Author: Agency

As a significant step towards opening South Africa’s rail network to private operators and reforming the rail sector, Transnet has completed the adjudication process of selecting new Train Operating Companies (TOCs). The participation of private operators will go a long way in increasing Transnet rail volumes and assist producers in the mining and agriculture sector meet rail cargo volume expectations to exporters as well as encourage the upgrade of the rail infrastructure. Briefing the media on the outcome of the application process for third-party participation of TOCs onto the Transnet rail network, Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy said the Transnet…

The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape says it has noted with concern the increase in reports of ATM-related scams. “Criminals continue to target unsuspecting community members, particularly at busy cash points,” the South African Police Service said in a statement. The public is urged to remain vigilant and exercise caution when using ATMs. The following safety guidelines are strongly recommended: Always remain alert and aware of your surroundings before and after using an ATM. Never disclose your card or PIN (Personal Identification Number) to anyone. Do not write your PIN on your card or keep it…

While the tax administration is undergoing significant digital transformation globally, the Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) has highlighted the critical role of the Ombud in ensuring fairness, equality and accountability in the evolution of tax administration. “As we look to the future, we must remember technology is a tool, not an end. A truly modern tax system is not only fast and efficient it is inclusive, transparent, and just,” Office of the Tax Ombud’s Acting CEO Mmamelao Malakalaka said on Monday. Addressing the 12th Annual Tax Indaba in Johannesburg, Malakalaka said research shows while urban taxpayers may benefit from…

After thorough consideration and consultation, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has upheld the 2017 decision to grant Eskom Environmental Authorisation to construct and operate a new nuclear power station in Duynefontein, Western Cape. The decision was upheld after appeals were made by various environmental organisations. “In considering these appeals, I have carefully reviewed the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAr), as well as the independent peer review conducted in respect of the project. “In the end, my decision was made in respect of the principles of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107…

South Africa cabinet has reaffirmed government’s commitment to finding constructive and sustainable solutions through ongoing engagements with the United States, including at a Presidential level. This follows the recent decision by US President Donald Trump to impose a 30% tariff on South African imports, effective 7 August 2025. The tariffs are expected to affect a number of key sectors, especially the automotive and agriculture. Briefing the media on Thursday in Pretoria, following Wednesday’s Cabinet meeting in Cape Town, Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, confirmed that Cabinet received an update on the Framework Deal with the US.  The agreement includes…

Petrol consumers will breathe a sigh of relief at the pumps this month, as the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) has announced a decrease in the price of fuel for the month of August. Those who use diesel and paraffin, however, will have to dig deeper into their pockets, with prices set to increase. The fuel price adjustments for August are as follows: •    Petrol 93 (ULP & LRP): 28 cent decrease. •    Petrol 95 (ULP &LRP): 28 cent decrease. •    Diesel (0.05% sulphur): 65 cent increase. •    Diesel (0.005% sulphur): 63 cent increase. •    Illuminating Paraffin (wholesale): 32 cent increase. •    Single Maximum…

Government is creating an economic response package to address job losses and lessen the impact of the United States’ decision to impose a 30% unilateral tariff on its imports. This package will include the establishment of an export support desk and a localisation fund. This announcement was made in a joint media statement by the Ministers of the Departments of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) and International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO). In May, South Africa submitted a comprehensive and ambitious framework deal aimed at addressing trade deficits and promoting mutually beneficial relations. The tariffs, set to take effect from 8…

Government has approved two additional guarantees totalling R94.8 billion for Transnet to help the state-owned logistics company meet its debt obligations, maintain adequate liquidity, and mitigate the risk of further credit rating downgrades. The first guarantee, worth R48.6 billion, is intended to ensure Transnet can meet all debt redemptions over the next five years, and ensure that the entity also maintains sufficient liquidity levels. “Government has also considered the impact of the credit downgrades on Transnet’s existing debt, and has therefore also approved R46.2 billion for it to mitigate the risks of such ratings actions on its debt. This additional…

South Africa and the African Development Bank (AfDB) have signed a $474.6 million loan agreement aimed at supporting the implementation of the Just Energy Transition (JET). The loan agreement with the AfDB follows the first policy loan concluded in 2023 to support South Africa’s Just Energy Transition. “This new agreement highlights the importance of South Africa’s partnership with the AfDB in advancing South Africa’s development agenda. It strengthens efforts to improve energy security measures, accelerate the decarbonisation of the economy, and enhance the socio-economic benefits of the energy transition enabling inclusive economic growth and fostering job creation,” National Treasury said…

National Treasury has isolated servers that were compromised by a malware intrusion on its Infrastructure Reporting Model (IRM) website, the online infrastructure reporting and monitoring system. Treasury will assess the IRM servers for the magnitude of the compromise and to ensure the security of its systems. “Considering recent media reports since Sunday regarding security incidents affecting Microsoft platforms in the United States, National Treasury has requested Microsoft’s assistance in identifying and addressing any potential vulnerabilities within its Information and Communication Technology (ICT) environment. “Despite these events, National Treasury’s systems and websites continue to operate normally without any disruption. “National Treasury’s…