Public Sector Leaders | May 2025 by Topco Media

Sipho Mosai, Rand Water, Group Chief

Executive

Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa,

First full-time Minister of Electricity and Energy

Building a nation that works for all

800 DELEGATES | 60+ SPEAKERS | 40 EXHIBITORS

20 AWARD WINNERS | 100 FINALISTS

Celebrating

Celebrating excellence across government.

The Public Sector Leaders Summit is a highly respected and prestigious cross-government programme, recognising and celebrating the wealth of inspirational individuals and innovative projects within the Public Sector.

The Public Sector Leaders Summit is a highly re spected and prestigious cross-gove rnment programme, recognising and celebrating the we alth of inspirational individuals and innovative projects within the Public Sector.

In 2025 Topco Media launches this unique and empowering 2-Day Conference & Awards highlighting best practice right across government, sharing innovation, learning and leadership.

3-4 SEPTEMBER 2025 | EMPERORS PALACE, JHB

22-23 JUNE 2025 | EMPERORS PALACE , JHB

For more information Contact: emlyn.dunn@topco.co.za

26 | MTDP 2024 - 2029

The road to 2030

32 | New AU Commission leadership

Ready to accelerate the AU agenda towards the ‘Africa We Want

36 | Africa’s renewable energy leaders

Looking towards an energy secure continent

40 | Africa Day

Celebrating the continent’s strong cultural identity and common heritage

42 | Energy Council of South Africa

A unified voice of business for the energy sector transition

44 | Just Transition

Building a pathway towards a low-carbon and climate resilient society

8 | Addressing the Nation

Deepening our trade and investment ties across Africa

10 | Cover Story

122 years and counting –congratulations Rand Water

18 | Women in Leadership

Nomakhosazana Meth: Championing youth employment through the Labour Activation Programme

20 | Trailblazer

Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa: Powering South Africa’s renewable energy future

22 | G20 Update

The T20 Africa High-Level Dialogue

30 | Agriculture

Agricultural development at provincial level: The case of the Eastern Cape

38 | In Other News

AfCFTA’s digital innovation challenge: Empowering Africa’s future trade

52 | Regional Focus

KwaZulu-Natal’s Road to resilience

48 | Central Energy Fund

Reducing SA’s dependence on imported oil

50 | Public Works

Empowerment Programmes

Reforming South Africa’s expanded: Public Works Programme for sustainable empowerment

54 | Sporting Action

May’s biggest sports stories

58 | Financial Fitness

Tax tips on Incentives and bonuses

60 | Legal Matters

A new chapter in parental leave: South Africa sets the pace in Africa

62 | Health & Wellness

Returning to ourselves: Mindfulness strategies for women leaders

64 | Upcoming Events

May calendar

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BY FIONA WAKELIN

Letter from the

Editor

Welcome

to the May edition of Public Sector Leaders (PSL)

In his letter penned to the nation on 12 May, His Excellency President Ramaphosa focused on intra-Africa trade.

Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is creating a more predictable and conducive environment for business to thrive across borders. Our businesses must seize this opportunity even as the processes of harmonising regulations continues,” – President Ramaphosa.

Our May cover icon is Rand Water, Group Chief Executive, Sipho Mosai who assumed the role of GCE in 2019. Before that he was Chief Operations Officer of Rand Water for 10 years.

“Mosai, a scientist by training, turned strategist and business leader in the water sector, boasts over 20 years’ executive management and technical experience in bulk and distribution water operations; water infrastructure planning, maintenance, refurbishment and upgrade; project management, scientific services, strategic asset management; sector growth and development.”

In May the focus falls on Africa, Energy, and Labour – therefore it is no coincidence that the Trailblazer spotlight is on Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, our country’s first fulltime Minister of Electricity and Energy, and May’s Women in Leadership is Minister of Employment and Labour, Hon. Nomakhosazana Meth who is championing the critical issue of youth employment.

The Africa theme is well represented with must-read articles that take a look at what is happening on the continent, including the AfCTFA ; the new senior leadership of the African Union Commission; Africa Day; and African countries leading in the renewable energy and tech space.

We have energetically pursued the issue of Energy with important deep dives into the Energy Council of South Africa; the state of the country’s Just

Transition and the Central Energy Fund.

Importantly, this issue brings you an overview of the The Medium Term Development Plan 2024 - 2029 (MTDP) which focuses on the delivery of basic services, strengthening public institutions, spatial transformation, job creation and fighting crime and corruption.

“This is the vision of ‘Building a nation that works for all’, a vision of a society in which there is dignified work for all, the latent energy and potential of the economy are unleashed, social protection is sufficient to provide support to those in need, and growth is rapid, inclusive and sustainable,” explains the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, led by Minister Maropene Ramokgopa.

Our regulars include Legal Matters where you will find an update on paternity and maternity leave; Financial Fitness takes a look at how incentives and bonuses are taxed. Sporting Action brings you good news about how South Africa dominated the World Relay Championships –and for Chiefs supporters, how the drought was broken!

From myself and our amazing team, we hope you enjoy the read. 

ADDRESSING THE NATION

BY FIONA WAKELIN

Deepening our trade and investment ties across Africa

In his letter to the country, penned on 12 May, His Excellency Cyril Ramaphosa focused on deepening trade and investment ties across Africa – as we have done in this issue of Public Sector Leaders (please see the article on the AfCFTA ).

This week President Ramaphosa is attending the Africa CEO Forum in Abidjan, promoting South Africa’s potential as a premier investment and trade destination. The annual event brings together approximately 3 000 CEOs, heads of state and investors to explore potential business leads, partnerships and opportunities. His Excellency notes that this year the Forum takes place at a time of disruption in the global economy, characterised by geopolitical tension, trade wars and conflicts that are causing instability in key shipping corridors – which has resulted in South African businesses actively exploring new market opportunities.

“South African investments in other African countries have a long history. These investments have grown and diversified from mining into sectors such as construction, IT and

telecommunications, healthcare, financial services, retail and the green economy.

“Since the advent of democracy in 1994, our government has implemented several initiatives to promote trade and investment elsewhere on the continent, including partnerships and trade agreements. We are witnessing the benefits of these efforts. The latest trade statistics published by the SA Revenue Service point to increased exports to countries in the region, like Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho and Namibia, as well as with the rest of Africa. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is creating a more predictable and conducive environment for business to thrive across borders. Our businesses must seize this opportunity even as the processes of harmonising regulations continues.

“We are determined to use the longstanding presence of South African companies on our continent to expand trade and investment with fellow African nations,” – President Ramaphosa.

His Excellency goes on to confirm that South Africa is a leader in digital innovation on the continent and one of the leading incubators of tech start-ups and that The World Intellectual Property

Organisation ranks South Africa second among economies in sub-Saharan Africa in the Global Innovation Index.

“The Government of National Unity aims to position South Africa as a premier trade and investment destination.

“We are working to make our economy more competitive by reducing the cost of doing business, improving our infrastructure and investing in skills development. We are reforming our visa regime to attract skills and promote tourism in South Africa.

“We are using our G20 Presidency to amplify the continent’s voice and focus global attention on Africa’s economic potential. We are prioritising inclusive global cooperation, a just and equitable economic recovery and promoting long-term environmental resilience.

“South Africa is greatly encouraged by a new wave of continental business expansion. We are forging ahead to deepen investment and trade with the rest of the continent in a manner that contributes to shared prosperity for all Africa’s people,” –President Ramaphosa. 

Group Chief Executive

Sipho Mosai, Rand Water,

122 years and counting – congratulations Rand Water

Rand Water is a bulk water utility which currently serves over 18 million people across four provinces - Gauteng, parts of North West, Mpumalanga, and Free State - and spans an area of over 37 000km². It is the largest bulk water utility in Africa and one of the largest in the world.

122 years ago

Establishment of the Rand Water Board

After the peace agreement between the British Government and the Boer Republics on 31 May 1902 the British, who gained control of Johannesburg, realised that it was imperative to investigate the water supply and sanitation services. On 8 May 1903 the Rand Water Board was officially established by the Rand Water Board Incorporation Ordinance No. 32 of May 1903 to supply water to the entire area.

The Rand Water Board was to include members of the Johannesburg Town Council, The Chamber of Mines, and other existing local authorities in the Witwatersrand. In 1904 Rand Water was required to take over the undertakings of the companies at that time supplying or potentially capable of supplying water to the Witwatersrand. Rand Water was to supply water in bulk only.

Water supply 1905

It was only in 1905 that Rand Water commenced full operations. By 1906 the annual daily consumption of water supplied by Rand Water was about 11 Mℓ/d and it has been growing ever since. In fact, Rand Water’s major challenge to date has been to augment its water sources to meet the growing demand.

Development schemes

Fast forward to 1913… Water as a scarce resource in the Witwatersrand, as well as a need to supply a growing population, prompted the Water Board to impose some water restrictions as well as look for other sources of water. Major schemes were developed to respond to the demand.

The following were some of the major development schemes to date:

• The Vaal River scheme, which included the Barrage: 1914–1924– yielded 91 Mℓ/d

• Vereeniging Pumping Station – 1924

• Zwartkopjes Pumping Station

• Vaal Dam – 1938 – 354 Mℓ/d

• Zuikerbosch Pumping Station – 1949

• Lesotho Highlands Water Project – 1998

Lesotho Highlands Water Project

Rand Water currently gets its water supply from the Lesotho Highlands. The scheme was designed to deliver a massive amount of some 2,2 x 109 m3 of water annually to South Africa. As early as 1954, the Natural Resources Development Council proposed the idea that water might be obtained from Lesotho to augment the water of the Vaal River. Negotiations between the governments of South Africa and Lesotho started towards the end of the 1970s.

Representatives of Lesotho, the European Union, the United Nations, and the World Bank formally signed a treaty for the development of the project on 24 October 1987 at an estimated cost of R5.5-billion. In 1997 this figure was increased to R9.1billion for the first phase of the project only. The scheme was to be constructed in three phases and would include four major dams, Senqu in Lesotho, Ash River in the Free State, Wilge River, and ultimately the Vaal Dam.

In the first phase, the Katse Dam and the Mohale Dam together with a series of tunnels were constructed in the Highlands of Lesotho. South Africa has to pay R150-million annually to Lesotho, whether the water is used or not, to augment the Vaal Dam water.

A transformative journey

Access to clean water is a fundamental constitutional right in South Africa - and we need robust, fully functional infrastructure to ensure its curation and delivery. Unfortunately, the ageing

water system, built more than forty years ago, has suffered extensive wear and tear, leading to substantial water losses.

To address this critical issue, Rand Water is committed to providing a sustainable and dependable water supply –by providing cutting-edge

water purification plants and expansive reservoirs to efficient pump stations and advanced automation. The company is on a transformative journey, making profound contributions to water management and service delivery, not just in South Africa, but across the African continent.

Rand Water Institute (RWI) was established in 2020. Its establishment emanated from the realignment of Rand Water (its parent company) when it adopted a “risk-based innovation driven business strategy”. It has five pillars that collectively assist in achieving the vision and mission of the Institute, namely Research and Development, Innovation and New Technology Development, Partnerships & Collaboration, Sectoral Support and Coordination, Knowledge Transfer and Institute Support and Integration. The strategic focus of the Institute is on the business imperatives of Rand Water and the water sector, in line with Rand Water’s vision.

Rand Water, Group Chief Executive, Sipho Mosai

Heading up Rand water is Sipho Mosai, who assumed the role of Group Chief Executive of Rand Water in 2019. Before that he was Chief Operations Officer of Rand Water for 10 years.

Mosai, a scientist by training, turned strategist and business leader in the watersector, boasts over 20 years’ executive management and technical experience in bulk and distribution water operations; water infrastructure planning, maintenance,refurbishment and

upgrade; project management, scientific services, strategic asset management; sector growth and development.

He has served as a non-executive and board member in various institutions. This includes serving on the board of the Construction

Rand Water Institute

COVER STORY

RAND WATER

Industry Development Board (CIDB) where he chaired the Human Resources subcommittee of the board in his first term and the Audit and Risk Committee in his second term.

He currently serves at the Rand Water Foundation and Rand Water Services as a non-executive director board member. Mosai holds the following qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science (University of the North)

• Bachelor of Science (Hons) (University of the North)

• Master of Science (University of the Free State)

• Post Graduate Diploma in Management (University of KwaZulu-Natal)

• Master of Business Administration (University of KwaZulu-Natal)

Prescient leadership

Under his leadership, Rand Water has achieved an international reputation for delivering water of the highest quality, consistently meeting and surpassing national and international standards.

“We are currently supplying 4554 Mℓ per day, to 17 municipalities, 27 mines, 2 railways, and 937 industries and direct customers – about 18 million people.”

Over the last 4 years, Mosai has enhanced operational efficiency, all while nurturing strategic partnerships and spearheading sustainability initiatives.

“Rand Water is a bulk water supplier- it is not responsible for ensuring water flows to households but rather they are responsible for providing quality bulk water to the various municipalities whose job is to provide water services to the public. It is our duty to ensure that our bulk water meets high standards – we go above the standards set by the Department of Water and Sanitation and ensure that water that goes out to municipalities is both sufficient of quality and quantity,” - Mosai.

Rand Water operates by extracting water from the various water sources in South Africa such as the Vaal and then processes this raw water into clean drinking water. This is governed by an extraction license issued by the Department of Water and Sanitation that limits the amount of water it can extract.

On 3 November 2024 the Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo, joined Rand Water and the Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM) to launch a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) aimed at enhancing the provision of water and sanitation services within the municipality.

“The SPV is a water utility that will be responsible for implementing, managing and carrying out the maintenance of water and sanitation service systems in order to ensure sustainable basic service delivery to residents, businesses, and industries and will help to address the growing water demand and efficient water services that align with national priorities for water security in the country,” – gov.za

2023 also saw the water utility launch two of its mega infrastructure projects, the 210 Mℓ Vlarkfontein Reservoir and the Zuikerbosch 5A station which will pump a massive 600Mℓ per day. Vlakfontein reservoir is the biggest post tension reservoir in Africa and amongst the biggest in the world and Station 5A is again

the biggest purification plant that has been built in South Africa since the advent of democracy.

CSI

In collaboration with donors and stakeholders Rand Water coordinates, administers, and manages its Corporate Social Investment (CSI) resources, through the Rand Water Foundation, to support community development projects, making decisions that prioritise socio-economic benefits and supporting the broader objectives of the national government.

