounded skill set that is essential in today’s competitive job market.
The project is facilitated by Ms Katja Lommetz in collaboration with Germany’s Kreishandwerkerschaft Steinfurt Warendorf International. This partnership enriches the educational experience by incorporating international best practices and insights into the curriculum. The involvement of experienced professionals
from abroad not only enhances the technical aspects of the project but also exposes students to different cultural perspectives on construction and entrepreneurship.
As of now, just over five months into construction, the project has made impressive progress, with the building reaching the roofing. Site foreman and Senior Bricklayer Mr. David Sebolai has been instrumental in guiding the students through this process. He emphasizes the importance of handson experience, noting that while many students have received theoretical training, opportunities for practical application in real construction sites have been limited. “I’m happy to work with the students on the site,” Sebolai explained. “Here, they can see the practical applications of what they’ve learned, and I can offer advice on precision and speed in building.” This mentorship is vital for students, as it allows them to learn from someone with extensive experience in the field, bridging the gap between classroom instruction and real-world application.
Thusanang project also serves as a collaborative learning space, fostering an environment where students can learn not only from instructors but also from each other. Mothibedi Khumaate, a graduate in civil engineering and building construction, reflects on this collaborative aspect, stating, “This is my passion and my career. I hope to build bigger projects in the future and pass on my knowledge to others.” Khumaate’s enthusiasm for sharing knowledge
highlights the project’s goal of creating a supportive learning community, where students can inspire and educate one another.
Thusanang House Project stands as a testament to the power of experiential learning. It equips students with the skills, knowledge, and real-world experience necessary to succeed in the construction industry and beyond. By bridging the gap between theoretical learning and practical application, the project ensures that students are better prepared for their future careers. As they work together to build not just a saloon, but a foundation for their futures, the students of Motheo TVET Botshabelo Campus are embodying the essence of Thusanang -helping each other to grow and succeed. This initiative is a vital step towards fostering a community of skilled professionals who are ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
CONTACT DETAILS
Tel: 051 014 7850
Email: marketing@motheotvet.edu.za
Website: www.motheotvet.edu.za
Address: Cnr St Georges and Aliwal Street, Bloemfontein, 9301
About Motheo TVET College
Motheo TVET College is a leading public institution in the Free State Province, serving both the Motheo and Xhariep Districts. Under the dynamic leadership of Principal Prof Dipiloane Phutsisi since 2013, the College has steadily expanded its footprint and impact across the region. It currently operates nine campuses, including the Botshabelo Campus where the Thusanang House Building Project is based.
With a strong emphasis on technical and vocational training, Motheo TVET College blends academic learning with practical skills to produce work-ready graduates. The College boasts Centres of Specialisation, entrepreneurial support through its Centre for Entrepreneurship and Rapid Incubator, and a variety of partnerships with local and international institutions - including its recent collaboration with Germany’s Kreishandwerkerschaft Steinfurt Warendorf International.
A trailblazer in online learning and smart agriculture, Motheo TVET College also leads in Maritime Studies, ICT training, and industry-aligned programmes. Its achievements in engineering pass rates, student retention, and innovative teaching platforms reflect its vision of being “The Gateway to Employability” - equipping young people to become artisans, entrepreneurs, and agents of community development.
Through its forward-looking leadership and commitment to excellence, Motheo TVET College continues to shape futures and uplift communities across the province
CEO of Kreishanwerkerschaft: Frank Tischner
TVET COLLEGES
Empowering the Youth, Strengthening
In a country where young people form the majority of the population, South Africa’s future rests on how well it prepares its youth for participation in the economy.
Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges are playing a transformative role in this regardbridging the gap between education and employment, while driving inclusive development across the country.
Established in 2002 through the merger of various technical institutions, TVET colleges have become central to the national skills development agenda. With over 50 colleges and nearly 300 campuses nationwide, these institutions are accessible to communities in both urban and rural areas. Their offerings are diverse, covering qualifications in engineering, hospitality, ICT, business, agriculture, creative industries, and more - ensuring young people can pursue multiple career paths.
TVET colleges are particularly effective in reaching those who are often excluded from traditional university pathways. Their flexible programmes cater to school leavers, adults seeking reskilling, and aspiring entrepreneurs. Importantly, they provide handson, practical training that is aligned with labour market needs, improving
the Nation…
graduates’ chances of employment or starting a business.
Building Resilient Communities Through Skills
The role of TVET colleges extends beyond education - they are enablers of economic activity and social mobility. Graduates contribute to local economies by filling critical skills gaps, particularly in technical and artisanal trades. In many municipalities, TVET students support infrastructure projects, municipal services, and local business development initiatives.
TVET institutions are also evolving through partnerships with industries, municipalities, and government departments. These partnerships ensure that curricula remain responsive to economic shifts and local development priorities. By aligning with public sector goals and private sector demand, TVET colleges help accelerate job creation while nurturing talent where it’s needed most.
Youth Month: A Call to Invest in Young Potential
South Africa is facing a deepening youth employment crisis. According to Stats SA, over 4.6 million young people
aged 15–34 are not in education, employment, or training. This is not only a social and economic challenge - it is a national emergency. The solution must go beyond rhetoric and focus on practical, accessible avenues for empowerment.
TVET colleges represent one of the most effective responses. They offer not only education but also hopeequipping youth with job-ready skills, exposing them to entrepreneurship, and connecting them to opportunities through work-integrated learning and internships. For many, they serve as a first step toward financial independence and personal dignity.
During Youth Month, as the country reflects on the legacy of 16 June and the energy of its young citizens, the importance of institutions like TVET colleges cannot be overstated. They are more than places of learning - they are sites of transformation, resilience, and opportunity.
By investing in TVET education, we are not only addressing unemployment - we are building the kind of society where every young person has the tools to shape their own future, contribute meaningfully to their communities, and drive South Africa forward.
THE ROAD FROM UPSTREAM PETROLEUM EXPLORATION TO PRODUCTION SOUTH AFRICA’S OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY AS A STRATEGIC TOOL TO DRIVE TRANSFORMATION AND ATTAIN ENERGY SOVEREIGNTY
Written by: Dr. Tshepo Mokoka, Acting CEO
The Petroleum Agency SA (PASA) plays a pivotal role in regulating and promoting South Africa’s upstream petroleum industry. With four major offshore sedimentary basins and extensive onshore reserves, South Africa possesses significant untapped oil and gas resources. PASA operates under the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA), ensuring responsible exploration, evaluation, and licensing while advising the government on strategic industry developments.
The agency also acts as the custodian of all geotechnical data generated from exploration and production activities, positioning itself as the knowledge hub for the country’s oil and gas potential.
Unlocking
South Africa’s Oil and Gas Potential
Historically known for its mining
industry, South Africa also holds an estimated 26 billion barrels of oil and over 300 trillion cubic feet (Tcf) of natural gas in its offshore and onshore reserves. Offshore basins, such as the Orange, Great-Outeniqua, Durban, and Zululand Basins, present major opportunities, while inland, regions like the Karoo and Limpopo Basins hold massive unconventional gas deposits. These reserves remain largely underdeveloped, despite promising estimates. South Africa currently imports its crude oil and gas, making it highly dependent on external sources. However, unlocking domestic resources would not only enhance energy security but also foster economic transformation and industrial development.
The Current State of Oil and Gas Supply in South Africa
Despite having vast petroleum potential, South Africa is not yet a
major producer of oil and gas. The country relies heavily on imported crude oil, primarily from the Middle East and OPEC members. Its natural gas supply comes from Mozambique’s Temane-Pande gas fields, which are expected to be depleted by 2026. South Africa previously sourced gas from PetroSA’s Block 9 offshore Bredasdorp Basin, but those fields were exhausted by 2020/21. This reliance on imports highlights the urgency of developing domestic resources to ensure a stable and selfsufficient energy supply.
Investment and Growth
Prospects in the Oil and Gas Sector
The upstream sector remains in its infancy, yet several key projects signal promising growth. The 3.4 Tcf Block 11b/12b gas discovery off Mossel Bay remains one of the largest in the country’s history. This project is wellpositioned for development due
to its proximity to PetroSA’s Mossel Bay GTL refinery, which could serve as an off-taker for production. Other highpotential offshore projects include the Deep-Water Orange Basin (DWOB), Block 5/6/7, and Block 3b/4b, where major players are conducting seismic surveys and exploratory drilling.
