Category: News

Fitch affirms South Africa’s BB- rating, maintains stable outlook

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Government has welcomed Fitch’s decision to affirm South Africa’s long-term foreign and local currency debt ratings at “BB-” and maintain the stable outlook.

According to Fitch, South Africa’s credit rating is constrained by several factors, including low real gross domestic product (GDP) growth, high poverty and inequality levels, a high and rising government debt-to-GDP ratio, and a rigid fiscal structure that hampers budget deficit reduction. 

“However, the ratings are supported by a favourable government debt structure with long maturities and mostly local-currency-denominated, strong institutions and a credible monetary policy framework,” the National Treasury statement read. 

Fitch also noted that the Government of National Unity (GNU) continues, under Operation Vulindlela Phase 2, to implement a reform agenda. 

Operation Vulindlela Phase 2 is a joint initiative between the Presidency and National Treasury to accelerate the implementation of structural reforms to enable economic growth and job creation.

Phase II of Operation Vulindlela will implement reforms in three new areas, including digital transformation.

According to the Treasury, reforms focused on improving network infrastructures, such as electricity, logistics, water, and digitalisation, have alleviated load shedding and halted the decline in freight volume transported, contributing to Fitch’s forecast of a modest increase in real GDP growth.

“Government’s economic growth strategy will continue to focus on maintaining macroeconomic stability to reduce living costs and grow investment, executing reforms to promote a more dynamic economy, building state capability in core functions and supporting growth-enhancing public infrastructure investment,” said the Treasury on Friday. 

Over the medium term, Treasury said government will invest over R1 trillion in infrastructure, and reforms will make it easier for the state and the private sector to invest in roads, rail, energy and water. 

In addition, major reforms to state spending and the budget process are underway, including the implementation of targeted and responsible savings across government. 

Treasury announced that further details will be provided in the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement on 12 November 2025. 

New regulations gazetted for Uber, Bolt

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The Department of Transport has officially gazetted the long-awaited National Land Transport Amendment Act, along with its amended regulations. 

The Act introduces a new transport category, e-hailing services, as a recognised mode of public transport.
This move affirms and formalises a sector that was previously treated as operating outside the law by some existing operators. 

It also requires all public transport operators, including e-hailing providers, to hold valid operating licences to ensure services remain authorised and safe. 

In addition, the Act sets out standards for quality and security that e-hailing platforms must meet to protect passengers and drivers alike.

“Each vehicle should be branded or carry a sign indicating that it is an e-hailing vehicle. 

“Commuters must verify that vehicle and driver details appear in the app, and if not, should exercise precaution,” the statement read.  

According to the department, under the new rules, app developers who permit users to use their apps without an Operating License risk a fine of up to R100 000 or up to two years in jail. 

“All apps must also be registered with the regulators.”

In addition, the Act also requires panic buttons to be installed in e-hailing vehicles to help keep commuters safe and provide quick emergency response and that vehicle owners are responsible for making sure these are installed. 

“The panic button for commuters will assist with crime detection and enable a rapid response by law enforcement or tracking companies. 

“Commuters are also required to ensure that the vehicle and driver are compliant. Drivers are required to have the requisite documents to be eligible for compliance.”

Meanwhile, the Provincial Regulatory Entity (PRE) offices will ensure compliance upon processing all applications before drivers can be issued an operating license.

In addition, e-hailing operators, when applying for an operating license, are subjected to a standard operating license application fee.

“Other operational costs are outside of the Department of Transport’s purview.”

This move will also see the companies being required to register and comply with company laws in South Africa under the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) and South African Revenue Services (SARS), and there may be other requirements with costs. 

“The department will hold workshops to share this information with all operators and officials across the country starting from this week.”

Western Cape Provincial Government on intensifying efforts to combat and prevent crime

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On Wednesday, 10 September 2025, Premier Alan Winde chaired a meeting of the Western Cape Provincial Safety Council.

The council comprises multiple stakeholders, among them the South African Police Service (SAPS), municipalities and academic organisations. It provides strategic leadership and oversight of safety and crime prevention efforts, as well as promoting evidence-based decision-making and innovation.

In his opening, Premier Winde lamented, “Our residents are feeling the impact of high crime levels more than ever before. We must build stronger partnerships with a joint approach to addressing this issue.”

The Premier also commended the City of Cape Town for its deployment of 700 new Metro Police officers, the largest investment in personnel in a decade. This includes a dedicated neighbourhood deployment for every ward in the city – a first for Cape Town.

The council received an update on the development of the new Western Cape Safety Plan. Key priorities include:

-Ongoing extensive consultation with stakeholders
-Strengthening the function of Community Safety Forums
-Increased commitment to devolution of policing authority
-Addressing Western Cape SAPS under-resourcing
-Increased focus on concentrating more resources in areas with the highest concentrations of violent crime

The council agreed that the full implementation of the Safer Cities Cooperation Agreement signed between the Western Cape Government, national government, SAPS, and CoCT must be fast-tracked.

