This week in South Africa
This week, South Africa's political landscape is dominated by the Constitutional Court's impending ruling on President Cyril Ramaphosa's Phala Phala impeachment inquiry. The ANC faces significant challenges in upcoming local government elections, grappling with internal divisions and widespread corruption allegations. Additionally, state entities like Sasol and the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) are under intense parliamentary and public scrutiny over pollution claims, fraud allegations, and whistleblower reports.
About South Africa
South Africa, a nation celebrated for its vibrant cultural diversity, rich history, and stunning natural landscapes, plays a significant economic and political role on the African continent. Its post-apartheid transition to democracy established a robust framework for press freedom, fostering a diverse media landscape known for strong constitutional protections and a tradition of investigative journalism.
Visiting South Africa
Media landscape
South Africa boasts Africa's freest press, underpinned by strong constitutional protections and a diverse media environment with a notable tradition of investigative journalism. This fosters a vibrant public discourse, though media consumption varies across its multilingual population.
To gain a comprehensive understanding, consult a variety of sources, including both major national outlets and regional publications, to capture the breadth of perspectives in this diverse nation.
Sources we track 1
New DA KZN Leader Vows to Rebrand Party, Target ANC and MKP Support
- Sithembiso Ngema has been elected the new leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA) in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa. - Ngema aims to rebrand the DA to attract voters from other parties, including …
Is Ngcukaitobi Being Set Up Against Black Empowerment?
- Advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi faces a complex situation, appointed as an acting Constitutional Court justice while simultaneously representing white firms challenging the Legal Sector Code. - The Leg…
Billy Monama is staging a revival of memory
- Billy Monama is curating the fifth edition of 'The Rebirth of Ubuntu' concert, focusing on music's role in society. - The concert aims to revive the memory of music as a powerful tool for social adv…
D-Day for Ramaphosa: Constitutional Court to rule on Phala Phala impeachment inquiry
- The Constitutional Court will rule on a case that could determine if Parliament must reconsider blocking an impeachment inquiry into President Cyril Ramaphosa. - The case, brought by the EFF and ATM…
ANC faces local poll backlash amid internal strife and corruption claims
- The ANC faces a challenging electoral landscape in upcoming local government elections, struggling with internal divisions and corruption allegations. - Analysts predict that regional dynamics, cand…
Parliament Intensifies Scrutiny of Sasol Amid Pollution Allegations
- A parliamentary committee in South Africa is intensifying its oversight of Sasol following protected disclosures from an environmental whistleblower. - The whistleblower alleges pollution of land, a…
R1.1bn SA Steel Mills Deal Under Scrutiny Amid Fraud Allegations
- New affidavits have raised concerns about the Industrial Development Corporation's (IDC) due diligence in providing over R1.1 billion in funding to SA Steel Mills (SASM). - Two suspended IDC employe…
Public Protector Investigates Claims of Fear and Retribution at IDC Amidst R54 Million Legal Spend
- A whistleblower alleges that the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) has spent over R54 million on law firms for employee relations matters in the last three years. - Allegations include fear, …
Mmule Setati’s recipe for identity, healing and community
- Mmule Setati founded Feed My Tribe, a platform centered on food as a means of connection, memory, and healing, rather than just recipes. - Initially a personal archive for friends, Feed My Tribe gai…
The Populist vs. the Pope: Sacred vs. Secular Clash
- A verbal conflict between Pope Leo XIV and US President Donald Trump highlights a clash between the sacred and secular, with both figures being American. - Pope Leo XIV advocates for peace, multilat…
Trading Technology Evolves in South Africa's Equity Market
- South Africa's equity market infrastructure is recognized globally, attracting diverse capital including tier-one banks and high-frequency trading firms. - Trading activity has shifted towards direc…
Blogger Khawula Gets 30-Day Jail Sentence, Suspended on Condition of Apology to Malema
- Controversial blogger Musa Khawula has been sentenced to 30 days in jail, suspended on the condition he apologizes to Julius Malema. - Khawula was found in contempt of court for failing to apologize…
South Africa's Local Elections: A Bellwether for National Politics
- South Africa's upcoming November 4 local government elections are drawing unprecedented attention, mirroring national polls. - Key campaign issues include water supply, illegal immigration, and hous…
South Africa's Kusile Coal Plant Operational Amid Climate Contradictions
- South Africa's new Kusile coal-fired power station, completed at immense cost and controversy, is now operational and credited with easing the country's power crisis. - Despite being a vital energy …
Investing for the Price of a Coffee
- South African Real Estate Investment Trusts (Reits) offer an accessible way for individuals to invest in commercial property, starting with as little as R50. - Reits function similarly to 'the Uber …
Ramaphosa Sets Local Elections for November 4, 2026
