Category: News

Public urged to exercise caution amid severe weather warnings

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Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa has urged all South Africans to exercise heightened caution following severe weather warnings issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS).

According to SAWS, a cut-off low-pressure system is expected to affect large parts of the country through to Thursday.

This slow-moving system is forecast to bring cold, wet, and windy conditions, starting in the Western Cape before spreading to the Northern Cape, Eastern Cape, Free State, and other parts of the central and eastern interior from Tuesday afternoon into Wednesday morning.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Minister expressed concern over the likelihood of severe thunderstorms expected across several provinces. These conditions may result in heavy rainfall, localised flooding, damaging winds, hail, and intense lightning.

The weather service warned that significant weather-related impacts are expected along parts of the Eastern Cape coastline and the adjacent interior on Tuesday and Wednesday, as well as over the eastern parts of the Western Cape from Tuesday afternoon through to Thursday.

Widespread rainfall is anticipated over the Western Cape and Eastern Cape, extending into the Free State, with 24-hour rainfall accumulations likely to exceed 100 – 200 mm in places.

“This may result in widespread flooding. In addition, damaging winds and very rough sea conditions are expected, particularly along the south coast of the Western Cape and the Eastern Cape coastline,” the weather service said on Monday.

Hlabisa said the department is closely monitoring the evolving weather situation in coordination with disaster management structures across all spheres of government.

“Emergency services and disaster management teams have been placed on high alert to respond to any incidents that may arise. Communities are encouraged to report emergencies to local authorities and to cooperate with any evacuation directives where necessary. 

“We call on all residents, especially those in high-risk and low-lying areas, to remain vigilant and prioritise their safety at all times,” Hlabisa said.

The Minister stressed the importance of preparedness and adherence to safety guidelines. 

Members of the public are advised to avoid crossing flooded roads and swollen rivers, exercise extreme caution when travelling, and secure loose outdoor items that could be displaced by strong winds.

He further urged the public to rely only on verified information from SAWS and official government communication platforms, warning against the spread of misinformation that may cause unnecessary panic or confusion.

“We urge all South Africans to act responsibly, stay informed, and look out for one another during this period. Early caution and preparedness can save lives,” Hlabisa said.

Garden Route Schools to close ahead of expected storm

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In the interests of learner and teacher safety, and after extensive consultation with the Provincial Disaster Management Centre and the South African Weather Service (SAWS), a decision has been taken to close schools in certain areas of the Eden and Central Karoo Education District on Wednesday, 6 May 2026, and Thursday, 7 May 2026. 
 
All public ordinary and special needs schools in the following specific circuits will be closed on Wednesday, 6 May 2026, and Thursday, 7 May 2026, due to the severe rainfall warnings in these areas:
 
Circuits 3 and 8 (George)
Circuit 4 (Knysna)
Circuits 5 and 6 (Oudtshoorn)
 
The affected schools have received official notice of the closure from the Head of Department, and have been requested to communicate the closures to parents. 
 
All other schools in the Western Cape will be open unless approval has been granted for closure, which will be done on a case-by-case basis.
 
"Our default position is always to keep schools open and only close schools in exceptional circumstances, but we are mindful of the severity of the warnings in place. We will continuously monitor and evaluate the situation to ensure that schools can reopen as soon as possible", the Department said in a statement.
 
All schools are expected to open on Friday, 8 May 2026. The Department of Education will, however, evaluate the weather prediction for the end of the week to determine whether any individual school closures are necessary for the remainder of the week.

 List of school closures on 6 and 7 May 2026
 
Note: Circuits 3,4,5,6 and 8 of Eden and Central Karoo District only.
 