Onshore, the Virginia Gas Project in the Free State is the only operation with an active Production Right (PR). It focuses on methane gas (LNG) and helium production, with ongoing well developments to expand capacity. Similarly, the Amersfoort Gas Project in Mpumalanga holds an estimated 6 Tcf of coal-bed methane (CBM) and conventional sandstone gas and is transitioning from exploration to production. Meanwhile, the Karoo Basin’s 209 Tcf shale gas potential remains one of the most significant onshore reserves, with ongoing geoscientific and environmental studies guiding future developments.
The Economic and Strategic Benefits of Unlocking Oil and Gas Reserves
If South Africa were to fully realise its estimated 300 Tcf of natural gas, the country could become the leading gas producer in Africa and rank among the top 10 globally. Furthermore, converting its 26 billion barrels of oil from estimated resources to proven reserves would position South Africa among Africa’s top five oil-producing nations. Beyond energy security, unlocking these resources could drive job creation, skills development, economic transformation, and industrial expansion. Additionally, greater domestic production would reduce reliance on volatile global markets and geopolitical uncertainties that currently impact fuel supply and pricing.
Investment Opportunities Across the Value Chain
South Africa presents numerous
investment opportunities across the entire oil and gas value chain. Key areas include exploration and production, gas-to-power projects, LNG import/export terminals, development of ports, refinery upgrades, pipeline expansion, offshore platform construction, and distribution infrastructure. Given South Africa’s 60-million-plus population and its position within the 370-millionstrong SADC region, the demand for petroleum products is substantial. These factors make the country a prime location for investors looking to establish a foothold in Africa’s energy sector.
Strategic Projects to Watch in South Africa’s Upstream Sector
Several critical projects are advancing South Africa’s oil and gas industry. Offshore, Block 11b/12b remains a focal point, with additional seismic surveys and well drilling planned. In the Orange Basin, exploration in Blocks 5/6/7, DWOB, and Block 3b/4b is progressing rapidly. The Ibhubesi Gas Field (Block 2A) off the West Coast, holding an estimated 0.5 Tcf of natural gas, is another high-potential development.
Inland, the Virginia Gas Project continues to expand production, while the Amersfoort Gas Project is attracting investment from potential gas off-takers in the energy sector. Meanwhile, ongoing Karoo shale gas studies will determine the feasibility of future extraction. If successful, this project could significantly alter South Africa’s energy landscape by unlocking vast reserves of clean-burning natural gas.
PASA’s Role in South Africa’s Energy Future
As the designated regulatory authority, PASA remains committed to ensuring sustainable exploration and production, fostering publicprivate partnerships, and providing
technical expertise to drive the industry forward. Through strategic collaboration with government, industry stakeholders, and international partners, PASA aims to position South Africa as a competitive oil and gas producer while ensuring long-term energy sovereignty and economic growth.
NWU’s Desmond Tutu School of Medicine to Open in 2028!
The first intake of students for the newly established NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine is scheduled for 2028 – a milestone moment not only for North-West University (NWU), but for the nation. This medical school, the 11th in South Africa, represents a significant step toward closing the country’s healthcare gap and embodies the enduring legacy of one of South Africa’s most beloved moral leaders, Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
The decision to name the school in his honour was made in close consultation with the Archbishop Desmond Tutu Intellectual Property Trust, receiving their full support. At an official naming ceremony held on 22 April 2025 in Sandton, dignitaries including Dr Anna Mokgokong (Chancellor of NWU), Prof Bismark Tyobeka (Vice-Chancellor), and Dr Mamphela Ramphele (Chairperson of the Tutu IP Trust) unveiled the name in an event marked by symbolism, purpose, and inspiration.
A Name That Carries Weight and Meaning
Archbishop Tutu once aspired to become a medical doctor before being
called to ministry - a fact that makes this naming even more poignant. As Dr Ramphele noted at the ceremony, “It is fitting that Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s name will now live on in every graduate of the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine.”
Tutu’s lifelong commitment to justice, equality, and the principle of ubuntu made him a towering figure both spiritually and socially. His moral clarity during the liberation struggle and the Truth and Reconciliation era left an indelible mark on the country. Now, his values will form the ethical foundation upon which this new school of medicine will be built.
Building a School of Excellence and Purpose
According to Prof Tyobeka, the medical school will rest on three core pillars:
• Training: offering world-class undergraduate (MBChB) and postgraduate (MMed) programmes.
• Research: promoting cutting-edge scientific inquiry and discovery.
• Engaged scholarship: extending impact beyond academia into underserved communities.
These foundations will enable the school not only to produce highly competent healthcare professionals but to advance public health throughout the North West Province and beyond. Strategic partnerships with global institutions are also envisioned to ensure students and faculty gain international exposure and collaborative opportunities.
A Timely Response to National Needs
The project is a collaborative effort between NWU, the North West Department of Health, and private sector stakeholders. It aims to directly address the critical shortage of healthcare practitioners in South Africa - especially in rural and underserved regions. With a current doctor-to-patient ratio of 0.31 doctors per 1,000 people, the country faces urgent capacity challenges.
As Dr Mokgokong noted, this medical school is more than infrastructure: “We are not merely building a school of bricks and mortar, we are laying the foundation for something much greater and more enduring - doors of opportunity, healing, compassion, and transformation.”
The Spirit of Ubuntu in Every Graduate
The school’s namesake reminds us that medicine is as much about empathy as it is about expertise. By embodying ubuntuthe African philosophy of shared humanity - the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine seeks to instil compassion, equity, and civic responsibility into every student it trains.
As Premier Lazarus Mokgosi aptly stated, “His teachings must continue to galvanise and guide us to be solution-driven citizens.” The school’s graduates will be expected not only to heal but to lead, to advocate, and to inspire.
SOS CHILDREN’S VILLAGES
As we commemorate Youth Month, SOS Children’s Villages in South Africa reinforces the importance of investing in youth education, training and skills development.
SOS Children’s Villages is a nongovernmental organisation that offers family-like residential care for children and young people who have lost or are at risk of losing parental care.
Established in 1984, SOS has eight Children’s Villages and three Social Centres across eight provinces, looking after more than 800 children and youth in its villages, and supporting thousands more in its family strengthening and community outreach programme.
Through the ‘YouthCan!’ and ‘YouthLinks’ programmes SOS Children’s Villages partners with corporate companies, to provide young
people with exposure to vocational training opportunities and also links them to mentors who can support them on their journey. They are provided with job shadowing opportunities at different companies, and they are given learnership and internship opportunities. These programmes use the power of technology to provide training and mentorship opportunities, overcoming geographical and professional limitations.
Corporate partnerships are leveraged to support young people to successfully manage the transition from school to independent adulthood.
SOS Children’s Villages has dedicated Youth Development Coordinators at each programme, who are fully responsible for youth development and support.
Corporate support and donors are needed to continue this important work.
Please support SOS Children’s Villages by going to:
www. sossouthafrica.org.za
Phone: +27 11 234 8708
Email: info@sos.org.za
REVOLUTIONISING WATER MANAGEMENT WITH THE EAZISOAK™ MODULAR SOAK AWAY SYSTEM
A Next-Generation Solution for Decentralised Wastewater and Stormwater Management
As the demand for resilient, decentralised infrastructure grows in response to increasing urbanisation and climate variability, innovative technologies are urgently required to replace outdated and underperforming systems. Enter the Eazisoak™ Modular Soak Away System - a precision-engineered solution delivering efficient wastewater and stormwater management, tailored for a wide range of soil and environmental conditions.
The Eazisoak™ system, developed by sector specialists with deep experience in on-site sanitation and water engineering, represents a leap forward in decentralised water management. Unlike traditional soakaways that rely heavily on favourable geotechnical conditions, the Eazisoak™ system leverages a modular design with engineered infiltration capacity that remains effective even in marginal soils with low permeability.
Advanced Engineering for Versatile Application
The system comprises high-strength, injection-moulded polymer chambers with a large internal void ratio to maximise the surface area available for infiltration. These interlocking modules are structurally stable, load-bearing, and corrosion-resistant, supporting reliable subsurface performance under both dynamic and static loads.
