Category: News

Power system continues to operate reliably, says Eskom

Posted on by
Eskom says the power system continues to operate reliably, meeting South Africa’s electricity demand effectively. 

“The ongoing implementation of the Generation Recovery Plan is strengthening grid stability, improving operational efficiencies and providing energy security. The Open-Cycle Gas Turbine (OCGT) load factor decreased further to 0.0001%, from 0.23% in the preceding week. This reflects sustained efficiency gains,” Eskom said in a statement.

The year-to-date Energy Availability Factor (EAF) rose to 63.06%, compared to last year’s 63.02% for the same period.

According to Eskom, from 1 to 30 October 2025, the EAF increased to 65.9%, up from 62.24% in the same period last year, a notable 3.66% improvement driven by fewer unplanned outages and additional generation capacity.

“Koeberg Nuclear Power Station Unit 1 was reconnected to the national grid on Wednesday following major scheduled maintenance, strengthening 24/7 baseload capacity and improving both the EAF and overall energy security. 

“Both units at Koeberg are online, with Unit 1 ramping up and Unit 2 producing 941MW. Once at full output, the nuclear power station will generate over 1 860MW, reinforcing Eskom’s commitment to safe, reliable, and efficient nuclear operations,” Eskom said.

During the past week, diesel expenditure was R0.005 million, down from R7.84 million during the same week last year. This reflects a sharp reduction in reliance on diesel generation, signalling a shift toward more cost-effective primary energy sources.

Year-to-date, diesel expenditure remains consistently below budget.

From 1 to 30 October 2025, the Unplanned Capability Loss Factor (UCLF) which measures the percentage of generation capacity lost due to unplanned outages reduced to 21.78%, a significant 2.73% improvement from 24.51% recorded during the same period last year.

The Planned Capacity Loss Factor (PCLF) stands at 12.01%, slightly lower than the 12.87% recorded last year. This planned maintenance aligns with Eskom’s long-term maintenance schedule and ongoing efforts to enhance plant reliability and operational consistency.

Between 24 and 30 October 2025, Eskom recorded an average of 8 768MW in unplanned outages—an improvement from 9 837MW during the same period last year. 

This year-on-year reduction of 1 069MW in breakdowns highlights the growing reliability and resilience of the generation fleet. 

Western Cape police committed to dismantling gang-related activities

Posted on by
The National Police Commissioner General, Fannie Masemola, says the Western Cape police remain relentless in their pursuit to detect, dismantle and dislodge gang-related activity in hotspot areas across the province.

With additional police officers deployed to the City of Cape Town, officers on the ground working with other law enforcement agencies and key stakeholders have made encouraging inroads to disrupt organised gang-related activity.

“From 01 April to date, more than 980 officers are deployed to various hotspots for gang activities on a daily basis, this is inclusive of 800 police officers from both the SAPS and the City of Cape Town and an additional 182 from head office.

“This is over and above the more than 9 000 officers who serve at 62 police stations within the City of Cape Town policing precinct,” Masemola said. 

He said the collaboration has ultimately resulted in a number of successes including the arrest of 722 gangsters from various hotspot areas like Mitchell’s Plain, Mfuleni, Delft, Bishop Lavis, Tafelsig, Muizenberg, GrassyPark and Manenberg, among others.

“The largest number of arrests during this period were for those who were found to be in possession of drugs. It is encouraging to note that a staggering 54 947 suspects were arrested for this crime,” he said.

The following notable arrests and confiscations were made from 01 April 2025 to date:
Dealing in drugs: 2 296
Gang related murders: 96
Gang related attempted murders: 60
Firearms seized: 1 565
Rounds of ammunition: 39 371

“We have since 2021 deployed 2408 newly trained officers to various units and stations across the Western Cape to bolster our fight against crime and we will continue to prioritize and capacitate the Western Cape province. 

“The support and collaboration of the community play a major role in ensuring that we put an end to gang violence. Through Community Policing Forums (CPF) and other safety and security structures, the SAPS remains committed to forging solid partnerships to end ongoing killings,” General Masemola said. 

Eskom reconnects Koeberg Unit 1, strengthening SA’s power supply

Posted on by
Eskom has successfully reconnected Unit 1 at the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station to the national grid at 01:36 on 29 October 2025, adding 930 megawatts of power and marking a major milestone for the country’s energy security.