“More urgency is needed. Incremental improvements in reducing some categories of priority crimes are encouraging. But the reality is that residents and communities impacted by violent crime, especially gangsterism, are not seeing or experiencing this change,” said the Premier. He emphasised that as much as there is a need to intensify crime-fighting efforts, there must also be a concerted focus on violence prevention.

The Premier’s Safety Digicon: Tackling gangsterism and organised crime through collaboration
The Western Cape Government’s violence prevention strategy was among the interventions discussed at a digicon, hosted by Premier Winde after the Western Cape Provincial Safety Council meeting. The Violence Prevention Unit (VPU), managed by the provincial Department of Health and Wellness, utilises data from healthcare facilities to identify and design unique interventions to better address the root causes of violence in communities.

The purpose of the Western Cape Government’s Policing Needs and Priorities (PNP) report was also discussed during the digicon. The PNP is a legislative mandate of the Department of Police Oversight and Community Safety. It is aimed at shaping and influencing policing strategies and resource allocation.

The 2025/26 version of the PNP has been finalised.

The PNP report assesses certain metrics and contains findings and recommendations, including:

Budget & Resources
Chronic underfunding despite high crime
Recommendation: Equitable funding based on crime levels

Human Resources
SAPS staffing has dropped despite population growth in the Western Cape
Ratios as high as 1:962 in hotspots
Recommendation: Fill vacancies, improve training, revise HR model

Infrastructure & Equipment
Stations in disrepair, vehicle shortages
Recommendation: Upgrade facilities, decentralise servicing, modernise tech

Western Cape Minister of Police Oversight and Community Safety Anroux Marais noted that despite the challenges outlined in the PNP, the SAPS in the Western Cape has acknowledged the value of the reports, noting that the provincial government’s evidence-based recommendations are instrumental in enhancing service delivery and informing strategic interventions.

Mr Mark Shaw, Executive Director of the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime, was the Premier’s special guest at the digicon.

The organisation is the biggest organised crime think tank in the world, comprising 140 analysts and 14 observatories globally, including one based in Cape Town. “It is not only the Western Cape that is affected by organised crime and gangsterism. This is a huge challenge globally. There are a lot of lessons we can learn from across the world. Our message is that we need a strategic, joined-up response; we need to work together to bring together all the resources we can in a coordinated way,” Mr Shaw said.

He outlined 6 recommendations that the initiative believes will boost the collaborative approach to tackling organised crime:

-There must be political will
-clear and simple strategy must be jointly developed
-Authorities, including the South African Revenue Service, must undermine and disrupt the money-collecting abilities of criminal networks
-There must be a clear understanding of resourcing needs
-Remove illegal firearms from communities
-Build resilience in communities to reduce the legitimacy of gangs and organised crime

Premier Winde, “Ultimately, we must prevent violence by building a safer society from the ground up.”

40 days: Final stretch for Class of 2025

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The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has urged the public to prioritise matric candidates and treat them as the province’s “VIPs” in the lead-up to and during the exam period.

“They are already under enough pressure, and do not need the added stress of protests and disruptions in and around schools. Please put the best interests of our children first, so that they are in the best possible mindset for the exams,” said Western Cape MEC for Education, David Maynier.

Today, the country marks 40 days to go before the matric learners sit down for their 2025 National Senior Certificate exams. 

The exams begin on Tuesday, 21 October 2025, and ends on Wednesday, 26 November 2025. 

“Our matric teachers, tutors and officials have been hard at work preparing our candidates for the final hurdle of their school careers,” said Maynier.

According to Maynier, nearly 22 000 matrics attended ’Back on Track’ winter school during the mid-year holidays, which took place in all eight education districts in the province. 

The MEC said revision classes will also take place during the spring school holidays in October, while matrics have also had weekend revision classes during the third term. 

“Our annual matric support booklet has been delivered to schools, which contains past matric papers, administrative details like the exam timetable and pass requirements, study tips and advice for post-school studies.” 

The provincial department also announced it will provide a ’Tips for Success’ booklet featuring comprehensive guidance on effective study strategies, essential exam concepts, maintaining health and wellness during exams, a sample study timetable, and advice from past matric learners.

“The run-up to the matric exams can be a particularly stressful period for our candidates.  We encourage all learners who are struggling, or adults who are concerned about a learner’s mental health, to reach out to us for help.”

He told matrics that it is the home stretch and the time for complete focus and commitment. 
“The hours you invest over the next 40 days will be of great benefit to you during the exams. We are here to support you, and we cannot wait to celebrate with you when the results are released in 2026,” he added.

The department has also collected a wide variety of eLearning resources to support matrics, including past papers and memos, video lessons, content summaries and study guides. 

