NATIONAL DIALOGUE , ALL SYSTEMS GO

MAKEKASIGREAT©®™ @KASIBC_AFRICA

ONLINE EDITOR @KASIBC_AFRICA

NATIONAL DIALOGUE , ALL SYSTEMS GO 

The first National Convention of the National Dialogue took place over two days of vibrant discussion with over 1,000 delegates from over 200 organisations at the University of South Africa (UNISA) in Tshwane. The National Convention was convened by President Cyril Ramaphosa as the launch of a National Dialogue to engage all South Africans in a countrywide engagement on the challenges facing the country, and accelerated actions to forge a new vision and to agree on a programme of action to take the country forward. 

The National Convention was described by President Ramaphosa as the moment at which the people of South Africa take over the National Dialogue and ensure that it is led and driven by citizens. Delegates were resounding in their endorsement of an inclusive National Dialogue process that focuses on the issues that concern the people. 

For the National Dialogue to be successful, Delegates affirmed that it needs to include communities who are often not heard and those who are often not consulted on important decisions. One of the noteworthy features of the dialogue was the wide diversity of the delegates. The Convention brought together people and groups who would ordinarily not be in conversation with one another. This added to the robust nature of the discussions. 

Over the last two days, delegates engaged in robust discussion putting forward their hopes, aspirations, fears and frustrations. The conversation was open and rigorous. It emphasised the need for deep, genuine dialogue that leads to action, where people have power. 

Delegates were able to outline key themes for discussion. These included the economy, jobs, children, livelihoods, crime and corruption, education, health and gender-based violence and femicide. Other themes included fixing the state and the Constitution, building South African values and culture, strengthening our social fabric, and dealing with intergenerational trauma and healing. 

The Convention agreed that these themes should be seen as a guide to discussion, but that it would ultimately be up to citizens to raise any issues that are important to them. 

The Convention also reflected on the draft roadmap towards a Citizen-led Dialogue, outlining a 6-9 month dialogue proposes of thousands of engagements led by communities with a mandate to call for radical change, catalyze rapid response to our most urgent challenges and lastly, to make renewed efforts to rebuild and heal the nation. 

The Convention called for diverse methods of dialogue, crafted in communities using local knowledge and expertise. Delegates said it was important that all those who participate in the National Dialogue should have the space and opportunity to use the approaches that best suit them and their specific conditions. The Convention discussed the process for establishing a representative Steering Committee that would take over the work of directing and coordinating the National Dialogue process. 

The meeting confirmed that the process to establish a Steering Committee should be extended by two weeks. The 22 sectors that were initially identified were expanded to accommodate more diversity. Each of the sectors held discussions on how they would select their nominee for the Steering Committee and agreed that they would provide the names of their nominees by the end of August 2025. To ensure nobody is left behind, this period will provide space to include organisations in sectors who did not attend the National Convention.  

The first National Convention was citizen-led, iterative in nature with robust engagement.

It reflected the complexity of our nation. It was a call for a new era of citizen activism for radical change, rapid response and it was a call to rebuild the nation. 

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Department of Sport, Arts and Culture update on the 17 Cultural and Creative Industry Clusters to drive Economic Growth and Sector Development

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ONLINE EDITOR @KASIBC_AFRICA

Department of Sport, Arts and Culture update on the 17 Cultural and Creative Industry Clusters to drive Economic Growth and Sector Development

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) is introducing the 17 Cultural and Creative Industry Clusters — a national framework designed to formalise, strengthen, and grow South Africa’s creative economy.

These clusters will serve as strategic platforms for coordination, professionalisation, and advocacy across diverse cultural and creative sectors, ensuring that artists, creators, and industry stakeholders have a unified voice and structured pathways for development, funding, and market access.

The establishment of the clusters is part of DSAC’s broader mandate to:

- Promote inclusive economic growth within the cultural and creative industries (CCIs);

- Facilitate sector coordination and reduce fragmentation;

- Enhance skills development and professionalisation of creative practitioners;

- Enable access to domestic and international markets;

- Preserve and promote South Africa’s diverse cultural heritage.

Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, speaking on the establishment of the 17 clusters said: “The creative economy is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world, and South Africa is rich in talent, heritage, and innovation. These 17 clusters will not only strengthen our cultural identity but also create jobs, attract investment, and position South Africa as a leading hub for creative excellence.”