The unit was brought online following its first major scheduled maintenance outage since new steam generators were installed. Fuel loading began in early September, followed by a series of commissioning activities before successful synchronisation with the grid.

Both Koeberg units are now operating. Unit 1 is still ramping up, while Unit 2 is generating 941 megawatts. Once Unit 1 reaches full capacity, the two units will supply over 1 860 megawatts - roughly five percent of Eskom’s total electricity output. Koeberg remains home to the largest nuclear generating units on the African continent.

To safeguard grid stability, maintenance outages at Koeberg are staggered every 16 to 18 months to ensure the units are never offline simultaneously. Unit 2 has been operating at full capacity for 234 consecutive days, maintaining a 99.88% energy availability factor, and is awaiting the National Nuclear Regulator’s decision on a 20-year Long-Term Operation licence on 9 November.

Eskom says the milestone demonstrates its commitment to the safe and reliable operation of South Africa’s only nuclear power plant, which supplies clean and cost-effective baseload electricity around the clock. The maintenance programme included comprehensive inspections, safety checks, and the statutory 10-year Integrated Leak Rate Test to confirm the containment building’s integrity and compliance with international safety standards.

“Our teams have demonstrated exceptional technical expertise and commitment. Koeberg remains a cornerstone of South Africa’s energy mix, and this achievement underscores Eskom’s continued focus on nuclear safety and operational excellence,” said Bheki Nxumalo, Eskom’s Group Executive for Generation.

In July 2024, following the completion of the Steam Generator Replacement Programme, the National Nuclear Regulator extended Eskom’s licence to operate Unit 1 until July 2044. This ensures the continued delivery of over 930 megawatts of dependable, clean baseload power for at least two more decades.

Eskom says the return of Unit 1 supports the objectives of South Africa’s Integrated Resource Plan, which prioritises nuclear power as a key component of the country’s long-term clean energy strategy.

Cabinet welcomes smooth start of 2025 matric exams

Posted on by
Cabinet has welcomed the smooth start of the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, with more than 900 000 candidates sitting for the final exams across the country. 

Cabinet commended the Department of Basic Education for the effective systems put in place to ensure the credible and secure administration of the exams.

“Cabinet urges parents and guardians to continue supporting learners during this period by creating a calm, quiet environment for them to study and monitor their anxiety levels until the release of the final results in January 2026. 

“These young people represent the future of our nation, and they must know that we remain proud of them,” Cabinet said in a statement.

Concerns over bullying in schools
Meanwhile, Cabinet also expressed concern over recent reports on incidents of bullying that occurred at various schools across the country.

“Bullying in schools is an extremely serious matter and it is the responsibility of everyone to ensure that our schools are safe and welcoming places of learning. Cabinet calls on all schools to take allegations of bullying, violence and harassment seriously and to investigate them. 

“Learners are encouraged to report incidents of bullying and harassment to principals, educators, parents and guardians,” Cabinet said.

Cabinet reaffirms that schools must adhere to the National School Safety Framework, which provides guidance on addressing violence, including bullying. 

“There is also a need for schools to stringently enforce Learner Codes of Conduct that include clear expectations for behaviour and consequences for bullying,” Cabinet said. 

DA Takes Legal Steps to Force Release of Crime Statistics

Posted on by
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has submitted a formal application under the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) to compel the South African Police Service (SAPS) and Acting Police Minister to release the long-overdue first quarter crime statistics.

According to DA Spokesperson on Police, Lisa Schickerling, the party has made two previous written requests and issued two media statements calling for the urgent release of the data. Despite repeated promises, the figures remain unpublished, with no explanation from SAPS or the Ministry.

Schickerling says it is unacceptable that the first quarter statistics are still being withheld, especially as the release of the second quarter figures is now due. She says the lack of transparency undermines public trust and the public’s right to know the true state of safety in the country.

The DA maintains that crime statistics belong to the people of South Africa, not to SAPS or the Minister. The information is crucial for measuring police performance, identifying crime trends, and ensuring proper allocation of resources.

The delay, the DA warns, raises questions about interference, dysfunction, or manipulation within SAPS management, and further exposes leadership failures in the Police Ministry.