Each unit features downward-facing perforations to facilitate vertical infiltration while reducing the risk
of lateral clogging - eliminating the need for additional filtration media such as geotextiles. This detail ensures long-term functionality while significantly reducing installation complexity and maintenance demands.
Dual-Purpose Functionality
The Eazisoak™ system is designed to serve two primary infrastructure functions:
• Effluent Management: Enhancing the infiltration and subsurface dispersion of septic tank effluent, the system supports decentralised sanitation strategies and maximises natural attenuation processes, even in challenging soil conditions.
• Stormwater Management: During peak rainfall events, Eazisoak™ units act as subsurface attenuation tanks, significantly reducing surface runoff volumes and enabling rapid infiltration to mitigate flood risk. This function supports improved aquifer recharge and helps stabilise the local hydrological cycle.
Field-Proven Performance
Deployment across multiple project sites in Southern Africa has demonstrated the system’s high infiltration capacity, exceptional hydraulic efficiency, and structural reliability. These installations have consistently outperformed conventional soak pits in terms of infiltration rates, footprint reduction, and system longevity - making Eazisoak™
ideal for both retrofit and greenfield applications.
Economic and Infrastructure Value
Beyond its technical strengths, the Eazisoak™ system provides substantial cost benefits. Its lightweight components facilitate transport and manual handling, eliminating the need for heavy machinery. The modular format allows for custom sizing, phased installation, and scalability, enabling infrastructure planners to match system design with evolving settlement patterns or budget constraints.
In addition, its minimal maintenance profile and long design life make Eazisoak™ a compelling lifecycle investment for municipalities, developers, and communitydriven projects alike.
A Sustainable Solution for the Future
The Eazisoak™ Modular Soak Away System aligns with national and global objectives for sustainable development and water stewardship. It supports decentralised sanitation infrastructure while complementing broader integrated water resource management strategies.
As infrastructure requirements intensify in both rural and urban settings, the demand for scalable, efficient, and robust systems will continue to grow. The Eazisoak™ system is not only a technically superior solution - it is the logical next step in advancing wastewater and stormwater management across Southern Africa and beyond.
CLEAN ENERGY, LOCAL JOBS, AND A JUST TRANSITION IN MOTION
Seriti Green’s Ummbila Emoyeni Wind Energy Facility reaches critical milestone
In a powerful demonstration of South Africa’s growing renewable energy momentum, Seriti Green’s Ummbila Emoyeni Wind Energy Facility in Bethal, Mpumalanga has reached a pivotal stage. As convoys of 335 metres in length carry turbines, blades and components from Richards Bay to the construction site this week, the vision of a cleaner, more inclusive energy future takes clearer shape – one turbine at a time.
This development marks the transition into the crucial installation phase of the project, where wind turbines will soon begin feeding renewable electricity into the grid. Once fully operational, the first phase of the facility is expected to offset a remarkable 500,000 tonnes
of CO₂ emissions annually – a tangible contribution toward national climate targets and a more secure energy future.
Empowering Communities While Powering the Grid
Beyond the technology and infrastructure lies a human story – one of opportunity, upskilling, and economic renewal. Over the last two years, more than 1,000 people have been employed through the project, with 58.6% coming directly from local communities. Through its digital jobseeker registration platform, Seriti Green has also achieved a 50/50 gender split across applications, reaffirming its commitment to equity and inclusivity.
“This project is not only about clean energy - it’s about creating opportunities, transforming communities, and securing South Africa’s energy future.”
- Mike Teke, Chairman of Seriti Green and Group CEO of Seriti Resources
Importantly, this initiative represents more than just a shift in energy sources. It is also an example of a just energy transition in action. Former mineworkers are being retrained and placed into new roles within
the wind energy sector, ensuring that those who powered South Africa’s past are not left behind in its low-carbon future.
Mike Teke, Group CEO of Seriti Resources and Chairman of Seriti Green, describes the project as a clear demonstration of the private sector’s leadership in advancing climate commitments and national energy resilience. “This future contribution to South Africa’s climate commitments will powerfully demonstrate our leadership in building a more diversified and sustainable energy landscape,” he said.
Meanwhile, engineering and logistics partner Vanguard has spent more than a year planning the complex transport operation, ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of turbines. Their expertise underscores the level of collaboration required to bring a large-scale renewable project to life.
As the first turbines begin arriving in Bethal, the Ummbila Emoyeni Wind Energy Facility becomes more than a construction site – it becomes a symbol of hope, innovation and the country’s commitment to a cleaner, more inclusive tomorrow.
Mike Teke: Group CEO of Seriti Resources and Chairman of Seriti Green
Ummbila Emoyeni Wind Energy Facility
PLASTICS SA HOSTS
GLOBAL FIRST -
SELF-EMPLOYED MATERIAL RECYCLER
TRAINING PROGRAMME FOR WASTE PICKERS
Plastics SA has launched a pioneering Self-Employed Material Recycler Training Programme, marking a significant milestone in empowering South Africa's waste pickers. Last year, 50,000 South Africans found an informal form of income and employment as waste pickers, collecting used plastics for recycling. The programme, a first of its kind globally, equips informal waste reclaimers with the skills they need to safely and efficiently manage their recycling efforts while improving their business acumen.
The training, a NQF Level 1 qualification, awards 26 credits and runs over five days, spread across a three-week period. In this pilot initiative, 20 learners in Johannesburg and 25 learners in KwaZulu-Natal were selected and sponsored to attend the programme, which took place concurrently in both regions. The training was made possible through the financial support of ExxonMobil, Polyco, Petco and Plastics SA and is a ground-breaking programme that is expected to expand globally. The South African pilot is just the beginning, with 2,000 informal waste sector workers set to benefit through a "train the trainer" approach. Following a review of this pilot, plans are in place to expand the programme to other countries.
The launch event saw attendance from key industry collaborators, including Bala Nengwhela, Specialist: Waste Management at SALGA, Belinda Booker, Enterprise Development Handover Support at Petco, Andiswa Siyengo,
Control Environmental Officer at DFFE, and Kirtida Bhana, Head of Plastics SA’s Academy for Learning & Development.
Bhana emphasised the importance of tailored training for waste pickers: "This training covers a wide variety of topics that empower waste pickers to grow their businesses and ensure safer, healthier working conditions. The SelfEmployed Material Recycler Training Programme focuses on several critical areas, including health and safety, waste handling, business management within the recycling economy, and strategies to maximise profits in a circular economy”.
Rik Poppe, Senior Sustainability Advisor at ExxonMobil, highlighted the programme’s significance: "ExxonMobil and the industry recognise the critical role of the informal sector. Plastic waste reclaimers often operate in rudimentary conditions, security challenges, and financial struggles. This training provides essential health and safety protocols, sorting techniques, and business skills. It is through a multi-stakeholder approach - encompassing waste reclaimers, government, academia, and industry that we can help create long-term change. This pilot programme will serve as a model for the rest of the world."
Plastics|SA is dedicated to driving positive change, advancing sustainability, and fostering a circular economy for the benefit of current and future generations.
THROUGH PIONEERING WASTE MANAGEMENT INITIATIVES FOR WOMEN AND YOUTH TO COMBAT
South Africa’s waste management sector is vast and complex, involving everyone from municipal waste services to informal waste pickers. Yet, waste pickers at the bottom of this chain gain the least despite their essential role. For Oxfam South Africa, an inclusive economy demands innovative, community-led solutions that ensure no one is left behind.
Waste as a Site of Struggle and Opportunity
As an organisation committed to addressing the systemic inequalities that drive poverty, Oxfam South Africa focuses on Economic and Climate Justice through a decolonial feminist lens.
At the intersection of these themes lies the issue of waste - a space that presents opportunities to transform livelihoods and challenge the systems that marginalise vulnerable communities and perpetuate poverty and inequality, particularly for rural Black womxn.
Redefining Value through the Circular Economy
The waste management sector has provided fertile ground for innovation. In the City of Ekurhuleni, Gauteng, Oxfam South Africa has helped communities adopt circular economy practices in partnership with
government, civil society, and private companies. The result is a collaborative, sustainable approach that uplifts waste pickers and redefines their value in the system.
