Category: News

Feast of flavour at the 2026 Knysna Oyster Festival: 3–12 July

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The countdown is officially on for the 2026 Knysna Oyster Festival, and food lovers have plenty to look forward to when the festival returns from 3–12 July under the theme “A feast of family fun”. From oyster competitions and wine tastings to forest feasts, food markets and sweet treats, this year’s programme serves up one of the most diverse culinary line-ups yet.

At the heart of the action is the Festival Hub at the Knysna High School sports fields, where Oyster Alley will bring together food stalls, local flavours, family entertainment and market experiences throughout the festival. Visitors can sample a wide variety of food while soaking up the festive atmosphere and live entertainment.

One of the most anticipated events on the programme is the Stella Artois Oyster Cooking and Shucking Competition. Taking place at the Festival Hub, the event will see talented oyster shuckers competing for championship honours while visitors enjoy plenty of oyster-inspired fun.

Food enthusiasts can also look forward to the ever-popular FeedmeSlowly Feast in the Forest experiences at Diepwalle. These intimate Slow Food events combine exceptional local produce with the natural beauty of the Knysna forest, offering a dining experience unlike any other.

Wine lovers are equally well catered for. The Knysna Fine Wine Festival returns with premium tasting experiences at Simola Country Club & Spa, while additional wine tastings will take place throughout the festival at participating venues across town. Escape Wine Tasting at Blackwaters River Lodge, Blend Wine Tasting and Boards, and the Vintage & Wine Tasting Experience at Ekhaya African Cuisine all offer visitors the chance to discover outstanding local and South African wines.

The programme also includes several unique food experiences. Visitors can enjoy a four-course Oyster Inspired Dinner at Île de Pain, a four-course Slow Food Dinner at Grain Mill Bistro, the popular Robberg Fish Braai Competition, and the wonderfully indulgent Dessert War Fair at the Festival Hub, where bakers and dessert enthusiasts will showcase their sweetest creations.

For those wanting to enjoy oysters in true Knysna style, the Oyster Cruise aboard The Water Club combines a lagoon cruise with fresh oysters and MCC, while Simola’s Sip, Shuck & Spa experience offers a more relaxed way to celebrate the festival.

Adding to the flavour of the festival are the Stella Artois Oyster Hot Spots, where participating restaurants and eateries across Knysna will be offering oyster specials, unique dishes and opportunities to win prizes throughout the festival.

Lungiswa Goya, Manager: Economic Development at Knysna Municipality and spokesperson for the festival, says food remains one of the festival’s biggest attractions.

“The Knysna Oyster Festival has always been about bringing people together, and food plays a central role in that. From oysters and wine to family favourites, local produce and unique dining experiences, this year’s programme offers visitors countless opportunities to discover the flavours that make Knysna such a special destination.”

The full programme is available at www.knysnaoysterfestival.co.za and visitors are encouraged to check back regularly as additional events and experiences continue to be added.

Eskom receives report on alleged irregular diesel procurement

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Eskom has received a report on the independent investigation into possible irregularities relating to the procurement of diesel fuel and storage contracts.

According to Eskom, the investigation was originally launched in March 2025 by the power utility’s Group Investigations and Security (GIS) function following “monitoring of contract performance during operational emergencies” involving load shedding early last year, as well as tip-offs.

“The independent forensic firm has delivered its comprehensive report, and the matter is progressing through the required internal corporate governance, legal review and quality assurance processes to ensure that all findings strictly meet the necessary evidentiary and procedural standards to support any disciplinary and legal action.

“As part of strengthening the evidentiary base of the investigation, Eskom previously expanded the scope of work associated with the management of the contracts following the interim report, to include further document analysis, supplementary interviews, and digital forensic reviews of key records,” the power utility explained.

Eskom Group Chief Executive (GCE) Dan Marokane has assured the public that the power utility is handling the matter with precision.

