Residents raise concerns over air quality Residents in several areas of Johannesburg have reported an unpleasant smell lingering in the air since the weekend, sparking renewed concern about air pollution in the city. Numerous people took to social media to complain about the persistent odour, with many describing it as similar to rotten eggs —…
Airlines face sharp jump in jet fuel costs Air travellers in South Africa may soon pay more for flights after airlines announced a temporary fuel surcharge following a dramatic rise in aviation fuel prices linked to instability in the Middle East. Low-cost carrier FlySafair confirmed that it will introduce the surcharge from 12 March 2026…
Pretoria stresses rules-based international order South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation has reaffirmed the country’s support for Iran while urging lawmakers to promote a rules-based international order during diplomatic engagements. The comments were made during a parliamentary portfolio committee meeting on international relations and cooperation on Wednesday. Although the session was initially convened…
Early retirement programme aims to curb rising public sector wage bill South Africa’s National Treasury has allocated additional funding to support a voluntary exit programme that could ultimately reduce the country’s public sector workforce by tens of thousands. The initiative forms part of a broader effort by the government to control the rapidly growing public…
Pretoria summons envoy after criticism of domestic policies South Africa has issued a formal diplomatic protest to the United States ambassador in Pretoria following a series of public remarks criticising the country’s domestic policies, signalling a further deterioration in relations between the two governments. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation summoned US ambassador Leo…
South Africa’s Border Management Authority has dismissed more than 50 immigration officials implicated in corruption at key border posts. Officials stationed at major ports of entry The officials were based at Beitbridge, Lebombo, Oshoek, Maseru Bridge and OR Tambo International Airport. More investigations underway Authorities confirmed that another 38 immigration officials are currently under investigation…
South Africa’s energy regulator has approved Eskom’s tariff increases for the 2026/27 financial year, but the changes could push household electricity bills higher than the headline figures suggest. Tariffs rising in 2026 Eskom direct customers will face an average increase of 8.76% from April 2026, while municipal customers will see a 9.01% increase starting in…
South Africa’s tax authority has expanded its communication strategy and is now contacting taxpayers directly through WhatsApp as part of efforts to recover outstanding tax debt. Digital communication replaces traditional methods In the past, SARS primarily communicated with taxpayers through letters and email. However, the revenue authority is now using instant messaging platforms to ensure…
The United States has warned that its patience with South Africa is wearing thin, even as American companies continue to invest billions of rand in the country. Major US investment in South Africa More than 500 American companies operate in South Africa, employing over 250,000 people. Major investments include Visa’s data centre in Johannesburg, Google…
South Africa’s state power utility Eskom is considering supplying excess electricity to Bitcoin mining companies as part of a new strategy to use unused daytime capacity. Solar power changing electricity demand According to Eskom chairman Mteto Nyati, electricity demand patterns are shifting as more households and businesses install rooftop solar systems. Demand typically peaks in…
