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| PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA CALLS FOR WATER INVESTMENT TO TAKE CENTRE STAGE |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged that water investment be elevated to the forefront of global climate and finance discussions. |
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“Water investment must no longer be an afterthought at climate and finance discussions. It must be at the centre of discussions and be financed, tracked and championed,” President Ramaphosa said.
The President was speaking at the opening of the African Union-Africa Water Investment Programme (AU-AIP) Water Summit 2025, currently underway at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).
The first to be hosted on African soil, under the theme Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability, the three-day summit, which kicked off on Tuesday, 12 August 2025, takes place during South Africa’s Group of 20 (G20) presidency.
The three-day summit, which is the first of its kind on African soil, coincides with South Africa’s G20 Presidency. It aims to place Africa’s development challenges, especially water security, at the centre of the global agenda and to help address the continent’s US$30 billion annual water investment gap.
In his address, President Ramaphosa challenged the attending Heads of State and delegates to leave the summit with deals, pipelines, partnerships and a permanent global mechanism to sustain the momentum.
“The matchmaking sessions planned for this summit should create long-lasting partnerships and increased investments in water. Let us build a world where every drop counts and every community thrives—a world where water is recognised as a human right and not weaponised against women, children and communities,” the President said.
Launch of Global Outlook Council on Water Investments
The summit also marked the launch of the Global Outlook Council on Water Investments, an initiative that will see the Africa Water Investment Programme scaled up into a Global Water Investment Platform.
The President highlighted that the Global Outlook Council on Water Investment will serve as the world’s premier high-level political and investment platform on water.
President Ramaphosa described the Council as the world’s premier high-level political and investment platform on water.
“It will mobilise leadership, capital and innovation to transform water from a crisis sector into an opportunity sector,” he said, adding that the initiative will align with the investment theme of the 2026 United Nations Water Conference: 'Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all'.
“It will track progress, unlock finance, report annually and align efforts across the G20, United Nations (UN), multilateral development banks and the private sector. It will mobilise the leadership, capital and innovation required to transform water from a crisis sector into an opportunity sector,” President Ramaphosa said.
He emphasised that the continent is looking forward to the alignment of the Global Outlook Council initiative with the investment theme of the 2026 UN Water Conference.
The invited leaders that will work with the South Africa G20 Presidency as co-chairs in the leadership of the council are United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados, and Co-Chairperson of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Bill Gates.
Alternate co-chairs include former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete and UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed, who will facilitate effective broad engagement of the Council members.
The invited leaders, as Council Members, include:
- President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil
- President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico
- Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India
- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia
- Prime Minister Keir Starmer of the United Kingdom
- Chancellor Friedrich Merz of Germany
- Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni of Italy
- President Ursula von der Leyen of the European Commission
- President João Lourenço of Angola and African Union Chair
- President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal, who is co-host of the UN 2026 Water Conference.
The Council will be supported by a network of global leaders acting as “Council Champions” to strengthen advocacy and mobilise resources.
President Ramaphosa commended the leaders, who have stepped forward to confront and overcome a challenge faced by billions of people across the world.
“The Council will guide the transition from fragmented water investments to a coherent, coordinated and capitalised global effort through the Global Water Investment Platform.
“In the words of the Founding President of democratic South Africa, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, 'It is now in our hands'. Let the work begin. Let us leave no-one behind."
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| RAISE WOMEN'S VOICES DURING NATIONAL DIALOGUE |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised that women must be at the forefront as the country holds the first National Convention of the National Dialogue, set to be held this week. |
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The President was addressing the nation through his weekly Presidential newsletter on Monday, 11 August 2025.
The convention, which forms part of the National Dialogue process, will bring together 200 organisations from 33 different sectors across the country.
“On Friday this week, organisations from across South Africa will gather at the National Convention in Pretoria to kickstart the National Dialogue process.
“Given the history of women’s struggles in our country, it is therefore to be expected that at this critical moment in our history, women will once again come to the fore and participate actively in the National Dialogue process,” he said.
President Ramaphosa noted that women make up more than half of South Africa’s population – making their contributions critical to the dialogue.
“Women are affected by every political, social and economic issue in the country. Likewise, every crisis, whether it is unemployment, crime or climate change, affects women equally and, in some instances, more than men.
“Recognising that the lives of women are bound up with the future of the nation as a whole, we are counting on women’s groups and organisations to mobilise around the National Dialogue process.
“As government, working in partnership with the various stakeholders, we have committed to ensuring women are equally represented across the structures supporting and guiding the process,” the President said.
He emphasised that “we have to ensure that all women are represented” during the process if every sector’s voice is to be heard.
“This means a concerted effort to mobilise young and old, urban and rural dwellers, women from different ethnic and linguistic communities, women with disabilities, and LGBTQI+ [ lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex+] people.
“The reality is that women’s struggles are not all the same, and we should not assume they are. Although they may be similar in certain respects, the issues and challenges facing rural women and women in traditional communities differ vastly from those of women in urban areas with access to education, resources and public services.
“This was one of the points made at last year’s South African Women’s Pre-National Dialogue convened by the Institute of Justice and Reconciliation. It emphasised that the National Dialogue process should focus on all issues affecting and impacting women, and that diverse perspectives and priorities of all South African women must be reflected,” he said.
Uplifting women
With the country commemorating Women’s Month in August, President Ramaphosa noted that women have consistently “organised to ensure that their voices, consent and participation remained central to all decisions affecting them either directly or indirectly”.