The newly established clusters cover the full spectrum of South Africa’s cultural and creative ecosystem:

1. Theatre, Musical Theatre, Opera

2. Dance

3. Exhibitions, Events, Festivals, Technical Productions

4. Visual Arts

5. Spoken Word, Poetry, Storytelling, Stand-up Comedy

6. Music – Mass participation and community-based (choirs, brass bands, traditional music)

7. Music – Modern sounds (pop, amapiano, rock, kwaito, hip hop, Bacardi) including recording and business management

8. Music – Goema, Kaapse Klopse and Folk

9. Books and Publishing – Content Developers and Creators

10. Books and Publishing – Manufacturing and Distribution

11. Film, Cinema and Television

12. New Media

13. Animation and Gaming

14. Product, Jewellery, Fashion and Textile Design

15. Craft

16. Communication Design and Interior Design

17. Arts Education

The clusters have been established to:

- Create sector-specific advocacy bodies that represent the interests of practitioners nationally;

- Foster collaboration between creatives, industry bodies, training institutions, and government agencies;

- Enable targeted funding and policy interventions to address the needs of each sector;

- Support cultural exchange and market development locally, regionally, and internationally;

- Integrate traditional and contemporary practices into a cohesive national creative strategy.

- Each cluster will operate as a recognised platform within the national creative economy framework, with leadership structures, membership representation, and formal channels for engagement with DSAC and other stakeholders.

Through the clusters, creative professionals will gain:

- Access to industry-specific training and skills development programmes;

- Increased visibility and market opportunities;

- Representation in policy formulation and funding allocation;

- Platforms for networking and collaborative projects;

- Support in intellectual property management and export readiness.

The Department calls upon all creative practitioners, cultural organisations, and industry stakeholders to engage with and participate in their relevant clusters, contributing to a united and thriving cultural and creative sector.

“The strength of these clusters lies in the collective voice and vision of the creative community,” the Minister added. “Together, we can ensure that our arts, heritage, and cultural industries not only survive but thrive in a rapidly changing world.”

The respective sectors will provide further communication and guidance on opportunities for public participation as creatives in due course.

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Gauteng Government engages with public transport operators to bring stability in Soweto

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ONLINE EDITOR @KASIBC_AFRICA

Gauteng Government engages with public transport operators to bring stability in Soweto 

Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, today met with all public transport operators in Soweto as part of efforts to find lasting solutions to issues affecting the sector. Stakeholders included local taxi associations, e-hailing service operators and law-enforcement officials where she strongly condemned the violent incident that took place. 

This comes in a wake of resurging violence that claimed one person and left two others injured near the Maponya Mall in Soweto on Wednesday night. 

The meeting resolved to, amongst other things: 

1. That law-enforcement agencies will prioritize this investigation and bring those involved to book. 

2. All public transport operators must be allowed access operate inside the mall. 

3. That the mall will remain operational to protect jobs. 

4. That the Department will set up a temporary office to assist operators with licensing issues. 

5. That no operator or passenger should endure intimidation or fear of any form.

6. That a meeting will be convened with industry leaders to discuss all issues affecting the sector. 

Denouncing the violence, the MEC described the attack as "senseless, unacceptable, and a direct threat to the safety and stability of our public transport system." She added that such acts “undermines public safety, tarnishes the image of our transport sector, and cannot be tolerated under any circumstances". 

The MEC further urged the public transport sector (minibus taxi and ehailing operator associations) to resolve disputes through platforms facilitated by the Department. One such body is the Public Transport Crisis Committee chaired by the MEC. The committee was initially formed to collaborate with the taxi industry and support the Gauteng Provincial Regulatory Entity (GPRE) to clear the operating license backlog. It has since expanded to include all public transport stakeholders. 

This inclusive approach ensures representation from all public transport operators including learner transport, e-hailing services, bus and meter taxi operators. Local government and various provincial sister departments are also represented in the committee. 

 

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THE NATIONAL DIALOGUE ON THE STATE OF READINESS FOR THE FIRST NATIONAL CONVENTION

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ONLINE EDITOR @KASIBC_AFRICA

THE NATIONAL DIALOGUE ON THE STATE OF READINESS FOR THE FIRST NATIONAL CONVENTION

Deputy President Paul Mashatile this week convened the National Dialogue Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) to receive a report on the state of readiness ahead of the first National Convention set to take place at UNISA’s Muckleneuk Campus in Pretoria from the 15th to 16th of August 2025.

The Deputy President chairs the IMC, which comprises Government Departments to coordinate the Government’s contribution towards the National Convention and the National Dialogue. 

The IMC has been tirelessly mobilising resources for the convention and overseeing expenditures.

