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) is experiencing significant internal turmoil following the recall of its national chairperson, Sibusiso Shevu Mkhabela. The party's national executive committee (NEC) …
Mandy Johnston wants to burn things to bring back traditions
South African artist Mandy Johnston is setting steel wool sculptures ablaze in her latest exhibition, "Gatherer," at the Berman Contemporary All Women Art Gallery in Cape Town. The exhibition uses the…
EXCLUSIVE: Masuku advances, Morero misses out as ANC considers Nhlanhla Lux, Frank Chikane, Chichi Maponya and Jabu Moleketi for Johannesburg mayor
The African National Congress (ANC) in Johannesburg has put forward its regional chairperson, Loyiso Masuku, as the sole candidate for the city's mayoral position. This decision comes as the party's r…
Roof repairs won’t stop the Boks
Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium is confirmed to host the Springboks as scheduled on June 20, despite damage to its roof sustained during high winds and heavy rains in early May. The stadium's Acting CEO, U…
Marine carbon dioxide removal: Our next ocean science, policy and governance frontier?
The world has crossed a critical climate threshold, with global average temperatures now a sustained reality above 1.5°C of warming. This reality shifts the focus from avoiding temperature overshoot t…
Ramaphosa announces immigration crackdown, warns against xenophobia
President Cyril Ramaphosa has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to address illegal immigration and bolster South Africa's borders. The announcement, made during a televised address, comes amid growing…
Ramaphosa and the ANC's sinking ship
The article employs the maritime metaphor "the captain goes down with the ship" to critically assess President Cyril Ramaphosa's leadership, suggesting he may be presiding over a declining African Nat…
Ramaphosa to send envoys abroad to tackle migration diplomacy
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced plans to deploy envoys across Africa and the world to engage governments on migration. This diplomatic drive comes after discussions with Kenyan Presi…
Is South Africa meeting its climate promises? Analysis suggests 'yes' so far
South Africa appears to be making good on its climate change promises, with projections indicating the country is on track to meet its 2030 target of limiting carbon dioxide emissions to 420 million t…
Sibanyoni granted bail as NPA revives extortion case
Taxi boss Joe “Ferrari” Sibanyoni has been granted bail by the Delmas Magistrate’s Court in Mpumalanga, as the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) officially re-enrolled a R2.2 million extortion and …
The country’s shame and Africa’s failure
The painful reality of xenophobia in South Africa is starkly illustrated by mobs storming foreign-owned spaza shops, interrogating shopkeepers, and issuing threats. This is not law enforcement but pol…
Ghana repatriates 300 citizens from South Africa in unprecedented move
The voluntary repatriation of nearly 300 Ghanaian nationals from South Africa marks an unprecedented moment in post-apartheid history, according to migration scholar Loren Landau. This large-scale ope…
Reserve Bank hikes interest rate for first time since 2023 as oil shock, inflation risks mount
The South African Reserve Bank has increased its key interest rate by 25 basis points to 7%, marking the first hike since May 2023. Governor Lesetja Kganyago announced the decision on Thursday, signal…
Bafana Bafana: A squad built for more than just participation
South Africa's national football team, Bafana Bafana, is gearing up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 26-player squad announced at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House in Pretoria. The team's…
Fort Hare charges vice-chancellor Sakhela Buhlungu with misconduct
The University of Fort Hare has initiated a formal disciplinary process against its vice-chancellor, Professor Sakhela Buhlungu. He faces charges of gross misconduct, insubordination, and bringing the…
From migration pressure to development architecture: Why Africa needs an economic diplomacy framework
Migration pressure across Africa is a symptom of deeper structural issues, particularly uneven development and economic disparities, rather than a problem solvable by enforcement alone. South Africa, …
Ending hunger in Africa needs Africa-led science and governance
Hunger continues to rise across Africa, with over one in five people facing food insecurity, a trend projected to worsen by 2030. Despite a wealth of locally generated research on effective agricultur…
Is Longines a good investment watch in SA?
In the world of horology, the question of whether a Longines watch represents a sound investment, especially within South Africa's dynamic economy, merits careful consideration. Unlike ultra-luxury br…
Are Longines watches a good investment in South Africa?