The party has called for the immediate release of the first quarter statistics, a full explanation for the delay, and a commitment that future crime data will be published on time without political interference.

Schickerling says if the Acting Minister and SAPS continue to withhold the information, the DA will take all available legal and parliamentary steps to ensure accountability.

She adds that South Africans deserve transparency and truth — concealing crime data only deepens mistrust and weakens oversight at a time when violent crime continues to rise.

Garden Route Municipalities proactively managing water resources ahead of summer season

Posted on by
The Western Cape Department of Local Government, in collaboration with the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), the South African Weather Service (SAWS), and the Garden Route District and local municipalities, convened a briefing session this week to assess water security in the district ahead of the summer season.

The meeting brought together all municipal managers, technical directors, and key national and provincial stakeholders to review the current status around water security within the Garden Route District.

While rainfall for August, September and October were below average across much of the Garden Route, updated forecasts from the SAWS indicate that the outlook for the coming summer period is favourable.

Above-normal rainfall is expected for the November to January period, potentially improving water availability across the region.

Anton Bredell, Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, assured residents and visitors that there is no immediate concern regarding water security in the Garden Route.

“We are working closely with the DWS and all local municipalities to monitor conditions and ensure that every town has access to adequate water supplies. Contingency measures and responsible water management plans are already in place to address localised infrastructure challenges,” Minister Bredell said.

Municipalities have implemented water demand management measures, including local water restriction levels, to promote the responsible use of water, particularly as the region prepares to welcome an influx of holidaymakers during the festive period.

“The provincial government, together with our national and local partners, remains in full control of the situation,” added Minister Bredell. “We continue to monitor water levels, infrastructure performance and rainfall patterns, and we stand ready to provide support wherever needed. Our goal is to ensure that no town in the Garden Route runs dry.”

This coordinated effort forms part of the province’s broader commitment to building water resilience. On Friday, 31 October 2025, the Department will launch the Provincial Water Resilience Strategy, aimed at strengthening proactive planning and sustainable water management across all municipalities in the Western Cape.

Minister Bredell called on residents and visitors alike to use water responsibly:

“Every drop counts. While conditions are expected to improve, we must all play our part to use water wisely and safeguard this precious resource.”

Missing hiker found dead

Posted on by
MTO Trails has confirmed that the body of missing hiker, Hermie van Zyl (74), has been found following an extensive, multi-day search operation. Unfortunately, he did not survive.

The coordinated search effort was led by SAPS Search and Rescue and the Mountain Club of South Africa, with support from SANParks Rangers, the MTO Trails team, and numerous volunteers. Over the past week, teams navigated difficult and remote terrain under harsh weather conditions, displaying outstanding professionalism, dedication, and teamwork.

MTO Trails expressed deep gratitude to everyone involved in the operation, acknowledging their tireless efforts and commitment. The organisation also extended heartfelt condolences to Mr. van Zyl’s family and friends, who have been supported throughout by the relevant authorities.

MTO Trails says it will continue to assist authorities as they finalise their formal procedures.

NCC Announces Safety Recalls for BMW and Opel Vehicles

Posted on by
The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has confirmed that BMW South Africa and Stellantis South Africa (Pty) Ltd have both issued vehicle recall notifications affecting certain BMW and Opel models.

BMW Recall
BMW is recalling seventy-five vehicles across its 1 Series (F20), 2 Series (F74), X1 (U11), and X2 (U10) models sold nationwide during 2025. The recall concerns a possible manufacturing defect in one of the seat belts, which may fail to lock during severe braking, sharp turns, or a vehicle rollover. This could result in the seat belt not restraining passengers properly, increasing the risk of injury.

BMW owners can check if their vehicles are affected by visiting the company’s technical campaign portal or by contacting BMW directly. Affected vehicles will have their seat belts replaced free of charge at authorised BMW dealerships.

Opel Recall
Stellantis South Africa has also recalled Opel Astra (J) and Astra H models manufactured between 2004 and 2015. The recall is related to a potential defect in the driver’s airbag inflator, which may rupture when the airbag deploys. This could cause metal fragments to be projected toward the driver and passengers, posing a risk of serious injury or death.

Owners of affected Opel vehicles are urged to visit their nearest authorised dealership to have the airbag repaired or replaced at no cost.