(Schools to reopen on Friday 8 May 2026)
 
Eden and Central Karoo Circuit 3

1.         Conville Primary School
2.         Diepkloof VGK Primêre Skool
3.         Eden Technical High School
4.         George Voorbereidingskool
5.         Hibernia VGK Primêre Skool
6.         Hoekwil Laerskool
7.         Jonga Street Secondary School
8.         Karatara Laerskool
9.         Klipdrift EK Primêre Skool
10.      Lancewood Primêre Skool
11.      M M Mateza Primary School
12.      Olympia Skool
13.      Outeniqua Primary School
14.      Parkdene Primêre Skool (George)
15.      Parkdene Sekondêr
16.      Redlands Primêre Skool
17.      Ruigtevlei Primêre Skool
18.      Sedgefield Laerskool
19.      Sedgefield Primêre Skool
20.      Tabatha Primary School
21.      Thembalethu Secondary School
22.      Thembaletu Primary School
23.      Touwsranten VGK Primêre Skool
24.      Tyholora Primary School
25.      Van Kervel Spesiale Skool
26.      Waboomskraal VGK Primêre Skool
27.      York High School
 
Eden and Central Karoo Circuit 4
 
1.         Bracken Hill EK Primêre Skool
2.         Chris Nissen Primary School
3.         Concordia High School
4.         Concordia Primêre Skool
5.         Formosa Primêre Skool
6.         Fraaisig Primary School
7.         Harkerville EK Primêre Skool
8.         Hornlee Primêre Skool
9.         Knysna Hoërskool
10.      Knysna Primary School
11.      Knysna Satellite Office
12.      Knysna Sekondêr
13.      Kranshoek Primêre Skool
14.      Kwanokuthula High School
15.      Kwanokuthula Primary School
16.      Murray High School
17.      Percy Mdala High School
18.      Phakamisani Primary School
19.      Plettenberg Bay Primary School
20.      Plettenbergbaai Sekondêr
21.      Rheenendal Primêre Skool
22.      Sunridge Primêre Skool
23.      The Crags Primêre Skool
24.      Thembelitsha Primary School
25.      Wittedrif Primêre Skool
26.      Wittedrift Hoërskool
 
Eden and Central Karoo Circuit 5
 
1.         Aurial College
2.         Bergsig Primêre Skool
3.         Bridgton Sekondêr
4.         Calitzdorp Hoërskool
5.         Colridge Primêre Skool
6.         De Jager VGK Primêre Skool
7.         De Villiers Primêre Skool
8.         Eljada-Kairos Skool
9.         Excelsior VGK Primêre Skool
10.      Fezekile Secondary School
11.      Gamka-Oos Primêre Skool
12.      Grootkraal UCC Primêre Skool
13.      Kruisrivier-Wes UCC Primêre Skool
14.      Langenhoven Gimnasium
15.      Lategansvlei SSKV Primêre Skool
16.      Laurus Primere Skool
17.      Oudtshoorn Hoërskool
18.      Oudtshoorn School of Skills
19.      Rodewal UCC Primêre Skool
20.      Rooiberg SSKV Primêre Skool
21.      Volmoed Primêre Skool
22.      Voorbedag Primêre Skool
23.      Wesbank Laerskool
24.      Zeekoegat VGK Primêre Skool
 
Eden and Central Karoo Circuit 6
 
1.         Avontuur LB Primêre Skool
2.         Bongolethu Primary School
3.         Britsevlakte NGK Primêre Skool
4.         De Rust Primêre Skool
5.         De Rust Sekondêr
6.         Dirk Boshoff Primêre Skool
7.         Dysselsdorp Primêre Skool
8.         Dysselsdorp Sekondêr
9.         Haarlem Sekondêre Skool
10.      Mooi Uitsig Primêre Skool No.2
11.      Morester Sekondêr
12.      P.J. Badenhorst Primêre Skool
13.      Protea Hoërskool
14.      Rooiheuwel VGK Primêre Skool
15.      Rooirivier VGK Primêre Skool
16.      Sacred Heart RK Primêre Skool
17.      Saturnus Primêre Skool
18.      Scheeperskraal SSKV Primêre Skool
19.      St. Konrad RK Primêre Skool
20.      Uniondale Hoërskool
21.      Van Reede Laerskool
22.      Vlakteplaas UCC Primêre Skool
 