Longines watches occupy an interesting niche in the luxury market, particularly for South African consumers looking for an "investment" timepiece that balances heritage with accessibility. While the t…
Jelly Express Is New, but Its Millionaire Wins Are Already Loud
Jelly Express, a new online slot game, has made a significant impact since its launch in March, quickly generating millionaire-level payouts that defy typical new game trajectories. This rapid success…
Mbalula: 'I won’t be blackmailed for 2027'
ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula's recent address at the West Rand regional conference, as reported by the Mail & Guardian, sends a clear and defiant message to internal factions: he will not be s…
NWU awards honorary doctorate to choral music maestro Kgotlaetsile Henderson Pule
The North-West University (NWU) proudly honored Kgotlaetsile Henderson Pule, a titan of choral music and education, with an honorary doctorate at its Mahikeng Campus graduation ceremony on May 8, 2026…
SA’s Fuel Tax Cuts Fall Short on Protecting Vulnerable Households
The Mail & Guardian consistently reports on the economic realities facing South Africans, and the current fuel price crisis is a stark reminder of the nation's deep-seated inequalities. While the gove…
New DA KZN Leader Vows to Rebrand Party, Target ANC and MKP Support
In a significant development for KwaZulu-Natal politics, Sithembiso Ngema has been elected the new leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA). Speaking with the *Mail & Guardian*, Ngema expressed an ambit…
Is Ngcukaitobi Being Set Up Against Black Empowerment?
The Mail & Guardian highlights a deeply concerning paradox surrounding Advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi's recent appointment as an acting justice of the Constitutional Court. While his elevation is being …
Billy Monama is staging a revival of memory
Billy Monama, the founder and curator of 'The Rebirth of Ubuntu' concert, is preparing for its fifth iteration, scheduled for May 29 and 30 at the Joburg Theatre. This event is more than just a musica…
D-Day for Ramaphosa: Constitutional Court to rule on Phala Phala impeachment inquiry
Today marks a critical juncture for South Africa's democratic accountability as the Constitutional Court hears the Phala Phala matter. This case is not merely about President Cyril Ramaphosa; it is a …
ANC faces local poll backlash amid internal strife and corruption claims
South Africa's political landscape is bracing for a turbulent period as the upcoming local government elections loom. The ruling African National Congress (ANC), already weakened by its 2024 national …
Parliament Intensifies Scrutiny of Sasol Amid Pollution Allegations
The Mail & Guardian reports that South Africa's parliamentary portfolio committee on forestry, fisheries, and the environment is significantly increasing its scrutiny of Sasol. This heightened oversig…
R1.1bn SA Steel Mills Deal Under Scrutiny Amid Fraud Allegations
The Mail & Guardian continues to shed light on the questionable R1.1 billion funding provided by the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to SA Steel Mills (SASM), a company now in business rescue…
Public Protector Investigates Claims of Fear and Retribution at IDC Amidst R54 Million Legal Spend
Serious allegations of mismanagement and a toxic work environment have surfaced at the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), casting a shadow over the state-owned entity. A whistleblower, Tebogo V…
Mmule Setati’s recipe for identity, healing and community
In South Africa, the Mail & Guardian highlights the profound impact of food beyond mere sustenance, as exemplified by Mmule Setati's Feed My Tribe initiative. Setati's journey from a corporate communi…
The Populist vs. the Pope: Sacred vs. Secular Clash
The world is witnessing an unprecedented clash between the sacred and the secular, personified by two Americans: Pope Leo XIV and US President Donald Trump. This ideological battle, playing out on the…
Trading Technology Evolves in South Africa's Equity Market
South Africa's equity market continues to be a robust platform, attracting significant global investment due to its well-established infrastructure. The presence of major international banks and sophi…
Blogger Khawula Gets 30-Day Jail Sentence, Suspended on Condition of Apology to Malema
In a significant legal development, controversial blogger Musa Khawula has been handed a suspended 30-day jail sentence by the Gauteng High Court. This sentence is conditional upon Khawula issuing a p…
South Africa's Local Elections: A Bellwether for National Politics
The upcoming November 4 local government elections in South Africa are not just about choosing local leaders; they represent a critical juncture for the nation's democratic experiment. For the first t…
South Africa's Kusile Coal Plant Operational Amid Climate Contradictions
South Africa is facing a profound energy paradox as it celebrates the full operational status of the Kusile Power Station, a monumental project plagued by decades of delays, cost overruns, and allegat…
Investing for the Price of a Coffee
The Mail & Guardian presents an insightful look into the South African property market, demystifying investment for the average citizen. The traditional perception of property investment as an exclusi…
Ramaphosa Sets Local Elections for November 4, 2026
President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially set the date for the upcoming local government elections, scheduling them for Wednesday, November 4, 2026. This announcement, made during a meeting with leader…
Trade Unions Must Address Workers' Needs to Stay Relevant