The report, which was presented by the Chairperson of the Convention Organising Committee, Mr Boichoko Ditlhake, and NEDLAC Executive Director, Mr Makhukhu Mampuru, provided a comprehensive update on the work done and assured the Deputy President that all is on track for the two-day convention. 

Premiers and Mayors from the province and municipalities were among those in attendance, who have pledged their support.

The IMC noted the decision by some Foundations to pull out of the preparations for the National Convention and requested that the Deputy President engage these Foundations in the process towards this inclusive dialogue.

Furthermore, the IMC appreciated the efforts made to save costs on hosting the First National Convention of the National Dialogue. 

In particular, the IMC assured Deputy President Mashatile that all budgetary processes regarding the National Convention are consistent with the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).

NEDLAC and the Presidency are funding the first National Convention's costs from their existing budgets for secretariat support, communications, as well as logistics. 

All procurement and management of public funds will adhere to the PFMA and applicable Treasury Regulations. All funds will be accounted for through the normal public finance mechanisms.

The Inter-Ministerial Committee further applauded the stakeholders who are providing in kind-support and also expressed appreciation to UNISA for offering to host the first National Convention as well as provide associated goods and services at no cost.

UNISA is providing the venues for the plenary, overflow venues with livestream services, 10 breakaway venues, dining area and work areas. 

In addition, UNISA is providing facilities for an Operations Centre, which has been running over the past week with catering, ushers, audio-visual services, printing of discussion documents, signage, conference bags, notepads, pens and WiFi.

The IMC emphasised the importance of the First National Convention and the National Dialogue being citizen-led and fully inclusive. 

The IMC called for communities to raise all issues so that they can be addressed and attended to accordingly.

As chair of the IMC, the Deputy President welcomed the report and affirmed Government’s commitment to supporting the first National Convention to kick-start the citizen-led and inclusive National Dialogue.

The budget formulation will rely on in-kind contributions, donations, and other mobilisable resources.

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SAPS OPERATIONS SHANELA

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ONLINE EDITOR @KASIBC_AFRICA

SAPS OPERATIONS SHANELA 

PRETORIA - Between 27 July and 2 August 2025, the South African Police Service (SAPS), recorded significant victories against organised crime and high-impact offences through intelligence-led and coordinated operations across provinces led to the arrest of 17 054 suspects.

This week, Shanela operations effected the following arrests across the provinces:

• 2 911 wanted suspects were arrested for serious and violent crimes such as murder, attempted murder, car hijackings, rape, house and business robbery

• 179 for murder with KZN with 38 followed by GP with 36

• 266 suspects for rape and KZN leading at 104 arrests

• 1 763 for assault GHB during this period

• 246 for dealing in drugs

• 2 406 for possession of drugs, WC leading with 1 645

• 15 suspects for human trafficking

Confiscations and Recoveries:

• 1 805 rounds of ammunition

• 1 55 firearms

• 53 hijacked and stolen vehicles recovered during this period

 Major takedowns and operations:

GAUTENG: Gauteng Police in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, arrested a suspect who is believed to be part of a syndicate that commits armed robberies around Gauteng and other provinces. The suspect was arrested in Southgate, Johannesburg, on 29 July 2025. The team seized two unlicensed firearms that include an AK-47 rifle and a pistol.

Furthermore, a 37-year-old alleged serial rapist, and killer was arrested in connection with more than ten cases of rape and murder that were reported at Eesterust in Pretoria during a joint operation conducted at Mentz village, Mankweng, Limpopo province. The suspect utilised a Tinder Dating site to lure his victims to his residence, where he raped some of the victims.

FREE STATE: The Bloemfontein Anti-Gang Unit intercepted a Volvo truck on the N8 Road near Bloemfontein, uncovering illicit cigarettes worth R800,000 hidden beneath blankets. The 42-year-old foreign national driver was arrested and is expected to appear in court.

KWAZULU-NATAL: Police in KwaZulu-Natal executed a high-impact search and seizure in the Durban CBD, resulting in the arrest of two foreign nationals and the recovery of counterfeit jewellery and luxury items valued at R30 million, as well as a shotgun, ammunition, and cash on 28 July 2025.

NATIONAL: On 29 July 2025, at OR Tambo International Airport, a 25-year-old suspect from São Paulo was intercepted attempting to smuggle cocaine valued at R4.2 million. The successful operation involved SAPS Crime Intelligence, Counter Narcotics Unit, the Border Management Authority, and private security teams.

