Cape Independence Advocacy and Planned Washington D.C. Visit

The Cape Independence Advocacy Group has announced a visit to Washington D.C. to promote the idea of Western Cape secession from South Africa. The South African government has strongly opposed this initiative, emphasizing the country’s constitutional commitment to unity and social cohesion.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has criticized the planned visit, reiterating that South Africa is a unitary state built on non-racial democratic principles established in 1994. He emphasized that no part of the country can be permitted to secede, and all political advocacy should be conducted within the framework of constitutional democracy. The government remains focused on addressing citizens’ concerns through policies promoting social solidarity rather than division.

Expropriation Act of 2025

The Expropriation Act of 2025 has replaced the 1975 legislation, aiming to align South Africa’s land reform policies with constitutional principles. Unlike its predecessor, which was designed to serve apartheid-era interests, the new law introduces a structured and transparent approach to expropriation.

The Act underwent the full legislative process, receiving approval from both the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces before being signed into law by President Ramaphosa. The government asserts that the law ensures a fair balance between land reform and property rights while adhering to constitutional democracy and the rule of law.

Successful Land Claim Partnership Between SAB and the Moletele Community

A partnership between South African Breweries (SAB), the Moletele Communal Property Association, and Komati Fruit Group has resulted in a successful land restitution and agricultural initiative. The collaboration has established a lime farming project on land previously leased to Komati Fruit Group.

Through a Community Private Partnership (CPP), SAB invested R19 million in 2020, while Komati contributed agricultural expertise, and the Moletele community provided land and workforce participation. The project has enabled sustainable lime production, generating over 1.1 million limes in its first full harvest in 2023. Proceeds benefit the 1,615 Moletele families, and the initiative supports local employment and economic development.

This partnership reflects the government’s commitment to land reform and economic empowerment, demonstrating how strategic collaborations can drive sustainable agriculture and local economic growth.

South Africa-Iran Relations

South Africa and Iran maintain diplomatic relations rooted in historical ties dating back decades. Iran played a significant role in supporting South African liberation movements, including severing official relations with the apartheid government in 1979 and imposing trade boycotts in protest of its policies.

The South African government has clarified that its relationship with Iran does not involve nuclear weapons collaboration. South Africa voluntarily dismantled its nuclear weapons program before transitioning to democracy, a process verified by the United Nations.

Renaming of Sandton Drive

The government is engaged in discussions with the City of Johannesburg regarding the proposed renaming of Sandton Drive. The renaming process follows prescribed procedures that include public consultation and intergovernmental cooperation.

The initiative aligns with broader efforts to redress historical injustices by renaming streets and public spaces. However, diplomatic sensitivities, particularly with the United States, are being considered. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation is mediating discussions to ensure the process does not escalate diplomatic tensions.

President Ramaphosa’s Upcoming Engagements

Namibia Presidential Inauguration (March 21, 2025)

President Cyril Ramaphosa will visit Namibia to attend the inauguration of President-Elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, coinciding with the country’s 35th Independence Day. The visit underscores South Africa’s strong bilateral relations with Namibia and aims to strengthen cooperation within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU).

Water and Sanitation Indaba (March 27, 2025)

The President will address the National Water and Sanitation Indaba, a follow-up to the January 2024 Water Summit. The Indaba will focus on implementing a water and sanitation delivery model, ensuring financial sustainability, and enhancing the capacity of Water Services Authorities.

Diplomatic Credentials Ceremony (March 27, 2025)

On the same day, President Ramaphosa will receive Letters of Credence from 14 Heads of Mission, including representatives from Canada, Japan, Russia, Turkey, and Senegal. The ceremony formalizes diplomatic representation and strengthens international ties.

Women’s Economic Assembly (March 28, 2025)

The President will deliver a keynote address at the Women’s Economic Assembly (WECONA), an initiative fostering women’s participation in industry supply chains. The platform brings together government, private sector, and civil society to promote gender-inclusive economic growth.

Zambian President’s Working Visit (April 3, 2025)

President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia will undertake a working visit to South Africa, focusing on enhancing bilateral relations and economic cooperation between the two countries.

Police Summit (April 8, 2025)

President Ramaphosa will open the inaugural Police Summit under the theme “Efficiency in Action: Optimizing South Africa’s Policing Potential.” The summit aims to evaluate current policing strategies and improve law enforcement effectiveness.

CSIR Flagship Programmes Tour (April 8, 2025)

Following the Police Summit, the President will visit the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) to engage with scientists working on innovations in nanotechnology, biotechnology, and Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies.

International Association of Women Judges Conference (April 9-12, 2025)

The President will participate in the International Association of Women Judges Conference, which will focus on gender-based violence, femicide, and advancing women’s leadership in the judiciary.