“These recalls affect seat belts in BMW vehicles and airbags in Opel vehicles - both critical safety components,” said Acting Commissioner Mr Hardin Ratshisusu. “Consumers are urged to contact their dealerships immediately to have their vehicles assessed and repaired without delay.

Farmers urged to monitor weather updates ahead of summer planting season

Posted on by
As South Africa transitions from winter to spring, the Department of Agriculture has advised farmers to closely monitor weather and climate updates to make informed decisions and delay planting until sufficient soil moisture is available.

According to the department’s climate advisory for the 2025/26 summer season, issued on Tuesday, winter crops remain in good condition overall, though drought stress in the Southern Cape is expected to impact crops negatively.

Summer crop farmers across the country are preparing for the upcoming planting season.

The veld and livestock conditions are reported to be generally in reasonable condition across the country with pockets of poor conditions. The average level of major dams remains high in most provinces.

According to the Seasonal Climate Watch issued by the South African Weather Service, dated 30 September 2025, forecasts above normal is anticipated for the north-eastern regions of the country during late spring and in the summer.

However, parts of Mpumalanga and Limpopo may experience below-normal rainfall during this period.

Minimum and maximum temperatures are expected to be above-normal for most parts of the country during the late spring and summer seasons, with notable exception along the south-western coast, where below-normal maximum temperatures are anticipated.

“With the seasonal forecast in mind, farmers are advised to follow the weather and climate forecasts regularly to make informed decisions and wait for sufficient moisture before planting. In addition, farmers must continually conserve resources in accordance with the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act 1983, (Act No. 43 of 1983),” the department said.

The department has also advised livestock producers to balance herd sizes with veld carrying capacity, provide sufficient feed and mineral licks, and ensure access to water and shelter, particularly during adverse weather.

Since veld conditions in summer rainfall areas remain dry until consistent rains set in, the department called on farmers to construct and maintain fire belts through mechanical means and adhere to veld fire warnings in all areas.

“Episodes of heatwaves and localised flooding are likely during summer, as such, farmers should have mitigation measures in place. Farmers are encouraged to implement strategies provided in the early-warning information issued.

“The department will partner with all relevant stakeholders to continue raising awareness in the sector and capacitating farmers on understanding, interpreting, and utilising early-warning information for disaster risk mitigation and response,” the department said.

Minister welcomes arrest of illegal drone fisher in Strandfontein

Posted on by
The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment, Dr Dion George, has praised the rapid and coordinated efforts of the department’s Fishery Control Officers, in collaboration with the City of Cape Town Marine Unit, which resulted in the successful arrest of a fisherman using drone technology.

On Friday, 24 October 2025, during a sting operation, law enforcement officers joined forces and swiftly apprehended a recreational angler at the Strandfontein pavilion, who was caught making use of a drone to cast his bait behind the surf zone.

“It is encouraging to note that the arrest followed reports from concerned members of the public regarding the illegal drone fishing activities in False Bay. 

“This is the kind of zero-tolerance approach that will enhance our enforcement efforts,” said George.

The Minister said the accused holds a valid permit endorsed for recreational angling, which only authorises manually operating a rod, reel and line as defined in the Marine Living Resources Act 18 of 1998.

“However, the use of a drone is not authorised, as stipulated in the conditions of the permit. Officers confiscated the drone, which will be used as evidence in court proceedings.”

According to the department, the enforcement action follows the Supreme Court of Appeal’s ruling on 16 July 2024, upholding the ban on the use of drones, bait-carrying remote-controlled boats and other remotely operated devices in fishing operations.

The department explained that the use of these drones for fishing has been illegal since 2005, and recreational anglers and members of the public have previously been warned that they could face enforcement action should they be caught using such devices.

The department stated that it remains committed to the conservation and sustainable management of South Africa’s marine resources.

“We believe that the ban on drones and remote-controlled devices in marine environments is crucial in preserving the delicate balance of our oceans and protecting vulnerable species.”

The Minister has emphasised that enforcement capabilities and partnerships will continue to be strengthened to ensure that those who exploit natural resources face the full consequences of the law.

“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to every officer and partner involved in these operations. Their hard work and sacrifices are crucial in safeguarding South Africa’s marine biodiversity,“ added George. 
error: eRadio is protected !
Scroll to Top