“Mosai’s commitment to social impact embodies the organisation’s core values of equity and caring, which are crucial in a nation where access to clean water is a fundamental matter of social justice,” – Prof JJ Tabane.

A good news story

Rand Water’s vision is to be a provider of sustainable, universally competitive water and sanitation solutions for Africa – and its mission is to consistently meet the expectations of customers, partners, and the government by strengthening capacity to:

• Attract, develop and retain leading-edge skills in water services

• Sustain a robust financial performance

• Develop and sustain globally competitive capabilities in core areas

• Enter into and sustain productive partnerships; and

• Develop, test and deploy cost-effective technologies

Both the vision and mission are in steady hands under the prescient leadership of Sipho Mosai.

“Rand Water was created out of the ashes of the South African War

COVER STORY

RAND WATER

to provide the foundation on which post-war reconstruction could be built. That institution predates the constitution that formed the foundation of the Union of South Africa in 1910.

“We should be proud of Rand Water, as it remains a testament to its founders over a century ago. Let us celebrate this good news story because it really is a very big deal,” – Anthony Turton, Daily Maverick. 

Rand Waters’ 2024 operational achievements in numbers

• Unqualified audit report of 100%.

• 93% board member attendance.

• 0 days with unplanned bulk supply interruptions.

• 100% of the board resolutions were taken.

• Customer satisfaction of 86%

• Rand Water saw an actual water loss of 4.84% against its target of 5%.

• 100% of statutory reports were submitted on time.

• B-BBEE spending as a % of total expenditure was 112%.

• 100% of work awarded to B-BBEE companies against a target of 85%.

• 46 corporate social initiatives.

• 3 municipalities were identified and given support.

• 100% project completion against the target of 95%

• 134% of the project expenditure was within the Rand value budget.

• 0 breaches.

Rand Water finances

• Rand Water’s gross profit margin through its primary activities was 31% against the estimated 29%.

• Rand Water’s net profit margin through private activities was 23% against the 20% target.

• Rand Water’s gross profit margin from secondary activities was 5.2% against the 5% target.

• Rand Water’s net profit margin from secondary activities was 5% against the 1% target.

• An 11.1% return on assets

• Rand Water has a debtto-equality ratio of 0.08

Please describe the goods and services provided by M84 Geotech.

What we offer our clients is safety for their miners and mine equipment on site against rockfall hazards. This safety we offer is in the form of rockfall protection and slope stabilisations systems such as drape mesh, pinned mesh, rockfall barriers, rockfall netting and rock scaling.

“Safety is our priority” –please unpack your tagline. We work in a high-risk environment; therefore, safety is not a nice to have but it is the life line of the business. It is not negotiable. This is not just a tagline for us, it is how we do business. We prioritise the safety of our team and that of the miners. As the CEO of M84 Geotech, achieving a 100% safety record is how I measure the success of our projects. It is important that each member of our team can go home in one piece after every project.

M84 Geotech

Khomotso Moleke, Founder and Chief Executive Steward

What sets you apart from the competition?

We are a people business. That means we are not just concerned about making money and moving on to the next project. We love building relationships and we see ourselves as part of the people we serve on our sites. We value the people who work at M84 Geotech and we invest in their growth, we pay them well so that they can live a better life.

Besides having a 100% safety record and 100% completion rate, we also have the best team when it comes to open cast operations. We have project managers with a minimum of 10 years mining experience, site managers with relevant skills, safety officers who are qualified, site supervisors who are among the best rope access technicians in the industry, rope access technicians who are skilled in rockfall protection installations, and all the required equipment and resources to carry out any project.

How important are publicprivate partnerships to your business?

Businesses are built on partnerships and just like any other business that aspires to lead and dominate its market, it’s very important to have the right business partners or

stakeholders. We are where we are because of partnerships which have contributed to our growth as a business. As a blackowned business we are grateful for the opportunities which Anglo American has given us and the support they give to build a sustainable business.

What are some of the big projects you are currently working on?

We are currently doing a drape mesh installation (rockfall protection) at Mogalakwena Mine in Limpopo. The project will be completed in the coming few weeks, with other projects to follow after that. We are also preparing for rockfall protection installations and maintenance at our Northern Cape sites which will be starting this May.

Please speak about your Africa focus.

M84 Geotech might be a South African company but we do not limit ourselves within the borders of South Africa, we see the rest of the continent as a potential market. We have recently started to expose our brand to the African market by buying ads in mining publications in countries such as Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia and Zambia. We are also doing site visits into those countries and hopefully soon we will be doing projects outside of the country. 

M84 Geotech is a geohazard mitigation and accredited installer of rockfall protection and slope support solutions for open pit mining operations. The company has a decade of experience in the mining industry with over 30 projects completed successfully with 100% safety record, 350 experienced staff combined of our team of project managers, site managers, site supervisors and rope access technicians, making us one of the fastest-growing contractors in our industry.

The company started over a decade ago in the small mining town of Mokopane in Limpopo province as a supplier of safety cones and signages. In 2017 we expanded to include providing heights services such as rock scaling, rockfall protection, slope monitoring installations and slope support.

Safety is our priority

Rockfall incidents are one of the causes of injuries and death in the mining industry. These incidents are not only a risk to miners but can cause significant damage to mining equipment and infrastructure, not to mention the lost time in production. It is therefore important to have a competent contractor onsite who can provide robust solutions to deal with rockfall hazards.

M84 Geotech has the expertise and the right equipment to offer solutions which can keep your operations safe from any rockfall hazards. Depending on your needs, we can either provide passive solutions such as a drape mesh system which will contain rocks from free falling or an active solution such as pinned mesh which will stabilise the face of the slope. We will either work with engineers onsite to provide the design or bring our team of experts to design a solution for your site while our team of experienced rope access technicians will install the system.

With our variety of services such as rockfall protection, rockfall barriers, rock scaling, rock breaking, slope monitoring installations, slope stabilisation, dewatering pipe support and high wall vegetation removal, M84 Geotech is the right business

partner when it comes to keeping your operations from any rockfall risk or slope failure.

We have national presence with Limpopo and Northern Cape being our dominant provinces but we can offer our services anywhere within and outside the borders of South Africa. Our ambitions and goal are to be the preferred business partner for open pit mining operations when it comes to rockfall solutions on the continent. 

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Nomakhosazana Meth

Championing youth employment through the Labour Activation Programme

In a country grappling with staggeringly high youth unemployment, Minister Nomakhosazana Meth has emerged as a determined and strategic voice for inclusive economic growth. Her leadership in implementing the Department of Employment and Labour’s Labour Activation Programme (LAP) reflects a deep understanding of South Africa’s structural unemployment crisis and an unwavering commitment to tackling it through sustainable, skills-driven solutions.

A grassroots leader with deep roots in public service Minister Meth was born in the rural village of Hlankomo in Ntabankulu, Eastern Cape. Her early exposure to the challenges faced by underdeveloped communities significantly shaped her political career. Minister Meth’s public service journey began in the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature, where she made a name for herself as an effective advocate for health and social development.

She previously served as the Eastern Cape MEC for Rural Development and Agrarian Reform and later as MEC for

Health, where she played a pivotal role in managing the province’s COVID-19 response. Known for her hands-on leadership style and policy follow-through, she was appointed as South Africa’s Minister of Employment and Labour in July 2024.

She is a firm champion of the Labour Activation Programme (LAP), managed by the Unemployment Insurance Fund under the Department of Employment and Labour.

LAP is a critical component of government efforts to reduce unemployment and poverty. It provides funding and partnerships that allow for largescale training, skills development, and placement interventionsspecifically targeting unemployed South Africans.

The core objectives of LAP include:

• Up-skilling and re-skilling the unemployed to meet labour market demands.

• Creating pathways to employment, especially for the youth and other marginalised groups.

• Stimulating entrepreneurship and small business

development as alternative routes to job creation.

• Strengthening publicprivate partnerships in employment services, training institutions, and non-profit organisations.

By funding training initiatives across various sectors - from agriculture and construction to digital skills - LAP aims to create jobs and prepare South Africans for the evolving nature of work in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Accelerating the LAP

Under Minister Meth’s stewardship, the Department of Employment and Labour

has refocused LAP to better align with the country’s National Development Plan and the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan.

In March 2025, Minister Meth officially launched a major LAP initiative in Mthatha, Eastern Cape - one of the regions most affected by youth unemployment.

During the launch, the Minister emphasised that “programmes like LAP must not just be numbers on a spreadsheet. They must be engines of change for our communities.”

This rollout aims to provide accredited training to more than 2,000 young people in technical and vocational areas.

What sets Minister Meth’s approach apart is her insistence on outcome-based delivery. LAP projects under her leadership must report on not only training numbers but also actual job placements and business start-ups resulting from the

interventions. Minister Meth also advocates for communitybased project design, ensuring the voices of youth, women, and people with disabilities are heard in programme planning and implementation.

In addition to technical skills training, Minister Meth has called for the integration of soft skills and entrepreneurial modules into LAP curricula. This is a strategic move, recognising that many young people lack workplace readiness even after formal training. LAP can support more well-rounded, employable graduates by including training in communication, critical thinking, and financial literacy.

The Department has also introduced monitoring and evaluation reforms to improve the transparency and efficiency of LAP. This includes a digital portal to track beneficiaries’ progress from enrolment to employment and mechanisms to clamp down on fraudulent training providers who may exploit public funds.

Minister Meth’s approach to public service is rooted in accountability, equity, and delivery. She has set out to ensure that LAP is not a short-term fix, but part of a broader labour market transformation. She has also urged provinces to align their skills development plans with the LAP, ensuring that provincial departments and municipalities become active partners in addressing local economic development.

Minister Meth has emerged as a transformative leader in South Africa’s battle against unemployment. Through her commitment to the Labour Activation Programme, she is reshaping how the government invests in people, prioritises outcomes, and fosters hope.

As the country continues to navigate economic headwinds and shifting labour demands, the impact of Minister Meth’s leadership will be felt not only in policy circles but on the ground— where it matters most. 

Source: SA Government | Mthatha Express | Department of Labour

TRAILBLAZER: DR KGOSIENTSHO RAMOKGOPA

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa

Powering South Africa’s renewable energy future

South Africa’s journey toward energy security and a green economy has found a determined champion in Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, the country’s first full-time Minister of Electricity and Energy. With deep roots in public service and a professional foundation in civil engineering, Dr Ramokgopa brings both technical credibility and political foresight to one of the country’s most critical portfolios. Now leading a wave of renewable

energy programmes and privatesector-driven grid expansion, he spearheads the transition to a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive energy future for South Africa.

A career in public leadership Dr Ramokgopa’s public service career began in 2000 when he was elected as an ANC ward councillor in Tshwane. From there, he rose through the ranks with appointments as CEO of the Johannesburg Market

and the Metropolitan Trading Company. These early executive roles gave him experience managing complex entities and aligning service delivery with developmental priorities.

In 2010, he was elected Executive Mayor of Tshwane, becoming one of the youngest people to lead a metropolitan municipality in the country. During his tenure, he focused heavily on infrastructure development and urban planning,

championing initiatives such as bus rapid transit and the rollout of smart prepaid meters - although some projects, like the electricity meters, drew public scrutiny.

By 2019, he had assumed the role of Gauteng MEC for Economic Development, Agriculture and Environment, sharpening his expertise in balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability. He then moved to the national stage as Head of the Investment and Infrastructure Office in the Presidency, a strategic post where he coordinated national infrastructure investment and public-private partnerships.

This combination of local, provincial, and national leadership uniquely equipped Dr Ramokgopa for his current role—leading South Africa’s response to its energy crisis and climate commitments.

In March 2023, amid a national load-shedding crisis and mounting pressure to modernise the energy sector, President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed Dr Ramokgopa as Minister in the Presidency for Electricity. This role was later formalised and expanded in July 2024 into the Ministry of Electricity and Energy, marking a pivotal shift in South Africa’s energy policy. Separating electricity from the traditional mining and energy portfolio allowed for more focused leadership on decarbonisation and infrastructure.

In this new role, Dr Ramokgopa wasted no time signalling his intentions. He announced that his department would adopt an “ultra-aggressive” approach to renewable energy rollouts and

grid expansion, leaning heavily on the private sector to expedite implementation.

South Africa’s energy transition Dr Ramokgopa’s approach is multifaceted. Central to his strategy is the massive expansion of South Africa’s electricity grid, which remains a key bottleneck for connecting new renewable energy projects - especially in provinces like the Northern Cape, Eastern Cape, and Western Cape, where solar and wind resources are abundant.

He has initiated a private sectorled grid build programme, the first of its kind in South Africa. This grid expansion is essential. South Africa’s transmission network was built around its coal-fired power stations in Mpumalanga, but most of the best renewable energy resources lie hundreds of kilometres away. Without new transmission lines, these solar and wind farms can’t feed their electricity into the national system.

In parallel, Dr Ramokgopa is working closely with the Independent Power Producers (IPP) Office to accelerate new bidding rounds for wind, solar, battery storage, and green hydrogen projects.

One of the hallmarks of his leadership has been his openness to consultation and his evidencebased decision-making. He frequently convenes technical task teams and advisory councils to ensure that policies are politically sound and technically feasible.

Dr Ramokgopa is keenly aware that South Africa’s energy

transition must not come at the expense of workers and communities in coal-dependent regions. He has championed a just transition framework that includes retraining coal workers, funding local economic diversification, and ensuring that renewable energy projects offer ownership opportunities to communities.

In provinces like Mpumalanga, where many coal plants are scheduled for decommissioning, his department is working with the Department of Labour and SETAs to implement reskilling programmes that help workers transition to clean energy and infrastructure roles.

This commitment to social justice has helped him build cross-sector support—from unions to investors to environmentalists—a rare feat in a sector often plagued by division.

At a time when energy insecurity threatens South Africa’s economic recovery and environmental resilience, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has emerged as a decisive and visionary leader. Armed with academic rigour, political experience, and a passion for inclusive development, he is charting a bold new path for the country’s energy future—one where clean energy, private sector collaboration, and social equity converge.

As he continues dismantling outdated systems and laying the foundation for a green economy, Dr Ramokgopa is proving that with the right leadership, South Africa can turn its energy crisis into an opportunity for transformation. 