Public perception often misrepresents waste pickers as young, male, unemployed and criminalised. In reality, many are womxn who collect recyclable materials to support their families. More recently - as the economic crisis has led to higher and higher unemployment levels - a growing number of unemployed youth from marginalised communities are entering the sector, not out of choice, but out of necessity, as formal economies fail to provide viable alternatives.
One such individual is Diopelo Tuna from Tembisa. With support from Oxfam South Africa and the City of Ekurhuleni, she transitioned from being a waste picker to running her own buy-back
A Model Worth Replicating
This is more than a recycling story. It’s about womxn reclaiming space in a system that excluded them.
It’s about creating jobs where there were none. It’s about restoring dignity in the margins of the economy.
When communities lead and cities listen - innovation happens.
The Social Factory shows what’s possible when partnerships work:
• Local ownership.
• Shared value.
• Real impact.
Municipalities have the power to scale this:
• To light the streets.
• To rewrite the by-laws.
• To back womxn and youth with infrastructure, not just good intentions.
“Because real change starts with who we choose to include.”
centre, Diakanyo Tsa Thari - which means ‘of like minds’ in seTswana. Here, recyclable materials are exchanged for cash, offering both income and dignity to those involved. Diopelo has since created employment for others in her community; an impact that extends far beyond her own journey.
Creating Safer Conditions for Womxn Waste Pickers
Despite these positive stories, womxn waste pickers face serious threats to their health and safety. Often starting their work before sunrise, and frequently working alone, their work renders them vulnerable to gender-based violence, among other social ills. This vulnerability is exacerbated by poor street lighting and lack of municipal infrastructure, creating dangerous environments that embolden predators. While some NGOs respond to immediate safety concerns by distributing tasers or whistles to womxn waste pickers, these practical measures do little to address the deeper structural inequalities that shape womxn waste pickers’ lives.
Something as basic as functioning streetlights can be a life-saving intervention. Lasting change requires municipal action that meets strategic gender needs, such as inclusive by-laws formulated in participation with womxn waste pickers, and securing working zones and womxn’s rights to operate and organise within the city’s waste economy. Supplies of industrial gloves and masks by the city council should be a requirement as waste pickers provide an essential service to the City. They also lead the way in environmentally friendly waste management.
A New Model for Local Economic Inclusion
Oxfam’s work in the sector culminated in an initiative that exemplifies what inclusive, feminist circular economics can look like: The Social Factory. Developed in partnership with the City of Ekurhuleni, Unilever, and the French Development Agency. This forprofit social enterprise model centres womxn waste pickers by giving them ownership of the recycling value chain.
The initiative includes three entities:
• Inclusive Recycling Pty Ltd
Oversees industrial processing
• The Recycling Community Trust
Supports informal waste pickers and places the majority shareholdership in the hands of community-based enterprises, thereby securing a dedicated investment in community-driven empowerment initiatives
• Fair Economies (Pty) Ltd
Through which Oxfam provides operational and strategic backing to facilitate fair trade and support local economic development.
Together, these entities form a working model that municipalities and civil society can adopt to bring both economic and social transformation. By empowering womxn waste pickers and supporting entrepreneurs like Diopelo, Oxfam South Africa is helping to combat youth unemployment while also addressing the climate crisis and intersectional socioeconomic issues that perpetuate poverty and inequality. The circular economy is not just a model for sustainability - it’s a model for justice.
Replicating Success: A Model for Inclusive Growth
Oxfam South Africa, a registered NGO, is looking to replicate the Social Factory model with other municipalities across the country. By collaborating with the organisation, you join a movement of change-makers dedicated to reducing poverty and inequality for the most vulnerable in our society. We are driven by our commitment to act in solidarity with marginalised communities to transform systems that perpetuate poverty and inequality so that everyone lives in dignity. #TheFutureIsEqual
Gautrain, South Africa’s premier rapid rail network, has once again positioned itself at the forefront of innovation and commuter-centric service delivery with the launch of KlevaMova – a fresh initiative aimed at transforming the way people experience public transport. More than just a catchy name, KlevaMova is designed to make Gautrain smarter, more accessible, and better integrated into the daily lives of its users.
At its core, KlevaMova is about convenience, modernisation, and digital transformation. Built around a contactless fare payment system and digital mobility ecosystem, the initiative enables commuters to pay for their trips using bank cards, mobile phones, or wearable devices. This eliminates the need for physical tickets or the traditional Gautrain Gold Cards, streamlining access and making public transport more intuitive and user-friendly.
For municipalities and public sector decision-makers, KlevaMova offers an inspiring model of how transport infrastructure can evolve to meet the demands of a digitally enabled society. In line with South Africa’s vision for smart cities and integrated transport systems, the KlevaMova platform not only enhances the commuter experience but also demonstrates how technology can be leveraged to promote sustainability, efficiency, and inclusion.
GAUTRAIN’S KlevaMova
A SMART MOBILITY LEAP TOWARDS A CONNECTED FUTURE
Why KlevaMova Matters
The rationale behind KlevaMova is rooted in both global trends and local realities. Urban populations are growing, travel behaviours are changing, and citizens increasingly expect public services to match the seamless convenience of private sector apps and platforms. Recognising this shift, the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA) has invested in KlevaMova to future-proof its service and align with broader national priorities like the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and the National Development Plan (NDP).
Crucially, KlevaMova responds to the need for safe, cashless transactions –a priority in a post-COVID world – while also reducing queuing times and easing the commuting process for all passengers, including tourists and occasional riders who may not have a Gautrain card.
The initiative also holds potential beyond transport. With its data-driven design, KlevaMova opens new doors for smart mobility planning, user analytics, and targeted service improvements. This can enable better planning at municipal level, ensuring that public transport systems are not only reactive but predictive –able to adapt to peak times, population shifts, and even real-time events.
An Example for Others to Follow
By taking a bold step towards modernisation, Gautrain is setting a precedent for how public sector agencies can evolve to meet the future head-on. KlevaMova is not just about catching up with international norms – it’s about leading in ways that suit local contexts and commuter needs.
KlevaMova stands as a clear example of how public transport can embrace innovation to improve efficiency, reduce barriers to access, and enhance the daily experience of commuters – all without overhauling existing infrastructure.
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Twitter: @TheGautrain
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Website: www.gma.gautrain.co.za
Call Centre: 0800 42887246
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GOVERNANCE GAPS UNDERMINE PUBLIC SECTOR PROGRESSIoDSA OFFERS
Across South Africa’s public sector, from NGOs to municipalities, one consistent truth remains: strong governance builds trust, enables service delivery, and secures sustainability. Conversely, weak governance opens the door to reputational damage, stakeholder distrust, and, in some cases, the collapse of entire organisations.
The Institute of Directors in South Africa (IoDSA), through its advocacy of the King IV Report on Corporate Governance, plays a critical role in helping public sector bodies bridge this governance gap.
Recent challenges at Lifeline Ekurhuleni - where a flawed board nomination process led to delays, confusion, and serious questions from stakeholders - serve as a cautionary tale for all governance structures in the public space. The absence of clear communication, inconsistent nomination procedures, and insufficient vetting of candidates exposed the organisation to reputational risk and threatened its funding.
As Parmi Natesan, CEO of IoDSA,
THE TOOLS
TO FIX IT
succinctly puts it, “Having a capable board is absolutely essential for the effective functioning, oversight, and control of an organisation.” Her call for formal, transparent board appointments and training that aligns with King IV principles resonates strongly at a time when public accountability is under intense scrutiny.
The case is clear: municipalities, state agencies, and publicly funded institutions must strengthen governance not just as a compliance exercise, but as a strategic imperative. Board stability, legal literacy, due diligence, and ethical leadership are not optional - they are foundational pillars for achieving service delivery goals and maintaining public trust.
IoDSA’s value to the public sector lies in both prevention and capacity building. Through targeted director training, professional development, and independent guidance on governance best practice, the IoDSA helps institutions avoid the very pitfalls seen at Lifeline Ekurhuleni. Their work supports a culture of informed oversight, empowering board members to act in the public interest, ask the right questions, and uphold transparency.
“Good governance isn’t just about compliance - it’s the foundation for trust, accountability, and effective service delivery.”
- Parmi Natesan, CEO, IoDSA
In a climate where funders and communities alike demand accountability, governance is no longer a behind-thescenes concern. It is front and centre in determining whether public institutions thrive or falter. Good governance improves operational performance, enhances credibility, and ensures that
resources are used effectively and ethically.