“We remain committed to taking the corrective actions on the findings of this investigation with the appropriate level of legal thoroughness given what is at stake.

“We will update stakeholders at the end of the quality assurance process, which is expected to be by the end of July,” Marokane said.

The matter has been reported to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks) for investigation.
Eskom stated it will temporarily withhold specific details of the findings due to the sensitive ongoing legal and disciplinary procedures.

“Considering the internal processes currently underway as well as the consequence management steps Eskom is already taking, and may need to further take, to address the identified procurement and contract management breaches relating to this matter, and the possibility of criminal prosecution…Eskom is not in a position to engage on the details or comment further at this stage, so as not to jeopardise the next stage of the process.

“Eskom supports and encourages the reporting of any concerns or alleged wrongdoing through its established whistleblowing and reporting mechanisms and treats all such information with the necessary seriousness and confidentiality,” the power utility said. 

Sixteen killed in Touwsriver accident

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The Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, and Deputy Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa have expressed their condolences to the bereaved families who lost their loved ones in a bus crash that claimed 16 lives.

The crash occurred in the early hours of Thursday on the N1 near Gulfstream Garage in the Western Cape.

According to reports, the bus was transporting 78 passengers, including children, from Cape Town to Idutywa in the Eastern Cape.

It is alleged that the bus overturned, resulting in 16 fatalities and leaving 20 occupants injured. The injured were transported to Worcester Hospital, while 43 occupants refused medical treatment.

Creecy and Hlengwa have wished a speedy recovery to all those who sustained injuries.

They have also directed the Road Accident Fund (RAF) to provide the bereaved families and the injured with the necessary support.

In addition, Creecy and Hlengwa have instructed the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) to investigate the cause of the crash in collaboration with local authorities.

A preliminary investigation report is expected within 48 hours after the RTMC begins its investigation.

New Ministers, Deputy Ministers sworn in

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South Africa’s new Ministers and Deputy Ministers have been sworn in following changes to the National Executive made by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

They were sworn in during a ceremony at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Wednesday afternoon.

“In terms of the powers that are vested in me by Section 91 subsection 2, read with Section 91, subsection 3 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996, I have decided to appoint the following persons as Ministers for the portfolios indicated in the signed President’s Act: David John Maynier to be Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment and Dina Deliwe Pule to be Minister of Social Development,” President Ramaphosa said.

The two then took the oath of office or affirmation and were sworn in by Acting Deputy Chief Justice Nonkosi Mhlantla.

“In terms of the powers that are vested in me by Section 93 subsection 1a of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996, I have decided to appoint the following persons as Deputy Ministers for the portfolios indicated in the signed President’s Act: Mr John Henry Steenhuisen to be Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition; Dr Jack Bloom, Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation and Mr Yusuf Cassim, Deputy Minister of Higher Education,” the President said.

They, too, were sworn in.

President Ramaphosa announced changes to the National Executive in a statement on Tuesday night.

The changes followed consultation with the leadership of the Democratic Alliance as a member of the Government of National Unity (GNU).

eRadio SA Unveils a Bold New Look, Enhanced Sound and Brand-New Website

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eRadio SA has officially entered a new era with the launch of its refreshed brand identity, upgraded website and a significantly enhanced listening experience.

The station's transformation includes a modern new logo, refreshed imaging, an updated sound and a completely redesigned website. The station's primary brand colour is now vivid red with versions in white and also blue. The flexible and simplistic new logo is also not too far removed from its predecessor, just brighter. Behind the scenes, eRadio SA has also invested in upgraded servers and a new playout system to deliver greater reliability and a smoother, higher-quality broadcast for listeners.

The refresh extends beyond the station's appearance. eRadio SA has expanded its music library to offer greater variety while maintaining the familiar format listeners have come to enjoy.