BY SHUMIRAI CHIMOMBE

The T20 Africa High-Level Dialogue

Bringing together intellectual minds and amplifying African voices

South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile and Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) Alvin Botes at the Think 20 (T20) Africa High-Level Dialogue

The Think 20 (T20) is an official engagement group and ideas bank of the G20. It consists of a dynamic network of research institutes and experts from across the world who provide vital input into G20 processes.

The Institute for Global Dialogue (IGD), the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) and the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC) jointly lead the T20 in 2025.

There are 5 workforces: Trade & Investment | Digital Transformation | Financing for Sustainable Development | Solidarity for the Achievement of the SDGs | Accelerating Climate Action & the Just Energy Transition

South Africa’s T20 theme is ‘Consolidate and Sustain’.

Consolidate: to bring together the collective wisdom and recommendations generated by the T20 during the preceding Global South presidencies. This includes a focus on key themes such as sustainable development, climate action, inclusive growth, and digital transformation.

Sustain: to ensure that the momentum generated by the previous three Global South presidencies is not lost and that the focus on critical development challenges remains central to the G20 agenda; and to promote long-term solutions and strategies that address the root causes of global inequalities and promote sustainable and inclusive growth.

Sources: https://t20southafrica.org/

The Think 20 (T20) Africa HighLevel Dialogue took place at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria with the theme ‘Strengthening African Agency in the G20 Within the Global Order’.

The two-day event from 29 to 30 April brought together policymakers, leading African think tanks, academics and international experts to discuss priority issues for Africa and provide policy recommendations and researchbased insights to inform G20 decision-making. These included economic growth, sustainable development and global governance reforms. The meeting was hosted by AUDA-NEPAD Africa Policy Bridge Tank Programme, the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA), the Institute for Global Dialogue (IGD) and the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC).

Welcoming the delegates to the meeting, Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) Alvin Botes indicated that the T20 Africa HighLevel Policy Dialogue comes at a moment when the continent’s voice is being amplified in global forums. South Africa’s G20 presidency is a unique value proposition to the rest of the world to change the economic and financial architecture of global governance institutions.

“The T20 brings some of Africa’s finest thinkers to the table, ensuring that ideas forged encapsulate state and nonstate policy considerations from the African continent at a substantive level and not merely as a subordinate consideration. Our task is clear: transform the African Union’s historic admission as a permanent G20 member

from symbolism into substance - through coherent positions, credible analysis and consistent advocacy.”

He added that the T20’s work is vital in confronting debt vulnerability, accelerating digital transformation, securing fair trade and unlocking climate-resilient development.

“And as we champion inclusion, let us make it gender-responsive and fair to future generations: women and children still bear the heaviest burdens of poverty and climate stress.”

“Africa is ours, and we must create the Africa we want” - Deputy President Paul Mashatile

In his keynote address South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile indicated that the HighLevel Dialogue emphasised the

BY SHUMIRAI CHIMOMBE

need for Africa to address the persistent challenges of economic development, political instability, and governance weaknesses.

“Africa is ours, and we must create the Africa we want.”

He said that although Africa is one of the most fascinating continents, it currently stands at a crucial juncture in its development journey, with a growing population, and vast natural resources, yet it remains underdeveloped.

He expressed the need to recognise that Africa has the youngest population globally, with a significant proportion of its citizens under 30 years of age. The presence of a youthful population offers a range of possibilities for the development of the continent. However, a large proportion of the youth are unemployed or underemployed. Nonetheless, with targeted strategies and interventions, this population segment has the capacity to substantially enhance economic growth, stimulate innovation, and promote social development.

“South Africa is committed to placing employment generation, advancing gender-responsive policies, and equitable access to opportunity at the centre of the G20 dialogue. Africa can accelerate development through digitalisation, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and emerging technologies.

The Fourth Industrial Revolution must be inclusive, bridging gaps in education, healthcare, financial services, and governance.

Investment in digital skills, data infrastructure, cybersecurity, and innovation ecosystems is crucial to ensure that no one is left behind.”

“South Africa’s G20 Presidency, being the first ever on African soil, marks a significant moment for the continent. Regardless of it being in South Africa, the G20 Presidency is for Africa.”

Deputy President Mashatile explained that the intention behind South Africa’s G20 presidency was to define the economic destiny of Africa, one marked by sustained growth, high employment, increased living standards, and sustainable development and innovation.

“Our Presidency is grounded in the philosophy of Ubuntu, which reminds us that our fates are intertwined and that collective progress must underpin global governance. This principle shapes our agenda and informs our deep engagement with the AU, African institutions, and fellow G20 member states.”

This is particularly crucial against a backdrop of the challenges that are testing global humanity and solidarity among nations including globalisation, geopolitical instability, climate change, rising nationalism, demographic changes, technological convergence, conflict, trade wars, and financial crises having the potential to threaten the world’s collective future.

“A fair, transparent, equitable, and inclusive international order is

essential for economic stability and sustained growth.”

Quick takes from the side lines of the T20 Africa High Level Dialogue

Pamla Gopaul from the African Union Development Agency-NEPAD (AUDA-NEPAD) on the significance of the outcomes from the T20 High-Level Dialogue

“I think one of the key things that Africa can leverage on is its smart technology and innovative agricultural approach. Agriculture can actually serve across the board by taking us out of food insecurity and improving our infrastructure. I think if the G20 platform addresses what are some of the areas and the gaps in order to take Africa forward as the food basket of the continent, this will really be one of the big key areas to take away.”

Dr Hinh T. Dinh from the Policy Center for the New South on how African nations should leverage the G20 to advance international financial architecture reforms

“African nations are now facing tremendous challenges, and the G20 represents an opportunity for African nations to leverage policy changes in the international financial architecture. So that can help meet the needs and the challenges that the continent is facing”.

Dr Anthony Costa - Head of Secretariat for B20 South Africaon what makes South Africa’s G20 presidency so important.

“This is the first time that the G20 in its current format is being hosted on the African continent, and it’s

also the second year in which the AU is participating fully. It’s an opportunity for Africa’s concerns to be raised to the global agenda. It’s a very challenging timegeopolitically there are fractures and I think South Africa is very well situated to act as a bridge and try to chart a way forward for the global community as a whole.”

Calendar of events

May

Dr Ibrahim Mayaki - former Prime Minister of Niger on how can think tanks better support the AU’s membership of the G20

“The AU is an institution which has been working for the last 20 plus years, and it needs new ideas. New ideas coming from the

global context and the global African context; and think tanks provide new ideas; new ideas boost innovation; and innovation boosts capacity to think and capacity to implement.” 

5 - 6 2nd Culture working group meeting

6 - 7 Conference on Global Innovative Approaches and Best Practices Advancing Financial Inclusion for Women

6 - 8 2nd Trade and Investment working group meeting

8 - 9 3rd Health working group meeting

8 - 9 2nd Empowerment of Women working group meeting

11 - 13 2nd Tourism working group meeting

14 - 15 2nd Task Force 1 meeting: Inclusive Economic Growth, Industrialisation, Employment, and Reduced Inequality

19 - 20 2nd Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion Meeting

19 - 20 2nd Joint Sustainable and Framework working group meeting

22 - 23 3rd Infrastructure working group meeting

25 - 27 3rd Development Working Group Meeting

25 - 28 2nd Research and Innovation working group meeting

26 - 28 Agricultural Scientists (MACS) meeting

27 - 29 2nd Education working group meeting

29 - 30 3rd Employment working group meeting

Stay updated on G20 South Africa activities, events, videos during the year: Website: https://g20.org/

Social media: G20 South Africa on Facebook, Instagram, X, Tik Tok, Linkedin, YouTube and Flickr

Sources: T20 South Africa | South African Government

BY KOKETSO MAMABOLO

Hon. Maropene Ramokgopa, Minister in the Presidency Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation

The road to 2030 Medium Term Development Plan

The Medium Term Development Plan 20242029 (MTDP) focuses on the delivery of basic services, strengthening public institutions, spatial transformation, job creation and fighting crime and corruption. It outlines a vision where the energy and logistics sectors are transformed and made more effective as the backbone of the economy. It envisions growth underpinned by exports and strategic advantage in the digital and green economies.

inclusive and sustainable,” explains the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, led by Minister Maropene Ramokgopa.

Along with the United Nation’s SDGs, the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and SADC’s Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan, the MTDP aligns with the country’s National Development Plan (NDP). The NDP aims to eliminate poverty, reduce inequality to a Gini Coefficient of 0.6 (currently at 0.63) and to reduce unemployment to 6%, which was sitting at 32.9% in the first quarter of 2025. The NDP highlights the importance of economic transformation and the need for an average annual GDP growth rate of 5.4%. The economy only grew 0.6% in 2024 from 2023.

“Recent reviews have shown that these targets are unlikely to be met by 2030. Some of the worst impacts of poverty have, however, been substantially mitigated by the expansion of the social wage, including through social grants and the expansion of access to basic education and healthcare.

“Demographic changes in the country pose both opportunities and threats. The continued rapid growth of the population offers a potential ‘demographic dividend’ as more young people join the labour market. This can, however, also be a liability if there are constraints to economic inclusion and employment. While basic services are more widely available, a large part of the population still lives in dysfunctional settlements with weak local administrations and [are] distant from economic opportunities.”

The economy has not grown fast enough to create enough jobs for all those of working age and despite progress in expanding service delivery there is great room for improvement. The MTDP has three main priorities and five goals:

• Dynamic, growing economy

• A more equal society, where no person lives in poverty

• A capable state delivering basic services to all citizens

• A safe and secure environment

• A cohesive and united nation

Strategic Priority 1: Driving inclusive growth and job creation

The MTDP repeatedly makes reference to the philosophy of ‘leaving no-one behind’, with the main objectives being to improve the standard of living, incomes and material conditions. It also refers to the need to transform the economy by dealing with the unequal distribution of economic assets and opportunity.

Women, youth and persons with disabilities, in particular, need access to finance, supply chains and knowledge. The MTDP recognises that economic growth has knock-on effects, such as reducing poverty and crime reduction, promoting social cohesion and providing the government with more revenue for social spending.

In March this year President Cyril Ramaphosa - in an article co-

authored with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sáncheztouched on the danger of people and nations being left behind: “Income inequality is widening— both within and between nations. Many developing countries struggle under unsustainable debt burdens, constrained fiscal space, and barriers to fair access to capital. Basic services such as health or education must compete with growing interest rates.”

In the medium-term, according to the plan, we will require a GDP growth rate of 3% by 2029 to support the sustained increase in employment. It will also be important to increase private sector investment, creating an environment which encourages innovation and competitiveness.

“The strategy to drive inclusive growth is centred on continuing structural reforms, upgrading and expanding network infrastructure and repositioning state-owned enterprises (SOEs). Operation Vulindlela, supported by farreaching legislative, institutional and policy changes, has addressed long-standing constraints. The Operation Vulindlela approach will be strengthened and sustained.”

Curbing and ultimately reversing de-industrialisation will be another key driver of growth. The MTDP mentions how industrial policy incentives to be “results-based and linked to clear measures of

performances, and targeted at sectors with the best potential to create jobs at scale.”

The energy sector, in particular, holds the potential to not only create a large number of jobs but also stimulate growth by reducing the costs of manufacturing and, through the use of solar and wind resources, make manufacturing more sustainable and reduce the environmental impact of scaling.

“South Africa must leverage its wellestablished international relations to deliver economic outcomes through inward foreign direct investment (FDI), growth in export markets, tourism and cultural industries, knowledge and access to technology. Economic relationships with competing global power blocs must be maintained while simultaneously promoting interests in Africa. The country’s economic diplomacy capabilities must be navigated and international relations leveraged.”

In terms of the progress made in job creation, the MTDP cites the number of people who have been given access to “earning opportunities” through the Presidential Employment Service while calling for the expansion of public employment programmes. The Presidential Youth Employment Initiative, with SAYouth.mobi at its core, has 4 million unemployed young people registered. The network it has created has been institutionalised through the SA Youth Trust as a way of fostering collaboration between the public and private sector.

Strategic Priority 1 Goals and Objectives

• Increased employment and work opportunities;

• Accelerated growth of strategic industrial and labour-intensive sectors;

• Enabling environment for investment and improved competitiveness through structural reforms;

• Increased infrastructure investment, access and efficiency;

• Improved energy security and a just energy transition;

• Increased trade and investment;

• A dynamic science, technology and innovation

ecosystem for growth;

• Supportive and sustainable economic policy environment; and

• Economic transformation and equitable inclusion of women, youth and persons with disabilities for a just society

BY KOKETSO MAMABOLO

Health Minister Hon. Aaron Motsoaledi will be tasked with implementing the NHI

Strategic Priority 2: Reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living

The second strategic priority is one which addresses rights enshrined in the Bill of Rights. Around half the population lives in poverty and 13.8 million people experience food poverty. “An extensive social protection system is therefore necessary to avert destitution for more than half of the South African population,” says the MTDP.

Minus debt servicing costs, 60% of the government budget goes towards the social wage. This points towards progress since 1994 which includes 90% of people having access to electricity compared to 58% at the dawn of democracy.

“Nevertheless, a significantly greater effort is required to make a dent in poverty and accelerate progress towards

Strategic Priority 2 Goals and Objectives

• Reduced poverty and improved livelihoods;

the NDP goals. Substantial public investment in employment creation and social protection will be necessary as part of a broader economic growth strategy and will require a reprioritisation of expenditure to accommodate increases on social spending and direct transfers while ensuring fiscal sustainability. Government will pursue both these imperatives simultaneously.”

The government also plans on expanding one of the newer forms of social spending, the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant for the unemployed which will function as a basic income grant. The initiative will also evolve to provide SRD grant recipients with employment opportunities and support for jobseekers, among other interventions.

“In addition to social protection and active labour market programmes, a renewed focus on spatial transformation must prioritise cities as engines of growth and centres of economic dynamism,

• Improved coverage of social protection;

• Improved access to affordable and quality healthcare;

and support the viability of rural areas as sustainable centres of development. The potential economic and social impacts of spatial transformation must be optimised through support for MSME, cooperatives and village enterprises, particularly those owned by WYPD [women, youth and people with disabilities]. Further progress must be made in building sustainable human settlements and addressing asset poverty through improving access to land, housing and title deeds.”