Eden and Central Karoo Circuit 8
 
1.         Blanco Laerskool
2.         Carpe Diem Skool
3.         Dellville Park Primary School
4.         Denneoord Laerskool
5.         Dieprivier VGK Primêre Skool
6.         Franken VGK Primêre Skool
7.         Geelhoutboom VGK Primêre Skool
8.         George Sekondêr
9.         George-Suid Laerskool
10.      Heatherlands High School
11.      Heidedal Primêre Skool
12.      Herold Laerskool
13.      Holy Cross Primary School (George)
14.      Hoogekraal SSKV Primêre Skool
15.      Imizamo Yethu Secondary School
16.      Kommandantsdrift SSKV Primêre Skool
17.      Kretzenshoop Primêre Skool
18.      Mzoxolo Primary School
19.      New Dawn Park Primêre Skool
20.      Outeniqua Hoërskool
21.      Pacaltsdorp Primêre Skool
22.      Pacaltsdorp Sekondêr
23.      Rosemoor Primêre Skool
24.      St. Mary's RK Primêre Skool (George)
25.      St. Paul's EK Primêre Skool (George)
26.      Van Der Hoven Laerskool

WHO Africa on Hantavirus: ‘Risk remains low but vigilance is high’

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Regional Director of the World Health Organisation (WHO) in Africa, Professor Mohamed Janabi, says although the “risk remains low at this time” for Africa regarding the current Hantavirus case flagged in South Africa, vigilance remains high.

A case of the rare but deadly disease was confirmed by the South African Department of Health after the condition of a patient aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius necessitated his medical evacuation to a South African private health facility in Sandton for further medical management.

Two other passengers, a couple, also presented with severe acute respiratory infection, with one collapsing at the OR Tambo International Airport while trying to connect a flight to her home country of the Netherlands.

In a post on social media platform X, Janabi assured that the WHO Africa is “closely monitoring and supporting response” to the event.

He said that as of Sunday, three people have died although only one case of the virus has been laboratory confirmed. 

“Hantavirus is a rare disease typically linked to exposure to infected rodents, and while severe in some cases, it is not easily transmitted between people. WHO is working closely with the countries concerned and the ship’s operators to support medical care, coordinate evacuations and conduct a full public health risk assessment.

“For Africa, the risk remains low at this time, but our vigilance is high. We are strengthening surveillance and preparedness to ensure swift and effective response.

“Let me reassure the public that this is a serious but contained event and there is no need for panic or travel restrictions at this stage. Our focus is clear: to save lives, contain risks and ensure that countries are fully supported with science-based action,” Janabi said.

What is Hantavirus?
On its website, the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD) explains that Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) causing viruses are found in the Americas and are associated with “cricetid rodent host in endemic areas of South and North America”.

Transmission mainly occurs through “inhalation of aerosolised virus particles from rodent urine droppings, or nesting materials” with transmission through rodent bites less common.

“Human-to-human transmission of hantaviruses that cause HPS is very uncommon. There is no evidence of person-to-person transmission for the majority of HPS-causing viruses, and rodent exposure - rather than human contact — causes infection. Andes virus [reported from parts of South America] is the only hantavirus with well-documented human-to-human transmission.

“Transmission of the Andes virus has been inefficient and required close contact in household and health facility settings, unlike highly transmissible respiratory viruses such as SARS-CoV-2 and influenza viruses.

“Evidence from Andes virus outbreaks (particularly in Argentina and Chile) indicates transmission can occur through close, prolonged contact with an infected person, especially involving household contacts, sexual partners, and caregivers. Likely routes of exposure include respiratory secretions (e.g., droplets from coughing), direct contact with saliva, and possibly other body fluids during the early symptomatic phase,” the NICD explained.

Symptoms of the virus include fever, fatigue, muscle aches, headache, dizziness, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain in the first 3 to 5 days.

“As the disease progresses, patients may develop coughing and shortness of breath due to fluid accumulation in the lungs [pulmonary oedema] and a drop in blood pressure resulting in shock. The cardio-pulmonary phase can progress very quickly within hours], and the case fatality rate [CFR] for HPS is high, between 30 – 50 %.

“The CFR varies by virus, region, and access to intensive care, and patient factors [i.e., the influence of co-morbidities]. Common differential diagnoses (i.e., other diseases presenting with similar signs and symptoms) of suspected cases of HPS include (but are not limited to) influenza (i.e., flu), COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus infection, Legionnaire’s disease, mycoplasma pneumonia, or severe community-acquired pneumonia,” the institute said.

There currently is “no specific antiviral treatment for HPS”, with management of the virus through hospitalisation, oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation and intensive care.