“The inclusion of the gender equality clauses in the Freedom Charter was heavily influenced by the Federation of South African Women (FEDSAW) formed in 1954. More than three decades later, the Women’s National Coalition, which was formed in 1992, played a formative role in ensuring that these passages were reflected in South Africa’s democratic constitution.
“From the protests against the pass laws, to the so-called beer-hall protests of 1959, to the rent boycotts of the 1980s, to the contemporary protest movements against gender-based violence, South African women have a proud history of standing up and being counted,” he said.
The President called on all of society to uplift the voices of women during the dialogue in recognition of the 20 000 women–led by struggle heroes Lilian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph, Albertina Sisulu and Sophia Williams-De Bruyn–who marched to the Union Buildings in protest against the apartheid government’s introduction of pass laws against black women this month in 1956.
“With the first National Convention taking place during Women’s Month, we call on all sectors of society to come together to ensure the full participation of all women in the National Dialogue.
“This would be the most fitting and powerful tribute to the legacy of the pioneers of 1956,” President Ramaphosa said.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA LAUNCHES ZUIKERBOSCH WATER PURIFICATION PLANT |
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| Against the backdrop of towering filtration tanks and the steady hum of advanced purification machinery, President Cyril Ramaphosa officially launched the new System 5A Water Purification Plant at Rand Water’s Zuikerbosch Station in Vereeniging, Gauteng, on Friday, 8 August 2025. |
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The launch marks a major milestone in securing a sustainable water supply for South Africa’s economic heartland, ensuring that millions of households and industries will have access to reliable, high-quality water for decades to come.
The Zuikerbosch Water Treatment Works System, the largest of its kind in Africa, is a key part of Rand Water’s long-term infrastructure plan. The newly constructed System 5A will add 600 million litres of potable water per day to the network—enough to supply an additional 2.4 million people.
The plant will benefit municipalities in Gauteng, parts of Mpumalanga, North West, and the Free State, strengthening the region’s resilience against water shortages.
In his address, President Ramaphosa celebrated the completion of this plant, noting that the launch delivers on the commitment he made in the 2025 State of the Nation Address to take decisive steps to address South Africa’s water challenges.
“We are celebrating the completion of a vital piece of infrastructure, and we are affirming our shared commitment to the people of South Africa to continuously provide clean, reliable and safe water.
“Water is not just a basic human need. It is the lifeblood of any thriving society. Water sustains life, supports industry, empowers agriculture and fuels innovation. Our people expect clean water when they turn on the tap. Clean water is not a luxury; it is a right,” the President said.
The President stressed that water infrastructure is both a social imperative and an economic enabler, supporting industry, agriculture, and public health. He also called for vigilance against the theft and vandalism of infrastructure and for a culture of consistent maintenance.
A project of national importance
System 5A is a flagship project of Rand Water’s long-term infrastructure plan, and it draws its raw water from the Vaal River via the Integrated Vaal River System.
Phase 1 of System 5A, delivering 150 million litres per day, came online in August 2023, with the full 600 million litres per day capacity expected by December 2025.
Its treatment process includes the dosing of lime and ferric chloride for coagulation, gravity sedimentation in 100-metre-long tanks, pH correction using carbon dioxide, rapid sand filtration, and final chlorination before distribution.
Valued at R4.8 billion, the project has delivered significant socio-economic benefits since its inception in 2019. It has created 871 jobs across skilled, semi-skilled, and unskilled levels, while training more than 2,140 beneficiaries in construction-related trades.
In addition, 48 small, medium, and micro enterprises have been awarded contracts worth R177.7 million, and R10.4 million has been invested in community development initiatives benefiting schools, early childhood development centres, and non-governmental organisations.
“Besides the additional 600 million litres of water per day that will be added to Rand Water’s capacity, the System 5 project has made a significant social and economic contribution.
“This project demonstrates what can be achieved when all spheres of government are working together. It encapsulates the spirit of the District Development Model,” the President said.
Inside the plant
Before his address, the President toured the sprawling facility, flanked by Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina, Deputy Minister David Mahlobo, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, Mayor of the City of Johannesburg Dada Morero, local mayors, and Rand Water executives.
The walk-through included stops at the raw water abstraction system, innovative spiral flocculators, vast sedimentation tanks, rapid sand filtration units, and the high-pressure pumping facilities that will transfer treated water into municipal reservoirs.
Officials explained the plant’s advanced treatment process: lime and ferric chloride dosing, gravity sedimentation, pH correction with carbon dioxide, rapid sand filtration, and final chlorination before distribution.
At one point, the President paused to chat with employees, shaking hands, asking about their work, and congratulating them on the facility’s scale and sophistication.
One encounter drew smiles all around—Mohlago Angie Moekwa, a young black woman and qualified water supply engineer trained at Tshwane University of Technology through NSFAS, personally guided the President through the plant.
“The real success of our democracy is that it’s you. You are a black woman, you are young, and you are our success story. When I spoke about Tintswalo in Parliament, I was speaking about you,” the President told Moekwa.
The project’s strategic importance lies in its ability to enhance water security for Gauteng’s major metros and surrounding municipalities, support economic and industrial growth, and provide a robust supply network in the face of climate variability and population growth. It also aligns with the National Development Plan 2030’s vision for sustainable, infrastructure-led growth.
“System 5 signifies a purification model for the future. Infrastructure must not only meet today’s needs; it must withstand tomorrow’s uncertainties. We must innovate boldly, invest wisely and ensure that our water systems are climate resilient,” the President said.
The launch of System 5A coincides with Rand Water’s 121st anniversary and reinforces the utility’s position as one of the largest bulk water suppliers in the world.
