Government reaffirms that Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) remains a key policy instrument of the State. The policy remains central to South Africa’s economic transformation and forms part of South Africa’s long-term strategy to redress historic injustices, broaden economic participation, and build a truly inclusive economy.
Government extends its best wishes to all matriculants as they commence the 2025 National Senior Certificate examinations tomorrow, 21 October 2025. This period marks the culmination of 13 years of learning, commitment, and perseverance. Learners are encouraged to approach the examinations with focus, confidence, and determination. Your hard work represents not only personal achievement but also a vital contribution to the development and progress of our country.
On 19 October 2025, South Africa will commemorate Black Wednesday, also known as National Press Freedom Day. The National Press Freedom Day marks 48 years since the historic events of Black Wednesday in 1977, a day that forever changed the landscape of South African journalism.
A. Issues in the Environment
Government wishes to update South Africans and the international community about the details for the Special Official Funeral of the late Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa as follows:
1. Funeral Service
The late Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 2 as declared by President Ramaphosa on the 8th of October 2025.
Category 2 entail ceremonial elements performed by the South African Police Service.
Government has noted the ongoing operations by law enforcement agencies and the subsequent public interest they have generated.
These operations fall within the normal scope of their mandate to investigate matters and recover assets. The public is reminded that such activities are a standard and essential part of government’s fight against corruption, ensuring accountability and upholding the rule of law.
Deputy Minister in the Presidency Nonceba Mhlauli will on the 14 October 2025, host a G20 dialogue with students at the Motheo TVET College in Bloemfontein, Free State province.
The dialogue forms part of year-long G20 awareness outreach programme implemented by Government Communications and Information System in partnership with different stakeholders across the country which among others include civil society, traditional leadership, business, and academia.
The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) invite members of the media who wish to cover the Special Official Funeral of the Late South Africa’s Ambassador to the Republic of France, Nathi Mthethwa to apply for media accreditation.
Applicants are advised to complete the online accreditation form accessible through this link: https://mrs.gcis.gov.za/?q=Mthethwa-official-funeral . The closing date is Friday, 10 October 2025 at 14h00.
Government condemns in the strongest possible terms any form of physical or verbal attack directed at police officers or any law enforcement officers. Such actions are not only criminal and punishable by law, but they also endanger the very individuals sworn to protect communities and uphold public safety.
Government, in partnership with stakeholders across law enforcement, civil society, and the private sector, hosted a webinar on Cybersecurity Awareness and Responsible Use of Online Platforms as part of Cybersecurity Awareness Month. The webinar brought together experts to empower South Africans with knowledge and tools to protect themselves online.