“In endemic countries, prevention focuses on reducing exposure to rodents. This includes sealing homes to prevent rodent entry, proper food storage, safe cleaning of rodent-infested areas (using disinfectants and avoiding sweeping), and using protective equipment when necessary.

“Since most hantaviruses that cause HPS are not readily transmissible from person-to-person, no other precautions are recommended, and for patients with HPS, isolation precautions may not be required.

“In the case of the Andes virus, patients diagnosed with HPS should be isolated with droplet precautions and careful handling of respiratory secretions. For HPS associated with the Andes virus, contacts of cases should be identified and monitored for 42 days (i.e., the maximum incubation period of the virus),” the NICD said.

Weather warning as cut-off low pressure system arrives

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The South African Weather Service (SAWS) warns of cold, wet, and windy conditions affecting large parts of the country from 5 to 7 May 2026.

A cut-off low-pressure system is expected to make landfall over western South Africa from Tuesday morning. It will initially affect the Western Cape, Northern Cape, and Eastern Cape, before spreading inland.

A cut-off low is a slow-moving system that can cause prolonged severe weather.



Tuesday–Thursday (5–7 May 2026)

Significant impacts expected in:
Eastern Cape coastline and interior Eastern parts of the Western Cape
Spreading into the Free State

Rainfall:
Widespread rainfall
100–200 mm in 24 hours possible
High risk of widespread flooding

Additional hazards:
Damaging winds
Very rough seas along southern coast

Expected Impacts
Flooding
Roads and settlements flooded
Mudslides
Damage to infrastructure

Strong Winds
Power outages
Damage to structures
Falling trees affecting transport

Rough Seas
Waves of 5–7 metres
Coastal damage
Harbour disruptions
Possible storm surge

Snowfall
Western Cape and Eastern Cape high ground
Livestock losses
Mountain pass closures

Severe Thunderstorms
Free State and North West
Local flooding
Small hail
Local damage

Public Advice
-Be cautious when travelling
-Avoid flooded roads and rivers
-Secure loose outdoor items
-Follow official SAWS updates
-Avoid spreading unverified information

Power system remains ‘stable’ despite winter demand increase

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Eskom says the power system remains stable and resilient, despite increased electricity demand typically seen at the start of the winter season.

The power utility has maintained at least 350 days without implementing load shedding.

“[The system is] supported by sustained improvements in generation performance and disciplined operational execution.

“Progress delivered through the Generation Recovery Plan has materially reduced reliance on diesel‑fired generation, strengthened cost efficiency, and underpins Eskom’s Winter Outlook, which projects no loadshedding for the period ahead,” an Eskom statement read.

The Energy Availability Factor (EAF) now stands at some 60.14%, a 4.13% increase from last year.

“This performance reflects sustained progress under Eskom’s turnaround strategy and represents a 4.52% improvement compared to the corresponding period two years ago.

“Between 24 and 30 April 2026, average unplanned outages declined to 12 795MW, a reduction of 1 854MW compared to the 14 649MW recorded over the same period last year, contributing to a less constrained power grid.

“Over the same period, the Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor (UCLF), which reflects unplanned outages, was 26.65%, representing a 4.21% reduction compared to the 30.86% recorded during the same period last year, thereby contributing to available capacity,” the statement continued.

Dependence on diesel for Open Cycle Gas Turbines has also reduced, with expenditure reducing to R374.93 million, significantly decreasing from the R2.347 billion incurred in the same period last year (1 to 30 April 2026).

“This continued reduction demonstrates both the cost savings and the operational improvements achieved through Eskom’s ongoing turnaround efforts. Overall, this positive trend highlights the growing stability and efficiency of the power system,” the statement said.

Eskom will bring 3 063MW of generation capacity online ahead of the evening peak on Monday.

Meanwhile, Eskom’s work to end load reduction is gaining momentum with some 352 968 customers now no longer affected.

Load reduction is implemented as a temporary measure in high-risk areas to protect both communities and the electricity network where illegal connections and meter tampering persist.

“To address these challenges sustainably, Eskom has launched a phased programme to eliminate load reduction by 2027. The programme targets 971 feeders and will benefit approximately 1.69 million customers across all provinces, out of Eskom’s total customer base of 7.2 million. 

