Category: News

Ramaphosa commits to address KZN police corruption allegations

Posted on by
By Gabi Khumalo

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed his commitment to addressing the serious allegations of corruption within the South African Police Service (SAPS).

This comes after a media briefing by KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, on Sunday, where he made various allegations implicating some senior SAPS officials.

Speaking at a media briefing on Monday after the conclusion of the 17th BRICS Summit in Brazil, President Ramaphosa described the allegations as a "serious matter that should not be ignored”.
He said he will look at the matter more closely and have a thorough discussion with a number of relevant people, and “thereafter, there will be a clear way forward”.

“This is not a matter that should be ignored. It is a serious matter that has to do with the security of our people and also with our adherence to the rule of law. The police play a critical role in enhancing the rule of law and the safety of South Africans.

“Those who have done wrong should be dealt with thoroughly, in terms of our Constitution and our laws. This matter is going to be addressed,” the President said. 

President notes US tariff announcement

Posted on by
President Cyril Ramaphosa has noted the correspondence from the United States (US) President Donald Trump on the unilateral imposition of a 30% trade tariff against South Africa. 

In a letter addressed to the President on Monday, President Trump announced that he would subject imports from South Africa to new 30% tariffs that would take effect from 1 August 2025.

“This 30% tariff is based on a particular interpretation of the balance of trade between South Africa and the United States. This contested interpretation forms part of the issues under consideration by the negotiating teams from South Africa and the United States. 

“Accordingly, South Africa maintains that the 30% reciprocal tariff is not an accurate representation of available trade data,” the Presidency said in a statement.

South Africa’s interpretation of the available trade data shows that the average tariff imported goods entering South Africa stands at 7.6%. 

The Presidency emphasised that 56% of goods enter South Africa at 0% most favoured nation tariff, with 77% of US goods entering the South African market under the 0% duty.

“South Africa will continue with its diplomatic efforts towards a more balanced and mutually beneficial trade relationship with the United States. We welcome the commitment by the US government, that the 30% tariff is subject to modification at the back of the conclusion of our negotiations with the United States,” the Presidency said.

South Africa has continued to engage the United States, most recently at a meeting held on the side-lines of the US-Africa Summit on 23 June 2025 in Luanda. 

“It was at this meeting where South Africa learned of a template with which the US wishes to engage sub-Saharan Africa on matters of trade. The South African negotiating team still awaits this template; however, President Ramaphosa has instructed the team [to] urgently engage with the US on the basis of the Framework Deal that South Africa submitted to the US on 20 May 2025. 

“This framework deal addresses the issues initially raised by the US, including South Africa’s supposed trade surplus, unfair trade practices and lack of reciprocity from the US.

“The President urges government trade negotiations teams and South African companies to accelerate their diversification efforts in order to promote better resilience in both global supply chains and the South African economy,” the Presidency said.

The President has further noted that South Africa is one of a number of countries to have received this communication on 7 July 2025. 

Home Affairs extends its operating period by two hours daily from 07 to 21 July 2025

Posted on by
The Department of Home Affairs is extending its operating hours from 07 to 21 July 2025, by two hours daily. On weekdays during this period, offices will close at 18:00 instead of 16:00.

The Department is extending operating hours to assist learners who wish to apply for and collect their IDs during the school holidays.

To ease pressure on its clients, Home Affairs has also introduced dedicated counters for collections in large offices that process Smart ID Cards and passports, where space allows. 

Clients have an option to book application or collection appointments before visiting offices, using the Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS), which is available on the DHA Website through the link below: 
https://services.dha.gov.za/#/authenticate/identity.

The Department also allows clients who may not have an opportunity to book appointments to visit as walk-ins.

Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber, said: “I would like to encourage all clients who have applied for their identification documents and have been waiting for three weeks or more, to seize this opportunity by visiting their Home Affairs office to collect these critical documents at their convenience.”

Beware black ice – a hidden winter danger on SA roads

Posted on by
Every winter, dozens of accidents on South African roads are linked to black ice, a hazard that often catches even experienced drivers off guard.

