News

South Africa’s tobacco industry faces a major crisis as illicit trade surges, costing R28 billion annually and threatening hundreds of jobs. Stronger enforcement, strategic reforms, and lessons from global anti-smoking campaigns are crucial to protect revenue, livelihoods, and public health.

South Africa’s R2.2 trillion Integrated Resource Plan 2025 aims to end load-shedding by massively expanding renewable energy, upgrading the grid, and diversifying power sources—while creating jobs and attracting international investment.

South Africa has secured $115 million in bridge funding from PEPFAR to keep lifesaving HIV treatments and prevention programs running through March 2026. The plan ensures continuity for more than 8 million patients—especially in KwaZulu-Natal—while the government works toward a sustainable long-term model. Backed by global partners and emerging health...

The death of pilot Johann Marx in a Cessna 206 crash near Barberton has renewed calls for stronger cross-border aviation safety measures between Eswatini and South Africa. The tragedy, discovered in the Lebombo Mountains, highlights urgent needs for real-time tracking, unified regulations, and safer infrastructure development.

President Cyril Ramaphosa’s suspension of Inspector-General of Intelligence Imtiaz Fazel has sent shockwaves through South Africa’s security establishment. The move, prompted by a formal complaint and pending a parliamentary probe, comes amid rising allegations of misconduct and leaks within the intelligence community. As the investigation unfolds, questions about transparency, political...

In a poignant ceremony held on 19 October 2025 at Kopanong Hall in Soshanguve, Gauteng, the African National Congress (ANC) paid homage to one of South Africa’s most enduring freedom fighters, Dr Tlou Theophilus Cholo, affectionately known as “TT Cholo.” The event, presided over by ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa, marked...

A bus crash in Limpopo killed 43 people and injured dozens more. Investigations point to speeding, faulty brakes, and overloading as causes, prompting urgent calls for fleet reform and stricter road safety enforcement. Authorities are reviewing maintenance records and considering legal action, highlighting the need for stronger oversight of long-distance...

South Africa’s young adults are facing record financial strain in 2025 as rent, groceries, and everyday expenses soar while wages stagnate. The average cost of living has tripled since 2005, leaving under-35s spending more than half their income on essentials like housing and food. With rent averaging over R9 000...

Tensions are mounting as vigilante groups block migrants from South African clinics, demanding documentation and denying access to medical care. Rights advocates warn the actions—framed as protecting public resources—threaten constitutional values, public health, and regional stability.

Bridge funding of $115 million from PEPFAR ensures South Africa’s HIV treatment and prevention services continue uninterrupted through March 2026, supporting millions on antiretroviral therapy, sustaining health workers, and addressing recent funding gaps. Personal stories from Limpopo highlight the human impact, while complementary international aid models offer pathways toward a...

Umalusi has confirmed South Africa’s readiness for the 2025 matric exams, with over 927,000 learners set to write from October 21. Strengthened security, inclusive measures, and extensive preparation across provinces ensure a credible and fair assessment season.

A landmark trade agreement has opened China’s market to South African stone fruits, promising significant export growth, new rural jobs, and a major boost for the Western Cape’s fruit industry.

La Niña is set to bring a wetter-than-usual summer to South Africa, according to the South African Weather Service. Above-average rainfall from October through February could ease drought conditions but heighten flood risks in provinces like KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng. Farmers and city residents are urged to prepare for intense storms,...

Alexandra's City Power substation was attacked on 10 October 2025, leaving parts of the area without electricity. Armed intruders overpowered security, stole equipment, and disrupted power supply. The incident highlights ongoing threats to Johannesburg's infrastructure, prompting increased security measures and a focus on preventing theft and vandalism.

Umalusi confirms that the 2025 matric exams are fully prepared, with robust measures to prevent cheating, support for students and parents, and international insights to ensure a fair and credible assessment process.

The 2025 old-age grant updates introduce stricter verification, modest inflation-linked increases, and stronger fraud prevention measures ahead of November payouts. Seniors are urged to update their details, confirm payment methods, and stay alert to scams to ensure uninterrupted support.

South Africa’s Western Cape High Court is considering decriminalizing sex work, aiming to reduce violence, improve public health, and empower workers. Survivor stories and global examples show the benefits of reform, which could set a precedent for African countries to prioritize rights and safety over criminalization.

María Corina Machado's 2025 Nobel Peace Prize win celebrates her tireless fight for democracy in Venezuela and inspires activists worldwide. Her recognition highlights the global struggle against corruption and authoritarianism, motivating civil society groups to pursue transparency, accountability, and justice.

China's 15th Five-Year Plan under Xi Jinping opens new opportunities for South Africa in green technology, manufacturing, and BRICS trade, while navigating global supply chain tensions and strengthening yuan-rand financial ties.

The US government shutdown is causing global economic ripples, affecting South African exports, commodities, and the Rand. While trade diversification offers relief, prolonged US gridlock creates volatility and uncertainty for investors and businesses alike.

Gaza’s recent ceasefire has led to the release of hostages and detainees, marking a key step toward de-escalation. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa praised the move while reaffirming his nation’s ongoing genocide case at the International Court of Justice. The accord, mediated internationally, has sparked large rallies in Cape Town...

South Africa’s industrial property sector, especially warehouses and logistics hubs, is emerging as a resilient investment amid soaring unemployment and slow GDP growth. With rising e-commerce demand and strategic auctions on the horizon, both SMEs and investors have new opportunities to capitalize on a sector poised for growth and global...

Seventeen victims from the Limpopo bus tragedy have been identified as families gather in grief. The deadly crash, which claimed 43 lives after the overloaded bus plunged down a steep embankment, has prompted pledges of aid and renewed calls for safer cross-border transport.

A secret witness has exposed leaked WhatsApp messages allegedly linking businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala to senior officials in law enforcement and politics. The Madlanga Commission’s investigation into corruption has uncovered signs of collusion that may have penetrated the core of South Africa’s justice system, sparking nationwide outrage and urgent calls...