In a separate operation, on 28 July 2025 police in Gauteng arrested two suspects aged between 34 and 45 years following days of surveillance for possession and movement of unlicensed firearms. The coordinated takedown involved multiple operational units, including PIU, Crime Intelligence, JMPD, and private security partners in Meyersdale, Johannesburg.

Additionally, SAPS Political killings Task Team arrested Business Katiso Molefe and three suspected hitmen for the murder of DJ Sumbody, and they are also linked to murder of Hector “DJ Vintos” Buthelezi. They have already appeared in the Alexander Magistrates’ Court on 29 July 2025, facing charges of murder, conspiracy to commit murder as well as possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.

EASTERN CAPE: On 28 July 2025, in Korsten, Gqeberha, SAPS seized counterfeit pharmaceuticals and consumer goods valued at R2.2 million, including unregulated tablets, skin creams, and pregnancy test kits. The operation targeted transnational distribution networks.

On 2 August 2025, in Ngqeleni, a suspect linked to an extortion ring was fatally wounded in a shootout with Tactical Response Team members. A 9mm pistol and live ammunition were recovered. His passenger was detained for questioning.

Additionally, in Port Alfred, SAPS disrupted a marine trafficking operation involving 822.76 kilograms of West Coast Rock Lobster tails worth R1.2 million. Two suspects were arrested for contravening the Marine Living Resources Act.

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Gauteng Premier Panyaza suspends Community Safety HOD and CFO

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ONLINE EDITOR @KASIBC_AFRICA

Gauteng Premier Panyaza suspends Community Safety HOD and CFO 

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has suspended the Head of Department (HOD), Ms. Nontsikelelo Sisulu, and the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Mr. Mduduzi Malope, of the Gauteng Department of Community Safety with immediate effect, as of 5 August 2025. 

The suspensions follow the conclusion of a forensic investigation by the Provincial Forensic Audit Unit within the Office of the Premier, which uncovered financial irregularities in the department. This prompted the Premier to intervene to safeguard the department’s integrity. 

The suspensions are a precautionary measure to ensure fair and unbiased investigations. “The provincial government is committed to restoring public trust by upholding the highest standards of integrity. 

We maintain a zerotolerance stance against corruption and misconduct. Through proactive and corrective measures, we will strengthen governance, ensure the ethical and responsible use of public funds, and safeguard the interests of Gauteng residents,” said Premier Lesufi. 

An acting HOD and CFO will be appointed to ensure continuity of service delivery. 

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Minister Motshekga appearance at Joint Committee

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ONLINE EDITOR @KASIBC_AFRICA

Minister Motshekga appearance at Joint Committee 

The Democratic Alliance has written to the National Assembly House Chairperson, as a way to escalate the failure of the Joint Standing Committee on Defence to hold a meeting for Parliament to finally do its job and get to the bottom of what happened to the missing R813 million, that is unaccounted for by the SANDF.

Minister Motshekga has not been to Parliament to account for the DRC calamity for months, and she is being shielded from this by committee chairpersons who refuse to call her to account.

The Joint Standing Committee on Defence continues to fail to secure Minister Motshekga’s appearance, as Committee Chairperson Malusi Gigaba of the ANC now refuses to call her to come to Committee. Minister Motshekga simply must account for the R813 million allocated to the payment of SANDF deployment allowances, which is “missing or unaccounted for” but until Gigaba forces her to come to Parliament, she remains silent.

This blatant lack of oversight undermines transparency and accountability, but also insults our brave men and women in uniform, who were deployed to the Democratic Republic of Congo, under very dangerous conditions.

The DA’s concern over the missing R813 million is further validated by new revelations that troops were short-paid, forced to survive on R22.91 a day, had to buy their own food - despite SADC funds meant to cover these very needs - and, even when they were kept by the M23 rebels, received no food from the SANDF.

The chaos surrounding the payouts to troops reveals the inability of the SANDF to do basic accounting. Whilst office-based staff are alleged to have received the full allowances meant for frontline soldiers, leave pay was calculated incorrectly, and there is no clarity on where the rest of the money went. The SANDF continues to bungle its finances as a grand scale.

Instead of addressing this mess, JSCD Co-Chair Malusi Gigaba has shielded the Minister and the SANDF from scrutiny.

After initially agreeing to write to the Minister for answers, Malusi Gigaba made a sudden u-turn and blocked the Committee from acting. This came just days after Minister Motshekga issued a press statement bemoaning the DA’s oversight.

The question must be asked: What is the SANDF and Minister Motshekga trying to hide? And why is Gigaba protecting a Minister presiding over such chaos?