Once fully operational, the facility will stand as a generational asset for the region, securing its water supply for decades and setting a benchmark for sustainable infrastructure development in South Africa.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA, PRESIDENT ZELENSKYY DISCUSS RUSSIA-UKRAINE PEACE PROCESS |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa has received a briefing from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on a peace process between Russia and Ukraine. |
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During a telephone discussion on Friday afternoon, 8 August 2025, President Zelenskyy expressed his appreciation for South Africa's continued support in finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
He reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to securing a lasting peace with Russia.
“President Ramaphosa welcomed the briefing and pledged South Africa's ongoing support to peace initiatives that will end the war and loss of lives and destruction to infrastructure,” the Presidency said in a statement.
The two leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to continue building mutually beneficial bilateral ties for the advancement of their respective economies and peoples.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA SENDS CONDOLENCES TO GHANA AFTER HELICOPTER CRASH |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended condolences to the President of the Republic of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, following a helicopter crash that claimed eight lives, including two government ministers. |
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Ghana’s Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment, Science and Technology Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed were among the people killed when a military aircraft crashed in the central Ashanti region on Wednesday, 6 August 2025.
President Ramaphosa said the thoughts of the people of South Africa are with the bereaved families of all the victims of the tragedy.
“President Ramaphosa recalled that South Africa and Ghana share historical relations dating back to the days of the fights against colonialism and apartheid, adding that relations between the two countries have since grown exponentially over the years,” spokesperson to the President, Vincent Magwenya, said in a statement.
President Ramaphosa also expressed solidarity with the government and people of Ghana as they mourn the tragedy.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| DEPUTY MINISTER MORAKA LEADS G20 CULTURAL DIPLOMACY OUTREACH PROGRAMME |
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| Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Thandi Moraka, led the Group of 20 (G20) Cultural Diplomacy Outreach Programme in Bloemfontein, Free State, on Saturday, 9 August 2025. |
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The event, the first of its kind in a series of roadshows across the country, aimed to showcase the power of culture in fostering international exchanges and strengthening relationships with G20 partners.
The two-day programme, held under the theme Advancing Cultural Diplomacy to Build Sustainable Communities, saw a delegation of over 20 heads of commissions from countries like China, Palestine, Lesotho, Germany, Sri Lanka and Nigeria explore the cultural heritage of Bloemfontein and its surrounding townships. The event included tours of heritage sites, a gala dinner, and a nightlife experience to immerse the international representatives in the local culture. The roadshow concluded with an investment roundtable to discuss economic growth and future collaborations.
Deputy Minister Moraka emphasised that the initiative was not only a celebration of culture but also a platform to deepen international cooperation and advance the G20's vision of Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability, with a focus on connecting the global policy discussions of the G20 to the lives of South African people.
The event also highlighted the Free State as a global cultural destination and provided opportunities for local businesses and tourism.
– Source: DIRCO Public Diplomacy Platforms |
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| INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION, UNISA, AND MBOMBELA CO-HOST G20 TOWNHALL OUTREACH |
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| The University of South Africa, in partnership with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) and Mbombela Municipality, co-hosted a Group of 20 (G20) Townhall Outreach Programme on Friday, 8 August 2025, in Mbombela, Mpumalanga. |
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This first series of the town hall discussions was held under the theme Financial Inclusion for Economic Development: Creating Access to Benefit Grassroots Economies, with the aim to challenge the exclusion of youth, women, persons with disabilities, as well as the marginalised communities from historic locations such as townships and rural areas.
It served as a platform to deepen public understanding of South Africa’s G20 Presidency by linking global policy discussions to local realities and explored how financial inclusion can unlock economic opportunities for youth, women, and small businesses, while promoting active citizen participation in shaping multilateral priorities.
The G20 is an international forum of 19 major economies (plus the European Union and, since 2023, the African Union) that aims to address global economic and financial issues, representing a significant portion of the world's gross domestic product, trade, and population. It serves as a primary forum for international economic cooperation, focusing on issues like sustainable growth, financial inclusion, and emerging risks.
– Source: DIRCO Public Diplomacy Platforms |
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| SOUTH AFRICA REAFFIRMS SUPPORT FOR GLOBAL TREATY TO TACKLE PLASTIC POLLUTION |
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| With the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC 5.2) on Plastic Pollution underway in Geneva, Switzerland, South Africa has reaffirmed its support for a legally binding global treaty to tackle plastic pollution. |
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Plastic pollution is already harming communities, economies and ecosystems—from land to rivers to oceans.
“Plastic pollution is not just an environmental issue. It affects public health, sustainable development and the future of our oceans. We must act now,” Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, said on Monday, 11 August 2025.
The Minister is leading the South African delegation that is attending the second part of the INC 5.2 on Plastic Pollution.
This session is a critical opportunity to finalise a legally binding global treaty to tackle plastic pollution.
George reaffirmed South Africa’s strong support for urgent and coordinated international action to end plastic pollution across its full life cycle.
Global plastic production has grown rapidly, from two million tonnes in 1950 to 475 million tonnes in 2022. Without urgent intervention, South Africa’s plastic pollution is expected to nearly double by 2040 compared to 2020 levels.
In response, South Africa has moved to ban plastic microbeads. Draft regulations have been signed and are set to be published for public comment.
These regulations aim to prohibit the manufacture, import, export, sale and distribution of microbeads and products containing them.
“South Africa is acting with urgency to address this crisis. But no country can solve it alone. We need global cooperation, innovation and ambition,” Minister George said.
The INC process was established by the United Nations Environment Programme in 2022, following the adoption of a resolution to develop a treaty addressing plastic pollution, including marine plastic.
While the first part of INC 5 took place in Busan, Republic of Korea, in November 2024, a final agreement was not reached, and negotiations have resumed in Geneva.