Another major priority which will have a wide impact is the implementation of the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme which will be complex undertaking involving all levels of the public sector and coordination with the private sector which continues to provide input on its concerns and recommendations regarding the best route to offer quality healthcare to the entire population.

• Improved education outcomes and skills;

• Skills for the economy; and

• Social cohesion and nationbuilding

Strategic Priority 3: Building a capable, ethical and developmental state

A major priority in the 6th administration and now the 7th administration - improving capabilities and promoting good governance - is something which underpins the first two priorities. As South Africa strives to function as a developmental state, expertise and sound ethics will determine how effectively the plans in the MTDP are implemented. Progress has been made but, as acknowledged in the report:

“Some challenges remain and include an emphasis on

Strategic Priority 3 Goals and Objectives:

• Improved service delivery in the local government sphere;

• Improved governance and performance of public entities;

• An ethical, capable and professional public service;

• Digital transformation across the state;

compliance at the expense of delivery, fragmented structures, weak technical capacity, a focus on process rather than outcomes and a failure to promote and reward innovation and success.”

State capture and what President Ramaphosa has in the past referred to as the “nine wasted years” have made things worse.

“As a result, the ethical foundations of the state were eroded while the state’s capacity to deliver on complex projects and objectives was weakened. The long-term consequences of State Capture for many institutions that manage public services have been

• Mainstreaming of gender, empowerment of youth and persons with disabilities;

• A reformed, integrated and modernised Criminal Justice System;

• Effective border security;

• Secured cyber space;

• Increased feelings of safety of women and children in communities;

• Combat priority offences

disastrous for the economy and the state’s ability to deliver to its citizens.”

The Public Service Commission and the National School of Government will continue to play an important role in ensuring public servants are capable and the Office of the Head of the Public Administration (HOPA) will be created to assist the DirectorGeneral in the Presidency to manage the appointment of senior public servants and their career progression. Local Government interventions will also be key in building a capable, ethical state. 

(economic, organised crime and corruption);

• Advance South African foreign policy for a better world; and

• Enhanced peace and security in Africa

The first Cabinet Lekgotla of the 7th administration

BY WANDILE SIHLOBO

Agricultural development at provincial level

The case of the Eastern Cape

We typically focus on the national level when considering agricultural development and the possibilities of growth and jobs the sector can bring. Most of our plans, such as the recent Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan, heavily emphasise the national level.

Consultations are also held nationally to develop or craft these plans. This is an important starting point for establishing a national viewpoint and rallying the support of the various stakeholders.

Beyond this stage lies another critical step: translating the broad national views into provincial and regional

plans. This is vital as most agricultural development depends on the local government’s delivery.

The face of the government and the experience of farmers and other stakeholders on the ground are defined by the engagement with the local officials. Therefore, we must have an efficient path of always translating the broad national agricultural programmes into local interventions, which may differ province by province.

I was reminded of this critical step as I began to reflect on the recent news out of my home province, the Eastern Cape, where Premier Oscar

Mabuyane announced the new leadership appointment for the various departments.

He selected Mr Bonginkosi Dayimani in agriculture, an old hand who is also deeply respected. I have had several interactions over the years with Dayimani and can confidently say he is aware of the province’s challenges and what needs to be done to address them.

Unlike his predecessors, Dayimani has a much larger and more complex responsibility. Agriculture, agroprocessing, and agrotourism, among other sectors, are key to reviving the Eastern Cape’s economy.

Unfortunately, the province has not made admirable progress in these areas despite the much-talkedabout possibilities of these sectors in creating jobs and addressing the poverty issues in the Eastern Cape. The Premier of the Province, Oscar Mabuyane, typically gives promising speeches that diagnose the underlying problems. But the delivery remains disappointing.

For example, the province’s agriculture still has a sharp dualism. The former Ciskei regions of the province, with dominant commercial agriculture, are the engine of the provincial agricultural fortunes. Meanwhile, the former Transkei region remains at the periphery of progress.

The challenges of poor land governance, inadequate infrastructure (roads, water, silos, etc.), and absence of organised agriculture for training are among the issues this region faces. As a result, there are tracts of underutilised land in areas with favourable rainfall and fertile land.

The province’s leadership should pull out all the stops to ensure we realise agricultural growth in the province. Dayimani, as a trusted hand, will have to work to change this reality, leaning on the national programmes and policies to guide his work, primarily

the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan. He will also have to work closely with the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development to address the poor land governance issues that continue to hinder agricultural progress in the province.

Thankfully, the Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, too, is well-versed in the challenges of communal land and the pedestrian pace of Eastern Cape agricultural progress and should, I assume, have a sense of urgency to ensure the province makes some improvements.

Progress in provincial agriculture would be an engine for addressing high unemployment and poverty. These would also be highly technical jobs in the value chain.

The Eastern Cape has the potential. However, its leadership must do its part seriously to restart the province. Once we see their efforts, private businesses will follow up and invest. We can’t keep having a rural province with a “potential” never achieved while people suffer.

While I have placed the burden on the Premier and the head of the agriculture department, Dayimani, the people of the Eastern Cape must define their destiny. Pockets of fertile lands remain fallow. People seem to have lost hope in farming for various

reasons. The government has also done little to build confidence and provide the necessary infrastructure and a conducive operating environment to return intellectual and physical capital to the province.

Provided agriculture could be revitalised, and supportive infrastructure, agriculture and agribusiness could give far more economic opportunities than we see in some urban regions.

The starting point for all this work should not be for Dayimani to call another conference; it should be taking the Agriculture and Agroprocessing Master Plan, choosing the value chains that could be a key focus for the province, and building from thereon. While I haven’t discussed the province’s challenges at length here, they have long been studied and do not require another strategy document.

Of course, a lot will be learned through implementation, which is a much better approach—learning by doing—than consistent planning for every new leader.

We hope the Eastern Cape will be one of the few provinces to adopt the national policy, adapt it to its regional challenges, and improve its agricultural fortunes. 

Wandile Sihlobo is the chief economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber of SA (Agbiz) and a senior fellow in Stellenbosch University’s Department of Agricultural Economics.

BY SHUMIRAI CHIMOMBE

The African Union Commission - new leadership at the helm

Ready to accelerate the AU agenda towards the ‘Africa We Want’

The African Union Commission (AUC) plays a central role in the day-to-day management of the AU. Members of the Commission include the Chairperson, the Deputy Chairperson, six Commissioners, and staff members. It is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Among other responsibilities, the AUC

• Represents the Union and defends its interests

• Elaborates draft common positions of the Union

• Prepares strategic plans and studies for the consideration of the Executive Council

• Coordinates and harmonises the programmes and policies of the Union with those of the Regional Economic Communities, and ensures the mainstreaming of gender in all programmes and activities

Source: The African Union

The new leadership of the The African Union Commission (AUC) assumed office on 13 March, following the handover ceremony at the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa on 15 February 2025.

African leaders at the Summit elected H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf (Minister of Foreign Affairs for the Republic of Djibouti) as Chairperson, and H.E. Selma Malika Haddadi (current Ambassador of Algeria to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the AU and the UN Economic Commission for Africa, UNECA) as Deputy Chairperson.

Four of the six Commissioners were also elected and sworn in to oversee the following portfolios:

Amb. Bankole Adeoye (Nigeria) - Political Affairs, Peace and Security. He previously served as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the AU and UNECA and Ambassador to Ethiopia and Djibouti.

Mr. Moses Vilakati (Eswatini)Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment. He served as a minister in Eswatini in both

the Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Affairs, and the Ministry of Agriculture. among other accomplishments.

Ms. Lerato Mataboge (South Africa) - Infrastructure and Energy. A global policy and trade and investment facilitation expert, she is currently the Deputy Director-General in the South African Department of Trade, Industry and Competition. Prior to this role, she founded, and was CEO of Trade Invest Africa.

Amb. Amma Twum-Amoah (Ghana) - Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development. She is the former Ambassador of the Republic of Ghana to Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Somalia and South Sudan and the Permanent Representative to the AU. She previously served as the Director, Economic, Trade and Investment Bureau of Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The elections of the remaining posts of two CommissionersEconomic Development, Tourism, Trade, Industry, Mining (ETTIM), and Education, Science, Technology and Innovation (ESTI) were expected to take place at the 24th Extraordinary session of the Executive Council.

The elected officials of the AUC serve for a four-year term which is renewable once.

Asserting Africa’s position on the global stage

Upon accepting his new role as AUC Chairperson, H.E. Youssouf said: “Africa must take its destiny into its own hands. It’s time to assert ourselves as a determined continent, capable of influencing major global decisions and proposing solutions to the crises that affect us. I pledge today to act with determination to raise our Union to the level of our peoples’ expectations. We must breathe new life into our organisation, strengthen our unity and assert Africa’s place in the concert of nations.”

He emphasised the urgency to accelerate, among other goals, the implementation of the Second Ten-Year Plan of Agenda 2063 which is Africa’s blueprint and master plan for transforming the continent into the global powerhouse of the future‘The Africa We Want’.

BY SHUMIRAI CHIMOMBE

He also underscored the importance of working towards the financial autonomy of the AU and reducing dependence on external funding by exploring innovative financing mechanisms. Other goals he highlighted were to strengthen the collaboration between African Union institutions and to fast track the implementation of institutional reforms to address administrative and structural blockages.

“We must be an agile player, capable of responding to emergencies and anticipating future challenges.”

Messages of support for the new leadership

In a congratulatory statement the African Court Coalition wrote: “The African Court Coalition congratulates the newly elected AUC Chairperson and his Deputy, as well as the elected AUC Commissioners and wish them all the very best in serving their respective terms and serving the interest and the peoples of Africa. We also urge the newly elected AUC leadership to facilitate positive AU reforms that are inclusive and beneficial to African citizens; to prioritise the protection and promotion of human rights in the continent; and to strengthen the African human rights system”.

President Cyril Ramaphosa commented in an interview with news channel Newzroom Afrika, that with the new AU Chairperson, H.E. João Manuel Gonçalves

Lourenço, President of the Republic of Angola and the new AUC Chairperson, H.E. Youssouf “we think the capability of both those leaders is just going to lift the continent to higher levels of real hands-on management of the unity process on the continent.”

He also expressed his delight at the election of Lerato Mataboge to become the commissioner for infrastructure. “South Africa being the champion for infrastructure, this for us is a real cherry on top because it’s really going to put us at the center of infrastructure development.”

H.E. Lourenço, echoed these sentiments in his statement on the occasion of the handover ceremony in which the outgoing AUC leadership handed the baton to the incoming leadership.

“In my acceptance speech, I referred in particular to the issue of infrastructure, as I believe it should be given special attention by this Commission, which I am asking to devise a strategy aimed at mobilising Africa’s international partners, who are interested in making win-win investments.”

He added that infrastructure is one of the essential pillars of the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which obliges the Union to mobilise as many financial resources as possible in order to achieve the goals that have been set in this area, and in the areas

of technological innovation, food security and energy transition.

He proposed that the AUC, in coordination with the Regional Economic Communities and regional mechanisms, should work on organising a major continental conference on infrastructure in Africa this year. This would be to communicate to the Union’s main cooperation partners at bilateral and multilateral level the advantages of investing in financing and in continental interconnection infrastructures, and contribute directly to growth and development on the continent.

“I have observed the unreserved commitment by the leadership to the realisation of our great aspirations, which essentially consist of promoting the development of the continent, the construction and modernisation of the infrastructure we need to ensure the functioning of our industries, the efficient performance of our services, the flow of our export products, and enhanced intra-African trade through the African Continental Free Area.”

He expressed his confidence in the ability of the new leadership to steer the continent towards a more industrialised, peaceful and inclusive Africa where all African citizens can benefit from the economic growth, improved well-being and welfare, justice, and freedoms. 

Discover the latest trends, success stories, and thought leadership in our 23rd edition of Impumelelo Top Empowerment

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Africa’s renewable energy leaders

Looking towards an energy secure continent

As the global community intensifies efforts to combat climate change, several African nations are emerging as frontrunners in renewable energy and green innovation. South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, Morocco, and Kenya are at the forefront, implementing ambitious projects and policies to harness their abundant natural resources and drive sustainable development.

Africa’s transition to renewable energy is not just a climate imperative—it’s an economic and social necessity. Over 600 million people in sub-Saharan Africa still lack access to electricity, accounting

for 77% of the world’s unelectrified population, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).

Meanwhile, energy demand is expected to grow by 60% by 2040 as Africa’s population rapidly increases and urbanisation accelerates. Renewable energy offers a sustainable solution to meet this demand, especially as the continent holds immense potential: Africa receives 10 TW of solar radiation, has vast wind corridors, and has significant geothermal reserves.

Harnessing just a fraction of this could dramatically improve living standards while reducing

dependence on expensive fossil fuels and vulnerable energy imports.

Additionally, renewable energy could create over nine million jobs by 2030, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), stimulating local economies and reducing poverty. As the global community pivots toward net-zero emissions, Africa has a chance to leapfrog to cleaner technologies, develop green industries, and ensure energy security for future generations. The time to act is now—and renewables are at the heart of that transformation.”

South Africa: Transitioning from coal to renewables

South Africa, traditionally reliant on coal, is undergoing a significant energy transformation. The South African Renewable Energy Master Plan aims to deploy at least 3 GW of new renewable energy capacity annually, increasing to 5 GW by 2030. This initiative is expected to create approximately 25,000 jobs in the renewable energy and storage sectors. The country is also exploring green hydrogen production, leveraging its vast solar and wind resources. International partnerships, such as the European Union's €4.7 billion investment, support South Africa's transition to cleaner energy sources.

Egypt: Harnessing solar and wind power

Egypt is capitalising on its solar and wind potential to become a regional energy hub. The government aims to increase the share of renewables in its electricity mix to 42% by 2030. A notable project is the 1.1 GW Obelisk solar and 100 MW/200 MWh battery storage facility, currently under construction by Scatec ASA.

Additionally, Egypt is positioning itself as a leader in green hydrogen production, with plans to produce green hydrogen for under two dollars per kilogram by 2030. The Suez Canal Economic Zone has been identified as a hub for green hydrogen development, attracting investments from companies like Siemens and Scatec.