Whilst the constant under-funding of the SANDF is a matter that requires urgent attention, the Department’s lack of prioritisation is a matter of greater concern.

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Ad Hoc Committee to Investigate the Capture of Law Enforcement Agencies

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ONLINE EDITOR @KASIBC_AFRICA

Ad Hoc Committee to Investigate the Capture of Law Enforcement Agencies

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) notes the convening of the newly established Ad Hoc Committee in the National Assembly, set to begin its work on Tuesday, 5 August 2025, to investigate the serious allegations of corruption, criminal syndicate infiltration, and political interference in South Africa’s law enforcement agencies. 

This Ad Hoc Committee follows the EFF’s consistent and principled intervention in Parliament calling for an urgent and transparent parliamentary investigation into the explosive revelations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, LieutenantGeneral Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. 

We welcome the National Assembly’s unanimous resolution to establish the committee, as a necessary first step in unearthing the rot that has destroyed the very foundations of justice and accountability in this country. 

The committee's mandate includes investigating the unlawful disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team and other issues brought up by Commissioner Mkhwanazi. However, of crucial importance are the deeply troubling revelations about the nature and implications of relationships between senior leadership in the South African Police Service (SAPS) and certain members of the public, as well as the infiltration of our judiciary which demand a level of transparency and accountability of the highest order. 

Parliament has, on multiple occasions, failed to act decisively in moments of national significance due to political bias including on the Section 89 independent report on the Phala Phala scandal and in responding to the findings of the State Capture Commission.

These failures highlighted how Parliament functions less as an independent arm of the state and more as an extension of the Executive. This cannot be allowed to happen again. The matters currently before this committee touch the very heart of public trust in our criminal justice system, and the stakes could not be higher. It is not only about corruption or misconduct; it is about whether South Africans can believe that the institutions charged with protecting them are not themselves captured by criminal interests. This includes the imperative to consider legislative, policy and institutional reforms that can restore confidence in law enforcement and the judiciary and that process must be free from political interference, particularly by those implicated or aligned to implicated individuals. It is for this reason that the leadership and composition of this committee are so crucial. 

Parliament must reclaim its role as a true oversight body, not a shield for executive wrongdoing. This is why the EFF believes the credibility and integrity of this Ad Hoc Committee will be best preserved if it is chaired by a Member of Parliament who is not part of the Government of National Unity (GNU). Given that the serious allegations under investigation include the conduct of the ANC’s Minister of Police and potentially other senior government figures, it is in the public interest to ensure that the committee is not perceived as compromised or conflicted. 

We therefore urge GNU partners represented in this committee to act in the best interest of Parliament’s reputation and, more importantly, in the interest of the South African people who are counting on this process to root out the criminal syndicates within the very systems meant to deliver justice and keep them and their children safe. 

We also call on the voters of all parties in the committee to hold their public representatives accountable and to demand that they prioritise truth, transparency and justice over political allegiance. This is an opportunity to demonstrate that Parliament can rise above partisanship and serve the national interest. 

The EFF will participate fully and fearlessly in this committee. We will ensure that no official, regardless of their rank, party affiliation, or proximity to power is spared scrutiny and that South Africa’s policing and justice system is restored.  

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ANC trade policy paralysis continues amidst looming US tariffs

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ONLINE EDITOR @KASIBC_AFRICA

ANC trade policy paralysis continues amidst looming US tariffs

The interventions announced by Ministers Parks Tau and Ronald Lamola earlier today demonstrate that neither will take accountability for the 30% tariff imposed on South African exports to the United States of America in the absence of a solid trade deal.

Whereas our Southern African Development Community (SADC) neighbours have managed to negotiate their tariffs down to 15%, Ministers Tau and Lamola have left South African businesses and exporters vulnerable and exposed to the ongoing trade war. This diplomatic negligence and trade paralysis on South Africa’s part demands an urgent shift in attitude and approach on both accounts.

Interestingly, the interventions announced demonstrate that it is indeed possible for the ANC to rapidly cut the red tape that is strangling South African business. The measures such as the limited block exemption under the Competition Act is welcome, however, it does not go far enough. This eleventh hour action begs the question: why has it taken so long?

Surely now is the time for a comprehensive red tape reduction and deregulation across the entirety of the South African economy? This will allow South Africa to pursue bold and far-reaching reforms, including pivoting from blunt instruments such as ownership under the guise of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment, towards genuine investment and social upliftment under equity equivalence programmes which would enable stronger foreign direct investment.