Newsreader Precious Sisulu joins the station, delivering concise, no-nonsense bulletins that focus on the stories that matter. Listeners can expect local, national and international news, along with technology, weather and sport, without unnecessary clutter. More presenters are also undergoing training and will switch on the microphone once they're up to standard.

The station has also introduced two internationally recognised voice-over artists to give eRadio SA's new station IDs a fresh, world-class sound.

Despite embracing the latest advances in artificial intelligence and broadcast technology, eRadio SA says it remains committed to keeping people at the heart of everything it does.

Founder and Managing Director Eon Engelbrecht said the rebrand reflects the station's ongoing commitment to innovation while staying true to what listeners value most.

"This is far more than just a new logo or a new website. We've invested heavily in the technology that powers eRadio, from upgraded servers to a new playout system, allowing us to deliver a more reliable, better-sounding station with even more music variety. At the same time, we're embracing the latest AI tools where they genuinely improve the listener experience, while ensuring the human element remains at the heart of our programming."

Engelbrecht added that eRadio SA has also tackled one of the biggest frustrations many listeners have with traditional radio.

"Advertising remains our primary source of income, but we've always believed there's a smarter way to do it. By placing our commercial breaks at the top of the hour, we reduce interruptions throughout our programming and create a more enjoyable listening experience. It's a unique approach that benefits both our listeners and our advertisers."

The station's refreshed sound, new website and enhanced programming form part of eRadio SA's vision to deliver a cleaner, more engaging and more modern digital radio experience for audiences across South Africa and around the world.

Listeners can listen on the eRadio SA website or on their favourite app by using the new tune-in guide: https://eradiosa.com/tune-in-guide/

Stay tuned!

About eRadio SA:
eRadio SA is a South African digital radio station offering a diverse music mix, concise news coverage and engaging programming. Broadcasting online 24 hours a day, the station combines innovative technology with a people-first approach to deliver a modern radio experience for today's connected audience.

Implementation of AARTO continues

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The Road Traffic Infringement Authority (RTIA) says the implementation of  Phase 2 of the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences Act (AARTO) is continuing as scheduled.

This as RTIA welcomed the order of the Gauteng Division of the High Court in Pretoria on Tuesday. The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) had brought an urgent application to interdict the implementation of Phase 2 of AARTO, which is scheduled to commence on 1 July 2026.

“On 23 June 2026, SALGA instituted an urgent application against the Minister of Transport, RTIA, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), and the Minister of Finance. SALGA raised concerns on the regulatory framework for the implementation of Phase 2 of AARTO, infrastructure and equipment readiness of issuing authorities, and the financial model for municipalities,” the authority said in a statement.

The purpose of the Act is to promote quality, safety and discipline in road traffic by providing for a scheme to discourage road traffic contraventions; to facilitate the adjudication of road traffic infringements; to support the prosecution of offences in terms of national and provincial laws relating to road traffic, and to implement a points demerit system, among others.

Additionally, SALGA had formally declared an intergovernmental dispute on 19 June 2026, in terms of section 41 of the Constitution and the Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act, seeking to halt the implementation of Phase 2 of AARTO, pending the resolution of the dispute.

SALGA’s application was opposed by the Department of Transport, RTIA, and the South African Post Office (SAPO) on the following grounds:
•    Lack of urgency: SALGA had been aware of the 1 July 2026 implementation date since November 2025 but delayed bringing the application, creating its own urgency.
•    Lack of authority to represent municipalities: SALGA failed to provide evidence that municipalities authorised it to bring the application on their behalf. The Minister served a formal notice in terms of Rule 7 of the Uniform Rules of the High Court, requiring SALGA to produce council resolutions from the affected municipalities. 
•    Presidential proclamation not yet in place at the time of the filing of the application: The implementation of AARTO requires a Presidential Proclamation.
•    Readiness for implementation: RTIA demonstrated that it is fully prepared for Phase 2 rollout. Under Phase 2, there are 62 issuing authorities with 283 combined sites, of which 75% are properly equipped and have received relevant training. This includes the provision of equipment, training of law enforcement officers and back-office personnel and ensuring network connectivity.