Nigeria: Expanding access through mini-grids

Nigeria, Africa's largest economy, faces challenges in electricity access, particularly in rural areas. To address this, the government has initiated projects to develop and operate 400 mini-grids and 50 MetroGrids across the country, aiming to improve electricity access for an estimated 1.5 to 2 million people.

The country is also investing in solar home systems and hydropower projects, such as the Zungeru Hydropower Plant, to diversify its energy mix and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Support from international organisations, including a planned $1 billion investment by the African Development Bank, is bolstering Nigeria's renewable energy initiatives.

Morocco: Advancing solar and green hydrogen projects

Morocco has set an ambitious target to have renewables constitute 52% of its installed electricity capacity by 2030. The country is investing heavily in solar energy, with projects like the Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex, one of the world's largest concentrated solar power plants. In addition to solar, Morocco is focusing on green hydrogen, approving projects worth $32.5 billion. Partnerships with companies like Total Energies and Engie aim to produce ammonia from green hydrogen, positioning Morocco as a key player in the global green hydrogen market.

Kenya: Leading in geothermal and off-grid solutions

Kenya is a leader in geothermal energy, with facilities like the Olkaria I geothermal power plant contributing significantly to the national grid. The country aims to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2030, focusing on geothermal, wind, and solar power. Kenya is investing in off-grid solar solutions to address electricity access in remote areas. Initiatives like the Intersolar Summit Africa in Nairobi highlight the country's commitment to advancing photovoltaic technologies and energy storage solutions.

The efforts of South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, Morocco, and Kenya underscore Africa's potential to lead in renewable energy and green innovation. By leveraging their natural resources and implementing forward-thinking policies, these countries are addressing their energy needs and contributing to global sustainability goals.

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

AfCFTA’s digital innovation challenge Empowering Africa’s future trade

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is not just a landmark agreement designed to enhance intra-African trade; it’s also a significant driver of Africa’s digital transformation. In recent months, AfCFTA has focused on digital innovation, launching its Digital Innovation Challenge for 2025. This initiative aims to harness technology to streamline trade processes, reduce trade barriers, and empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Africa.

The digital transformation of trade in Africa

Technology is rapidly reshaping trade across Africa. As of 2024, Africa remains one of the

world’s fastest-growing regions in terms of digital adoption. According to the International Telecommunication Union, mobile phone penetration across the continent exceeds 80%, and internet usage continues to rise exponentially. This digital shift is crucial because it is directly impacting trade dynamics. Traditional trade methods that relied on physical meetings, manual paperwork, and slow customs processes are increasingly being replaced by digital tools that simplify operations, increase transparency and lower transaction costs.

AfCFTA, which came into effect on 1 January 2021, is the largest free

trade area by membership in the world, encompassing 54 of the 55 African Union (AU) member states. The agreement aims to create a single continental market for goods and services, enhance the movement of capital and people, and ultimately increase Africa’s economic output by $3.4-trillion by 2030.

However, in order to fully capitalize on the opportunities offered by AfCFTA, Africa needs to address several challenges that have historically hindered intra-African trade—such as bureaucratic delays, inefficient customs procedures, limited access to market information, and high transaction costs.

The AfCFTA Digital Innovation Challenge, launched in 2025, is designed to promote the development of digital solutions that address these challenges. The goal is to leverage technology to make cross-border trade easier, faster, and more inclusive for businesses of all sizes, particularly SMEs that are often excluded from global supply chains due to cumbersome trade barriers.

The challenge’s potential to reshape intra-African trade cannot be overstated. By encouraging digital innovation, AfCFTA is laying the groundwork for an Africa where trade flows

freely across borders, businesses - no matter their size - can compete on equal footing, and the digital divide between countries is bridged.

One of the most significant aspects of AfCFTA’s Digital Innovation Challenge is its focus on empowering youth and entrepreneurs. Africa has one of the youngest populations in the world. This demographic presents a vast potential for technological innovation and digital entrepreneurship. However, the lack of access to capital and business support remains a significant barrier to success.

Technology’s role in empowering African entrepreneurs Technology’s role in trade is already visible in Africa through several successful initiatives. For instance, the launch of platforms like Trade Depot and Twiga Foods has revolutionised how SMEs access markets, connecting them with suppliers and buyers across countries without intermediaries. In the financial services sector, mobile money platforms such as M-Pesa have transformed how individuals and businesses make payments, driving economic inclusion for millions.

Additionally, the use of blockchain technology is gaining momentum in Africa. Blockchain provides a decentralised, transparent ledger for transactions, which reduces fraud and enhances security. For trade, this means that goods can be tracked from the point of origin to delivery, offering a level of accountability and trust that has been lacking in traditional trade systems. By reducing transaction costs and increasing transparency, blockchain has the potential to unlock new

opportunities for businesses in Africa to trade with each other and the rest of the world.

The digital shift is crucial for unlocking the full potential of the AfCFTA. The initiative will also catalyse broader regional integration. By adopting digital tools, African countries will improve trade efficiency and foster greater economic integration.

In the long term, digital trade is expected to stimulate economic growth by opening up new markets for African products, increasing competitiveness, and creating jobs in technology sectors across the continent.

Moreover, these digital innovations will help Africa reduce its reliance on external markets and bolster intra-continental trade. According to a 2024 report by the World Bank, intra-Africa trade accounts for just 18% of the continent’s total trade. The AfCFTA aims to increase this number significantly, with projections suggesting that African exports could rise by up to 40% by 2040 as a result of reduced trade barriers and improved market access.

By harnessing the power of technology, AfCFTA aims to eliminate barriers, reduce transaction costs, and empower the continent’s entrepreneurs. The results will be felt not just in the economic sphere but also in the form of a more connected, dynamic, and prosperous Africa, where technology plays a central role in shaping the future of trade. As the challenge progresses, Africa stands poised to emerge as a global hub for digital innovation and cross-border trade. 

BY SHUMIRAI CHIMOMBE

Observing Africa Day Celebrating the continent’s strong cultural identity and common heritage

The month of May is recognised as Africa month – a time when the continent commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) on 25 May 1963. Through establishing the OAU, Africa became a pioneer in being the first continent to focus on continental unity and to encourage nation building, The organisation was the precursor to what we now know as the African Union (AU).

Africa Day on 25 May is celebrated throughout the continent and internationally. It is intended to take stock and acknowledge

the continent’s fight against colonialism and apartheid, as well as to celebrate the progress that Africa has made in its development, while reflecting on the common challenges that the continent faces.

The day is also used to celebrate the continent’s rich heritage, diverse languages, ethnicity and cultural backgrounds that make up its people. With 54 countries and over 2000 languages spoken, one can imagine the richness of this diversity and wealth of history, knowledge and traditions.

An explosion of colour, culture and cuisine

In many countries the spotlight is set on celebrating and exploring African music, art, and cuisine, learning about history and culture, and engaging in activities that promote unity and understanding. This is a time to celebrate what it means to be African.

In South Africa, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture hosts a series of events to celebrate Africa Day and throughout May for Africa Month. Businesses, organisations, schools and higher education institutions among

others include the day in their calendar to organise events. Activities to celebrate African culture and heritage range from the visual arts, music, fashion, poetry, craft, song, storytelling and film. Schools can play a vital role in celebrating Africa Day and promoting cultural awareness among students and fostering a sense of global citizenship.

The website AfriKindness suggests various activities that schools can undertake, however, they are also excellent ways for businesses and organisations to commemorate Africa Day.

Cultural showcases where students can display various aspects of African culture, such as traditional music, dance, art, and fashion; or research and give presentations on different African countries and their unique traditions.

Guest speakers such as African artists, musicians, storytellers, or community leaders to share their experiences and knowledge about African culture and history. Food and cuisine featuring traditional dishes from different countries and discussions about food traditions and cultural significance.

Film screenings: Screen documentaries or movies that explore African history, culture, or current issues. This can spark meaningful conversations and broaden perspectives on Africa’s diverse realities.

Art and craft activities: Engage students in creative projects inspired by African art, such as mask-making, beadwork, or fabric painting.

Storytelling and literature: Encourage students to read African literature or listen to African folktales and stories. This can promote cultural understanding, empathy,

and appreciation for African storytelling traditions.

Exploring the vibrancy of continent’s art and culture Africa Day is an opportunity to be curious about the diversity of this continent and learn something new about the people and places. Here are some ideas:

Immerse yourself in the visual arts

There are thousands of iconic museums, galleries and cultural sites on the continent. Take some time to visit a place you have not been to before and immerse yourself in history and culture through the visual arts. You may be surprised at what new things you learn in a gallery or museum in your own city. And, thanks to technology opening up the world, it is now possible to experience these collections, cultural sites and landmarks online.Through an immersive experience you can discover and be inspired by taking a virtual tour or walk through a 3D virtual gallery. Some examples: ‘Artology’ by the University of Pretoria Museums; and ‘Interwoven Horizons: Bridging generations’ by Terra Kulture.

Learn about different African communities

Discover the wealth of tradition and heritage behind the lifestyles, rituals and crafts of the different communities on the continent. Meet the Maasai people of East Africa and find out about their beadwork and traditional Adamu dance (also known as the ‘jumping dance’). Travel into Southern Africa and visit the Ndebele village of ‘Mapoch’ outside Pretoria, be awed by the mystical wooden sculptures carved by the Makonde people of Mozambique, or the beautiful stone sculptures of the Shona people in Zimbabwe.

Discover the magic of Mali’s manuscripts

Mali is known for its treasure trove of the ancient manuscripts of Timbuktu - some 400 000 pages of text detailing everything from the Koran to mathematics to astronomy and astrology. Central to the heritage of this country, they represent the long legacy of written knowledge and academic excellence in Africa, and hold potential to inspire global learning from the actions of the past in confronting modern day issues. More than 40 000 of those pages are digitally available for the first time for the world to explore on Google Arts & Culture. “In the dark night of our present existence, manuscripts are the searchlights that probe our past” - Dr Abdel Kader Haïdara, founder of the cultural preservation organisation SAVAMA-DCI which is the custodian of the manuscripts.

Travel back in time through Africa’s creative expression

The continent has an abundance of rock art, which the people of the past used as an expression of their creativity. You will find a stunning array of South African rock art in the Drakensberg mountains in KwaZulu Natal and the Cederberg region of the Western Cape. It is the legacy of the San people, the original inhabitants of southern Africa. South Africa’s oldest museum, the Iziko SA Museum in Cape Town, has an extraordinary rock art display – including whole sections from caves. The Bushman Cave Museum, an open-air site in the Giant’s Castle Reserve in the Drakensberg, has 500 paintings, some of them thought to be thousands of years old. Iff you are curious about ancient Egypt, try out an online experiment using machine learning to decipher ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics on the Google Arts & Culture website.

BY SHUMIRAI CHIMOMBE

The Energy Council of South Africa A

unified voice of business for the energy sector transition

The Energy Council of South Africa is a CEOled initiative that brings together key public and private sector companies, industry and professional associations, and finance institutions that actively and significantly participate across the energy sector. Established in 2021 the Council plays a leading and collaborative role in the development and transition of the country’s energy sector, with its purpose being to ‘enable a thriving and sustainable energy sector supporting inclusive economic growth.’

As part of its portfolio it works to drive stakeholder and policy alignment, and assists in addressing major issues in the energy landscape in collaboration with the public and private sectors. The Energy Council supports South Africa’s commitments under the UNFCCC

Paris agreement and the country’s climate legislation aimed at achieving Net Zero by 2050.

Its membership boasts a diverse and growing multi-sectoral composition of public and private sector key players across various sub-sectors crucial to South Africa’s energy ecosystem and economy. It currently has some 40 members that include Eskom, Sasol and the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), alongside energy developers, companies and organisations in sectors including industrial and manufacturing, mining, automotive, oil and gas, infrastructure, as well as integrated energy providers and traders, and financiers.

Energise Mzansi – lighting the way towards a sustainable and thriving energy future for all

In February this year, the Council launched the “Energise Mzansi” campaign which it said aims to boost energy literacy and empower South Africans to engage in the energy transition.

Through a dedicated website and coordinated communications including social media, the national campaign makes key information, data, and tools accessible in a creative and engaging way. The goal is to inspire South Africans to understand the complexities, embrace the possibilities and work collaboratively to address the challenges that stand in the way of a more sustainable, affordable and equitable energy future for all.

James Mackay, CEO of the Energy Council said that through this campaign, “we aim to connect

South Africans with the factual information they need to make sense of the challenges and take advantage of the opportunities presented by the energy transition.”

The Council indicated that the campaign comes at a crucial time for South Africa’s energy sector. “While 2024 far exceeded our best expectations of an energy recovery, we have not solved our challenges as highlighted by the recent return of loadshedding. We are still facing severe and urgent risks to achieving a sustainable, affordable and reliable energy system.”

In the SONA 2025 address, President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasised the importance of the reform agenda and specifically the time pressure to accelerate delivery in 2025. The National Energy Crisis Committee (NECOM), established under the Presidency, is tasked with the implementation of the Presidential Energy Action Plan (EAP), announced by the President in July 2022. For this plan, business, Eskom and government committed to working in partnership to support the delivery of the agreed objectives.

Energise Mzansi aligns these objectives and will equip key stakeholders in society, business, and government with better knowledge and insights to drive informed, balanced discussions and decision-making.

The campaign focuses on six technical energy topics or toolkits key to understanding the energy transition:

Toolkit 1: Energy is an integrated system: highlighting the need to shift to a practical, integrated system planning and delivery

approach. This means balancing the supply side (including but not limited to wind, solar, coal, gas, nuclear, and battery storage) with demand response, evolving customer needs and changing trends; the increasing importance of infrastructure and digital integration; and the critical issue of a competitive marketplace.

Toolkit 2: Reducing carbon emissions: South Africa has an intensive carbon footprint and is now subject to carbon tax and carbon border adjustments from 2026 with its biggest trade partner, Europe. What is the impact of emissions, do we have practical pathways to address them and how do we align to international commitments and policies driving the country’s transition to a lowercarbon future?

Toolkit 3: Coal dependence: Examining coal’s critical role in the country’s energy mix, which is still planned to be in operation well beyond 2026. One of the strongest arguments for decreasing this dependence on coal-fired power stations is the impact they have on the atmosphere. There is a need for cleaner, reliable and more efficient energy use, and to identify a strategic, balanced transition that will not compromise energy security and economic stability.