It is time that government gets serious about South African jobs and livelihoods, and this requires two sets of urgent reforms:

1: A sustainable and supportive environment for business to grow and export;

2: The pursuit of a genuinely non-aligned foreign policy that does not place petty party-political interests above the interests of the republic.

It is also high time for a career diplomat with an understanding of the Trump administration to urgently be appointed to Washington D.C. to better represent South African interests and begin the work of repairing diplomatic channels and protecting vital trade relationships upon which hundreds of thousands of local jobs depend.

This role is far too important to be left to political loyalty over professional expertise. Previous appointments have puts on full display the threat posed to South Africa’s prosperity by incompetent cadres and party hacks in key government positions.

We urge both Ministers Tau and Lamola to follow the example set by agriculture minister, John Steenhuisen, who has worked proactively and tirelessly to diversify our agricultural export markets in Asia, where South Africa has now secured meaningful, impactful deals in China, Japan, Vietnam, the Philippines and Thailand.

Had Minister Lamola pursued economic diplomacy in any meaningful and non-aligned manner, we would not find ourselves in a situation where the fate of one of our key export markets now hangs perilously in the balance.

Ministers Tau and Lamola should not dismiss constructive criticism and alternative proposals as political point-scoring. The DA will not stop championing the cause of South African workers, businesses, and exporters through sound diplomacy and competitive international trade.

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EFF 30% TARIFFS HIKE BY UNITED STATES

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 ONLINE EDITOR @KASIBC_AFRICA 

EFF 30% TARIFFS HIKE BY AMERICA

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) notes the statement issued by the South African government in response to the unilateral imposition of 30% tariffs by the United

States.  However, we reject this statement as weak, impotent, and inconsequential.

The joint statement by the Minister of International Relations and the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, is a reactionary utterance that reflects poor preparation and a deep lack of understanding of the shifting global geopolitical terrain. The

government’s failure to anticipate and adequately respond to these developments is a direct result of its incoherent, ideologically bankrupt foreign and economic policies.

The coalition of neoliberal parties in government cannot act decisively because they are constantly at war with each other and have no shared vision for national economic security.

We reiterate that the South African economy is disfigured and dysfunctional. For the

past 30 years, the ANC-led government has failed to reorganise the structure of the

economy away from its apartheid foundation. 

It has chosen to preserve colonial

patterns of ownership and production, leading to over 12 million unemployed people and the highest levels of racial inequality in the world. In such a stagnant and extractive economy, any attempt to position South Africa within the global trade environment becomes futile. Without resolving domestic structural constraints, our country will always be at the mercy of dominant imperial powers, tossed between competing global interests like a leaf in a storm.

Donald Trump is an unstable and illiterate imperialist whose misuse of economic

power threatens both the capitalist and socialist world order. His reckless and irrational tariff regime is rooted in a misguided understanding of global trade and is designed to impose American dominance by destabilising weaker economies. He represents a serious threat to global economic stability and the sovereignty of nations in the Global South.

The EFF has long maintained that Trump’s presidency is a danger to humanity, and it

is time for all progressive forces across the world to unite and support efforts to remove

him from office. The world has suffered under his strong-arm tactics for too long, and

just as the United States has imposed regime change globally, it is now time to assist

the people of the United States in unseating their own dictator.

There is an urgent need for South Africa to develop a coherent and ideologically grounded National Economic Security Policy. 

This must begin by addressing

inequality, unemployment, and poverty through domestic industrialisation,

beneficiation, and land reform. Equally, a progressive foreign policy must emerge—

one that prioritises building alliances with trading partners such as China, Brazil,

Russia, and countries in the Global South, not through begging, but through mutually

beneficial cooperation.

While the US market is significant, this is not a time for sheepish diplomacy. The team

that negotiated on behalf of South Africa was weak, apologetic, and subservient. They

were treated like school children by the United States because they acted like school

children. This behaviour exposes the dangers of sending spineless envoys to do the

bidding of capital.

The Democratic Alliance (DA), much like AfriForum and Solidarity, is a political

extension of right-wing, white supremacist interests that seek to protect apartheid

privileges under the guise of liberal constitutionalism. It operates with the same logic of racial gatekeeping, economic sabotage, and disinformation. Its presence in the Government of National Unity (GNU) is not a gesture of reconciliation but a strategic

effort to weaken the state from within. 

The DA uses state resources to undermine the

very government it serves in, while pursuing an agenda that protects monopoly capital

and foreign interests. It is a snake fed at the dinner table of democracy, only to poison

the well at night.

