This week in South Africa
This week, South African media, particularly the Mail & Guardian, focused on consumer investment trends and online entertainment. Articles explored the viability of Longines watches as a stable, mid-tier luxury investment within South Africa's economic landscape. Additionally, the new online slot game Jelly Express garnered attention for its rapid accumulation of millionaire-level payouts since its launch in March.
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
NFP Recalls National Chairperson Amidst Internal Power Struggle
- The National Freedom Party (NFP) has recalled its national chairperson, Sibusiso Shevu Mkhabela, from his positions. - Mkhabela was removed as national chairperson and from the national executive co…
Mandy Johnston wants to burn things to bring back traditions
- South African artist Mandy Johnston's exhibition "Gatherer" features sculptures made of steel wool that are set ablaze. - The artworks explore themes of ritual, transformation, and life's transition…
EXCLUSIVE: Masuku advances, Morero misses out as ANC considers Nhlanhla Lux, Frank Chikane, Chichi Maponya and Jabu Moleketi for Johannesburg mayor
- The ANC's Johannesburg regional executive committee has nominated Loyiso Masuku as its sole mayoral candidate. - Mayor Dada Morero was not included in the list submitted for interviews, despite bein…
Roof repairs won’t stop the Boks
- Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium will host the Springboks as scheduled despite recent roof damage. - High winds tore a section of the roof in early May, but the structure remains sound. - The stadium also…
Marine carbon dioxide removal: Our next ocean science, policy and governance frontier?
- The global average temperature has surpassed 1.5°C warming, making net-zero emissions insufficient to stabilize the climate. - Active carbon dioxide removal (CDR) is now essential, with a growing fo…
Ramaphosa announces immigration crackdown, warns against xenophobia
- South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced new measures to tighten immigration enforcement and secure borders. - The plan includes establishing immigration courts, increasing workplace inspec…
Ramaphosa to send envoys abroad to tackle migration diplomacy
- South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will send envoys to African nations and globally to discuss migration issues. - The initiative follows discussions with Kenyan President William Ruto, highlig…
Ramaphosa and the ANC's sinking ship
- The article uses the maritime metaphor "the captain goes down with the ship" to assess President Cyril Ramaphosa's leadership of the ANC. - It argues that despite promises of renewal and a "New Dawn…
More than a restaurant, Tortellino d’Oro is a story about belonging
- Tortellino d’Oro, an Italian restaurant, has opened a new location in Oaklands, continuing its tradition of handmade pasta and authentic Italian cooking. - The restaurant is described as more than j…
South Africans hit hard by the rising cost of living
- South Africans are facing significant financial hardship due to a rising cost of living, including increased fuel prices, soaring interest rates, and escalating food costs. - Many households are str…
Team probing the Hawks ‘was biased‘
- Hawks Colonel Gavin Jacob testified before the Madlanga commission. - He stated that an internal investigation into drug theft within the Hawks was designed to create a false narrative. - This testi…
The Ascots promises a world-class Durban July experience — but is it Worth the Price of Entry?
- The Ascots marquee at the Durban July horse race promises a premium experience. - Questions arise about whether its high price point justifies the offerings compared to competitors. - Other marquees…
In a world of Afrophobia, be Malema
- Julius Malema, leader of South Africa's EFF party, is focusing on themes of equality, black solidarity, and African unity as he pursues presidential ambitions. - Malema's rhetoric emphasizes repatri…
Outside the white cube, art learns to breathe again
- A group exhibition in South Africa's North West region challenged traditional art institutions. - The exhibition aimed to encourage artists and audiences to reconsider artistic experimentation, comm…
Is South Africa meeting its climate promises? Analysis suggests 'yes' so far
- South Africa is on track to meet its 2030 climate target of emitting no more than 420 million tonnes of carbon dioxide. - A R3.8 billion loan from Germany will aid South Africa's transition to renew…
Sibanyoni granted bail as NPA revives extortion case
- Taxi boss Joe “Ferrari” Sibanyoni was granted bail in a R2.2 million extortion and money laundering case. - The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) re-enrolled the case after a prosecutor missed a …
Ghana repatriates 300 citizens from South Africa in unprecedented move
- Nearly 300 Ghanaian nationals voluntarily repatriated from South Africa to Accra on Wednesday. - The move, organized by Ghanaian authorities, is seen as an unprecedented political rebuke to South Af…
The country’s shame and Africa’s failure
- Xenophobic politics in South Africa gains traction when economies fail, fueling attacks on foreign-owned businesses and migrants. - African governments are criticized for avoiding the deeper issue o…
Reserve Bank hikes interest rate for first time since 2023 as oil shock, inflation risks mount
- The South African Reserve Bank raised its repo rate by 25 basis points to 7%, the first hike since May 2023, citing inflation risks from Middle East tensions, oil prices, and climate-related food is…
Bafana Bafana: A squad built for more than just participation
- South Africa's national football team, Bafana Bafana, has announced its 26-player squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. - The squad composition draws heavily from successful domestic clubs Mamelodi Sun…
Fort Hare charges vice-chancellor Sakhela Buhlungu with misconduct
- The University of Fort Hare has formally charged its vice-chancellor, Professor Sakhela Buhlungu, with gross misconduct and insubordination. - Charges stem from an investigation into alleged unlawfu…
From migration pressure to development architecture: Why Africa needs an economic diplomacy framework
- Africa faces significant migration pressure driven by uneven development and a lack of economic opportunity, not solely by border issues. - Policy responses remain fragmented, focusing on enforcemen…
Ending hunger in Africa needs Africa-led science and governance
- Hunger affects over one in five Africans, with nearly 60% facing food insecurity, and projections indicate nearly 60% of the world's undernourished people will be African by 2030. - Africa possesses…
Is Longines a good investment watch in SA?
- Longines watches are considered a stable, mid-tier luxury investment, particularly in South Africa's unique economic context. - While not expected to dramatically increase in value like ultra-luxury…
Are Longines watches a good investment in South Africa?
- Longines watches occupy a mid-tier luxury space, offering heritage and design without the ultra-high price tags of some brands. - While not typically a rapid appreciation investment, a well-chosen L…
Jelly Express Is New, but Its Millionaire Wins Are Already Loud
- The online slot game Jelly Express has rapidly gained attention since its March release due to multiple millionaire-level payouts. - The game features a candy-colored design with a Tumble Feature an…
Mbalula: 'I won’t be blackmailed for 2027'
- ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula stated he will not be "blackmailed" by internal critics regarding the 2027 elective conference. - Mbalula addressed succession politics and internal party issues…
NWU awards honorary doctorate to choral music maestro Kgotlaetsile Henderson Pule
- The North-West University (NWU) awarded an honorary doctorate to renowned choral music composer Kgotlaetsile Henderson Pule. - The ceremony recognized Pule's significant contributions to choral musi…
SA’s Fuel Tax Cuts Fall Short on Protecting Vulnerable Households
- South Africa's response to fuel price shocks disproportionately benefits wealthier households and fuel-intensive industries over vulnerable populations. - Temporary fuel tax cuts, while providing so…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