For municipalities, this guidance is especially relevant. Many face recurring audit issues, leadership instability, and capacity constraints that hinder service delivery. The tools and insights provided by IoDSA - rooted in King IV - can help address these challenges in a sustainable way. Whether through training on fiduciary duties, strategic planning, or risk management, IoDSA enables public sector leaders to strengthen oversight and promote integrity across all levels of governance.
Importantly, governance failures don’t just impact internal processes - they affect communities, development outcomes, and public confidence. When governance is weak, projects stall, finances suffer, and public trust erodes. When governance is strong, institutions earn credibility, attract investment, and deliver better results.
The Lifeline episode may be an isolated incident, but its lessons are universal. It shows how critical governance structures are to organisational resilience and stakeholder confidence. It also highlights why the IoDSA remains a vital resource for public sector entities that wish to improve their leadership and governance frameworks.
As Natesan concludes: “Good governance not only ensures board stability but also significantly mitigates reputational risks, enhancing trust and confidence among stakeholders.” In the ongoing pursuit of effective public service, that trust is everything.
With IoDSA’s continued guidance, South Africa’s public institutions are better equipped to close the governance gap - and deliver on their mandates with credibility, clarity, and care.
IoDSA CEO: Parmi Natesan
In a defining moment for South Africa’s public service landscape, the National School of Government (NSG) has welcomed the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)’s formal recognition of the South African Association of Public Administration and Management (SAAPAM) as a professional body. This landmark achievement marks a pivotal shift towards the professionalisation of the public sector, a goal central to the NSG’s strategic agenda and the National Framework Towards the Professionalisation of the Public Sector.
The endorsement of SAAPAM by SAQA signals more than just institutional legitimacy, it underscores a broader transformation aimed at embedding ethics, competence, and accountability at every level of government service. As municipalities and public entities increasingly grapple with the dual demands of improved service delivery and ethical governance, the recognition of SAAPAM as a custodian of professional standards promises to be a game-changer.
A Strategic Step Towards a Professional Public Service
The recognition is grounded in the SAQA Policy and criteria for recognising professional bodies and registering professional designations on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
In accordance with these regulations, South African Association of Public Administration and Management (SAAPAM) is now authorised to confer professional designations upon qualifying public servants. This will help institutionalise continuous professional development and promote ethical conduct across all spheres of the public sector.
Moreover, the NQF Act (Act 67 of 2008, as amended) mandates that recognised professional bodies work collaboratively with quality councils on matters of qualification design and quality assurance. This ensures that designations are not
school of government
National School of Government Department: REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
THE NATIONAL SCHOOL OF GOVERNMENT WELCOMES SAQA’S RECOGNITION OF SAAPAM
only credible but aligned with the evolving competency needs of public administration.
As engines of frontline service delivery, these entities often bear the brunt of skills shortages, poor governance, and underperformance. The professionalisation agenda, now bolstered by SAAPAM’s recognition, provides a tangible framework for redress.
Speaking on the development, Prof Busani Ngcaweni, Principal of the National School of Government (NSG), hailed the move as a critical milestone in reshaping the trajectory of South Africa’s public administration. “Further, it marks a critical milestone in transforming public administration education into
an imaginative, transdisciplinary field. This evolution will equip future civil servants with the skills to navigate a technology-driven, people-centered and development-oriented public sector,” said Prof Ngcaweni.
His remarks reflect a broader vision championed by the NSG, that of transforming the culture, capacity, and ethos of the public service into one that is skilled, ethical, and responsive to the needs of citizens. In an era characterised by complex challenges from climate change and digital transformation to persistent inequality public institutions must be both agile and principled. According to Prof Ngcaweni, the collaboration with SAAPAM supports this evolution.
With South African Association of Public Administration and Management (SAAPAM) now functioning as a professional body, it is expected that public sector employees, especially those in management and leadership positions will be encouraged, and in some cases required, to register for professional designations. This process not only validates their qualifications and experience but also subjects them to ongoing professional development and ethical oversight.
The partnership between the NSG and SAAPAM presents an opportunity to
institutionalise excellence. Whether in the form of executive coaching, mentorship programmes, or peer-reviewed credentialing, the professionalisation drive will help ensure that leadership is not only technically competent but also deeply attuned to the values of public service.
“This evolution will equip future civil servants with the skills to navigate a technology-driven, peoplecentered and developmentoriented public sector.”
- Prof Busani Ngcaweni, Principal, National School of Government
Towards a Shared Vision of Governance Excellence
As Prof Ngcaweni noted, this development strengthens the strategic alignment between the NSG and SAAPAM an alignment that will be further cemented through a revision of their existing memorandum of understanding (MoU).
“We will henceforth revise our MoU with SAAPAM to give effect to the provisions of the Professionalisation Framework, forging forward the agenda of getting all senior managers to register with professional councils,” said Prof Ngcaweni.
This commitment aligns with the framework towards the professionalisation of the Public Sector. The framework outlines a vision of a meritocratic, ethical, and developmentally focused public service and calls for the institutionalisation of professional bodies to uphold these standards.
The recognition of SAAPAM is not merely symbolic, it is a concrete step towards a future where public sector leadership is professional, ethical, and equipped to lead South Africa’s development agenda. The NSG’s endorsement of this development should serve as a rallying point for all levels of government to commit to the values of excellence, accountability, and innovation.
As local government remains the heartbeat of service delivery, the integration of professional standards into its leadership frameworks will be key to restoring public trust and achieving long-term development goals.
What This Means for Local Government Leaders
Accreditation and Recognition: Senior public servants can now acquire professionally recognised designations that reflect their qualifications and ethical commitment.
Capacity Building: Enhanced opportunities for continuous professional development through SAAPAM and NSG programmes.
Accountability: Professional registration introduces ethical oversight and quality assurance.
Policy Alignment: Supports national policy goals for a professional and capable public service.
PLASTIC PACT MOMENTUM: ADVANCING SOUTH AFRICA’S CIRCULAR ECONOMY VISION
In a significant development ahead of Environment Month in June, Dr Dion George, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), convened a landmark meeting with GreenCape on 12 May 2025 to strengthen South Africa’s transition to a circular economy. Central to the discussions was the progress of the South African Plastics Pact – an ambitious public-private initiative led by GreenCape that is redefining the country’s approach to plastic waste, climate action, and sustainable growth.
The meeting followed Minister George’s attendance at the Copenhagen Climate Ministerial in Denmark, where mounting international pressure –particularly from European partners – underscored the urgent need for countries like South Africa to tackle plastic pollution and its contribution to climate change. The Minister’s engagement with GreenCape and members of the Pact marks a proactive response to these global expectations and a strategic opportunity to align national environmental goals with inclusive economic development.
The South African Plastics Pact brings together 50 influential organisations, including Coca-Cola, Woolworths, and Unilever, representing 35% of the national plastic economy. Together, they have made significant strides toward the Pact’s 2025 targets. To date, members have cut plastic straw use by 91%, achieved a 45% recycling output rate, and increased recycled contentin packaging to an average of 18%. These achievements reflect the collective power of industry in supporting a circular economy that reduces waste, protects natural ecosystems, and boosts employment.
In the meeting, Minister George addressed concerns from Pact members about regulatory barriers and the complexity of Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs), which are critical to evaluating environmental impact. In response, he announced a forthcoming review of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations and the current proliferation of Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs), both of which have created fragmentation and inefficiencies in the plastics value chain.
“The South African Plastics Pact’s pioneering success inspires us to refine our policies and accelerate South Africa’s leadership in the global circular economy."
– Dr Dion George, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
“My vision is to harness the ingenuity of the private sector to forge a sustainable future that creates jobs and drives economic growth while responding to international calls for cleaner environments,” said Dr George. “The South African Plastics Pact’s
pioneering success inspires us to refine our policies and accelerate South Africa’s leadership in the global circular economy.”
The Department also affirmed its commitment to working with GreenCape to streamline regulatory tools, ensure clarity in LCA application, and support innovation within the private sector. These efforts aim not only to address environmental challenges but also to open up new investment and employment avenues in green industries.