The expected treaty will cover the full life cycle of plastics, from production and design to disposal.
It will also align with existing global commitments on climate change, biodiversity and chemical safety.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| GOVERNMENT COMMITTED TO KEEPING AMERICAN MARKETS OPEN FOR SOUTH AFRICA |
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| Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau has made it clear that the South African government is pulling out all the stops to keep the American market open for South African goods. |
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This is amid the recent imposition of a 30% unilateral tariff by the United States (US) on South African exports.
“We will at the same time accelerate our efforts to diversify markets and build on the efforts we have put in place to ensure predictability in trade and leverage all our existing partnerships to secure markets for our products,” Minister Tau said.
He was addressing the media in Pretoria on the outcomes of a Cabinet meeting held last week on the US tariffs, along with the Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen.
Minister Tau said government has been implementing a response anchored on five key elements, which are continued engagement with the US to secure a deal and reduce the tariffs; the diversification of exports to alternate markets; an economic response package to vulnerable companies and workers; trade defence against import surges and dumping; and demand side interventions.
“Cabinet has approved that South Africa submits a revised offer as a basis for negotiations with the US. The new offer builds on the previous offer submitted in May 2025. The new offer substantively responds to the issues the US has raised in the 2025 National Trade Estimates Report,” Minister Tau said.
The Minister said the USA-Africa Trade Desk has informed government that it will be shipping containers of poultry and pork to South Africa in two weeks’ time, which is testimony that these issues have been resolved.
“The shipments will come from the states of Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina, North Carolina and Alabama through the ports of New Orleans in Louisiana, Savannah in Georgia and Norfolk in Virginia,” Minister Tau said.
Another significant request from the US was that South Africa consider reducing tariffs as a way to address the deficit and tariff disparity with the European Union (EU) due to the Southern African Development Community (SADC)-EU Economic Partnership Agreement.
“South Africa continues consultations with industry, and in this regard, in consultation with other members of the Southern African Customs Union, will identify specific lines to respond to this request.
“The recent imposition of a 30% unilateral tariff by the US on our exports is a significant policy shift that necessitates a clear and decisive response. South Africa has accelerated its diversification efforts of export markets and enhanced competitiveness to mitigate the economic impact of losing preferential trade access.
“We are committed to strengthening our relationships, particularly under the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement to build regional resilience.
“We will also continue the work we have started with our European partners towards enhancing our trade and investment relations in a manner that unlocks sustainable growth and development and entrenches South Africa in new supply chains,” Minister Tau said.
Minister Tau said government was looking at Asia, including Japan, Vietnam and Thailand, the Middle East and India.
“We are pursuing these markets because we see growing demand, existing negotiations and a positive reception to South African products.
“This is not just about trade numbers; it is directly linked to job protection. Diversification is about protecting rural livelihoods and sustainable agricultural growth for our people.
“To achieve this, government is deploying dedicated infrastructure for market expansion, including trade and agricultural attachés, increased export certification capacity and a concerted effort to align our biosecurity standards with the requirements of these new markets,” the Minister said.
Earlier this month, government said that it was creating an economic response package to address job losses and lessen the impact of the US’ decision to impose a 30% unilateral tariff on its imports. The package will include the establishment of an export support desk and a localisation fund.
In May, South Africa submitted a comprehensive and ambitious framework deal aimed at addressing trade deficits and promoting mutually beneficial relations. The tariffs took effect from 8 August 2025.
Minister Tau said a high-level negotiation team, including both the dtic and the Department of Agriculture, has been identified and is ready to engage the US towards a mutually beneficial agreement.
“Our goal is to demonstrate that South African exports do not pose a threat to US industries and that our trade relationship is, in fact, complementary,” Minister Tau said.
Minister Tau said the unilateral tariffs imposed by the US do not only apply to South Africa.
“They also affect over 130 trading partners with whom American consumers and producers interact,” he said.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| SOUTHERN AFRICAN “SMART ECONOMIC CORRIDOR” SET TO CREATE 1.6 MILLION JOBS |
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| A bold new vision for Southern Africa’s busiest trade and transit route could create over 1.6 million jobs. Seven Southern African Development Community (SADC) nations have officially backed a plan that could unlock US$16.1 billion in regional gross domestic product (GDP) and generate over 1.6 million jobs. |
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SADC wants to transform the North-South Corridor (NSC) into a “smart economic corridor.”
This would position it as a central hub for industrialisation, sustainable development, and inclusive growth.
At a recent high-level workshop in Johannesburg, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe—along with international development partners—endorsed the NSC Economic Corridor Pilot Programme.
This approval paves the way for the corridor to evolve from a purely transit and trade corridor into a fully integrated economic corridor.
The Southern African economy
Stretching from Durban to Kolwezi in the DRC, the NSC carries more than 60% of all SADC trade. In the process, it serves over half of the region’s population.
It overlays key Trans-African Highways, traverses rich mineral belts in the DRC, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, and passes through prime agricultural zones and major river basins such as the Zambezi and Limpopo.
With access to the Southern African Power Pool Grid and regional ICT infrastructure, the route is ideally positioned to boost manufacturing, enhance value chains, and modernise agriculture.
The “smart corridor” concept aims to concentrate growth hubs within easy reach of core infrastructure. This will ensure businesses, farmers, and communities benefit from improved transport, power, and digital connectivity.
The NSC corridor is the backbone of the SADC region, extending from Durban, South Africa, to Kolwezi in the DRC.
