A corruption investigation into South Africa’s immigration system has uncovered allegations that a former senior Home Affairs administrator enriched herself through a fraudulent visa approval scheme, allegedly using the proceeds to build a luxury residence in Limpopo. The Special Investigating Unit (SIU), acting on authority granted by President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2024, has been probing…
A Vietnamese national was arrested at Cape Town International Airport just moments before boarding an international flight, in a development that has intensified investigations into a suspected staged robbery involving nearly 100 rhino horns. Bao Trung, 52, was detained on 24 February 2026 after his passport was flagged during departure procedures. The arrest was carried…
South African Airways has initiated legal steps that could significantly restrict the ability of its pilots and other operational staff to engage in strike action, even as the airline accelerates recruitment efforts aimed at strengthening cockpit capacity. The move follows a January ruling by South Africa’s Essential Services Committee, which determined that the airline’s request…
A cornerstone of Kimberley’s economy for more than a century is set to close after Ekapa Mining confirmed that it has filed for liquidation, citing financial distress following a fatal underground incident and prolonged weakness in global diamond markets. The decision marks a significant moment for the Northern Cape city, where diamond mining has shaped…
Two South African nationals have died while fighting on the frontline of the war in Ukraine, prompting renewed scrutiny over informal recruitment schemes that allegedly drew citizens into the conflict. The confirmation was made by Ronald Lamola, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, following a meeting in KwaZulu-Natal with families of 17 South African men…
As South Africa grapples with rising living costs, education expenses are increasingly straining household finances. According to the latest report from Statistics South Africa, 65.7% of individuals aged five and older who attended educational institutions in 2024 did not pay tuition fees. This suggests that nearly seven in ten learners are enrolled in no-fee schools….
South Africa continues to make progress in expanding HIV treatment access, but a significant gender disparity remains: more women are living with HIV, yet more men are dying from the disease. Treatment Success Masks Male Mortality Risk According to the Thembisa mathematical model, an estimated 5.2 million women were living with HIV in 2023/24, compared…
South Africa’s 2026 national budget has redrawn the financial landscape for households, businesses and investors, as Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana outlined a plan that combines selective tax relief with higher levies on consumption. Improved revenue position reshapes spending outlook Presenting the budget in Cape Town on 25 February, Godongwana pointed to a stronger macroeconomic position…
South Africa’s 2026 Budget introduced a significant but relatively understated reform to the country’s foreign exchange framework, increasing the annual discretionary offshore transfer allowance for residents from R1 million to R2 million. The change means that compliant taxpayers may now move up to R2 million abroad each calendar year through authorised banks without first obtaining…
Foundation phase identified as critical pressure point South Africa’s literacy challenge remains entrenched, with new data showing that a significant proportion of young learners are unable to read at even the most basic level after three years of formal schooling. The latest 2026 report from the 2030 Reading Panel reveals that 15% of Grade 3…