As the country gears towards Environment Month celebrations, the Department’s engagement with GreenCape demonstrates a clear intent to translate dialogue into action. By aligning environmental goals with economic potential, the initiative underscores how sustainable practices can drive growth, reduce waste, and create long-term value for communities and businesses alike.
It is clear, that with renewed focus, clear direction, and industry collaboration, South Africa is positioning itself not only to meet international expectations but to shape a thriving circular economy that delivers tangible benefits at home.
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The National Fund for Municipal Workers (NFMW) is the largest fund in Local Government with approximately R30 billion in assets under management, serving a membership base of more than 59 000 (EMPLOYEES AND COUNCILLORS) across South Africa.
With a steadfast commitment to our members, we prioritise their needs in every decision and strategy we implement. Our dedication to excellence ensures minimal administration costs, maximising contributions towards retirement savings.
Achieving excellent long-term investment performance, puts us on par with the best global portfolios and ahead of our peers in Local Government. Recognised with numerous Institute of Retirement Funds Africa Best Practices Industry Awards, we set the benchmark for excellence in the retirement fund sector.
At the NFMW we go beyond financial support, offering comprehensive personal financial planning, retirement benefit counselling, and a unique health and wellness program for members and their families.
With our unwavering commitment to good governance, impactful investing yielding financially sound returns, care for our members, and responsible leadership, the NFMW assures unparalleled value to all our members.
Our focus remains on continuing to provide exceptional service to our members, ensuring their financial security and well-being. We aim to further improve our member value proposition to meet the evolving needs of our members and continue to contribute to socio-economic prosperity in various ways to positively impact the lives of our members, their families and communities today and tomorrow!
THE FUND OF CHOICE IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT!
CITY
OF TSHWANE
Ribane-Laka School of Specialisation: Shaping the future through STEM education
KOUGA LOCAL MUNICIPALITY
Inaugural Kouga Careers Expo inspires a generation
CAPRICORN DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY
Sets the pace for strategic change in 2025
OR TAMBO DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY
Taps bring relief to Sikwayini village residents
GEORGE MUNICIPALITY
Communications team wins National Social Media Award
ETHEKWINI MUNICIPALITY
New housing project restores hope to Zwelibomvu residents
CITY OF TSHWANE
Launch of Ribane-Laka School of Specialisation: Shaping the future through STEM education
In a landmark moment for education in Tshwane, the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has officially launched the Ribane-Laka Maths, Science & ICT School of Specialisation in Mamelodi. This forward-thinking initiative reflects a broader provincial vision: to equip learners, particularly those in township communities, with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving, technology-driven world.
As part of the Schools of Specialisation (SoS) programme, Ribane-Laka is being repositioned as a centre of academic and technical excellence, focused on the core STEM fields of Mathematics, Physical Science, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT). This transformation aims to prepare learners for careers that are at the heart of South
Africa’s growth trajectory, including engineering, robotics, data science, and digital innovation.
Bridging the Skills Gap and Empowering the Youth
The launch of this school comes at a critical time. South Africa faces a growing demand for technical and digital skills, while youth unemployment remains persistently high. Many school leavers lack the specialised skills required by the modern job market, especially in underresourced communities.
By creating an environment where young people in Mamelodi can access worldclass learning facilities and hands-on experience, the Gauteng Department of Education is actively addressing the twin challenges of the skills gap and youth
unemployment. Ribane-Laka is positioned not only to deliver quality education but also to act as a springboard for career readiness and community development. The school’s focus on STEM subjects ensures that learners are not just receiving theoretical knowledge, but are also being prepared to contribute meaningfully to sectors essential for national development. This includes information technology, renewable energy, infrastructure, health sciences, and advanced manufacturing.
A Vision of Specialisation for Ribane-Laka
Ribane-Laka’s transformation is part of the GDE’s broader Schools of Specialisation initiative, which seeks to offer targeted education pathways aligned with key industries and economic sectors. These tools are
Premier of Gauteng, Panyaza Lesufi and Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane at the launch
designed to go beyond conventional learning by integrating specialised curricula, modern teaching methods, and exposure to practical applications.
Key differentiators at Ribane-Laka include:
• State-of-the-art laboratories: Fully equipped for Physical Science and ICT to facilitate interactive and experimental learning.
• Digital infrastructure: Including high-speed internet access and smart classrooms, enabling learners to engage with global knowledge systems.
• Curriculum integration: With projectbased learning and realworld applications that link theory to industry needs.
• STEM-focused extracurricular activities: Such as robotics clubs, coding bootcamps, science fairs, and Olympiads.
• Mentorship and industry exposure: Providing learners with career guidance and role models in highdemand fields.
• Pathways to further education and employment: Including partnerships with higher education institutions, technical colleges, and local industry players.
This holistic model aims to foster not only academic achievement but also personal growth, creativity, and entrepreneurial thinking.
Impact on Mamelodi and the Wider Tshwane Region
The ripple effect of this transformation is expected to extend far beyond the school gates. As one of Tshwane’s most
densely populated areas, Mamelodi stands to benefit significantly from having a specialised educational institution at its core.
Ribane-Laka is expected to:
• Enhance learner performance and pass rates, particularly in Maths and Science.
• Reduce school drop-out rates by increasing learner engagement.
• Improve post-school outcomes, including tertiary enrolment and employment rates.
• Create local jobs through expanded school operations and associated services.
• Stimulate local economic activity by attracting investment and innovation into the area.
For the broader Tshwane Municipality, the school strengthens the city’s educational infrastructure and supports its long-term development goals. It also aligns with national strategies such as the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP), which places strong emphasis on digital skills and youth employment.
Community Participation and Stakeholder Buy-In
The success of the Ribane-Laka initiative has been built on strong community support. Parents, educators, local leaders, and civic organisations in Mamelodi have played a vital role in advocating for improved education facilities and continue to be active participants in the school’s vision.
The Gauteng Department of Education has engaged extensively with these stakeholders to ensure that the school meets the aspirations of the community it serves. This community-based approach has helped foster a sense of ownership and pride, which is crucial for the longterm sustainability of the project.
Ongoing communication between the school and the local community will also ensure responsiveness to evolving educational needs and allow the institution to remain agile in addressing challenges.
“We are creating spaces where talent can be nurtured, innovation can thrive, and hope can be restored through education.”
- Matome Chiloane, Gauteng MEC for Education
NEWS
Strategic Partnerships: Linking Education with the Economy
The Ribane-Laka School of Specialisation is a compelling example of how education can be strengthened through multi-sectoral partnerships. The school has already attracted interest from a variety of private sector and academic partners who recognise the value of investing in future talent.
Organisations in the ICT, engineering, and data science sectors have expressed their intent to contribute through:
• Donations of hardware, software, and digital tools.
• Guest lectures and career awareness days.
• Co-development of course materials aligned to industry standards.
• Internship and work-readiness programmes.
• Sponsorship of competitions and educational events.
These collaborations ensure that learners gain exposure to professional environments and are better prepared to transition from school to the workplace or further study.
A Provincial Commitment to Future-Ready Education
At the launch event, Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane, highlighted the strategic importance of Schools of Specialisation for the province’s educational and economic goals.
“Our Schools of Specialisation are a deliberate strategy to prepare our youth for a future where science, technology, and innovation drive progress.
Ribane-Laka’s transition is an exciting development not only for the learners of Mamelodi but for the whole Gauteng province. We are creating spaces where talent can be nurtured, innovation can thrive, and hope can be restored through education.”
MEC Chiloane confirmed that the department intends to expand this model across the province, with each school focusing on a unique area such as engineering, aviation, maritime studies, or performing arts - ensuring diversity of opportunity across Gauteng.
Learners Leading the Way
Perhaps the most powerful testimony to the school’s impact comes from the learners themselves. Many students expressed pride and excitement at being part of a pioneering institution with access to facilities and opportunities they previously only dreamed of.
With aspirations ranging from becoming software developers and aerospace engineers to researchers and innovators, learners see Ribane-Laka as a place where possibilities become realities. They are now better positioned to compete globally and contribute locally.
This transformation also boosts learners’ confidence, equipping them with not only technical knowledge but also the soft skills - communication, teamwork, critical thinking - that are essential for success in any field.