It overlaps with several Trans-African Highways (TAH), including:
- TAH3: Cape Town to Tripoli
- TAH4: Cape Town to Cairo
- TAH9: Beira to Lobito
The NSC Economic Corridor Pilot Programme is expected to launch in 2026. Crucially, the initiative will focus on opportunities for youth, women, and small and medium-sized enterprises.
– Source: www.thesouthafrican.com |
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| MAHINDRA OPENS NEW VEHICLE ASSEMBLY FACILITY IN DURBAN |
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| Mahindra South Africa has officially opened its new, purpose-built vehicle assembly facility at the Dube TradePort Special Economic Zone in KwaZulu-Natal, signalling a major expansion in its local operations as the brand enters its third decade in the country. |
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The plant, developed from the ground up near Mahindra’s original 2018 assembly site, is built to the company’s global manufacturing standards and features advanced quality control systems, expanded production lines, and dedicated customisation zones for South African customers.
“Our original facility played a pivotal role in establishing our local footprint,” says Rajesh Gupta, CEO of Mahindra South Africa.
“As demand for our locally assembled Pik Up range continued to rise, we needed a facility with the scale, flexibility, and technology to meet future growth while maintaining world-class quality.”
The new Durban facility can produce more than 1 000 Pik Up single- and double-cab models monthly, with scope for expansion as demand increases. It has also been designed to accommodate future models and a higher proportion of locally sourced components.
Mahindra’s global engineering teams are working with South African suppliers to increase localisation, further supporting the country’s industrial development.
Earlier this year, the company partnered with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to launch a feasibility study into a full-scale manufacturing plant in South Africa. Insights from the new facility’s operations will help shape that study.
“This investment underscores our confidence in South Africa as both a manufacturing base and a key growth market for Mahindra globally,” adds Gupta.
“It reflects our commitment to creating jobs, supporting local industry, and delivering robust, reliable vehicles that meet the needs of South African customers.”
Strong growth trajectory
Since producing its first local bakkie in 2018, Mahindra has grown into a top 10 best-selling brand in South Africa.
Naamsa, the industry business council, reports Mahindra as one of the three fastest-growing brands since opening the plant and the fastest-growing brand overall in the past financial year (April 2024 to March 2025).
The company has also recorded the strongest start to 2025 and leads in year-to-date growth.
A partnership for local manufacturing
Dr Dempsey Naidoo, chairman of AIH Logistics, Mahindra’s local assembly partner, says the collaboration since 2018 has produced the largest semi-knockdown automotive facility of its kind in South Africa.
“This achievement reflects the power of collaboration between global expertise and local capability,” says Naidoo. “It has created jobs, developed skills, and advanced South Africa’s automotive manufacturing sector.”
– Source: www.bizcommunity.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICA’S ACHIEVEMENT IN ELEPHANT CONSERVATION |
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| South Africa’s conservation efforts have successfully grown its African elephant population to 44 000, contrasting with the decline seen in some other countries. |
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“Our elephants are a national treasure, a keystone species, and an integral part of our heritage and play a significant role in maintaining a balance where the creation of value exceeds consumption, crucial for sustaining and increasing South Africa’s social and natural capital, which are fundamental for inclusive socio-economic development,” Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Narend Singh said on Tuesday, 12 August 2025.
As South Africa celebrated World Elephant Day with the global community, the Deputy Minister highlighted that the country’s elephants have expanded their range over the past 40 years.
Government-protected areas
Most of the country’s elephants live in government-protected areas such as Kruger National Park, Mapungubwe National Park, and Tembe Elephant Park.
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These parks form part of larger Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCAs), allowing elephants to move freely across national borders and share habitats with neighbouring countries.
“In addition to these large parks, there are 89 smaller, fenced reserves that also support elephant populations. About 6 000 elephants are owned privately or by communities, and in recent years, more and more communities have started to manage elephants themselves,” Deputy Minister Singh said.
While South Africa’s success in rebuilding elephant populations offers hope for the species, the Deputy Minister cautioned that it also creates a challenging trade-off within the country’s developmental agenda and priorities.
“As elephant numbers and ranges expand, encounters between people and elephants have increased, particularly in rural communities living near protected areas.
“Human-elephant conflict can result in crop losses, damage to infrastructure, and in some cases, injury or loss of human life. For many affected families, these incidents can threaten food security and livelihoods.
“Managing these interactions is essential to ensuring that conservation gains do not come at the expense of community well-being. It requires innovative solutions that promote co-existence, such as improved land-use planning, early-warning systems, community-based monitoring, and benefit-sharing initiatives that recognise the costs of living alongside elephants,” Deputy Minister Singh said.
Ecosystems
As South Africa reimagines conservation, it aims to ensure that thriving elephant populations benefit both people and ecosystems.
The country’s conservation efforts align with the four goals outlined in the White Paper policy on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of South Africa’s Biodiversity, which aim to strike a balance between conservation and sustainable use, transformation, and equitable access and benefit sharing.
The Deputy Minister made these remarks at the Elephant Indaba in Bonamanzi, KwaZulu-Natal, the province with the second-largest elephant population in the country.
The Elephant Indaba coincided with World Elephant Day, which is being celebrated under the theme Matriarchs’ and Memories.
World Elephant Day is a day dedicated to raising awareness of the urgent need to protect and manage the world’s elephants.
– Source: www.sapeople.com |
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| CAPE TOWN SAILS INTO THE WORLD’S TOP 15 MOST BEAUTIFUL CRUISE PORTS |
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| The Mother City has pulled in yet another global nod of approval, this time smooth sailing into the 12th spot on a list of the world’s most beautiful cruise ports, thanks to All Clear’s latest research. |
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The study looked at which cruise ports grab attention the fastest around the world and hold onto it the longest. Cape Town’s vibe, whether you are making your grand arrival from land or sea, is pretty undeniable.