- South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced local government elections will be held on November 4, 2026. - The date falls on a Wednesday, which will be a public holiday for voting. - The Elect…
Trade Unions Must Address Workers' Needs to Stay Relevant
- Trade unions in South Africa are urged to remain relevant by addressing workers' basic needs and engaging in social dialogue with government and business. - The article reflects on the historical co…
ANC leaders accused of 'by hook or by crook' conference manipulation
- ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula and deputy Nomvula Mokonyane are accused of manipulating the West Rand regional conference to favor their preferred candidates. - Allegations suggest that financ…
Mamela Nyamza's 'Hatched Ensemble' Triumphantly Returns Home After Global Acclaim
- South African performance artist Mamela Nyamza has received international acclaim for her deconstructed ballet piece 'Hatched Ensemble'. - The production, which explores themes of identity, traditio…
Berita's 'Echoes of The Soul': A meditation on migrant workers
- Afro soul singer Berita is set to perform a special Workers' Day show at The Market Theatre, focusing on the experiences of migrant workers. - The article delves into the history of pan-African libe…
Tshwane Metro tender favouritism and unpaid security services
- Suspended Tshwane Metropolitan Police Department deputy chief Umashi Dhlamini is under scrutiny for allegedly favoring Ngaphesheya security services in tender processes. - Dhlamini is accused of sen…
Minerals Boom Promises Benefits, But Communities Fear Being Left Behind
- South Africa aims to be a continental leader in critical minerals, essential for electric vehicles and renewable energy, with a government strategy approved in May last year. - Despite government pl…
The leadership crisis behind joblessness
- South Africa's high unemployment rate, exceeding 11 million people, is fundamentally a leadership crisis, not just an economic one. - Explanations for unemployment vary among economists, business le…
Editorial: Workers' Day 32 Years On – Confronting Unemployment and Workers' Rights
- South Africa commemorates Workers' Day amidst high unemployment, particularly among youth, prompting reflection on workers' rights and economic challenges 32 years after democracy. - Union leaders a…
Gig Guide: Savanna Presents Festival of Comedy, Dominica Releases 'Your Presence,' and Santu Mofokeng's 'Rumours/2026' Exhibition
- South Africa is launching its first-ever Festival of Comedy, curated by Trevor Noah, treating stand-up like a sport with national teams and rivalries. - Gospel artist Dominica releases a new single,…
Hidden inequality in SA’s workplaces
- South African workplaces often judge employees based on appearance, creating subtle barriers to fair treatment, particularly for marginalized groups. - While the Constitution and Employment Equity A…
Fragmented workers, the only mourners in ANC-SACP divorce
- The SACP's decision to contest local government elections independently from the ANC creates a dilemma for workers torn between the two parties. - Historically, the ANC and SACP alliance was crucial…
Complaint Filed Against Head of South Africa's Anti-Corruption Unit
- South Africa's head of the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC), Andrea Johnson, faces a criminal complaint over an alleged conflict of interest in her husband's past recruitment proc…
Where are the unions and the ANC for suffering silicosis victims?
- The Marikana strike in 2012 marked a shift as mineworkers chose self-representation over traditional unions like the NUM, due to perceived cozy relationships with mining companies. - Historically, m…
South Africa's land reform: Restitution's success versus redistribution's challenges
- South Africa's land reform program, crucial for addressing historical injustices, faces challenges in balancing restitution with broader redistribution. - While restitution has seen progress, with 8…
South African Court Appearance of Kémi Séba Highlights West Africa's Deepening Political Divide
- Benin national Kémi Séba's court appearance in South Africa reflects a broader struggle in West Africa. - This struggle pits ECOWAS's vision of constitutional order against growing political disrupt…
Africa's Expanding Digital Economy Raises Questions About Online Access
- Africa's digital economy is rapidly expanding, driven by increased internet access and investment in digital infrastructure. - Mobile banking, tech startups, and digital media are key sectors experi…
Zuma to 'have tea' with Ramaphosa over liberation legacy disputes
- Jacob Zuma, leader of the MK Party, plans to meet with ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa to discuss disputes over the legacy of liberation struggle figures. - Zuma accused the ANC of "gatekeeping" the h…
New Book Challenges Narrow Narrative of B-BBEE, Highlighting Entrepreneurship from the Cape Flats
- "Cape Flats to the JSE" by Phakamisa Ndzamela offers a counter-narrative to the perception of Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) as elite enrichment. - The book uses Brimstone Investment Corporatio…
South Africa's Freedom Day: A Celebration Tempered by Regional Democratic Deficits
- South Africa celebrates Freedom Day, commemorating the end of apartheid and the beginning of democracy in 1994. - The article highlights significant democratic deficits and repression in several Sou…
South Africa's Freedom Day Report Card: Progress, Principles, and the Path Ahead
- South Africa is reflecting on its journey since the end of apartheid on Freedom Day, acknowledging both progress and shortcomings. - The article highlights South Africa's assertive foreign policy, i…
Great White Sharks and Tuna Face Overheating Risk as Oceans Warm