“With the feeders removed from load reduction to date, an estimated 352 968 customers are now benefiting. The remaining customers still due for load reduction removal by financial year‑end are 122 817 in both Limpopo and Mpumalanga, 76 322 in Gauteng, 13 080 in both the Eastern and Western Cape, 5 936 in the KwaZulu-Natal and Free State, and 6 224 in the Northern Cape and North West provinces,” the power utility said.

Call for calm as Hantavirus case confirmed

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The Department of Health (DoH) has called for public calm following confirmation of a rare Hantavirus case in a critically ill British national in South Africa.

The patient was a passenger aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius, which was travelling to the Canary Islands via Cape Verde from Argentina.

The ship was carrying some 150 passengers and went past several islands, including mainland Antarctica, Falklands, South Georgia, Nightingale Island, Tristan, St Helena and Ascension.

“Despite medical treatment provided to him at Ascension, his condition did not improve and necessitated his medical evacuation to a South African private health facility in Sandton for further medical management.

“His laboratory test results came back positive for Hantavirus – a rare but potentially deadly virus transmitted primarily by rodents. The patient is still in critical condition in isolation but receiving medical attention,” the department stated.

Two other passengers, a husband and wife, also experienced medical emergencies.

“While the ship was travelling past South African shores, some of the passengers experienced serious health complications arising from what was initially considered severe acute respiratory infections.

“[The] first patient was a 70-year-old male passenger who suddenly became ill on the ship en route from Ushuaia to St Helena Island, and presented with fever, headache, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea.

Unfortunately, he passed away on arrival at St Helena Island. His mortal remains are in St Helena, awaiting repatriation to the Netherlands.

“The second affected passenger was of a 69-year-old female, the spouse of the first patient, who collapsed at the OR Tambo International Airport while trying to connect a flight to her home country of the Netherlands. She was taken to a nearby health facility around Kempton Park for medical attention and, unfortunately, passed away. Laboratory test results for the patient are outstanding,” the department explained.

The DoH is working with the National Institute for Communicable Diseases and Gauteng Health Department authorities to “conduct contact tracing to stop potential spread of the virus by identifying and monitoring individuals who may have been exposed to the infected persons”.

“In our view, there is no need for the public to panic because only two patients from the cruise ship have been within our borders.

“The World Health Organization is coordinating a multi-country response with all affected islands and countries to contain further spread of the disease,” the statement concluded.

Price of petrol and diesel to increase from Wednesday

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The Department of Petroleum and Mineral Resources (DMPR) has announced that petrol and diesel prices will increase by between R3.27 and R6.19 from Wednesday.

The increase comes alongside government efforts to cushion the blow for consumers through the extension of the R3 decrease in the general fuel levy for petrol with a R3.93 reduction for diesel.

The adjusted prices for this month are as follows:

*Petrol 93 and 95 (ULP & LRP): R3.27 per litre (p/l) increase.
*Diesel (0.05% sulphur): R6.19 p/l increase.
*Diesel (0.005% sulphur): R6.19 p/l increase.
*Illuminating Paraffin (wholesale): R4.22 p/l increase
*Single Maximum National Retail Price for Illuminating Paraffin: R5.63 p/l increase.
*Maximum Retail Price of LPGas: R5.07 per kg increase in Gauteng and R5.78 per kg increase in the Western Cape

“The average Brent Crude oil price increased from 93.67 US Dollars (USD) to 101 USD during the period under review. This is due to the continued tension between the US and Iran, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and damage to other crucial infrastructure which have affected crude oil supply.

“The average international product prices followed the increasing trend of crude oil prices. The prices of middle distillates [diesel and paraffin] increased more than petrol prices because of higher demand and reduced supply from the Persian Gulf. These factors led to higher contributions to the Basic Fuel Prices of petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin by R2.04 per litre, R4.96 per litre and R4.21 per litre, respectively.

“The prices of Propane and Butane increased during the period under review due to limited global supply since the closure of the Strait of Hormuz,” the department said.

The Rand remained constant against the US Dollar during the period under review, resulting in a “contribution of less than one cent per litre to the Basic Fuel Prices of petrol, diesel and Illuminating Paraffin”.