As we celebrate May as workers' month and reflect on 32 years of democracy, it's crucial for the trade union movement, particularly Cosatu, to reaffirm its relevance. Our history is rich with victorie…
ANC leaders accused of 'by hook or by crook' conference manipulation
The Mail & Guardian has been informed of serious allegations surrounding the West Rand regional conference of the African National Congress (ANC). Secretary-general Fikile Mbalula and his deputy, Nomv…
Mamela Nyamza's 'Hatched Ensemble' Triumphantly Returns Home After Global Acclaim
Mamela Nyamza's 'Hatched Ensemble' is a powerful testament to South African artistic innovation, capturing global attention and accolades. The global success of Nyamza's work, including prestigious aw…
Berita's 'Echoes of The Soul': A meditation on migrant workers
The Mail & Guardian is proud to highlight Berita's upcoming Workers' Day performance, an event that transcends mere entertainment to offer a profound meditation on the often-overlooked experiences of …
Tshwane Metro tender favouritism and unpaid security services
The Mail & Guardian continues its rigorous investigation into tender irregularities within the Tshwane Metropolitan Police Department (TMPD), with suspended deputy chief Umashi Dhlamini now at the cen…
Minerals Boom Promises Benefits, But Communities Fear Being Left Behind
South Africa is strategically positioning itself as a powerhouse in the critical minerals sector, a move lauded as central to the global energy transition and the advancement of technologies like elec…
The leadership crisis behind joblessness
The Mail & Guardian presents a scathing indictment of South Africa's persistent unemployment crisis, reframing it not as a mere economic downturn but as a profound failure of leadership across multipl…
Editorial: Workers' Day 32 Years On – Confronting Unemployment and Workers' Rights
As South Africa marks Workers' Day, the occasion is steeped in a complex reality. Thirty-two years into democracy, the promise of meaningful work and fair compensation remains elusive for millions. Th…
Gig Guide: Savanna Presents Festival of Comedy, Dominica Releases 'Your Presence,' and Santu Mofokeng's 'Rumours/2026' Exhibition
South Africa's cultural landscape is buzzing with diverse offerings this season, showcasing the nation's vibrant artistic talent. The launch of the #SavannaSAFC, or Festival of Comedy, is particularly…
Hidden inequality in SA’s workplaces
The Mail & Guardian delves into a pervasive yet often overlooked aspect of workplace inequality in South Africa: discrimination based on physical appearance. While public discourse rightly focuses on …
Fragmented workers, the only mourners in ANC-SACP divorce
The Mail & Guardian, a publication deeply engaged with South Africa's socio-political landscape, highlights a critical juncture for the nation's workers. The article frames the SACP's independent elec…
Complaint Filed Against Head of South Africa's Anti-Corruption Unit
A serious allegation has been leveled against Advocate Andrea Johnson, the head of the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC), casting a shadow over the very institution tasked with fight…
Where are the unions and the ANC for suffering silicosis victims?
The Mail & Guardian critically examines the historical trajectory of mineworker representation in South Africa, focusing on the pivotal Marikana strike and the evolving role of unions and political al…
South Africa's land reform: Restitution's success versus redistribution's challenges
The Mail & Guardian has long followed South Africa's complex and often fraught journey with land reform. This article delves into a critical aspect of this ongoing process: the delicate balance betwee…
South African Court Appearance of Kémi Séba Highlights West Africa's Deepening Political Divide
The recent appearance of Benin national Kémi Séba in a South African court, while seemingly a singular event, serves as a potent symbol of the complex and consequential struggles unfolding across West…
Africa's Expanding Digital Economy Raises Questions About Online Access
The digital revolution is sweeping across Africa, transforming economies and daily life at an unprecedented pace. From the bustling tech hubs of Nigeria to the widespread adoption of mobile money in K…
Zuma to 'have tea' with Ramaphosa over liberation legacy disputes
Former president Jacob Zuma, now leading the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, has signaled his intent to engage directly with ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa. The purpose of this proposed meeting, which Zum…
New Book Challenges Narrow Narrative of B-BBEE, Highlighting Entrepreneurship from the Cape Flats
In a South Africa grappling with the complexities and criticisms surrounding Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE), Phakamisa Ndzamela's new book, "Cape Flats to the JSE," emerges as a vital interventio…
South Africa's Freedom Day: A Celebration Tempered by Regional Democratic Deficits
As Mail & Guardian, we believe South Africa's Freedom Day is a pivotal moment, not just for our nation but as a beacon for the entire Southern African Development Community (SADC). While we rightfully…
South Africa's Freedom Day Report Card: Progress, Principles, and the Path Ahead
On this Freedom Day, the Mail & Guardian presents a candid 'report card' to the heroes who sacrificed for the liberation of South Africa. The message is clear: while the nation has not yet reached the…
Great White Sharks and Tuna Face Overheating Risk as Oceans Warm
A groundbreaking study, spearheaded by researchers at Trinity College Dublin in collaboration with Professor Edward Snelling from the University of Pretoria's Faculty of Veterinary Science, sheds crit…
