Today Africa

Plug-in hybrid vehicle sales surge in South Africa as Chinese brands dominate growing market

South Africa’s plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) market reached a new milestone in March 2026, recording its highest monthly sales to date and signalling accelerating consumer adoption of electrified mobility. According to data released by the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa), 664 PHEVs were sold in March, representing a 130% increase…

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New Senqu Bridge set to redefine cross-border travel between South Africa and Lesotho

A major infrastructure milestone is set to reshape regional connectivity as the Senqu Bridge prepares to open, linking communities between South Africa and Lesotho. Scheduled for official unveiling on 22 April 2026, the bridge is expected to play a critical role in maintaining transport routes and supporting broader development efforts in the region. A strategic…

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South Africa power stability holds as Eskom forecasts no load shedding for 2026 winter

South Africa is expected to maintain its current streak of electricity stability through the upcoming winter season, with Eskom confirming that no load shedding is anticipated between April and August 2026. The announcement comes as the country has already achieved 341 consecutive days without load shedding, marking one of its longest periods of uninterrupted electricity…

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Western Cape tourism boom drives R26 billion revenue and strengthens South Africa’s economic outlook

The Western Cape has recorded a strong tourism performance in 2025, generating nearly R26 billion in revenue and positioning itself as one of South Africa’s most resilient economic regions amid uneven national recovery. According to the latest figures released by South African Tourism, the province welcomed approximately 1.5 million international visitors over the past year….

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Award-winning ONIX blood orange makes debut in South African stores

A new premium citrus variety has entered the South African market, offering consumers a striking visual experience alongside distinctive flavour. The ONIX blood orange, grown in Spain, is now available in limited quantities at selected Checkers supermarkets. The fruit stands out for its unusual appearance, featuring a dark outer skin that contrasts sharply with its…

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South Africa rejects claims of passport-free entry for Lesotho nationals amid misinformation surge

The South African Department of Home Affairs has firmly dismissed widespread online claims suggesting that Lesotho nationals can now enter South Africa using only their national identity cards, clarifying that no such agreement exists between the two countries. The department said current immigration regulations remain fully in force, and all travellers are still required to…

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France nears R1.9 billion deal to help fix South Africa’s collapsing city services

South Africa is expected to receive additional international financial support as France moves closer to finalising a €100 million (approximately R1.9 billion) loan aimed at assisting the country’s struggling metropolitan infrastructure systems. The development was confirmed by France’s ambassador to South Africa, David Martinon, who said the funding is nearing approval and is intended to…

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South Africa sees moderate food price outlook for 2026 despite global energy shocks

South Africa’s food price outlook for 2026 is showing unexpected resilience, even as global energy markets remain volatile due to ongoing geopolitical tensions. While April 2026 brought record fuel price increases locally, partially offset by government intervention on fuel levies, the anticipated surge in food inflation has not materialised to the extent many economists feared….

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Vaping surge in South African schools raises alarm over youth addiction trends

A large-scale study has revealed a sharp rise in vaping among South African high school students, highlighting growing concerns about addiction, mental health, and broader substance use patterns. The research, led by Richard van Zyl-Smit and published in the South African Medical Journal, surveyed more than 25,000 learners across 52 fee-paying schools in eight provinces….

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