As you pull into the Mother City from the bay, there’s Table Mountain standing proud, the V&A Waterfront, and that ocean-meets-city magic that would compel anybody to stop in their tracks and soak it all up. Cape Town is a show-off without even trying.
The ranking was backed by some interesting insights. Research included analysing 33 cruise ports from around the globe, each known for its views on arrival.
A group of 100 participants from around the world took part, with their reactions measured using eye-tracking technology. The setup tracked two things: how quickly someone’s eyes locked onto an image (the ‘wow’ factor) and how long they kept looking.
These two metrics were combined, with a little extra weight given to the ability to hold attention, to work out the final ranking. It was not only about making a good first impression; it had to keep them there.
Top honours in the world’s most beautiful cruise ports went to Valletta Cruise Port in Malta, followed by Ushuaia in Argentina and Palermo in Italy. European ports took most of the spots, but Cape Town Cruise Terminal proved she can hold her own, earning a 70/100 “eye-catching appeal” score.
This year alone, Cape Town has already been crowned Best City in the World (again), recognised as one of the most LGBTQ-friendly cities, celebrated for having three restaurants named among the world’s best, and smashed a world record for housing the world’s largest marimba ensemble.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| THESE ENGINEERS ARE TAKING THEIR STUDENT PROJECT TO TOKYO TO SPARK GLOBAL CONVERSATION |
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| After taking the chance to enter a global student competition as something fun to push themselves, a group of six passionate postgraduate engineering students from Stellenbosch University (SU) have achieved something that has far exceeded expectations: the opportunity to represent South Africa at a global space engineering competition in Tokyo. |
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Taking place in November this year, the MIC9 Mission Idea Contest, which is part of the UNISEC-Global 11th International Meeting, presents these South African innovators with the opportunity to present their conceptual lunar satellite mission, “SLINQI”.
“Stellenbosch Lunar Interferometric Network for Quasi-static Imaging (SLINQI) is a 6U CubeSat satellite that would form part of a constellation on the far side of the moon, designed to do deep space observations far from Earth’s interference,” shares Nortier Geyer on behalf of the team.
The SU Engineers are currently doing their Masters of Engineering in Electronic Engineering with a focus on aerospace and robotics.
“We honestly didn’t expect to get this far—it started as a passion project. Now, it’s turned into an opportunity to showcase South African engineering on a global stage.
“While the recognition is amazing, getting to Tokyo to present our work is expensive. Technically, the competition only requires one team member to attend and give the presentation. But for us, this project has been a true team effort from start to finish—every design choice, calculation, and late-night problem-solving session was shared,” Nortier explains.
“We believe the experience, learning opportunities, and international exposure are just as valuable for the whole team as they are for the presenter. That’s why we’re aiming to get all six of us to Tokyo.”
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICANS RANK #1 AS WORLD’S MOST ENTREPRENEURIAL NATION |
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| New research crowns South Africa as the most passionate and persevering country on the planet, especially when it gets down to business. |
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A new global study by Remitly has ranked South Africa as the country with the strongest entrepreneurial mindset, placing us firmly in the number one spot, ahead of 25 other nations, including the United Kingdom (UK), Ireland, India and the United States of America (USA).
Using the internationally recognised Grit Scale developed by psychologist Angela Duckworth, the study surveyed over 7 000 people to measure passion and perseverance—the two qualities most closely tied to entrepreneurial success.
If you’ve got a high “Grit Score,” it means you’re really committed to hitting your goals, even when things get tough. On the flip side, a lower score might mean you’re more likely to give up when difficulties pop up.
The higher the score, the more passionate and persevering the nation was, the stronger its entrepreneurial mindset is likely to be, Remitly says.
South Africa scored an impressive 46.18 out of 60, topping the global leaderboard.
That result won’t really surprise many locals who’ve seen resourcefulness in action. We’ve got hustle in our DNA. The global ranking wraps it up neatly with a bow:
“[South Africa] is a nation whose entrepreneurial mindset reflects its traits of being resourceful, determined, and eager to innovate. The country has some rapidly expanding hubs, such as Cape Town and Johannesburg, where technology and startup ecosystems are thriving, thanks to ambitious entrepreneurs keen to make their mark on the international stage.”
According to the study, South Africa is followed by the UK (42.54), Ireland (42.17), India (42.06) and Spain (41.13). The USA, long associated with start-up culture, ranked sixth.
Behind the numbers, we know what drives our ranking: a nation of people who know how to turn setbacks into comebacks, communities that lift one another up, and a belief that, even when the odds are stacked, something better can be built.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| LOCAL MOBILE GAME PUTTING AFRICAN FLAVOUR ON THE GLOBAL MAP |
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| South African game studio Disputed People Games is stepping up to the global gaming stage with its proudly local mobile title, SuperDISKI FC. This is a football-inspired game that is bursting with energy and unmistakable Mzansi flair. |
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“It’s kind of like pinball,” explained Rodwin. “But then we asked, how do we put a soccer spin on this? We wanted to make it simple and easy to get into but also have a little bit of complexity for more skilled players.”
In SuperDISKI FC, players tap, charge and launch the ball into the goal, but it is not just about scoring. The ball must navigate tricky environments filled with obstacles, bounce pads, launch platforms and energy barriers, all while collecting stars and working within a limited number of moves.
“It’s fun, quick, short sessions,” Rodwin added, “and all you’re really doing is trying to live that fantasy of scoring really cool goals as a soccer player.”
But beyond the gameplay, the team is pushing for something bigger, and that is representation.