Black ice is one of the most dangerous and often most misunderstood hazards motorists face in winter, warns Dewald Ranft, Chairman of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud affiliate of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI).

“Many drivers assume black ice is a problem limited to colder countries,” says Ranft. “But it’s more common in South Africa than we realise, especially in high-altitude areas and inland regions like the KZN Midlands, Eastern Cape highlands, and Free State farmlands. If you’re travelling early in the morning or after a cold front, it’s a real risk.”

Despite its name, black ice isn’t black. It’s a thin, transparent sheet of ice that blends in with the road, often making the surface appear merely wet. It reduces tyre friction by up to 70%, and even experienced drivers may not realise they’re on it until they lose control.

You should particularly watch out for black ice on bridges and overpasses (they freeze first); shaded or low-lying areas; early morning or evening drives and after light rain followed by freezing temperatures. 
“You might notice the road looks wet but there’s no spray from other tyres - that’s often a clue,” says Ranft. “If there’s frost on your windscreen, chances are the road could be icy too.”

If you suspect black ice:
•           Slow down and drive cautiously
•           Avoid sudden steering or braking
•           Leave a greater following distance
•           Keep your headlights on for visibility
•           Never use cruise control in icy conditions

Ranft says preparation is key. “Your tyres and brakes are your first line of defence. If your tyres are worn or under-inflated, or your brake system isn’t functioning optimally, you’re much more vulnerable. Safety doesn’t come from luck - it comes from preparation.”

He advises motorists to book a winter safety check at a MIWA-accredited workshop. 
These checks typically include:
•           Tyre tread and pressure inspection
•           Brake pad, disc, and ABS system check
•           Battery, wiper blade, and fluid checks
•           Light functionality assessment

“These small checks can make a big difference. Black ice doesn’t give second chances,” concludes Ranft. “Let’s stay safe out there.”

Good News: Medupi’s Unit 4 returned to service

Posted on by
Eskom has announced that Unit 4 of the Medupi Power Station has been successfully returned to service, adding 800MW to the national grid. 

This milestone strengthens South Africa’s energy security and enhances the stability of electricity supply. 

“The unit’s return follows extensive repairs, completed eight months ahead of the original schedule, made possible by the innovative use of a refurbished Generator Stator, an alternative to waiting for a brand-new component. 

“The unit had been out of service since 8 August 2021 after sustaining significant damage from the explosion of its Generator Stator, a key component in the operation of the generation unit,” said Eskom in a statement. 

As part of the Generation Operational Recovery Plan, Eskom’s engineering teams implemented strategic measures to cost effectively fast-track the unit’s return. 

To avoid the costly delays associated with the lengthy delivery time of a new Generator Stator, Eskom sourced a used stator from the Netherlands as an interim solution, enabling the early return to service of Medupi Unit 4. 

With the return of Unit 4, all six units at Medupi are now operational and will contribute a combined capacity of 4 800MW to the national grid once the unit reaches full output in the coming weeks. 
Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, said “The return of Medupi Unit 4 marks a major milestone in our strategic objective of achieving operational stability through the addition of 2 500MW to the grid and Eskom remains committed to its Operational Excellence Programme, which focuses on restoring performance, strengthening oversight, and ensuring accountability from service providers.”

He said the development once again reflected the progress of the Generation Operational Recovery Plan, which is central to ensuring the long-term sustainability of the broader economy.

“This achievement moves us closer to consistently overcoming load shedding, which is now largely behind us due to structural improvements in the generation fleet, as we continue to build a more reliable, resilient, and sustainable power system,” said Marokane. 

Eskom Group Executive for Generation, Bheki Nxumalo, said: “Eskom applauds the Medupi team, support staff, and all execution partners for their dedication and professionalism, including the daunting task of safely transporting the 400-tonne Generator Stator approximately 1 000km by road from Richards Bay to the power station, a feat accomplished by Eskom Rotek Industries. 

“Their achievement serves as a motivation for our teams as we advance our recovery efforts. We are confident that, like the other units, Unit 4 will deliver stable electricity to the national grid, enhancing South Africa’s energy security.”