These can be accessed on the WCED website and on the department’s ePortal: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/education/matric-support. 

School staff can seek guidance from district support teams, and the department’s Safe Schools Hotline on 0800 45 46 47 toll-free can connect learners with help from partner government departments and non-governmental organisations.

DA calls for plan to stop gang violence in Cape Flats

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The Democratic Alliance (DA) has raised concern over Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia’s acknowledgement that government has yet to establish a comprehensive plan to address gang violence on the Cape Flats.

The party says the absence of a clear strategy from the South African Police Service (SAPS) comes at a time when murder and shooting incidents continue to increase in the area. It argues that the delay in implementing an effective response is placing communities at risk.

According to the DA, residents are living under constant threat of crossfire, with children and families often caught in the violence.

The party has called on SAPS to urgently present a fully funded plan to curb gang-related crime.

Changing gear: Eskom introduces first electric vehicle fleet

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In a move that marries its energy mandate with a vision for a sustainable future, state-owned power utility Eskom has officially plugged into the future of transport with the introduction of its inaugural fleet of electric vehicles.

The initiative is supported by the installation of some 10 charging stations on five sites aimed at supporting the adaptation of electric transportation.

The state-owned power utility described the move as “a major milestone” on the journey toward “sustainable transport and a cleaner energy future for all South Africans”.

“Eskom is driving South Africa’s shift to a cleaner, low-carbon future. Through e-mobility, we are cutting emissions, boosting innovation, and showing how sustainable energy solutions can create real benefits for communities and the economy. 

“We see ourselves as more than just an electricity provider – we are enablers of progress,” Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane said.

The power utility’s Group Executive for Distribution, Agnes Mlambo, described the move as transformational.

“Eskom is taking steps to transform how South Africans move in a world where climate change is no longer a distant threat but an urgent reality. 

“The launch of these vehicles is not only about mobility; it is about reimagining the energy landscape, reducing carbon emissions, and ensuring every community benefits from the transition to sustainable transport,” Mlambo said.

To date, the power utility has taken delivery of some 20 electric vehicles.

These vehicles range from light delivery vehicles to light trucks with another 100 planned for the near future. 

“These vehicles will be deployed primarily in the Distribution and Generation Divisions, supporting operations while demonstrating the practicality and benefits of e-mobility in South Africa.

“Eskom’s vision for e-mobility extends beyond vehicles. The organisation has committed to gradually transitioning its entire fleet to EVs, with the Distribution Division, which has the largest vehicle footprint, targeting full electrification by 2035.

“To enable this shift, Eskom will expand charging infrastructure across its sites and roll out 55 public EV charging stations over the next two years, creating opportunities for broader adoption,” the power utility said.

Furthermore, Eskom is also “prioritising grid readiness for e-mobility”.

EV load forecasting is integrated into long-term planning to ensure that increased electricity demand is managed effectively. 

Smart charging systems and time-of-use tariffs are being developed to optimise energy use, making EV ownership more affordable and sustainable for the public.

“Since 2021, Eskom has engaged with government, automotive manufacturers, petroleum companies, and research institutions to build a strong and integrated e-mobility framework for South Africa.

“Through e-mobility. Eskom is not only reducing emissions but also driving innovation, creating jobs, and contributing to a cleaner, healthier future for all South Africans. By embracing electric mobility, we are delivering tangible benefits to communities and the economy, while also pivoting into new revenue streams by this offering for our customers,” Eskom said.

Walmart stores coming to SA

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Government has welcomed plans by Walmart to open its first branded stores in South Africa later this year.

“Government welcomes Walmart’s investment in South Africa as an expression of confidence in the country. The investment underscores a strong belief in the country’s economic trajectory and confirmation that South Africa remains a reliable investment destination,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said.

This announcement comes in the footsteps of Walmart’s first growth summit that was held in South Africa and resulted in the company recruiting small and medium-sized suppliers from South Africa and the rest of the African continent. 

“Walmart’s commitment to sourcing locally produced products will contribute to the growth of the economy and job creation, which are apex priorities of the government’s medium term development plan (MTDP),” GCIS said.

Walmart International President and CEO Kath McLay expressed that the company was thrilled to begin the journey of introducing the iconic Walmart brand to South African associates, customers and communities.

“By listening and working together, we aim to build lasting relationships and deliver a delightful shopping experience that reflects the needs and aspirations of South Africans,” McLay said.

Walmart’s South African stores will offer a wide range of merchandise, including fresh groceries, household essentials, apparel and technology. 

Walmart will also offer a variety of locally sourced products. 

“By partnering with South African suppliers and entrepreneurs, Walmart will bring its signature Every Day Low Prices and global standards to the market, while celebrating the country’s rich culture.