Looking to the Future…
The launch of Ribane-Laka Maths, Science & ICT School of Specialisation marks the beginning of an ambitious journey. Sustained effort, monitoring, and continued investment will be essential to keep the momentum going.
The Gauteng Department of Education calls on all stakeholdersparents, educators, community leaders, businesses, and civil society - to support this initiative and help build an inclusive, high-performance learning culture across the province.
With Tshwane Municipality playing host to this flagship school, the region stands to become a beacon of STEM education and a catalyst for youth empowerment. Ribane-Laka is more than just a school - it is a model for what is possible when vision, resources, and community come together.
KOUGA LOCAL MUNICIPALITY
Inaugural Kouga Careers Expo 2025 inspires a generation
The inaugural Kouga Careers Expo 2025, held from 10 to 11 April 2025 at Mentors Country Estate in Jeffreys Bay, concluded on a high note, marking a milestone for youth development and employment access in the Kouga region.
The event drew an impressive turnout, with 11 high schools from across the region in attendance, alongside 53 exhibitors representing a broad spectrum of professions, training institutions, and government agencies. Hundreds of additional walk-in visitors also participated, making the two-day event a transformative and impactful experience for all.
Spearheaded by the Kouga Local Municipality’s Special Programmes Unit in the Office of the Executive Mayor, in partnership with Inkanyezi and Mentors Country Estate, the expo provided a dynamic platform where senior learners and unemployed youth could connect with representatives from academia, business, and government.
A Proud Moment for Kouga
Kouga Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman, expressed deep pride in the success of the inaugural event. “It is with immense pride that we welcomed the first-ever Kouga Careers Expo 2025 to our municipality,” he said.
“This initiative has been a beacon of hope and a testament to what we can achieve when we work together with a shared vision. I am incredibly proud of the hard work, dedication, and passion shown by our municipal team and partners in making this event a reality.”
He emphasised the broader significance of the expo, calling it a catalyst for longterm change in the region.
“By equipping our youth with essential career guidance, training opportunities, and employment resources, we are not only investing in their futures but actively shaping a more resilient and economically vibrant Kouga. This is the kind of meaningful development that truly matters.”
A Platform for Growth and Development
Over the two days, visitors benefited from a wide array of free services and interactive exhibits, including:
• Career Counselling & Assessments: In-person guidance and digital career assessment tools offering personalised reports.
• Department of Education-Aligned Guidance: Tools and resources designed to complement the Grade 12 Life Orientation curriculum, providing structured career planning support.
• Exhibitions & Networking Opportunities: A chance to meet face-to-face with potential employers, higher learning institutions, SETAs, the Department of Labour, and various community-based organisations.
The expo enabled students to discover diverse career pathways while providing businesses and institutions an opportunity to engage with future talent, demonstrate corporate social responsibility, and contribute directly to the fight against youth unemployment.
Looking Ahead: A Yearly Commitment
Given the overwhelming success and community impact of this year’s event, plans are already underway to establish the Kouga Careers Expo as an annual fixture on the region’s calendar.
“This is just the beginning,” Bornman said. “We are committed to growing this platform year by year, ensuring that it continues to serve as a bridge between potential and opportunity for the youth of Kouga.”
CAPRICORN DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY Sets the pace for strategic change in 2025
In 2025, Capricorn District Municipality stands as a beacon of progress and resilience in Limpopo Province. Under the leadership of Executive Mayor, Cllr Mamedupi Teffo, the municipality is driving transformative initiatives that not only tackle pressing community needs but also lay the groundwork for longterm sustainable development. From addressing critical water and sanitation challenges to expanding service access through the opening of the first PostNet branch in Ga-Matlala, enhancing the lives of its residents.
Furthermore, strategic planning efforts are aligning the district for future growth, ensuring a cohesive and impactful response to both current and future demands. These initiatives reflect the municipality's commitment to improving
service delivery, fostering economic development, and creating a more equitable and inclusive future for all.
A Coordinated Approach to Water and Sanitation
Capricorn District Municipality (CDM) continues to intensify efforts to address critical service delivery challenges across the district, with water and sanitation standing at the forefront of its developmental priorities in 2025. This commitment was underscored during a key meeting on 22 April 2025, when Executive Mayor Cllr, Mamedupi Teffo, led a delegation of mayors and officials in a strategic engagement with Limpopo MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Basikopo Makamu.
The meeting, hosted at the CDM Council Chamber, brought together representatives from across the district including acting mayors from Blouberg, Molemole, Lepelle-Nkumpi, and Polokwane as well as stakeholders from Eskom, Lepelle Northern Water, and the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA). Executive Mayor Teffo made a presentation on the Differentiated Approach on water and sanitation, offering a detailed overview of the district’s water resource status, covering both ground and surface water sources. She outlined ongoing and planned water projects aimed at improving access and reliability, while also detailing the key challenges currently facing implementation.
The mayor further provided insights into the district’s sanitation service provision, current water demand, and future water needs forecast. Her presentation
painted a comprehensive picture of both progress made while also shedding light on persistent obstacles spanning from critical infrastructure backlogs to ongoing delays in coordination among the various implementing stakeholders.
In response, MEC Makamu emphasized the importance of working collectively across government and institutional lines. “We need collaborative efforts to ensure our communities have consistent access to water,” he said. He called on municipalities to “develop and implement clear action plans to revive stalled water projects,” and urged that new strategies be adopted to “reduce water losses through better infrastructure management, enhanced maintenance, efficient revenue collection, and improved coordination and stakeholder engagement.”
The session marked a critical alignment moment, reinforcing the district’s resolve to build sustainable water systems and unlock long-delayed projects for the benefit of communities across Capricorn District Municipality.
PostNet Launch Brings Services Closer to Rural Residents
Capricorn District Municipality’s vision for inclusive development also came to life, with the official grand opening of the community’s first-ever PostNet branch at Tibane Shopping Centre in Ga-Matlala. This milestone event marked a breakthrough in bringing digital, logistical, and business solutions directly to the heart of a rural community.
The launch was attended by the Acting Executive Mayor, Cllr. Calvin Masoga, Member of the Mayoral Committee
Executive Mayor: Cllr Mamedupi Teffo
(MMC) for Development Planning and Environmental Management Services. Delivering the keynote address on behalf of CDM Executive Mayor, Cllr. Mamedupi Teffo, Cllr. Masoga spoke about the practical and symbolic significance of development. “In today’s fast-paced, digital-driven world, access to services such as courier, printing, internet, and business solutions is no longer a luxury, it is a necessity,” said Cllr. Masoga. “With this PostNet branch, residents will no longer have to travel long distances to access these vital services. This development will reduce costs, save time, and empower local youth and entrepreneurs with tools to thrive,” said Masoga.
The branch, which opened its doors the same day, is expected to serve approximately 80,000 residents of the Ga-Matlala area and beyond. It will offer essential services such as printing, scanning, packaging, internet access, and courier logistics services that were previously either unavailable or only accessible in major urban centers. Importantly, the establishment of the branch has already created job opportunities for residents, contributing to employment creation and stimulating grassroots economic activity. The initiative aligns with CDM’s broader goal of enabling spatial equity by extending public and private services to rural zones that are historically left behind in economic planning.
District-Wide Strategic Planning Session
The momentum continued, when Capricorn District Municipality commenced a two-day Strategic Planning
Session at Bolivia Lodge in Polokwane.
The gathering brought together leadership and officials from CDM and its four local municipalities Blouberg, Polokwane, Molemole, and Lepelle-Nkumpi, marking a crucial engagement in shaping the district’s development trajectory leading up to the 2026 local government elections.
The session was officially opened by the Executive Mayor, Cllr Mamedupi Teffo. In her opening remarks, the Executive Mayor emphasised the critical timing of the session, stating, “Our communities are calling out louder than ever for responsive, accountable, and effective service delivery. As we approach the 2026 local government elections, our response must go beyond rhetoric, it must take the form of practical, measurable, and people-centered interventions.”
"Our communities are calling out louder than ever for responsive, accountable, and effective service delivery. Our response must go beyond rhetoric, it must take the form of practical, measurable, and peoplecentered interventions.”