Medupi Power Station, located in Lephalale in Limpopo, holds the distinction of being one of the world’s largest dry-cooled, coal-fired power plant. 

As one of the newest additions to Eskom’s fleet, Medupi features advanced supercritical technology that allows it to operate at higher temperatures, improving efficiency while reducing both coal and water consumption, an essential advantage in a water-scarce region. 

The station is designed to recycle and reuse all water involved in the power generation process on-site. It is also equipped with low nitrogen oxide (NOₓ) burners to minimise NOₓ emissions. 
Additionally, Medupi has been designed to accommodate future installation of flue gas desulphurisation technology, which will cut sulphur dioxide (SO₂) emissions by more than 90%, further enhancing its environmental performance. 

Medupi continues to play a vital role in supporting South Africa’s economic growth and development. During its construction, Eskom invested over R2.9 billion in socio-economic development initiatives aimed at addressing urgent needs within local communities. 

Since its inception, more than R145 million has been allocated to corporate social investment programmes, benefiting over 80 000 people, with a strong focus on rural development, education, and healthcare infrastructure.

Former Deputy President David Mabuza passes away

Posted on by
President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent his condolences to the family of former Deputy President David Dabede Mabuza who passed away on Thursday.
Mabuza, who served as Deputy President between 2018 and 2023, passed away in a hospital at the age of 65.

“On behalf of government and the nation, I offer my profound condolences to the late Deputy President’s wife, Mrs Mabuza, and the children.

“I extend my condolences to Deputy President Mabuza’s friends and the people of Mpumalanga whom he served as Premier from 2009 to 2018, and previously as a Member of the Executive Council of Mpumalanga across a range of portfolios.

“My thoughts are also with Deputy President Mabuza’s comrades in his political home, the African National Congress, where he was elected as the organisation’s Deputy President in December 2017,” President Ramaphosa said.

He praised the former Deputy President’s contribution to government.

“During his service as Deputy President of the Republic, Deputy President Mabuza applied his leadership and mobilisation abilities to his role as the Leader of Government Business in Parliament; leading the South African National Aids Council; coordinating anti-poverty initiatives in the form of Public Employment Programmes, Integrated Service Delivery and Enterprise Development.
“Deputy President Mabuza also represented South Africa on global platforms and consolidated relations between South Africa and its closest partners.

“As Deputy President, he chaired the Cabinet Committees of Governance, State Capacity and Institutional Development [GSCID] as well as Justice, Crime-Prevention and Security [JCPS],” the President said.

The Mpumalanga-born politician – affectionately referred to as DD or The Cat – was a teacher by training, however, he was drawn into political activism.

“We are saddened today by the loss of a leader who was grounded in activism at the early stages of his political career and who came to lead our nation and shape South Africa’s engagement with our continental compatriots and the international community in his role as Deputy President.

“The former Deputy President deserves our appreciation for his deep commitment to the liberation struggle and to the nation’s development as an inclusive, prosperous, democratic state.

“Further announcements will be made in due course on memorial arrangements and the honours with which the country will pay its final respects to the former Deputy President,” President Ramaphosa said.

Eskom strengthens system against fraudulent tokens generation

Posted on by

State power utility Eskom says it has taken several steps to strengthen its systems against potential threats related to the generation of fraudulent prepaid tokens.

In December 2024, the power utility disclosed, as part of its full-year 2024 financial results, a forensic report detailing the breach of its Online Vending System (OVS).

“The system was exploited to generate and distribute fraudulent prepaid electricity tokens, revealing critical vulnerabilities in both the physical and cybersecurity components of the utility's prepaid electricity infrastructure.

“In response, Eskom undertook a comprehensive review and intervention strategy aimed at mitigating these vulnerabilities and restoring system integrity,” Eskom said in a statement.

Eskom Chief Technology and Information Officer, Len De Villiers, said the power utility has “successfully strengthened the protection of its current systems against potential threats”.

“All system enhancements are managed through a robust Change Management process that spans all divisions, ensuring consistent oversight and control. These measures are part of Eskom’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding operations and addressing identified vulnerabilities,” De Villiers said.