Upon hearing the matter, the Court struck the application from the roll, finding that:
•    SALGA failed to establish urgency, as required by the rules of the High Court.
•    SALGA failed to demonstrate that it was authorised to act on behalf of municipalities.
•    Courts should not lightly interfere with government decisions on policy matters and the implementation of legislation.

“The order clears the way for the implementation of AARTO Phase 2, as scheduled on 1 July 2026, the system is now being rolled out across a total of 62 local and metropolitan municipalities, building upon the initial implementation already underway in Johannesburg and Tshwane.

“RTIA remains committed to the successful rollout of AARTO and will continue working with all issuing authorities to ensure effective implementation. Motorists and the public are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the AARTO system through the official channels and resources provided by RTIA,” it said.

Meanwhile, SALGA on Tuesday expressed disappointment at the ruling of the court.

“The ‘for lack of urgency’, reasoning by the court, only means that the merits of the case will have to be argued at a later stage and not on an urgent basis,” it said.

It further added that at the heart of the contention are concerns around the funding model underpinning the Act and its regulations. 

President Ramaphosa makes changes to National Executive

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced changes to the National Executive following consultation with the leadership of the Democratic Alliance as a member of the Government of National Unity (GNU).

“These changes will affect the Ministries of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Trade, Industry and Competition, Electricity and Energy, Higher Education, and Water and Sanitation,” the Presidency said in a short statement on Tuesday night.

In line with section 91(3)(b) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, the President has appointed:
•    Willem Aucamp as the Minister of Agriculture
•    David Maynier as Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

Section 91(3)(b) of the Constitution states that the President may select any number of Ministers from among the members of the Assembly.

In line with section 93(1)(a) of the Constitution, President Ramaphosa has appointed:
•    John Steenhuisen as Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition
•    Alexandra Abrahams as Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy
•    Jack Bloom as Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation
•    Yusuf Cassim as Deputy Minister of Higher Education

Section 93(1)(a) of the Constitution states that the President may appoint any number of Deputy Ministers from among the members of the National Assembly.

Additionally, President Ramaphosa has appointed Dina Pule as the Minister of Social Development after the position became vacant in May due to the removal of the then minister Sisisi Tolashe from her position.

“President Ramaphosa wishes all the incoming Ministers and Deputy Ministers well in their roles,” the statement concluded. 

Several people arrested for looting and attempted looting

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The South African Police Service (SAPS) has, since the early hours of this morning, arrested several individuals in connection with incidents of looting and attempted looting reported in various parts of the country, as law enforcement continues to monitor the planned marches taking place nationwide today. 

According to the police, policing operations have been effective thus far, with demonstrations remaining largely peaceful across the country. Police have, however, responded to isolated incidents of looting and attempted looting.

“Police remain on high alert, with heightened deployments in place to ensure public safety, protect businesses and critical infrastructure and maintaining law and order. 

“Members deployed across the country have been instructed to act swiftly and decisively against anyone who engages in criminal activities, including looting, attempted looting, public violence, malicious damage to property, intimidation or any other unlawful conduct.

“We urge citizens to exercise their constitutional rights responsibly and to ensure that demonstrations remain peaceful and lawful. 

“Those who choose to exploit the marches to commit criminal acts will face the full might of the law. Police will continue to identify, arrest, and prosecute all those responsible for criminal conduct,” Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia said.

On Monday evening, the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structures (Natjoints) chairperson, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, warned that where criminality presents itself, law enforcement agencies would respond swiftly, proportionately and decisively within the confines of the law.

Mosikili said specialised operational units were ready to respond at a moment's notice.

Mosikili warned those who intend to break the law that “they should not test the resolve of the State”.

“To those who intend to demonstrate peacefully, we assure you that your constitutional rights will be protected. To every South African: be confident that your safety remains our highest priority,” Mosikili said.