Toolkit 4: Bridging the transition with gas: Exploring how gas could provide crucial support to South Africa’s energy system by meeting fluctuating demand, system variability and bridging the gap as renewable energy grows and large coal stations are decommissioned.

Toolkit 5: Scaling renewables and storage: Evaluating the growing adoption of solar and wind energy as well as battery storage, focusing on the advantages of

renewable energy, the barriers to widespread deployment, and the role of technology in making renewables a central part of South Africa’s energy future.

Toolkit 6: Reforming the energy market: Understanding the critical need and benefits of a competitive wholesale electricity market to unlock investment, drive efficiency and lower prices, as well as anchor the future power sector eco-system.

“Energy literacy is more than just understanding the basics, it’s the foundation for informed decision-making, constructive collaboration, and ultimately driving investment and economic growth through gained public positive sentiment,” added the Council’s CEO.

The two key drivers of the energy reform agenda are now anchored in law: the Electricity Regulation Amendment (ERA) Act, 2004 and the Climate Change Act, 2024. According to the Council, if we manage our energy transition properly, South Africa could unlock the largest ever capital investment programme in our history: R1.8-trillion over the next 10 years. This can be leveraged to rejuvenate local manufacturing, create meaningful jobs, and stimulate innovation and skills development for young people.

“It is critical that informed responses lead the transition, ensuring collaboration across all stakeholders to create sustainable, long-term solutions for South Africa’s energy future.”

For more details on Energise Mzansi, visit their comprehensive website at www.energycouncil. org.za/mzansi or follow them on LinkedIn (Energise Mzansi) for regular updates and key messages. 

BY SHUMIRAI CHIMOMBE

The Just Energy Transition

Building a pathway towards a low-carbon and climate resilient society

While the world is grappling with the drastic effects of climate change, South Africa is no exception. The country faces significant climate and energy risks due to its reliance on coal alongside high levels of poverty, inequality, unemployment and energy insecurity.

In response to these challenges South Africa launched the Just Energy Transition (JET) in 2021 during COP26. JET is a comprehensive drive to reduce the country’s reliance on fossil fuels and to shift towards cleaner sources of energy, while fostering economic and social growth in the process. The transition focuses on decarbonising key sectors, including electricity, new energy vehicles, and green hydrogen.

‘Transition’ describes the gradual movement towards lower carbon technologies, while ‘Just’ qualifies that this transition will not negatively impact society, jobs and livelihoods” - Eskom

The Just Energy Transition Investment Plan (JET IP), for the five-year period 2023-2027, supports South Africa’s goal of achieving a low-carbon economy and a climate-resilient society. It entails addressing the global risks of climate change, while creating jobs and driving more rapid and inclusive economic growth. It identifies the interventions and investments needed for the country to meet its decarbonisation commitments and deliver just outcomes for those affected by the energy transition.

In January 2023, the Presidency established the JET Project Management Unit (PMU) to prepare and drive an implementation roadmap for the JET IP. In 2024 JET was set in motion following the approval by Cabinet of the Implementation Plan 2023-2027. It defines shortand medium-term outcomes in six portfolios: Decarbonising the electricity sector, Mpumalanga Just Transition, New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), Green Hydrogen (GH2), Skills development, and Municipal capacity.

The just energy transition will be a managed, phased, long-term process of economic, social, and environmental change. It will

involve multi-year, multi-sectoral, and multi-jurisdictional initiatives with many stakeholders, including significant capacity building to manage the scale of the transition.

“A well-managed “Just Energy Transition” can be a strong driver for new jobs, better jobs, social justice, and poverty eradication.”Presidential Climate Commission

A R2-billion boost for just transition projects

“The challenging global context has not deterred our commitment to the Just Energy Transition Partnership with South Africa. It has reaffirmed it” - International Partners Group

Following the second G20 Energy Transitions working group meeting that took place from 20 April to 2 May in Cape Town, the International Partners Group (IPG) released a joint opinion piece on 7 May reaffirming its commitment to its partnership with South Africa.

The IPG consists of the donor countries United Kingdom, Germany, France, the European Union, Denmark and the Netherlands that support the decarbonisation of the South

African economy. It does this by mobilising financing various mechanisms including grants, concessional loans and investments and risk sharing instruments, including to mobilise the private sector.

In their opinion piece, published by News24, the IPG wrote that the working group meeting was a critical moment to reflect on the important priorities set out by South Africa, including the delivery of just, affordable, reliable and inclusive energy transitions.

“To limit global warming to 1.5°C it is essential that we work towards a global reduction in emissions from fossil fuels, and the energy sector will have to lead the way.”

The IPG indicated that as the world’s 15th largest emitter of greenhouse gases and as the chair of the G20, South Africa’s

contribution was vital. If managed well, the energy transition will be a source of job creation and economic growth - citing the World Bank’s projection that South Africa could create 815 000 direct jobs in the transition.

In terms of funding, almost $12.8 billion (approximately R226.36-billion) has now been pledged by IPG members and other partners. To date over $2.6-billion (R46-billion) has been allocated, including over $583 million (R10.3-billion) of grant funding. Of the grants, 30 projects totalling $116-million (R21-billion) are ‘Just’ projects, aiming to create viable economic alternatives in coal-dependent regions.

Some of the projects include:

• The Netherlands has partnered with Eskom to create agricultural jobs near

the Grootvlei power plant

• The UK is supporting citrus and nut farming and SMEs in Mpumalanga with the intention to create up to 3 200 local jobs

• The EU is partnering with municipalities to improve delivery of water, energy services, and public infrastructure

• Germany with co-funding from Switzerland is providing measures for improving transition into employment to over 1 200 young people and support to over 500 SMMEs and entrepreneurs.

The IPG reiterated that its support is offered across all the pillars of South Africa’s Just Energy Transition Implementation Plan, including electricity; and are sharing expertise and financing to help improve energy infrastructure and implement

Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa Minister of Electricity and Energy

BY SHUMIRAI CHIMOMBE

an energy market. “This is critical in achieving a sustainable and secure energy future for South Africa”.

For example, France and Germany have provided over EUR1.5-billion (R30-billion) in concessional loans to the government focused on managing the social impact of the just energy transition, and Germany and Denmark have provided technical assistance to the government and Eskom to enable progress towards the liberalisation of the energy market. Germany’s concessional financing of EUR150-million (R2.9billion) for the City of Cape Town is strengthening grid infrastructure, and the UK’s Development Finance Institutions are providing innovative guarantees totalling $117 million (R2.1-billion) to trading companies to unlock renewable energy capacity through energy trading.

“We know that the transition of a new energy future is a long and

challenging journey that impacts the lives of all South Africans. All the countries of the IPG can be counted on as responsible, committed and reliable partners, and we are proud to support South Africa towards achieving a just and sustainable energy future that benefits all South Africans”

Energy transition must focus on jobs, development: Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa

Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa delivered the opening remarks at the G20 Energy Transitions working group (ETWG) technical teams meeting in Cape Town.

He highlighted that a successful transition is one that does not displace workers but rather prioritises reskilling, protects livelihoods and anchors new industries that generate quality jobs.

“Workers must see themselves not as casualties of the transitions but as co-authors of a new energy future. This is not just a matter of policy: it is a matter of principle; one we owe to those whose hands

have powered our economies and whose futures must remain central to our planning.”

The Minister said the transition must also be seen as a “development project” for developing economies which must also enable nations to industrialise, create jobs and expand the reach of human development.

“For the global South, the transition must mean…moving from vulnerability to resilience, from exclusion to empowerment and lastly, from energy poverty to energy sovereignty.

In conclusion, he said that Africa has the youngest population, greatest solar potential and the fastest growing demand for energy services.

“We are not the last frontier of development. We are the next frontier of opportunity. We welcome partnerships that view African countries not merely as recipients of energy investments but as co-creators of the solutions needed for a global just transition.” 

Stay informed about environmental, social, & governance trends, strategies & best practices. Feature in our publication to join us in shaping a better tomorrow.

THE CENTRAL ENERGY FUND

BY FIONA WAKELIN

The Central Energy Fund

Reducing SA’s dependence on imported oil

South Africa is a net importer of oil - i.e. we import more than we export - with our dependence on imported oil having increased significantly over the last 3 years, mainly due to the decline in domestic refining capacity.

Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Angola, Ghana and the US constitute our main suppliers – although with the Trump tariff scenario, the US’s continued status as a provider is unclear.

In 2023, South Africa relied on imports for 61% of its petroleum product supply, with refined petroleum products coming mainly from the United Arab Emirates, India, and Oman.

The Central Energy Fund and SA’s energy supply

The Central Energy Fund in South Africa is a Schedule 2 state owned diversified energy company reporting to the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources. The mandate of CEF is to contribute to the security of energy supply of South Africa and the region through exploration, acquisition, development, marketing and strategic partnership.

Celebrating a journey of more than 70 years, CEF has played a central role in ensuring South Africa’s energy security supply, and making a significant contribution to the South African economy and being a strategic partner to the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy providing insights in support of policy development and regulation, - CEF.

The CEF Group’s subsidiaries are PASA, the African Exploration Mining and Finance Corporation (AEMFC), iGas, PetroSA and the Strategic Fuel Fund (SFF) and the CEF Group is in advanced stages of merging PetroSA, iGas

and SFF to establish a single state petroleum company called South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC).

SANPC is part of government’s initiative to repurpose and rationalise state-owned enterprises to support the country’s growth and development.

Increasing local oil refining capacity

In 2024, CEF bought the 180 000 barrel-a-day South African Petrol Refinery in Durban for a symbolic R1 after BP and Shell had ceased processing at the plant in 2022. The Competition Commission approved the acquisition.

“We have noted with concern the declining local refining capacity which resulted in the country becoming a net importer of refined petroleum products.

“The Commission’s approval is important because it does not only authenticate the acquisition but reinforces South Africa’s concerted efforts aimed at guaranteeing adequate supply of liquid fuels in the midst of

premature closures of refineries,” – Minister Gwede Mantashe.

CEF Group’s healthy balance sheet

“Having been briefed on the 2025-2030 strategic and annual performance plans as well as the 2025/26 budget of the Central Energy Fund (CEF) Group and subsidiaries, the Portfolio Committee on Minerals and Petroleum Resources is encouraged by the healthy balance sheet of the CEF Group.

“The CEF Group’s balance sheet will fund the company’s operation until 2030, and the group is projecting a net profit of R398million by 2030,” – Parliament.

The positive financial outlook for CEF comes amid restructuring the Group’s petroleum subsidiaries into a single entity, the South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC).

The trajectory we are currently on of improving self sufficiency and increasing export potential crucial for our oil and gas sector, especially in the current state of global flux. 

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

From temporary relief to lasting impact

Reforming South Africa’s expanded Public Works Programme for sustainable empowerment

South Africa’s Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), a flagship initiative of the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI), has provided much-needed temporary employment for millions of citizens for the past two decades. Introduced in 2004, the programme was designed as a short-term measure to reduce unemployment and alleviate poverty.

However, recent reforms signal a bold new vision: turning the EPWP into a catalyst for sustainable livelihoods and economic empowerment.

A programme in transition Launched to address South Africa’s high unemployment rates, the EPWP initially focused on providing work opportunities in the infrastructure, environment, and social services sectors. Over time, it became a vital income source for many vulnerable households. Despite its successes, the programme has also faced challenges, including allegations of political interference and the temporary nature of the opportunities it offers.

Recognising these issues, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure has embarked on a major reform drive. Minister Dean Macpherson has initiated a nationwide listening tour to engage directly with EPWP participants, community leaders, and implementing agents. This consultative approach is informing a comprehensive strategy to improve the programme’s transparency, efficiency, and impact.

In April 2024, the DPWI launched Phase V of the EPWP, with an ambitious target: to create five million work opportunities by 2029. According to the department, Phase V will prioritise sectors that offer potential for long-term skills development and economic integration, such as waste management, road maintenance, and public facility upgrades.

“We want the EPWP to move beyond simply providing temporary jobs,” said Minister Macpherson.

“Our goal is to equip participants with skills that will enable them

to enter the formal economy, start businesses, and contribute meaningfully to the country’s growth.”

An essential component of this new approach is the integration of accredited training programmes within EPWP projects. Participants will now have greater access to formal skills development, including technical training, entrepreneurial workshops, and digital literacy programmes. This focus aims to bridge the gap between short-term employment and sustainable economic participation.

Addressing

systemic challenges

For years, criticisms have been levelled at the EPWP over allegations of nepotism, political gatekeeping, and irregularities in recruitment. In response, the DPWI has committed to introducing a transparent and accountable recruitment process.

Minister Macpherson’s listening tour revealed widespread frustration among participants over perceived unfairness and lack of career progression

opportunities within the programme. The department plans to establish an independent oversight mechanism to monitor recruitment and project implementation to address this.

Furthermore, COSATU recently voiced its concerns about abuses within the EPWP, calling for stronger protections for workers and a shift towards permanent, dignified employment opportunities. The DPWI has acknowledged these concerns and included organised labour as a key stakeholder in its reform consultations.

A notable feature of Phase V is the emphasis on partnerships between government, the private sector, and civil society. The DPWI is exploring collaboration opportunities with private companies to create training pathways, internship opportunities, and post-EPWP employment.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) praised South Africa’s move towards creating an EPWP Community of Practice, aimed at fostering knowledgesharing, innovation, and continuous improvement within the programme.

Additionally, the DPWI has pledged to leverage technology to enhance programme administration, participant tracking, and the evaluation of outcomes. The goal is to ensure that each participant’s journey can be monitored, from initial recruitment to post-programme placement or entrepreneurial success.

Another reform priority is greater inclusivity. Women, youth, and people with disabilities will receive focused support within the EPWP framework. The department plans to set minimum participation targets for these groups and tailor training programmes

to meet their specific needs. As South Africa celebrates 30 years of democracy in 2024, the transformation of the EPWP represents a timely opportunity to reaffirm the country’s commitment to social justice and inclusive economic growth. The reforms promise to turn the EPWP into more than just a safety net — but a stepping stone towards permanent empowerment.

In the words of Minister Macpherson: “Our mission is clear: we must build a South Africa where everyone has the tools, the opportunities, and the hope to create a better future for themselves and their communities.”