“This was probably our first push into mobile games,” said Khumo, highlighting that mobile offers a lower barrier to entry for players across Africa. “If you’re going to make a PC game, the person has to have a PC. We wanted to make something that’s more accessible and as easy as possible for South Africans and Africans and even the world to play.” |
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The team also made sure that every inch of the game celebrates local identity. From one coach character being named Makarapa to iconic ball designs like the Jabulani (yes, the famous 2010 FIFA World Cup ball) to the option of selecting soccer balls decorated with national flags from Ghana, Nigeria, Brazil and beyond. The cultural expression is intentional.
“We want to bring the South African flavour. That’s really important to all of us,” said Khumo. “And also make it something that connects with people globally; whether you’re from Brazil or Nigeria, you’ll find a ball or flag you relate to.”
In an industry where gaming content is still largely shaped by Western and Asian markets, Disputed People Games is offering a proudly African alternative to be seen.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICA’S ROB BENTELE STEPS ONTO THE GLOBAL SURVIVOR STAGE |
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| South Africa’s own Rob Bentele is stepping back into the ultimate game of survival. However, this time the stakes are higher than ever. The 2019 Survivor SA: Island of Secrets winner is representing not just Mzansi, but Africa, in “Survivor Australia vs The World.” |
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For Rob, just getting the invitation to compete internationally is an honour he does not take lightly.
“Honestly, I’m really humbled and really grateful,” he says. “Just the fact that they recognised a player that can actually play on an international stage, to represent the best players in the world. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity.”
But this was not the same game he played in 2019. Rob explains that the difference was in the calibre of players.
“The format is the same. The only real difference was that everyone were high‑calibre players. With the local one, there were a lot of normal people there, and I believe they were cast knowing they wouldn’t be dominant players. You had a few pawns to work with in Survivor SA. This time, there were no pawns—everyone was a queen or a king.”
Knowing the competition would be tougher, Rob’s preparation went to a new level. He focused on every part of his game. From building extra body fat to survive the physical toll to walking along train tracks to improve balance.
“You can’t just be bulky and strong. You need resistance training, cardio, agility, balance. Survivor will break you physically if you’re not ready.”
Social gameplay, however, was a bigger challenge this time.
“Being from South Africa, the social game is easier at home. Other South Africans can relate to you. With Australians and Americans, the relatability is not as easy. But growing up here also gave me an edge. We understand tough conditions better than most. For me, that life of surviving in the cold with limited resources wasn’t a shock. For them, it’s a real shock to the system.”
Though he cannot reveal what happened on the island, Rob says the experience leaves a lasting mark.
“You walk in as one person and come out as another. Survivor is like a microcosm of the real world. The 21 people you meet—each one represents a type of person you know back home. Navigating that teaches you a lot about yourself and your place in the world.”
Rob has already proven he can outwit, outplay, and outlast. Now, he is testing those skills against the world’s very best.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| UNCLE WAFFLES JOINS ADIDAS IN GLOBAL SUPERSTAR: THE ORIGINAL CAMPAIGN |
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| Adidas South Africa has announced multi-platinum international DJ-producer Uncle Waffles as the latest partner to sign to the brand's Lifestyle portfolio. |
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Uncle Waffles features in the global Superstar: The Original campaign, joining a multi-generational cast including Samuel L. Jackson, Missy Elliott, Jennie, Anthony Edwards, Mark Gonzales and GloRilla, to name a few.
Superstar: The Original brings together an unprecedented roster of cultural trailblazers who exemplify what it means to be an Original Icon.
The newly released campaign with Uncle Waffles spotlights the artist rocking her Superstars in a series of bold, black and white shots—an ode to the Superstar’s original colourway.
Uncle Waffles defines what it means to be an Original Icon through her authenticity and innovation. Dubbed the “Princess of Amapiano”, she has been monumental in bringing the South African genre to the mainstream.
In 2023, Uncle Waffles made history as the first Amapiano DJ to play on a main stage at the world-renowned Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. Her unique style of dancing and viral social media videos helped accelerate her music career, where she quickly established herself as an internationally acclaimed standout artist.
At the heart of Adidas’ partnership with Uncle Waffles is the recognition of working with impactful icons that continue to shape music, fashion and culture not only locally but on a global scale too.
– Source: www.bizcommunity.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICAN LADIES’ POLO TEAM REIGNS SUPREME IN AUSTRALIA |
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| South Africa is celebrating a sensational sporting triumph after the SA Ladies Polo Team returned home victorious from an electrifying tour in Australia, where they defeated the host nation’s team in a thrilling 4–3 match that had spectators on the edge of their seats. |
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This historic victory was not only a proud moment for South African polo but also a powerful showcase of team spirit. Leading the charge was none other than Charlie Spilsbury, who clinched the coveted Most Valuable Player award. The only individual honour in the fast-paced, highly strategic sport of polo. Charlie was also named the recipient of the prestigious Golden Pony award, marking an unforgettable moment for herself, the team and the country.
The winning squad, made up of Amy, Tamzin, Courtney, and Charlie, delivered a masterclass of coordination. Their teamwork and ability to hold their nerve under pressure proved just too strong for the Australians on home turf.
In true sporting spirit, the South African Polo Association (SAPA) also extended a heartfelt thanks to the Australian Polo Federation and everyone who helped make the tour a memorable success, noting the warm hospitality shown throughout.
Beyond this landmark win, it is worth recognising the rich legacy behind South African polo. The South African Polo Association, which governs the sport nationally, is one of the country’s oldest sporting bodies, with a constitution that dates back to 1905. SAPA oversees provincial clubs, represents South Africa through international affiliations, and ensures the continued growth and excellence of the sport at home and abroad.