We reaffirm the need for South Africa to align with progressive trading partners who

respect national sovereignty, support industrial development, and do not treat trade as an extractive, transactional affair. 

The EFF calls for the urgent acceleration of trade agreements and partnerships outside of the United States. This must not be done

through bureaucratic support desks, but through decisive, strategic, and politically

coherent engagements with countries that share a vision for a just global economy.

Forums such as the G20 must be used to shift trade away from dependence on imperial powers and toward a multipolar order built on mutual respect, solidarity, and shared development.

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DEPARTMENT GOES DIGITAL TO IMPROVE MANAGEMENT OF NPO APPLICATIONS AND PAYMENTS

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ONLINE EDITOR @KASIBC_AFRICA

DEPARTMENT GOES DIGITAL TO IMPROVE MANAGEMENT OF NPO APPLICATIONS AND PAYMENTS 

In keeping with the times and harnessing technology to improve efficiencies and to enhance the service delivery machinery, the Gauteng Department of Social Development is going digital. The Department is implementing the game-changing electronic NPO funding management system (Grantor) to process and pay claims from NPOs, and going forward, the applications for funding and submission of business plans and subsequent issue of SLAs will be done through the Grantor system. 

The Department is bidding goodbye to the old days of paperwork. MEC Faith Mazibuko will host mandatory workshops and system awareness sessions across all five provincial corridors to help NPOs master this powerful new tool. 

Starting tomorrow until Friday, the Department will be going to all 5 corridors of Gauteng to introduce and to workshop NPOs about the new groundbreaking online system. "We are investing in technology to improve the processing of applications and payments, something which has been a challenge for the Department. With this new online system, we will be able to work faster, efficiently and we encourage NPOs to attend our mandatory workshops so that they can learn more about the Grantor system. This is your chance to level up your funding application game and embrace a smarter, smoother way of working", MEC Faith Mazibuko said. 

The first workshop will be held tomorrow, 

04 August 2025, in Sebokeng from 12H00. 

The roll out for the week will be as follows; 05 August - Central Corridor (JHB) 

06 August - Eastern Corridor (Ekurhuleni) 

07 August - Western Corridor (West Rand) 

08 August - Northern Corridor (Tshwane).

Venues and starting times will be confirmed shortly. 

NPOs are required to bring their laptops to the workshops. 

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Premier Panyaza Lesufi gives an update on release of forensic investigations reports

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ONLINE EDITOR @KASIBC_AFRICA

Premier Panyaza Lesufi gives an update on release of forensic investigations reports 

Ladies and gentlemen of the media, good morning. Welcome to our media briefing, where we are releasing the findings of concluded forensic investigation reports finalised by the Provincial Forensic Audit Unit in the Office of the Premier. This forms part of our broader commitment to transparent and accountable governance in Gauteng. 

This latest consignment follows an earlier public release that took place on 24 June 2025, where we made public the outcomes of 47 forensic reports. It reaffirms the Gauteng Provincial Government’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and the fight against corruption and maladministration. Corruption continues to be one of the country's most pressing challenges, undermining effective governance and sustainable development. While Gauteng is not exempt from this issue, the province has demonstrated a strong commitment to combating corruption through proactive measures, institutional reforms, and enhanced accountability mechanisms. 

These efforts reflect a dedicated approach to fostering transparency, integrity, and long-term progress. Under its G-13 priorities for the seventh administration, the Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) has prioritised combating corruption and transparency, and openness are essential in the fight against corruption. By upholding these principles, public institutions can foster a culture of accountability and integrity, ensure ethical governance, and restore public confidence. 

The released reports detail investigations into serious offences and improper behaviour across multiple departments. They cover a wide range of misconduct, from criminal acts to minor breaches of conduct. 

The breakdown of the reports is as follows: 

• GDARD - 10 reports 

• Education - 7 reports 

• Roads and Transport - 4 reports 

• Health - 4 reports 

• Infrastructure Development – 3 reports 

• GGB- Economic Development - 2reports 

• Economic Development – 1 report 

• Gauteng Tourism/Economic Development – 1 report 

• GLB-Economic Development – 1 report 

• GGDA-Economic Development – 1 report 

• e-Government – 1 report 

• Treasury – 1 report 

• G-FLEET – 1 report 

• GPT/Education – 1 report 

• Medical Supply Depot – 1 report 

These provincial departments are implementing the recommendations, which include establishing disciplinary action, strengthening weak or compromised internal controls, and filing criminal cases with the South African Police Service (SAPS). In addition, they must pursue damages from implicated employees using the Fruitless and Wasteful Expenditure Framework. Under the Prescription Act 68 of 1969, departments are also required to file civil claims within the stipulated timeframe. 