If the reforms are successfully implemented, South Africa’s EPWP could emerge as a global model for how public works programmes can evolve from providing temporary relief to delivering lasting, transformative empowerment.

REGIONAL FOCUS: KWAZULU-NATAL

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

KwaZulu-Natal’s Road to resilience Infrastructure, investment, and empowerment

KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) is charting a transformative course, emerging as a beacon of resilience and forward-thinking governance in South Africa. Despite facing challenges such as infrastructure backlogs and economic pressures, the province is making significant strides in revitalising its economy through strategic investments, infrastructure development, and inclusive empowerment programmes.

Infrastructure overhaul and job creation

In April 2025, the KZN Department of Transport unveiled a substantial R9.2-billion investment to

upgrade road infrastructure across the province. This initiative focuses on repairing potholes, addressing flood damage, and constructing new roads, with the dual objective of improving transportation networks and creating job opportunities for local communities.

MEC Siboniso Duma highlighted that these projects are expected to generate thousands of employment opportunities, contributing to economic growth and social development.

The province has over 34,000 kilometres of provincial road networks, of which over 8700

kilometres are paved. MEC Duma added that the paved network needs heavy investment in maintenance and rehabilitation.

“This requires us to continue striking a delicate balance between constructing new projects and maintaining existing infrastructure, especially with the continuous flooding that has increased our repair and rehabilitation costs, thus diverting funds from planned projects,” said MEC Duma. Over R3.8-billion will be spent on constructing new infrastructural projects, while over R4.3 billion will maintain the road network. Over R102-million will be spent on infrastructure planning and design, with over

Nelson Mandela Capture Site In Howick, KwaZulu Natal

R927 -million being allocated to support programmes within transport infrastructure. In addition, MEC Duma’s department will roll out an ambitious programme to patch potholes, with a budget allocation of R216-million.

“In the 2023/24 financial year, the Department procured 55 trucks at R103-million to tackle the backlog of 3.12-million m2 of potholes that need to be attended to. We intend to procure a further 25 trucks to reinforce our efforts to eradicate potholes on our network. The Department has also appointed more than 100 road worker aids and foremen to be on the frontlines in our fight against potholes,” said MEC Duma.

He added that the department is in the process of appointing a specialist automated road rehabilitation and pothole patching service provider to deliver a speedy means of pothole patching in strategic areas of the province. “This exercise will contribute greatly towards the capacitation and development of small contractors and employment of targeted labour,” he said.

Beyond infrastructure repair

The road overhaul is not merely about infrastructure; it’s a catalyst for economic stimulation. Enhanced road networks facilitate smoother logistics, reduce transportation costs, and improve access to markets, thereby attracting businesses and investors to the region

“To achieve high levels of economic growth, we are undertaking massive investments in new infrastructure while upgrading and maintaining existing infrastructure. We are also developing innovative ways of funding infrastructure and want to tap into the Presidential

Infrastructure Fund to transform our infrastructure through blended financing solutions,” said MEC Duma.

Additionally, the Department has developed a fraud and corruption risk register and is actively monitoring its procurement processes. So far, over R1.7-million lost through fraud has been recovered, ensuring that the allocated funds are used effectively and transparently.

The provincial government is actively pursuing investment to bolster economic growth.

In February 2025, Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli hosted a highlevel investment breakfast in uMhlanga, Durban, aiming to secure an additional R4-billion in investments for the 2025/26 financial year. This initiative is projected to create 5 000 new jobs, focusing on sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and technology.

The event brought together key industry players, investors, and government stakeholders to explore opportunities for economic acceleration. Premier Ntuli emphasised the province’s economic priorities, highlighting ongoing and upcoming projects designed to create jobs, stimulate local industries, and attract both domestic and foreign direct investment. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to position KZN as a competitive investment

destination, leveraging its strategic location, rich natural resources, and skilled workforce.

Recognising the impact of climate change, the province is focusing on building resilient infrastructure. The call for resilience is timely, as devastating floods continue to batter KwaZulu-Natal, exposing the cracks in infrastructure systems. A proactive and resilient approach to infrastructure maintenance is essential to mitigate the effects of such natural disasters and ensure the sustainability of development projects.

KwaZulu-Natal’s proactive approach to infrastructure development, investment attraction, and community empowerment underscores its commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth. Through strategic initiatives and collaborative efforts, the province is paving the way for a resilient and prosperous future.

By addressing infrastructure challenges, fostering economic opportunities, and empowering communities, KZN is not only overcoming its current hurdles but also setting a precedent for other provinces in South Africa. The province’s journey serves as a testament to the power of strategic planning, community engagement, and resilient governance in driving socioeconomic transformation. 

KwaZulu-Natal

BY KOKETSO MAMABOLO

South Africa dominates World Relay Championship Team South Africa topped the medal table at the World Relay Championship in Guangzhou, China with three medals, two gold and one bronze on the 11th of May with impressive performances from both the men’s and women’s teams.

In the 4 x 100m South Africa had a star-studded line-up which included teenage sensation Bayanda Walaza - who is the reigning U20 100m and 200m world champion - and veteran Akani Simbine, who set a worldleading time of 9.90 in the 100m in Gaborone earlier this year. Simbine has been in great form, winning the Diamond League opener in Xiamen, China and beating Olympic silver medalist Kishane Thompson for a first place finish in Keqiao near Shanghai a short while before the World Relay Championship.

Walaza, Simbine and Bradley Nkoana were part of South Africa’s 4 x 100m silver medal winning team at the Paris Olympics and were joined at the Relay Championship by another young sprinter, 200m specialist Sinesipho Dambile. Simbine reeled in the Americans on the anchor leg to cross the line in a world leading time of 37.61 which ensured the teams qualification for the World Track and Field Championship in Tokyo later this year.

The women’s 4 x 400m team broke the national record twice, once in the heats and again in the final (3:24:84) to finish third behind Spain and the US, qualifying for Tokyo in the process. Zeney van der Walt ran the anchor leg in a quartet which also included Shirley Nekhubli, Miranda Coetzee and Precious Melepo. The men’s 4 x 400m team (Gaerdo Isaacs, Udeme Okon, Leenert Koekemoer and Zakhithi Nene) also qualified for the World Championships after finishing first in their final with a time of 2:57:50.

Blitzboks prove defence wins championships

Despite a win at home in Cape Town, a second place finish in Vancouver, and second place finish in Dubai, the Blitzboks were perhaps not everyone’s favourites to win the World Championship in Los Angeles, the final event of the 2024/25 HSBC SVNS calendar. The quarter-final exit in Dubai dashed the hopes of a seventh tournament win running but when the lights were brightest the Blitzboks it seemed inevitable that, “cometh the hour, cometh the man.”

Veteran Selvyn Davids, who was named Player of the Final, ran eighty metres from a Blitzboks scrum to open their account in the 19 -5 win over Spain, who are a rising force in the sevens circuit under the guidance of head coach Francisco “Paco” Hernández and captain Pol Pla, who scored their only try.

From the first whistle at Dignity Health Sports Park, head coach Phillip Snyman, a Blitzbok legend as a player, would have been pleased with his speed and intensity in the tackle, with the one-two punch being completed by the blistering pace and agility Davids showed to score the try that gave the Blitzboks a halftime lead of 7-0 with Ronald Brown adding the extras with a clean conversion.

Spain’s talisman responded in the 10th minute but Mfundo Ndhlovu gathered a bouncing ball to score a try which took the lead to twoscores. A yellow card for Zander Reynders should have opened up gaps in South Africa’s sixman defence but their defensive patterns, discipline and accuracy made it impossible for the Spaniards to make any headway. Ricardo Duarttee went over in the corner in the dying seconds wrapping up an unbeaten run in

LA and South Africa’s second title on the circuit this season.

“The team never stopped believing,” said Snyman after the win. “They played five phenomenal games and were unstoppable. This team can go places. I am very proud of them.”

BY KOKETSO MAMABOLO

Kaizer Chiefs end drought After a decade without a trophy Kaizer Chiefs finally have something to take home to Naturena after beating archrivals Orland Pirates 2-1 in the Nedbank Cup final at Moses Mabhida Stadium, thanks to an early penalty by Uruguayan winger Gastón Sirinio and big match temperament style stunner from captain Yusuf Maart. Nasreddinne Nabi’s side will be even happier after losing the last Soweto Derby, less than two weeks before, and knowing they defeated league contenders Stellenbosch FC and Mamelodi Sundowns on the road to the final.

Evidence Makgopa’s equaliser was enough to get Pirates supporters hopes up until Maart made it a race to the finish with ten minutes left in South Africa’s greatest football rivalry. The win booked them a ticket back into continental competition with a place in the CAF Confederations Cup.

“After we conceded the equaliser to Pirates we had a bit of worry that mentally we’d collapse, as it was in the previous games, but we got through our tough moments until halftime where we tried to reorganise ourselves, to be more compact.”

While Nabi acknowledged how much winning a trophy means, he emphasised that the side is still in the rebuilding process, and completing the process is his main objective.

“I’m happy for this trophy today because maybe it has helped me to continue my process. And maybe it has helped to give more confidence to the fans,” coach Nabi told journalists after the match. “Obviously, we have to agree that it wasn’t a very nice final, not very entertaining but, you know, in these kind [sic] of finals, you don’t play it, you win it.”

WHAT’S ON IN JUNE

ICC Men’s World Test Championship Final

Proteas Men vs Australia

11 - 15 June

South Africa Women in West Indies

West Indies Women vs Proteas Women - 1st ODI

11 June

West Indies Women vs Proteas Women - 2nd ODI

14 June

West Indies Women vs Proteas Women - 3rd ODI

17 June

West Indies Women vs Proteas Women - 1st T20

20 June

West Indies Women vs Proteas Women - 2nd T20

22 June

West Indies Women vs Proteas Women - 3rd T20

23 June

South Africa Men in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe Men vs Proteas Men - 1st Test

28 June - 2 July

FIFA Club World Cup

Ulsan HD vs Mamelodi Sundowns

18 June Football

Mamelodi Sundowns vs Dortmund

21 June

West Indies Women vs Proteas Women - 3rd T20

23 June

British & Irish Lions Australia Tour 2025

British & Irish Lions vs Argentina

20 June

Western Force vs British & Irish Lions

28 June

World Rugby U20 Championship

Australia vs Junior Springboks

29 June

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Incentives and bonuses

These are the tax tips you need to know

Incentives and bonuses are often viewed as rewards for hard work and high performance, offering employees a welcome boost to their earnings. However, many South Africans are caught off guard when their long-anticipated bonuses appear significantly smaller than expected due to tax deductions. To make the most of these additional earnings, it is crucial to understand how the South African Revenue Service (SARS) treats bonuses and incentives for tax purposes.

This is what you need to keep in mind:

1. Bonuses form part of your taxable income

Bonuses and incentives, whether they take the form of performance bonuses, annual 13th cheques, commissions, or productivity-linked rewards, are considered part of your taxable income in South Africa. SARS does not treat these payments as separate or exempt; they are lumped together with your monthly salary and taxed at the same marginal rate applicable to your income bracket.

The misunderstanding often arises from the assumption that bonuses are taxed at a higher flat rate. In truth,

they are subject to the same progressive tax system as regular income. The issue is that receiving a lump sum can temporarily push your total monthly income into a higher bracket, increasing the PAYE deduction for that specific month.

For example, if your monthly salary is R30 000 and you receive a R20 000 bonus, your total income for the month becomes R50 00. The tax is then calculated on that combined figure. Even though this may lead to higher tax withholding at the time, the final tax owed for the year will be calculated based on your total annual income. If too much tax was deducted, SARS will refund the difference when you submit your annual tax return.

2. There are different methods of taxing bonuses

Employers may apply one of two SARS-approved methods to calculate the tax on bonuses: the annualisation method or the balance of remuneration method.

Annualisation of income is the more common approach. It works by calculating the tax you

would pay if your monthly income (including your bonus) were earned every month for the year. So, your income for the month is multiplied by 12 to project an annual figure. The tax due on this amount is then divided by 12 to determine the PAYE for the month. Since the bonus inflates the monthly figure artificially, this method often results in a higher-thannormal PAYE deduction for that month.

Balance of remuneration separates the bonus from the regular salary when calculating tax. First, the tax on your usual salary is computed. Then, the bonus is added, and the total tax due on the combined amount is calculated. The difference between the tax due on the total and the salary alone is the tax payable on the bonus. This method is often more precise and prevents excessive deductions but is used less frequently.

3. Non-cash incentives can also be taxable

While most people think of incentives in cash terms, non-cash rewards can also be taxable. These include items such as company cars, accommodation, travel

vouchers, or gifts. Known as fringe benefits, these perks are assigned a monetary value and may be taxed accordingly. For instance, if you are awarded a R5 000 shopping voucher or a weekend away as a reward for excellent performance, your employer must declare this to SARS and potentially withhold PAYE on its value. However, SARS does allow for small, infrequent gifts to be exempt, such as long-service awards or minor holiday gifts below a certain threshold. Employers must be careful to categorise and report these correctly to avoid penalties

Bonuses and incentives are valuable tools for recognising performance and boosting morale, but they come with important tax implications. In South Africa, these payments are taxed as part of your regular income, and while the immediate PAYE deduction may feel steep, SARS ensures fairness by assessing your full-year income and tax liability.

Employees expecting a bonus can take steps to plan for the tax impact:

• Understand your payslip: Before spending your bonus, read your payslip and identify

the gross vs net amounts. Make sure the tax deduction aligns with your expectations.

• Ask HR for clarity: Speak to your HR or payroll department to understand which method they use to calculate bonus tax. They may also advise whether any smoothing options are available.

• Consider tax-deductible contributions: If you’re expecting a significant bonus, consider making additional contributions to your pension fund or retirement annuity. These are tax-deductible and can help offset the tax on your bonus.

• Submit your return: Always file your tax return, even if you’re a PAYE taxpayer. This allows SARS to assess whether too much tax was deducted and, if applicable, issue a refund.

Employees should understand how SARS calculates tax on bonuses and explore options for managing and possibly minimising the impact. By being informed and proactive, you can ensure that your bonus works for you - not against you. 

