South Africa

Deputy Minister in the Presidency Thembi Siweya today witnessed first-hand the implementation of COVID-19 plans at a sexual offences court in Limpopo.

Trade and Industry Minister Ebrahim Patel says the shortage of testing kits, ventilators and medical grade masks has underlined the importance of Africa developing a strong innovation and manufacturing capability, and building more resilient economies.

While South Africans recorded fewer violent crimes, murder remains reluctantly stubborn, the 2019/20 crime statistics have revealed.

The cases for sexual offences have increased by 1.7% when compared to the previous year.

Mobilising support from medical experts, solidarity, and harnessing science, research and innovation have been highlighted as critical pillars in the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic.

A local supply of reagents and kits for COVID-19 testing is being developed to ensure security of supply, local manufacturing, and the creation and preservation of jobs.

The South African National Parks (SANParks) has welcomed the announcement by the Tourism Minister on the relaxation of travel and leisure regulations.

The Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries says rhino poaching decreased by almost 53% in the first six months of 2020, with 166 animals being killed for their horns across the country since the beginning of the year.

Processes to finalise a R25 million investment to boost pan-African vaccine manufacturing is currently underway, says President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu has called on South Africans and organisations, particularly those involved the fight against gender-based violence, to comment on the Victim Support Services Bill (VSS).

The South African automotive sector has stepped up to produce personal protective equipment (PPE), which is high in demand as the country deals with the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Bronkhorstspruit Labour Centre in Gauteng has been temporarily closed for decontamination after registering its first case of COVID-19.

South Africa recorded 315 more deaths due to COVID-19.

Government will in the coming months expedite the implementation of at least 50 infrastructure projects with a total investment value of more than R340 billion.

The number of public servants contracting COVID-19 in KwaZulu-Natal is increasing at an alarming rate as the province prepares for a peak in infections.