Businesses that rely on direct marketing in South Africa now face significantly tougher compliance requirements after new regulations introduced stricter controls on unsolicited marketing communications and higher penalties for violations. The amendments to the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) Regulations, published by Trade Minister Parks Tau in April 2026, came into effect immediately and strengthen the…
The Gauteng Department of Community Safety has issued a warning to courier companies and delivery drivers following a noticeable increase in vehicle hijackings linked to organised criminal syndicates operating across the province. Authorities say courier vehicles have become increasingly attractive targets because they often transport valuable goods while following predictable delivery schedules. The warning comes…
Nestled in South Africa’s Little Karoo, the historic town of Calitzdorp is best known for its award-winning wines and scenic mountain landscapes. Yet beyond its vineyards lies one of the country’s most remarkable geological treasures — the Red Stone Hills, a rare natural formation believed to exist in only three places on Earth. Located along…
August is shaping up to be an exciting month for astronomy enthusiasts, with two major eclipses scheduled just over two weeks apart. While South Africa will miss the year’s total solar eclipse, residents across the country will still have the opportunity to witness a spectacular deep partial lunar eclipse before the month ends. The first…
Three suspects have been arrested and two stolen Nissan Navara bakkies worth a combined R1.5 million have been recovered after intelligence-led operations targeting cross-border vehicle smuggling in Limpopo. The coordinated operations, carried out on 2 and 3 August 2026, involved the South African Police Service (SAPS) Provincial Tracking Team and Investigation Unit together with Limpopo…
South Africa is laying the groundwork for the possible introduction of a new tuberculosis (TB) vaccine that health authorities believe could significantly strengthen efforts to eliminate the disease as a public health threat by 2030. The Department of Health has confirmed that preparations are already underway to ensure the country can rapidly register and introduce…
South Africans looking to apply for a Smart ID card can now more easily locate participating bank branches following the launch of a new online platform by the Department of Home Affairs. The service was unveiled by Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber during the department’s Digital Partnership media event held with FNB at Canal Walk…
South Africa’s latest population estimates show that the country’s demographic profile continues to evolve, with the proportion of white residents falling to 7.1% of the national population in 2026. The figures, published by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) in its Mid-Year Population Estimates released on 30 July, indicate that the country’s population has grown to…
The African National Congress (ANC) Greater Johannesburg Region hosted its annual fundraising gala dinner on 30 July, offering supporters and sponsors the opportunity to share tables with senior government leaders and party officials for as much as R500,000. Held at The Venue in Melrose Arch, the event formed part of the party’s fundraising efforts ahead…
Former President Thabo Mbeki has alleged that recent anti-foreigner protests and calls for a national shutdown in South Africa are being supported by hidden financial backers and organised interests rather than emerging spontaneously from public frustration. Speaking during a National Democratic Revolution (NDR) seminar, Mbeki argued that the growing mobilisation against undocumented foreign nationals forms…