Cold, wet and windy weather ahead

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A period of cold, wet, and windy weather conditions is expected to affect large parts of the country from Monday through to Thursday. 

This change in weather is associated with a cut-off low-pressure system expected to make landfall over the western parts of South Africa from Tuesday morning. 

“The system is expected to initially affect the Western Cape, Northern Cape, and Eastern Cape before spreading eastward across the central and eastern interior from Tuesday afternoon into Wednesday morning,” the South African Weather Service (SAWS) said.

A cut-off low is a slow-moving or stationary weather system that can cause prolonged severe weather in one area.

Isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers are expected over the central and western interior of South Africa on Monday, with scattered thundershowers likely over the Free State, Northern Cape, western parts of North West, as well as parts of the Eastern Cape and the western regions of the Western Cape. 

Rainfall is expected to become more widespread along the south-west coast. 

There is a high likelihood of severe thunderstorms developing over the interior and the eastern parts of the Eastern Cape from the afternoon onwards. 

These storms may result in heavy downpours leading to localised flooding, as well as damaging winds, hail, and excessive lightning.

Significant weather-related impacts are expected along parts of the Eastern Cape coastline and the adjacent interior on Tuesday and Wednesday, as well as over the eastern parts of the Western Cape from Tuesday afternoon through to Thursday. 

“Widespread rainfall is anticipated over the Western Cape and Eastern Cape, extending into the Free State, with 24-hour rainfall accumulations likely to exceed 100 – 200 mm in places. 

“This may result in widespread flooding. In addition, damaging winds and very rough sea conditions are expected, particularly along the south coast of the Western Cape and the Eastern Cape coastline,” the weather service warned.

The public has been advised to exercise caution when travelling, especially in areas prone to flooding or reduced visibility; avoid crossing flooded roads and swollen streams, and to secure loose outdoor items due to strong winds.

The following weather-related impacts are anticipated as the cut-off low progresses over the country between Tuesday and Thursday: 

Disruptive rainfall, leading to widespread flooding of roads and settlements, mudslides, major traffic disruptions, and damage to roads and bridges, is possible along the coast and adjacent interior of the Eastern Cape, as well as the eastern parts of the Western Cape. 

Damaging coastal and interior winds, resulting in power interruptions, damage to temporary structures, and transport routes being affected by falling trees, are possible along the coast of the Eastern Cape, as well as the south coast and Central Karoo of the Western Cape. 

Damaging coastal waves, with wave heights exceeding 5,0 to 7.0 m, leading to damage to coastal infrastructure, disruption to harbours and modification of beaches, are possible along the south coast of the Western Cape and the coast of the Eastern Cape, where possible storm surge could occur. 

Disruptive snowfall, leading to loss of vulnerable livestock and the closure of mountain passes, is possible over the north-eastern high-ground of the Western Cape, as well as the northern high-ground of the Eastern Cape. 

Severe thunderstorms, leading to localised flooding, large amounts of small hail, and localised damage to settlements, are possible over the Free State and North West. 

SA marks Workers’ Day

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Government has sent its appreciation and well wishes to all workers as South Africa marks International Workers’ Day on 1 May.

The day, also referred to as May Day, is observed with a public holiday in the country.

Acting Director-General of the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), Terry Vandayar, called on South Africans to reflect on the importance of the day.

“This day is an important reminder of the sacrifices and victories of workers and trade unions in the fight for fair employment standards and solidarity. Government remains committed to protecting workers’ rights through progressive legislation such as the Labour Relations Act, the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, the Employment Equity Act, and the Skills Development Act. 

“We call on all citizens to pay tribute to South Africa’s workers, especially the frontline heroes, who continue to serve with dedication even on public holidays. We salute you,” Vandayar said.

Meanwhile, the Department of Correctional Services National Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale, highlighted the department’s solidarity with workers.

“We want to send a message to workers’ representatives… trade unions, those that organise and mobilise workers to ensure that workers’ rights are observed. We have a joint mandate with workers’ representatives to ensure that the wellness and health of our workers is always at its best, to ensure that our workers have conducive working environments.

“We also share a joint mandate of ensure that the working conditions are improved and [that they get] benefits... To all our workers, we are saying, 'Happy Workers’ Day'," he said.