The latest key actions implemented include:

  • Internal controls to deal with electricity theft have been implemented.
  • Measures to safeguard the system by reinforcing physical infrastructure and limiting both physical and digital access.
  • Enhanced monitoring capabilities to ensure transparency and timely reporting.
  • On-going collaboration with law enforcement agencies to support investigations and ensure accountability. As part of this process, internal employees who have been implicated have been placed on precautionary suspension pending further review.
  • Augmented in-house capabilities, supported by an external Information Technology (IT) firm tasked to better manage risks and safeguard operations.
  • Coordinated system upgrades through a structured change management process.
  • Regular reporting to the Eskom Board, which has maintained oversight throughout the remediation process.
  • Accelerated acquisition of a new. secure vending system, designed to replace the current OVS and prevent future incidents.

Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, said: “We are fully aware of the challenges that have emerged within the OVS environment, and we have taken clear steps to address them. 

“Our focus is on restoring trust, strengthening our systems, and ensuring that our customers can rely on a secure and efficient service. This is not just a technical fix, it is part of a broader commitment to transparency, operational excellence and accountability.”

Eskom, in conjunction with law enforcement, is investigating with the findings to be disclosed once complete.

South Africa issues first permit to vaccinate against Avian Influenza

Posted on by

South Africa is set to launch its first-ever poultry vaccination campaign in the coming days, marking a significant step in the country’s effort to minimise the risk of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreaks.

This follows the Department of Agriculture’s approval of a vaccination permit issued to Astral Foods Limited on 30 June 2025, authorising the company to begin vaccinations against the HPAI virus at one of its broiler breeder farms.

Making the announcement on Tuesday, Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen confirmed that the initial phase of the campaign will begin with 200 000 broiler breeders, representing approximately five percent of Astral’s total breeding stock, valued at approximately R35 million.

Steenhuisen hailed this milestone as a testament to the strong partnership between government and the poultry industry in safeguarding national food security and protecting the livelihoods of thousands of South Africans.

He emphasised that the vaccination campaign is a vital step to strengthen flock immunity and prevent the devastating economic losses witnessed during previous outbreaks.

“The 2023 outbreak resulted in millions of birds being culled, which led to severe supply disruptions that affected both producers and consumers. The vaccine being used - targeting the H5 strain of the virus - is already approved for use in other countries implementing vaccination strategies against HPAI.

In May, South Africa suspended imports of live poultry, eggs and fresh (including frozen) poultry meat from Brazil following an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza.

The decision followed a report from Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, confirming an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1 – clade 2.3.4.4b) on 15 May 2025.

July Fuel Price Increase

Posted on by

Petrol and diesel prices in South Africa are set to rise from Wednesday, 2 July 2025, driven by a surge in global oil prices following military strikes by Israel and the US on Iran. At midnight, 93 unleaded petrol will go up by 55 cents per litre, while 95 unleaded will increase by 52 cents. In Gauteng, motorists can expect to pay R21.87 per litre for 95 unleaded, still below the R23.26 price recorded this time last year. Along the coast, the same grade of petrol will cost R21.04, compared to R22.47 in July 2024.

Diesel will also see significant hikes, with wholesale prices rising by between 82 and 84 cents per litre, depending on the sulphur level. From Wednesday, wholesale diesel in Gauteng will be priced at R19.35 per litre, down from R20.66 a year ago. Coastal regions will pay R18.52 per litre, versus R19.87 in the same period last year.

South Africa’s fuel prices are mainly influenced by global oil market trends and the rand’s performance against the US dollar, as crude oil is traded internationally in dollars.

Mchunu speaks out on speculation of “impending arrest” of Police Commissioner

Posted on by

Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has noted with concern media reports speculating about an imminent arrest of the National Commissioner of Police. 

“As the Ministry of Police, we have not been made aware of such impending arrest. We have also noted the response from the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) on this speculation,” the Police Ministry said in a statement.

“We plead with the media to avoid any speculation on this, as speculation of this nature has an adverse impact on the named person and also has an effect of destabilising the work of the South African Police Service,” the ministry said. 

error:
Scroll to Top