“With sites already in development, these new stores are set to open before the end of the year, with official opening dates to be announced in October. The company will share further details about store locations, hiring and community initiatives in the coming months,” McLay said.

Free access to national parks this September

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The South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that 21 national parks will grant free access to visitors in September for a period of a week.

SANParks uses this time to cultivate a sense of pride in South Africa’s natural, cultural and historical heritage, as protected and preserved by the national parks system.

Free access to the national parks at this time does not include free access to accommodation facilities and other tourist activities.

On 21 September 2025, SANParks will host a celebratory event at Kruger National Park to kickstart the 20th annual SA National Parks Week, which will be held from 22 - 26 September and extended to 27 and 28 September at selected national parks. 

During this period, free access is granted to most of the 21 national parks under the management of SANParks.

National Parks Week has seen an influx of day visitors in all participating parks since its inception in 2006. 
“SA National Parks Week has proved to be a successful campaign that provides education and awareness about South Africa’s inclusive approach to conservation. Whilst offering an opportunity to experience South Africa’s rich natural and cultural heritage, attention is also drawn to the sustainable development practices made possible through partnerships with key role players like communities living adjacent to national parks, business, scientists and tourists,” SANParks said.

For respective dates on when different parks will be observing SA National Parks Week and allowing free access, please visit: https://www.sanparks.org/events/2025-south-african[1]national-parks-week-dates.

GDP bounces to 0.8% growth in Quarter 2

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South Africa’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has improved by some 0.8% in the second quarter of 2025.

This is following a marginal increase of some 0.1% in the first quarter.

“The mining and quarrying industry increased by 3.7%, contributing 0.2 of a percentage point. 

“The largest positive contributors were platinum group metals, gold and chromium ore,” Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) said on Tuesday.

The country’s manufacturing industry also increased by some 1.8% over that period – contributing 0.2% to the GDP.

“Seven of the ten manufacturing divisions reported positive growth rates. The largest positive contributions were reported for the petroleum, chemical products, rubber and plastic products division and the motor vehicles, parts and accessories and other transport equipment division.

“The trade, catering and accommodation industry increased by 1.7%, contributing 0.2 of a percentage point. Increased economic activities were reported for retail trade, motor trade, accommodation and food and beverages,” the institution said.

On the downside, the transport, storage and communication industry decreased by 0.8%.
“Decreased economic activities were reported for land transport and transport support services.

“The construction industry [also] decreased by 0.3%. Decreases were reported for residential buildings and non-residential buildings,” Stats SA said.

Expenditure on GDP
South Africa’s Household Final Consumption Expenditure (HFCE) also rose – increasing by some 0.8% and contributing 0.6 of a percentage point to the total growth.

“Positive growth rates were reported for durable goods, semi-durable goods and services.
“The main positive contributors to the increase in HFCE were expenditures on ‘other’ [2.6% and contributing 0.3 of a percentage point], restaurants and hotels [4.8% and contributing 0.2 of a percentage point], clothing and footwear (3.4% and contributing 0.2 of a percentage point], transport [0.7% and contributing 0.1 of a percentage point] and communication [1.1% and contributing 0.1 of a percentage point].

“The negative contributors were expenditures on housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels and alcoholic beverages, tobacco and narcotics,” Stats SA revealed. 

Access road to Citrusdal reopened after flood damage repairs

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On Monday, 8 September 2025, Western Cape Minister of Infrastructure, Tertuis Simmers, reopened Main Road 310 (MR310) which connects the West Coast town of Citrusdal to the N7 highway. This vital access road was severely damaged following severe flood events on 13 June 2023 and 11 July 2024 that caused the nearby riverbank to burst and the course of the Olifants River to change, washing away much of the road in the process.

The town of Citrusdal, a major citrus-growing area, was particularly hard-hit and was cut off from vital transport links, which had a significant impact on the local economy, and the wellbeing of residents. The reconstruction of the MR310 was declared an emergency repair project for humanitarian reasons, with a key focus on restoring access and creating a more flood-resilient road, capable of better handling future flood events.

The riverbank was first to be repaired, after which significant work was completed on the road itself. This included the placing of new base layers and erosion protection works, as well as the replacement and upgrading of the road’s box culvert. The new culvert will be capable of effectively handling a 20-year design flood, thus lessening the risk of further damage to the road as the Western Cape experiences increasingly wet winters.

“The cost of these works in the 2023/24 financial year was R12.2 million, and an estimated R26 million was spent on this project in the 2024/25 financial year”, said Provincial Minister Simmers. 

“We understand infrastructure works, in this case transport infrastructure works, to be an enabler of economic growth and a support to the important citrus industry of the Western Cape”, he added. “With this project, we have done more than simply replace a road. We have instead rebuilt it and upgraded it for the demands of the future, ensuring that Citrusdal’s link to the Western Cape’s transport ecosystem remains unaffected for years to come.”
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