How to save fuel and stay safe on the roads

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With rising fuel prices, many drivers are looking for ways to stretch their travel budgets while still keeping their families safe.

The good news is that a well-prepared car and a few smart driving habits can make a real difference. A quick vehicle check before you leave, combined with fuel-efficient driving, can help prevent common breakdowns, improve safety and ensure every litre of fuel takes you further.

1. Start with Your Tyres
Tyres are one of the most common causes of holiday breakdowns, yet they remain one of the most overlooked components. Tyre pressure changes significantly when a vehicle is fully loaded or towing, which is why it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s recommended pressure before you leave.

Under-inflated tyres can also increase fuel consumption because the engine must work harder to move the vehicle. Correct tyre pressure improves safety, tyre lifespan and fuel efficiency. Drivers should also inspect tread depth, look for cracking or uneven wear, and ensure the spare tyre is in good condition.

2. Don’t Neglect the Heart of Your Engine: Your Oil
Engine oil is vital to your car’s health. Oil doesn’t just lubricate – it cools and cleans your engine. Running low or using the wrong grade can cause severe and costly damage.

Before heading off on a long trip, motorists should check their oil levels and top up if necessary, then recheck after a few hundred kilometres. Oil should be replaced annually or at the service intervals recommended by the manufacturer, and it’s crucial to use the correct grade specified for the vehicle.

3. Why the Right Oil Matters
Not all engine oils are created equal. South Africa’s environment, with its heat, dust, varied terrain, and dense urban traffic places unique demands on vehicles. In many cities, repeated stop-and-go driving leads to increased engine temperatures and heat build-up, putting additional strain on engine components and accelerating oil degradation.

Products like Engen Xtreme are formulated specifically for these local conditions. Whether you drive an older model, a taxi, or a modern vehicle, choosing the correct lubricant helps manage heat more effectively, improves efficiency in heavy traffic conditions, and protects critical components over time.

4. Check All Fluids – Not Just Oil
Several other fluids play a crucial role in vehicle safety and reliability. Coolant prevents overheating, brake fluid ensures effective stopping power, and power steering fluid allows for smooth and responsive steering.

Windscreen washer fluid is equally important, especially during long-distance travel when insects, dust and road grime can quickly affect visibility. Adding a small amount of specialised cleaner to the wash water helps keep windscreens clear.

5. Make the Most of Your Forecourt Stop
A quick stop at a service station can prevent major problems later.  Forecourt staff are trained to help motorists with tyre pressure checks, wiper inspections, window cleaning, oil top-ups and windscreen wash refills.

These basic checks take only a few minutes but can significantly improve safety and fuel efficiency. Drivers should also look after themselves: stay hydrated, take regular breaks, and grab a coffee or snack to remain alert on the road.

6. Smart Driving Saves Fuel
Adopting fuel-efficient driving habits can make a noticeable difference.

Motorists can reduce fuel consumption by:
•    Driving at a steady speed and avoiding sudden acceleration or harsh braking
•    Using cruise control on open highways where possible
•    Removing unnecessary weight from the vehicle
•    Avoiding excessive idling
•    Planning routes to reduce congestion and unnecessary detours
Even small adjustments in driving style can help motorists save fuel over long distances.

7. Fuel Quality Matters Too
High-quality fuels can make a noticeable difference in vehicle performance, particularly during long trips.
Fuels such as Engen Primax Unleaded and Engen Dynamic Diesel (50 ppm) are designed to help keep engines cleaner, protect injectors and maintain optimal performance, which contributes to better efficiency over time.

8. Plan Your Route – and Know Help Is Close
With the largest service station footprint in the country, help is never far away. Many of Engen’s 1 000+ forecourts can be found along major travel routes and in towns across South Africa, offering motorists peace of mind during long journeys.

A Small Habit That Makes a Big Difference

Before starting your trip – and during your journey – stop at a service station and let the team run through a quick vehicle check. It takes only a few minutes and can make a big difference to your safety and your fuel bill.

Drive Safe

A few minutes of preparation can prevent mechanical failures, reduce roadside emergencies and help motorists manage rising fuel costs. Safe cars save lives. Check your vehicle, drive responsibly, and enjoy a smooth journey.

By Bhavish Vallabhjee, Product Manager at Engen
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