Tanzania President Samia Pledges Action on 2025 Election Violence Commission Findings
President Samia Suluhu Hassan has firmly committed the Tanzanian government to addressing the aftermath of the violent clashes that marred the October 25, 2025 elections. Her administration's pledge t…
Tata Curvv: A Few Things Right and a Few Wrong
The Tata Curvv presents a striking visual statement, aiming to blend elegance with sportiness in the coupé-styled SUV segment. From the exterior, it’s a departure from typical Tata designs, boasting a…
South Africa's Contradictory Stance: Accuses Israel of Genocide While Coal Ships Depart
The Mail & Guardian, a publication deeply engaged with South Africa's political and social landscape, views the nation's current position with profound concern and a critical eye. Our analysis highlig…
DA to File Criminal Complaint Against Minister Tolashe Over 'Chinese SUV' Probe
The political landscape in South Africa is heating up as the Democratic Alliance (DA) prepares to lodge a criminal complaint against Minister of Social Development, Sisisi Tolashe. This move, mirrorin…
Africa's electric motorbike future can be built locally and powered by solar — our 6000km ride shows what’s possible
A recent 6,000km expedition from Nairobi to Stellenbosch, undertaken by a team of engineers from Stellenbosch University, has provided compelling evidence that Africa can forge its own path in electri…
Huawei makes the case for AI-ready optical networks at OptiX Club 2026
In an era defined by the rapid acceleration of artificial intelligence, the underlying network infrastructure is emerging as a critical bottleneck. Huawei's OptiX Club 2026, held in Johannesburg, brou…
Western Cape Launches Ambitious Reading Strategy to Ensure Every Child Reads by Age 10
The launch of the Western Cape's Reading and Literacy Strategy 2026–2030 marks a pivotal moment for education in the province, signaling a determined shift towards ensuring foundational literacy for a…
Cynthia Shange, pioneering actress and beauty queen, dies at 76
South Africa mourns the loss of Cynthia Shange, a true icon of its entertainment landscape, who passed away at 76 after an illness. Shange was more than just a celebrated actress and former beauty que…
New Forensic Lab Opens in KZN to Tackle DNA Backlogs
In a significant move to bolster the criminal justice system in KwaZulu-Natal, a new privately-owned forensic science laboratory has been inaugurated in Durban. This development arrives at a critical …
NFP expels KZN MEC Mbali Shinga for defying party mandate
The National Freedom Party (NFP) has taken decisive action, expelling Mbali Shinga, the MEC for social development in KwaZulu-Natal, from its ranks. This stern measure, communicated by acting secretar…
Watershedding: A Risky Proposition
The notion that "watershedding"—the scheduled shutdown of water systems—is a simple or inevitable solution is a dangerous oversimplification, according to this analysis. While South Africa is accustom…
Tongaat Hulett Gets Lifeline as Court Grants Delay in Liquidation Bid
In a significant development for the KwaZulu-Natal economy, the Durban High Court has granted a crucial lifeline to the embattled sugar giant, Tongaat Hulett Limited (THL). Business rescue practitione…
What does it mean to forgive? A play asks, 30 years after the TRC
In South Africa, the Mail & Guardian presents a thoughtful exploration of reconciliation through the lens of theatre. The play "Under the Shade of a Tree I Sat and Wept" delves into the complex legacy…
Malema avoids jail for now
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has secured a crucial legal reprieve, with the court granting him leave to appeal his five-year prison sentence. While his conviction for dischargi…
EMPD and the missing R14m lithium
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry is currently probing a disturbing alleged rogue operation within the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD), which has led to the disappearance of lithium-…
Africa’s unfinished reckoning
Thirty-two years on, Rwanda continues to lead the solemn commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, a tragedy that forever altered the nation's trajectory. The annual 'Walk to Remember' on …
The Iran War is Africa’s Warning: Build Sovereignty or Be Ruled by Other People’s Power
The Mail & Guardian views the escalating conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran not as a regional spat, but as a stark illustration of contemporary global power dynamics. This war, unfolding in the…
University of Fort Hare's Decades-Long Governance Crisis Detailed
The Mail & Guardian's investigation into the University of Fort Hare reveals a deeply troubling pattern of governance failures that have plagued the institution for years. This is not a new crisis eru…
South Africa Launches First Shorebird Tracking Project to Map Migratory Journeys
South Africa is taking flight in the realm of ornithological research with the launch of its inaugural shorebird tracking project. Spearheaded by BirdLife South Africa, this groundbreaking initiative …
South African Universities Face Systemic Risk of Institutional Capture
South Africa's higher education sector is grappling with a serious governance crisis, a phenomenon described as "institutional capture." This is not merely isolated incidents but a systemic risk where…
Comrade, scholar, cadre: A letter of respect to Sakhela Buhlungu
In a deeply personal and respectful tribute, Mondli Hlatshwayo, an associate professor at the University of Johannesburg, has penned a letter to Sakhela Buhlungu, celebrating his remarkable life and c…