This latest achievement by the women’s national team is a powerful reminder that South African talent continues to shine on global stages.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICA’S DEAN BURMESTER TRIUMPHS AT LIV GOLF CHICAGO |
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| South African golfer Dean Burmester has made waves again, clinching a thrilling victory at the LIV Golf Chicago tournament on Sunday, 10 August 2025. His six-foot birdie putt on the first playoff hole sealed the deal against some of the game’s top players, including world number one Jon Rahm. |
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This win was not an easy task. Burmester started the final round with a rough patch. But showing real grit, he bounced back with birdies on holes 5, 12, and 16, steadying his game and keeping pace with the leaders.
The tension mounted as Burmester, Rahm, and Spain’s Josele Ballester all finished the regular rounds tied at nine under par, pushing the tournament into an exciting playoff. Burmester’s confident putt on the playoff’s first hole clinched not just the individual title but also helped his team, Stinger GC, secure the team championship in a dramatic finish.
This victory is more than just a personal triumph for Burmester; it is a significant moment for South African golf. With LIV Golf set to bring its tournament to South African soil for the first time next year, the spotlight is turning towards local talent ready to shine on the global stage. |
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Burmester’s win in Chicago shows South Africa’s growing presence in the world of professional golf and hints at exciting times ahead for fans and aspiring golfers at home.
As South Africa prepares to welcome LIV Golf next year, moments like these remind us of the world-class talent emerging from our shores.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| SASCOC REVEALS TEAM SA FLAG BEARERS FOR 2025 WORLD GAMES |
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| Team SA will officially begin its participation in the World Games in Chengdu on Thursday, 14 August 2025, as the event kicks off in the southwestern Chinese city of 20 million people. |
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South Africa will join over a hundred nations in the opening ceremony parade, with archer Hendre Verhoef and orienteering athlete Sarah Wimberley proudly carrying the national flag.
The two flagbearers, Verhoef (17) and Wimberley (22), are among 20 athletes representing South Africa across eight sporting codes.
Multi-code event
The 12th edition of The World Games, a multi-sport event featuring disciplines not included in the Olympic Games, takes place every four years.
This year marks South Africa’s ninth consecutive appearance at the event, with the nation having earned 20 medals across its previous eight participations.
The 2025 edition runs from 7 to 17 August. |
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Both Hendre Verhoef and Sarah Wimberley hold the top national rankings in their respective disciplines and have previously represented South Africa on the international stage.
Verhoef will be wearing green and gold for the eighth time, while Wimberley has already participated in two Junior World Orienteering Championships and two World Orienteering Championships.
Words of encouragement
SASCOC president Barry Hendricks congratulated both Team SA athletes on being chosen as flag bearers for the opening ceremony and shared words of encouragement as they prepare to represent the country.
In congratulating both Team SA athletes on their appointment as flag bearers at the opening ceremony, the president of the South African Sports Confederation, Olympic and Paralympic Committee (SASCOC), Barry Hendricks, offered words of encouragement to the pair.
“This will become a life memory for both of you. It is indeed an honour for you to represent your country on the international stage, but carrying the flag adds to the enormity of the achievement. It’s important that you soak up the atmosphere and carry the energy of the ceremony into your competition.
“There is a huge audience watching The World Games, and you have done all the hard work in earning your Team SA colours. Enjoy the moment and go out there and do your best on this big international stage,” he added.
Verhoef and Septimus Cilliers get Team SA’s campaign started when they take part in the men’s target compound qualification, with the knockout stages beginning on Friday, 15 August 2025.
– Source: www.sapeople.com |
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| PFL AFRICA LIGHTS UP JOHANNESBURG |
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| Johannesburg hosted an electrifying night of mixed martial arts as eight fighters secured their places in the PFL Africa Semifinals. A sold-out Arena at Carnival City saw top featherweight and welterweight contenders from across the continent deliver explosive performances in the league’s African debut. |
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PFL Africa General Manager, Elias Schulze, described the atmosphere as unforgettable.
“This was electric; it was aspirational. From the first fight to the very end, you saw heart and soul on display that even globally is rare, and that’s what I’m hearing from my friends and family around the world tonight. What we saw tonight was the heart of the fighter come out.”
One of the night’s most anticipated matches was the bout between local favourite Elbert Steyn and Morocco’s Abderrahman Errachidy. Steyn, a three-time national wrestling champion who entered the fight with an unbeaten professional record, carried the hopes of the home crowd. Errachidy, who is a former national karate champion with a reputation for fast knockouts, proved to be a formidable opponent.
Errachidy found his moment, stopping Steyn and extending his own win streak to four. The loss ended Steyn’s hopes of advancing in the tournament, leaving the local fans quiet but still appreciative of his effort.
In the main event, Patrick Ocheme earned a unanimous decision victory over Mohamed Camara to advance to the Featherweight Semifinals.
Beyond the results, the evening was more about the atmosphere. With South Africa’s Springbok captain Siya Kolisi among the celebrity guests, the energy inside Carnival City was electric.
Inspired by the two-time World Cup-winning captain, Ocheme admitted his presence gave him the boost.
“It played such a big part in a positive way for me. Seeing guys like that, doing so well and being so well respected, making the time to come and enjoy the show like this is truly inspiring to me,” referring to Springbok captain Siya Kolisi.
The league’s unique “win and advance” format delivers entertainment to keep you on the edge of your seat. While Steyn’s journey ends here, the passion on display in Johannesburg suggests that this is just the beginning for African MMA’s rise on the world stage.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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