- Great white sharks, tuna, and other warm-bodied fish expend significantly more energy than cold-blooded species, making them vulnerable to rising ocean temperatures. - A new study reveals these 'mes…
Tanzania President Samia Pledges Action on 2025 Election Violence Commission Findings
- Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan pledged swift government action on recommendations from a commission investigating election violence. - The violence, which occurred on October 25, 2025, deep…
Tata Curvv: A Few Things Right and a Few Wrong
- The Tata Curvv is a stylish coupé-styled SUV with an elegant exterior design. - Inside, it features a modern cabin with a large touchscreen, comfortable seats, and a premium sound system. - Despite …
South Africa's Contradictory Stance: Accuses Israel of Genocide While Coal Ships Depart
- South Africa is facing a contradiction where its government has accused Israel of genocide at the ICJ, yet South African ports continue to export coal to Israel. - Companies operating under South Af…
DA to File Criminal Complaint Against Minister Tolashe Over 'Chinese SUV' Probe
- The Democratic Alliance (DA) will file a criminal complaint against Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe regarding the "Chinese SUV" controversy. - This follows similar complaints by ActionSA,…
Africa's electric motorbike future can be built locally and powered by solar — our 6000km ride shows what’s possible
- A 6,000km journey from Nairobi to Stellenbosch demonstrated the feasibility of locally manufactured electric motorbikes powered by solar energy across Africa. - Electric motorcycles are crucial for …
Huawei makes the case for AI-ready optical networks at OptiX Club 2026
- Huawei hosted its OptiX Club 2026 event in Johannesburg, focusing on the role of optical networks in supporting the growing demands of AI. - The event highlighted the need for fast, reliable network…
Western Cape Launches Ambitious Reading Strategy to Ensure Every Child Reads by Age 10
- The Western Cape Education Department has launched a new Reading and Literacy Strategy for 2026-2030. - The strategy's core ambition is to ensure every child can read for meaning by age 10 by 2030. …
Cynthia Shange, pioneering actress and beauty queen, dies at 76
- Veteran South African actress and former beauty queen Cynthia Shange has died at the age of 76. - Shange was a pioneer in the South African film and television industry, breaking barriers during the…
New Forensic Lab Opens in KZN to Tackle DNA Backlogs
- A new private forensic science laboratory has been unveiled in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, to address severe DNA and toxicology backlogs. - The facility aims to support the South African Police Ser…
NFP expels KZN MEC Mbali Shinga for defying party mandate
- Mbali Shinga, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for social development, has been expelled from the National Freedom Party (NFP). - The expulsion stems from Shinga's refusal to vote with the MK party in a no-confide…
Watershedding: A Risky Proposition
- Implementing "watershedding" (scheduled water system shutdowns) is significantly more complex and risky than electricity load shedding. - Shutting down water systems can cause damage through water h…
Tongaat Hulett Gets Lifeline as Court Grants Delay in Liquidation Bid
- Tongaat Hulett Limited (THL) has received a temporary reprieve from liquidation, with the Durban High Court granting an adjournment to allow business rescue practitioners to devise a recovery plan. …
What does it mean to forgive? A play asks, 30 years after the TRC
- A new play, "Under the Shade of a Tree I Sat and Wept," explores forgiveness by drawing parallels between South Africa's Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) and Kosovo's Movement for the Recon…
Malema avoids jail for now
- Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema has been granted leave to appeal his five-year prison sentence for discharging a firearm at a rally. - The appeal will focus on the appropriateness of …
EMPD and the missing R14m lithium
- A commission of inquiry is investigating allegations of a rogue operation by Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) officers involving lithium worth R14 million. - Suspended EMPD deputy ch…
Africa’s unfinished reckoning
- Rwanda marked the 32nd anniversary of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi with the 'Walk to Remember' on April 7. - The event serves as a solemn commemoration and a call for deeper reflection beyond…
The Iran War is Africa’s Warning: Build Sovereignty or Be Ruled by Other People’s Power
- The US-Israel-Iran war serves as a warning to the Global South about the necessity of material sovereignty beyond formal independence. - The conflict highlights how global power operates through cho…
University of Fort Hare's Decades-Long Governance Crisis Detailed
- The University of Fort Hare in South Africa has faced long-standing governance failures, predating the recent suspension of its vice-chancellor. - Concerns about irregular appointments and delayed a…
South Africa Launches First Shorebird Tracking Project to Map Migratory Journeys
- South Africa has launched its first shorebird tracking project to study the migratory journeys of species like the Curlew Sandpiper and Grey Plover. - The initiative, led by BirdLife South Africa, u…
South African Universities Face Systemic Risk of Institutional Capture
- South Africa's public universities are facing a systemic risk of
Comrade, scholar, cadre: A letter of respect to Sakhela Buhlungu
Mondli Hlatshwayo, an associate professor at the University of Johannesburg, penned a letter of respect to Sakhela Buhlungu, highlighting his journey from a mineworker's son to an academic and activis…