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

A new chapter in parental leave South Africa sets the pace in Africa

South Africa has taken a bold step towards gender equality in parenting with a landmark High Court judgment that could transform how families experience the arrival of a child. In a move that positions the country as a leader on the African continent, the court has ruled that both parents should be allowed to share the four months of parental leave previously reserved only for mothers. While the judgment still awaits confirmation by the Constitutional Court, the implications are already being felt in public discourse, company policy, and advocacy for family rights.

A win for equality

The case, brought by Polokwane couple Werner and Ika van Wyk alongside advocacy group Sonke Gender Justice, challenged the constitutionality of parental leave provisions under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act. The Van Wyks argued that the current framework — which provides only 10 days of parental leave to fathers — is both inadequate and discriminatory.

The Johannesburg High Court agreed, declaring the provisions unconstitutional and giving Parliament two years to enact remedial legislation. The court’s ruling allows for the four-month parental leave period to be shared between parents, regardless of

gender or biological relation to the child. It also equalises the rights of adoptive and biological parents, expanding support for diverse family structures.

The judgment does not limit its scope to married couples or those living together. Adoptive parents, previously entitled to only 10 weeks of leave, now enjoy

the same rights as biological parents. This inclusivity ensures that same-sex couples, single parents, and separated families are not left out of the progressive shift.

The judgment’s inclusive nature acknowledges the realities of modern families. It removes traditional assumptions about

caregiving roles, paving the way for men to take on a more active role in early childcare.

Under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA), fathers have been legally entitled to 10 consecutive days of unpaid paternity leave upon the birth of their child or during adoption or a court placement of a child. This leave must be taken within four months of the birth or adoption. While the leave is unpaid, fathers can claim benefits from the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF).

Source: The Conversation | Bizcommunity | IOL

This leave must be taken within four months of the child’s birth or adoption. While the leave is unpaid, fathers can claim UIF benefits during this period. The leave applies to employees who are parents of a child, including biological, adoptive, or commissioning parents.

Challenges and considerations

Despite the progressive intent, implementation may prove challenging.

Firstly, the duration of leave remains a concern. While the

International Labour Organisation recommends at least 14 weeks of maternity leave, the new ruling allows only 16 weeks to be shared between parents. This could unintentionally shorten the leave time available to mothers, potentially affecting recovery, bonding, and breastfeeding.

Secondly, the arrangement relies heavily on mutual agreement between parents. In households where fathers do not reside with their children — a situation affecting around two-thirds of South African children — reaching such agreements could be difficult. Additionally, entrenched gender roles may prevent equitable sharing of care responsibilities, especially in patriarchal households.

Thirdly, the policy applies only to those in formal employment who contribute to the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF). This excludes a significant portion of the workforce: South Africa’s informal sector contributes 28% of GDP yet remains unsupported in this area of labour rights.

The Constitutional Court will have the final say on whether the High Court’s ruling becomes law. If confirmed, it will mark a seismic shift in South African labour legislation, granting both parents equal rights to parental leave and allowing them to claim from UIF where eligible.

Over the next two years, Parliament has an opportunity to refine the law based on global best practices.

The ruling is more than just a legal victory — it’s a societal one. It affirms that caregiving is not the sole responsibility of mothers but a shared duty that benefits children, parents, and workplaces alike. 

BY SHUMIRAI CHIMOMBE

Returning to ourselves Mindfulness strategies for women leaders

In this fast-paced world of work, life can become frenzied for busy women. With diaries filled with business and boardroom meetings, deadlines, appointments - all while juggling family and social life - it’s easy to lose oneself. Added to that, technology has become a way of life, meaning that we are always connected, day and night.

The word mindfulness may not appear readily on people’s radar. Yet, this practice could drastically reduce the effects of stress, burnout, fatigue - which have become all too common for professional and business women. And companies

that encourage and adopt mindfulness practices at work are seeing positive results on both an individual and organisational level.

Mindfulness is defined as the practice of being fully present and aware of the current moment without judgment or distraction. By paying close attention to your thoughts, emotions and what is happening around you, in your environment, you’re able to observe your experiences and also recognise your habitual patterns of thinking. Being aware of these patterns allows you to react consciously, rather than reflexively, and change

course if needed. Cape Townbased certified meditation and mindfulness practitioner, Lisa Firer says: “As leaders, there are so many demands on our attention. Our attention can become fragmented and frantic. We need to learn to cultivate the wisdom to choose carefully where to place this precious resource. Life is available only in the here and the now. If we are able to bring our body and mind together in the here and the now, we are more able to make thoughtful, nourishing choices. We are able to take care of ourselves, our workspaces, and our relationships from this more integrated space.”

The study Making the Mindful Leader suggests that leaders need new tools to support them as they grapple with increasingly testing realities. It proposes that a critical skill for adaptive leaders is the capacity to be mindful - to be present and aware of themselves, others and the world around them, to recognise in real-time their own perceptions (and their potential biases), their emotional reactions and the actions they need to take to address current realities more effectively.

Mindfulness is a skill that can be learned and developed over time and with regular practice it can provide leaders with practical methods for enhancing attention and awareness. That in turn can significantly enhance their potential for adaptive action and greater selfmanagement.

“Little of leadership development has focused on understanding oneself in the present moment. But it is the present in which all human activity occurs.

The ‘here and now’ is the “live feed” view into how a person experiences life.”

The website Her New Standard offers some simple techniques for women in leadership to enhance their wellbeing. These include:

Mindful breathing

Start your day with a simple breathing exercise to center yourself. Take slow, deep breaths,

focusing your attention on the sensation of your breath entering and leaving your body. This practice helps you bring awareness to the present moment and promotes calmness.

Mindful listening

Practise active and attentive listening in your interactions with others. Give your full presence to the person speaking, maintain eye contact, and genuinely listen without interrupting or formulating responses in your mind. This cultivates deeper connections, empathy, and understanding.

Mindful communication

Incorporate mindfulness into your communication style. Before responding, take a moment to pause, reflect, and choose your words consciously. Consider the impact of your words and strive for clear, compassionate, and authentic communication.

Mindful time management

Apply mindfulness to how you manage your time and prioritise tasks. Regularly evaluate your commitments, assess their alignment with your values and goals, and make intentional choices about where to allocate your time and energy. This helps reduce overwhelm and increases productivity.

Mindful self-care

Prioritise self-care as an essential aspect of mindful leadership. Engage in activities that nurture

your wellbeing, such as exercise, meditation, hobbies, or spending time in nature. Taking care of yourself enhances resilience, creativity, and overall leadership effectiveness.

Mindful decision-making

Integrate mindfulness into your decision-making process. Pause and create space for reflection before making important choices. Pay attention to your intuition, consider different perspectives, and align your decisions with your values and long-term goals.

Mindful work-life integration

Foster a healthy worklife integration by setting boundaries and creating moments of mindful transition between work and personal life. Practice being fully present in each context, allowing for greater focus, work satisfaction, and overall happiness.

Mindful leadership development

Seek out opportunities for continuous learning and personal growth. Engage in women’s leadership development programmes, attend mindfulness workshops, and carve out time for reflection on who you are becoming as a leader.

“By practicing even a few minutes of mindfulness daily, we learn to return to ourselves. We bring our attention home” - Lisa Firer

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Workers Day 1 MAY

Workers’ Day commemorates the enduring struggle for workers’ rights and social justice. Internationally recognized since 1891, the day holds particular significance in South Africa, where it reflects both the global labour movement and the nation’s unique history of labour activism intertwined with the fight against apartheid. Workers’ Day was officially recognized in South Africa following the country’s first democratic elections in 1994. The day serves not only as a celebration of workers’ rights but also as a tribute to the pivotal role played by trade unions, the Communist Party, and other labour organizations in the struggle against apartheid. During the apartheid era, labour and trade groups often used Workers’ Day as a symbol to rally the population against systemic segregation and oppression, organizing demonstrations and encouraging widespread resistance.

World Press Freedom Day 3 MAY

World Press Freedom Day commemorates the 1991 Windhoek Declaration, a landmark statement advocating for free, independent, and pluralistic media. The day serves as a reminder to governments of their commitment to uphold press freedom and provides an opportunity for media professionals to reflect on issues of press freedom and professional ethics. Journalists play an indispensable role in raising awareness about issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution despite facing significant challenges, including disinformation campaigns and threats to their safety. World Press Freedom Day underscores the importance of a free and independent press in fostering informed societies and promoting democratic values.

10 MAY

World Migratory Bird Day

World Migratory Bird Day is a global awareness campaign celebrated annually to highlight the importance of conserving migratory birds and their habitats. In 2025, World Migratory Bird Day focuses on the theme “Shared Spaces: Creating Bird-Friendly Cities and Communities,” emphasizing the need for urban environments that support both human and avian life. Migratory birds face numerous challenges due to urban development, including habitat loss, pollution, and collisions with buildings. World Migratory Bird Day is celebrated on two peak days each year, aligning with the cyclic nature of bird migration in different hemispheres. These celebrations include educational events, birdwatching activities, and community initiatives aimed at promoting bird conservation.

Calendar

World

Bee Day

The United Nations established World Bee Day to highlight the essential role bees and other pollinators play in sustaining ecosystems and supporting global food security. Nearly 90% of wild flowering plant species and over 75% of food crops rely on animal pollination, making bees indispensable to biodiversity and agriculture. However, pollinators face increasing threats from human activities, including intensive farming, pesticide use, habitat loss, and climate change. These pressures have led to alarming extinction rates—up to 1,000 times higher than normal—with approximately 35% of invertebrate pollinators and 17% of vertebrate pollinators at risk. The decline of pollinators jeopardizes the production of nutritious crops like fruits, nuts, and vegetables, potentially leading to imbalanced diets and food insecurity. However, individual actions can make a significant impact. Planting diverse native plants, avoiding harmful chemicals in gardens, and supporting local beekeepers are practical steps to help pollinators thrive. Collective efforts are crucial to halt biodiversity loss and ensure a resilient food system for future generations.

29 MAY

The International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers

The International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers honours the service and sacrifice of UN peacekeepers and the communities’ resilience. Established by the UN General Assembly in 2002, the date commemorates the creation of the first UN peacekeeping mission, the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO), in 1948. Since then, over two million military, police, and civilian personnel have participated in more than 70 peacekeeping missions worldwide. Currently, more than 70,000 peacekeepers serve in 11 missions across conflict-affected regions. These individuals work tirelessly to protect civilians, uphold human rights, support elections, and strengthen institutions, often at great personal risk. The day serves as a reminder of the importance of global solidarity in pursuing peace.

31 MAY

World No Tobacco Day

World No Tobacco Day was created by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1987 to draw global attention to the harmful effects of tobacco use and to encourage efforts to reduce tobacco consumption. The campaign highlights not only the health risks associated with tobacco but also the aggressive tactics used by the tobacco and nicotine industries to attract new users, especially young people. The 2025 theme, “Unmask the appeal,” exposes how these industries design products, flavours, and marketing strategies to make tobacco and nicotine products appealing and addictive. WHO’s campaign stresses that despite the deadly impact of tobacco—causing millions of deaths each year—the industry continues to prioritize profits over health, often targeting children and adolescents. World No Tobacco Day serves as a powerful call for individuals, communities, and governments to stand up to these harmful practices.

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Tractor Outdoor is a leading national out-of-home (OOH) media company in South Africa, specialising in connecting brands with consumers through an extensive network of traditional and digital OOH platforms. With one of the country's largest digital OOH networks, we help people, places, and businesses grow stronger. Committed to sustainability, we actively invest in community development, making a positive impact on the environment and localcommunities.

Public Sector Leaders | May 2025

Sipho Mosai, Rand Water, Group Chief

Executive

800 DELEGATES | 60+ SPEAKERS | 40 EXHIBITORS

20 AWARD WINNERS | 100 FINALISTS

CREDITS

Letter from the

Editor

to the May edition of Public Sector Leaders (PSL)

ADDRESSING THE NATION

Deepening our trade and investment ties across Africa

122 years and counting – congratulations Rand Water

Water supply 1905

Development schemes

Lesotho Highlands Water Project

A transformative journey

Prescient leadership

M84 Geotech

Khomotso Moleke, Founder and Chief Executive Steward

Safety is our priority

Nomakhosazana Meth

Championing youth employment through the Labour Activation Programme

Accelerating the LAP

Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa

Powering South Africa’s renewable energy future

The T20 Africa High-Level Dialogue

Bringing together intellectual minds and amplifying African voices

Calendar of events

The road to 2030 Medium Term Development Plan

Health Minister Hon. Aaron Motsoaledi will be tasked with implementing the NHI

Agricultural development at provincial level

The case of the Eastern Cape

The African Union Commission - new leadership at the helm

Africa’s renewable energy leaders

Looking towards an energy secure continent

AfCFTA’s digital innovation challenge Empowering Africa’s future trade

Observing Africa Day Celebrating the continent’s strong cultural identity and common heritage

Immerse yourself in the visual arts

The Energy Council of South Africa A

unified voice of business for the energy sector transition

The Just Energy Transition

Building a pathway towards a low-carbon and climate resilient society

The Central Energy Fund

Reducing SA’s dependence on imported oil

From temporary relief to lasting impact

Reforming South Africa’s expanded Public Works Programme for sustainable empowerment

Addressing

KwaZulu-Natal’s Road to resilience Infrastructure, investment, and empowerment

WHAT’S ON IN JUNE

Incentives and bonuses

A new chapter in parental leave South Africa sets the pace in Africa

Challenges and considerations

Returning to ourselves Mindfulness strategies for women leaders

Calendar

World

We help people, places, and businesses grow stronger.

Articles inside

May's Biggest Sports Stories

Health & Wellness - Returning To Ourselves

Legal Matters - A New Chapter In Paternal Leave

Financial Fitness - Incentives and Bonuses

Regional Focus - KwaZulu-Natal

Public Works Empowerment Programmes - From Temporary Relief To Lasting Impact

The Central Energy Fund

The Just Energy Transition

The Energy Council of South Africa

Observing Africa Day

In Other News - AfCFTA's Digital Innovation Challenge

Renewable Energy & Tech - Africa's Renewable Energy Leaders

The African Union Commission - New Leadership at The Helm

Agricultural Development At Provincial Level

Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP)

Trailblazer - Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa

Women in Leadership - Nomakhosazana Meth

Addressing The Nation - Letter From The President

Cover Story - Sipho Mosai, Rand Water Group Chief Executive