- Cllr. Executive Mayor Mamedupi Teffo
She reminded attendees of the broader purpose of their mandate, highlighting that local government’s role is not just administrative but transformational. “We are here not just to manage systems, but to improve lives,” she said. Cllr Teffo urged all participants to focus on identifying the root causes of service delivery
challenges and to develop bold, sustainable solutions that reflect the unique realities of each municipality. She also pointed out the need to unblock obstacles delaying key catalytic projects across the municipalities. “In each of our municipalities, there is at least one major project that remains incomplete. We must address the bottlenecks and ensure that these projects are delivered,” she emphasised.
The two-day session included technical presentations by representatives from various sector departments and parastatals, who were tasked with contributing insights and shaping the strategic direction of the district. The forum also provided a space for municipalities to share lessons learned, identify areas for inter-municipal collaboration, and build capacity for implementation.
Vision for Lasting Impact...
Across these three initiatives policy alignment on water and sanitation, service decentralization through the PostNet opening, and strategic municipal planning, Capricorn District Municipality has demonstrated that its 2025 agenda is not just reactive, but deeply forward-looking.
By tackling infrastructure challenges, expanding access to digital and logistical services, and aligning strategic planning with grassroots realities, CDM is setting a strong foundation for equitable and people-focused development. Through visionary leadership, practical interventions, and active stakeholder engagement, the district is affirming its commitment to transformation that is both measurable and meaningful.
OR TAMBO DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY Taps bring relief to Sikwayini Village residents
In a significant boost for rural development and service delivery, twenty-two new water taps were officially handed over to the residents of Sikwayini Village, situated in the King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality under the OR Tambo District in the Eastern Cape. The handover took place on Saturday, 10 May 2025 in a community celebration led by the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Ms. Pemmy Majodina, in partnership with the Executive Mayor of the OR Tambo District Municipality, Councillor Mesuli Ngqondwana.
The newly installed water infrastructure is expected to benefit at least 258 households in the area, many of whom have long struggled with limited or no direct access to clean water.
For years, residents have had to travel long distances to fetch water from streams or distant communal standpipes. With the installation of these 22 taps, located strategically within the village, the lives of families - especially women, children, and the elderly - are set to improve significantly.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Minister Majodina highlighted the importance of equitable access to water as a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of dignity. “This is not just about infrastructure; it’s about restoring dignity to our people. Clean water is essential for health, education, and economic development,” she said. “The government remains committed to accelerating service delivery, especially in
rural and historically disadvantaged areas like Sikwayini.”
Executive Mayor Ngqondwana praised the collaborative efforts between local, district, and national government departments that made the project possible. “This handover is a testament to what we can achieve when all spheres of government work in unison with a clear focus on community needs,” he stated. “We urge residents to protect this infrastructure and to work with us in ensuring its long-term functionality.”
Residents expressed joy and relief as they witnessed water flowing from the taps within reach of their homes. Many spoke about how the new access to water would save time and improve sanitation, particularly for schoolchildren and caregivers. Community leaders pledged to monitor and maintain the infrastructure to ensure it serves the community for generations to come.
The event concluded with a strong message of unity and a renewed commitment to delivering more services that improve the quality of life in rural communities. As the taps flowed for the first time, they symbolised not only water but also hope, dignity, and progress.
“This handover of the taps is a testament to what we can achieve when all spheres of government work in unison.”
- Executive Mayor of the OR Tambo DM, Cllr. Mesuli Ngqondwana
GEORGE MUNICIPALITY Communications Team wins National Social Media Award
George Municipality has set the benchmark for local government communication, having been recognised as the most active local municipality on social media in South Africa. The accolade was awarded at the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) National Communicators’ Awards, held in Jeffrey’s Bay on 10 February 2025.
Senior Communications Officer Ntobeko Mangqwengqwe accepted the award on behalf of the municipality. A key figure in driving the digital communication strategy, Mangqwengqwe’s leadership has helped transform social media into a tool for meaningful community engagement, transparency, and public participation.
The award reflects the Communications Team’s commitment to delivering timely, relevant, and accessible content. From infrastructure updates and safety alerts to service delivery schedules and event
coverage, the team has made social media a vital channel for closing the gap between government and community.
Executive Mayor of George, Ald Jackie von Brandis, praised the team’s professionalism and impact. “This is great servanthood from our team,” said Mayor von Brandis. “Digital and social media allow for fast message delivery and twoway engagement with communities. Excelling in this technique supports the excellent service delivery that George Municipality strives for. We are proud of our Communication Team – well done!”
This recognition comes at a time when municipalities nationwide are under pressure to adopt more transparent, accessible communication models. George Municipality has embraced this shift by embedding digital platforms into its daily operations. The team’s approach prioritises real-time feedback, open dialogue, and public accountability.
In addition to receiving the award, Mangqwengqwe delivered a presentation at the SALGA Communicators’ Forum on crisis communication, referencing George’s experience during the 2024 building collapse on Victoria Street. He detailed the challenges faced and emphasised the importance of swift, coordinated responses.
He highlighted how strong partnerships, private sector collaboration, effective media relations, and ongoing stakeholder engagement were key in managing public communications during the crisis. His insights offered practical guidance for municipalities looking to improve their emergency readiness.
Mangqwengqwe also participated in a panel discussion on strengthening local government crisis communication frameworks. His contributions underscored the role of effective communication in reducing panic, correcting misinformation, and maintaining public trust during emergencies.
This national award marks a major milestone for George Municipality, affirming the impact of its communication strategy and setting an example for others. It honours past achievements while motivating the team to keep innovating in how they inform and serve the public.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, George Municipality’s Communications Team is well-positioned to lead – ensuring that all residents have access to timely, clear, and responsive information.
Front row (from left) is Ald. Jackie von Brandis (Executive Mayor of George) and Godfrey Louw (Acting Municipal Manager). Back row (from left): Chantel Edwards (Communication Manager), Nadine May (Social Media Officer), Debra Sauer (Communication Officer), and Ntobeko Mangwengqwe (Senior Communication Officer).
ETHEKWINI MUNICIPALITY
New housing project restores hope to Zwelibomvu residents
A renewed sense of hope swept through Zwelibomvu in Ward 100 as eThekwini Municipality, in partnership with national and provincial government, officially launched the Zwelibomvu Vumazonke Rural Housing Project on 30 April 2025.
The occasion was marked by the presence of Minister of Human Settlements
Thembisile Simelane, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements Siboniso Duma, and Chairperson of the City’s Community Services Committee, Councillor Zama Sokhabase, who officiated on behalf of eThekwini Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba.
Councillor Sokhabase emphasised the transformative power of home ownership, calling housing a fundamental human right. “Owning a home is not just about securing shelter - it represents stability, security, and a legacy for future generations,” she said. “Launching this project during Freedom Month is a strong signal that we remain committed to changing the lives of the historically marginalised.”
The Zwelibomvu Vumazonke project will deliver a total of 448 housing units, with the first 200 homes already allocated to two appointed contractors for Phase 1. The land, owned by the Ingonyama Trust Board and administered by the Vumazonke Traditional Authority, has been approved for development. Community members expressed gratitude and joy at the announcement.
Importantly, the project carries wideranging socio-economic benefits. A 30 percent Contract Participation Goal ensures that local subcontractors benefit
directly, while 15 percent is set aside to support Exempted Micro Enterprisesparticularly women- and youth-owned businesses. In addition, approximately 120 job opportunities will be created, with training offered in areas such as bricklaying, plumbing, and health and safety.
Councillor Sokhabase also acknowledged service delivery challenges in the area, including water supply and electricity disruptions, assuring residents that these issues are being prioritised.
Meanwhile, Minister Simelane, MEC Duma, and Councillor Sokhabase visited uMlazi H-Section, where heavy rains recently displaced several families. Minister Simelane has instructed the National Home Builders Registration Council to conduct structural and geotechnical assessments to determine the necessary interventions. “Based on what I’ve seen, relocation of these households would be the best solution,” said Minister Simelane. In the
interim, 56 affected families will be moved to Temporary Emergency Accommodation.
As a long-term measure, land will be identified to resettle these families with permanent housing solutions.
The leadership also visited the Thubalethu Informal Settlement Project in Mthonjaneni, where R61 million has been allocated for bulk water infrastructure and an additional R19 million for internal water services - reaffirming government’s commitment to integrated human settlements.
Through housing, skills development, and economic inclusion, eThekwini is building stronger, more resilient and futureready communities.
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