Furthermore, following supply chain management procedures and regulations, service providers involved in dishonest or unlawful activity will also be blacklisted. 

Through quarterly reports to the Premier and the Provincial AntiCorruption Coordinating Committee, the Office of the Premier monitors the fulfilment of the recommendations from the forensic investigation findings, including recoveries. 

We repeat our posture as the provincial government: all reports will be released step by step after all legal issues are resolved. We will not make them public too soon if doing so could harm the enforcement or implementation of the recommendations. We are aware that releasing certain details early might disrupt ongoing legal cases or make it harder to follow the recommendations, including putting whistleblowers' identities and safety at risk. 

The reports we are presenting today will be accessible to all the members of the public once the State Law Advisory Services finishes redacting personal details and reviewing the changes. Protecting whistleblowers is essential for transparency and justice. They risk their safety to expose corruption and abuse of power, helping ensure accountability and ethical governance. 

Reallocation of Heads of Departments 

On the 17 July 2025, when I delivered the Budget Vote Speech at the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, I announced the resetting of the Gauteng Provincial Administration as per the recommendations from the Gauteng Ethics and Advisory Council (GEAC). This follows a series of under expenditure and underperformance by departments, lifestyle audits, and failures to meet performance targets in some instances. 

The following changes of Heads of Departments have thus been effected as of 1 August 2025 as follows: 

• Department of eGovernment: Masabata Mutlaneng 

• Department of Infrastructure Development: Rufus Mmutlana 

• Treasury: Ncumisa Mnyani (retained) 

• COGTA: Darion Barclay (retained) 

• Transport: Thulani Mdadane (retained, post to be advertised) 

• Human Settlements: Puleng Gadebe-Mabaso (retained) 

• Agriculture and Rural Development: Khululekile Mase (retained) 

In the following departments I have appointed Acting HOD’s. We are in the recruitment process for permanent appointments. 

 • Environment: Matthew Sathekge 

 • Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation: Mpho Nawa 

 • Social Development: Phumla Sekhonyane 

 • Education: Albert Chaane 

 • Community Safety: Pending 

• Health: Pending 

Appointment of Economic Development Head of Department 

It also gives me great pleasure to announce that we have appointed a new HOD for the Gauteng Department of Economic Development, Mr Motlatjo Moholwa. Mr Moholwa brings with him a wealth of experience in the public service. He has served as the Head of Economic Research and Chief Economist in the City of Johannesburg, a Lead Economist for the Land Bank and the Deputy Director General (DDG) in the Mpumalanga and Gauteng Departments of Economic Development. I am confident that he will serve with utmost diligence and commitment and help us achieve our goal of growing the Gauteng economy. Inter-governmental Relations 

On 25 July 2025, I convened a meeting with all municipalities in the province. We received a report and deliberated on the following matters: 

• State of readiness of Group (G20) Leaders’ Summit 

• Report from the Cities of Tshwane and Johannesburg, on the state of readiness for the Urban20 

• The State of Gauteng Municipal Finances for the period ending 31 May 2025 

• The State of Local Government Performance: Service Delivery Measures and Interventions 

• Analytical Report on the Crime Prevention initiative in the Municipalities across the Province 

• Update Report on the notice of investigation into allegations of maladministration and improper conduct by various organs of state in addressing issues of sinkholes plaguing Khutsong residents 

• Framework for Municipal Indigent Policies & Rollout of Indigent Register 

We continue to ensure that all spheres of government in Gauteng work together to ensure improved service delivery and economic prosperity for all. Our priority is to ensure stability in the provincial government and continue to uphold the pillars of the Gauteng Anti-Corruption Strategy, preventing, detecting, investigating, and responding swiftly to alleged acts of corruption. 

We must emphasise our shared responsibility in combating this issue, as corruption undermines development and deprives citizens of opportunities for a better life. 

Everyone has a role to play in fighting this problem. Gauteng hosts LIV Golf Tournament Gauteng is proud to host the multibillion golf tournament, which will be hosted for the first time on the African soil in March 2026 in Steyn City. The tournament will see 54 top golfers from around the world coming to South Africa. This milestone continues to prove that Gauteng remains the preferred destination to host world class major events and to invest. 

We sincerely thank the Minister of Sports, Gayton McKenzie, for ensuring Gauteng is the host province and for providing all the necessary support. We urge South Africans to support the tournament in their numbers. 

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