She said contingency plans had been tested and law enforcement was ready, adding that the Air Wing would provide aerial surveillance and operational support wherever required.

“There is a clear distinction between exercising democratic rights and committing criminal offences. Anyone who crosses that line must expect the full and immediate consequences of the law,” she said.

Mosikili said no dangerous weapons including firearms, knives and traditional weapons will be allowed in terms of Section 17 of the Constitution.

“The State will act decisively against any person who seeks to exploit demonstrations to commit acts of lawlessness,” she said.

Consumer relief as petrol, diesel and paraffin prices decrease

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Overburdened consumers will be in for some relief from tomorrow after the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) announced a decrease in fuel prices, excluding LP Gas.

The adjustment for prices from July are as follows:
Petrol 93 (ULP & LRP): R2.01 decrease.
Petrol 95 (ULP &LRP): R1.96 decrease.
Diesel (0.05% sulphur): R3.13 decrease.
Diesel (0.005% sulphur): R3.58 decrease.
Illuminating Paraffin (wholesale): R5.23 decrease.
Single Maximum National Retail Price for Illuminating Paraffin: R6.97 decrease.
Maximum Retail Price of LPGas: 16c/kg increase and nineteen cents per kilogram (19.00 c/kg) increase in the Western Cape.

This means that a litre of 95 petrol which currently costs R28.06 in Gauteng will now cost R26.10 as of Wednesday. In the coast the price will come down from R27.19 to R25.23 a litre.

“The average Brent Crude oil price decreased from 104.59 US Dollars [USD] to 86.53 USD during the period under review. This is due to the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the US and Iran which has improved global supply outlook.

“The average international product prices followed the decreasing trend of crude oil during the period under review. These factors led to lower contributions to the Basic Fuel Prices of petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin by 295.97 cents per litre, 498.47 [cents a litre] and 510.51 [cents a litre], respectively. The prices of Propane and Butane increased during the period under review,” the department said.

During the same period, the Rand strengthened against the dollar from R16.52 to R16.38 per USD.
“This led to lower contributions to the Basic Fuel Prices of petrol, diesel and Illuminating Paraffin by 11.27 cents a litre, 13.75 cents a litre and 13.37 cents a litre respectively,” the department stated.

The DMPR also announced that the short-term fuel levy relief by government has “been phased out”.

“The short-term relief measures have been completely phased out and the full fuel levies of 429.00 cents per litre on petrol and 416.00 cents per litre on diesel will be reinstated,” the DMPR said. 

Police arrest five for breaking in to tuck shop

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Five people have been arrested for allegedly breaking into a tuck shop in Woody Glen, on the outskirts of Hammarsdale, as authorities have heightened security during protests against illegal immigration across KwaZulu-Natal.

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli commended police and other law enforcement agencies for the swift arrests, saying criminal activity would not be tolerated under the guise of protest.

"We acknowledge and respect that civil society has the right to protest and voice their concerns. However, we urge all those participating in today's marches against illegal immigration to do so within the prescript of the law," Ntuli said.

He described the arrests as a warning to anyone considering engaging in criminal behaviour.

"The arrest in Woody Glen is a stern warning to everyone that we will not tolerate any acts of criminality. We cannot and will not allow anarchy and lawlessness to be the order of the day," he said.

Ntuli said law enforcement agencies, private security companies and community safety structures had been deployed to monitor the area throughout the day and would continue maintaining a visible presence to ensure law and order.

The Premier also announced that the provincial government had established a rapid response nerve centre in Durban and similar centres in all district municipalities to coordinate a swift response to any incidents of crime or unrest.

In addition, all members of the provincial executive council have been deployed to their respective districts to work with local leadership in preventing disruptions.

Ntuli said the coordinated deployment was aimed at reinforcing the rule of law across KwaZulu-Natal during the protests and beyond. 
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