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…
South African authorities have uncovered an illegal detergent manufacturing site in Boksburg where counterfeit household cleaning products were allegedly being produced and repackaged into containers resembling well-known brands. Police uncover chemicals and fake packaging The raid was conducted by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) in the Windmill Park informal settlement. Investigators found large…
Alleged financial hub of Southeast Asian scam operations International authorities are searching for a South African businessman accused of playing a key role in a global fraud and money laundering network believed to have handled more than $1.5 billion. The suspect, Benjamin Mauerberger, also known as Ben Berger or Ben Smith, has been identified by…
Government warns public about misleading social media post South Africa’s National Department of Health has dismissed a widely shared social media claim suggesting that HIV-positive citizens will begin receiving a monthly government grant of R1,200 starting in May 2026. Officials said the post circulating online is false and urged members of the public not to…
Operation Shanela targets violent and organised crime Police in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province have arrested nearly 12,000 suspects during a month-long crime-fighting campaign that targeted violent offences, drug-related crimes and illegal firearms. The arrests were made during Operation Shanela, a nationwide policing initiative, along with routine law enforcement operations conducted throughout February 2026. According to…
Potential co-manufacturing plan under discussion Mercedes-Benz Group is exploring the possibility of sharing its vehicle manufacturing facility in South Africa with Chinese automaker Great Wall Motor (GWM), according to people familiar with the discussions. The talks involve Mercedes’ long-standing assembly plant in the coastal city of East London, one of South Africa’s most significant automotive…
Emerging powers discuss military cooperation Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has called for closer defence cooperation between Brazil and South Africa, warning that emerging economies must strengthen their military preparedness to guard against potential external threats. Lula made the remarks during a joint media briefing with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa at the…
