Free schooling now covers majority of learners in South Africa More than two-thirds of children attending school in South Africa are no longer paying tuition fees, reflecting nearly two decades of policy shifts aimed at widening access to basic education. New data released by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) shows that in 2024, 65.7% of…
South Africa is preparing to tighten its energy efficiency regulations for lighting products, with the second phase of its national light bulb ban scheduled to take effect on 23 May 2026. The National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) has confirmed that regulatory systems are in place to implement the next stage, which increases the minimum…
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has confirmed that long-delayed plans to expand the Gautrain rapid rail network will resume this year once the current concession period concludes and ownership transfers fully to the provincial government. Speaking during his State of the Province Address, Lesufi said the public-private partnership that financed and delivered the system would formally…
South Africa’s extensive coastline could offer a new frontier in renewable energy development, according to a recent feasibility study conducted by Swedish firm Eco Wave Power. The company has identified potential for approximately 8.3 megawatts of wave-generated electricity at the Port of Ngqura in the Eastern Cape. While modest compared to large-scale power stations, the…
President Cyril Ramaphosa has moved to clarify his decision to deploy the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) domestically, arguing that the step is a measured response to escalating organised crime and violence. The announcement, made during this month’s State of the Nation Address, confirmed that soldiers would assist authorities in tackling gang activity, illegal…
South Africa’s ambition to bring Formula One racing back to its shores appears increasingly uncertain, with recent comments from F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali suggesting that other venues are ahead in the queue for inclusion. Speaking during pre-season testing in Bahrain, Domenicali indicated that Turkey’s Istanbul Park circuit is under serious consideration for a return…
The United States has formally installed a new ambassador to South Africa, as bilateral relations remain under pressure following months of political disagreement. Leo Brent Bozell III, nominated by US President Donald Trump, presented his letters of credence on Monday, officially assuming his role in Pretoria. South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation confirmed…
South Africa’s Special Investigating Unit has detailed an alleged bribery network within the Department of Home Affairs, describing how elements of the country’s immigration system were manipulated for financial gain. The probe, initiated in May2024 following information provided by a whistleblower, has linked several department officials to irregular processing of visas and residency permits. Acting…
South Africa’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, known as the Hawks, conducted coordinated raids across four provinces on Sunday as part of a probe into alleged irregular education tenders worth R114 million. More than 14 operational teams targeted properties in Mpumalanga, Gauteng, Limpopo and the Western Cape. Authorities said those under investigation include government officials,…
A Cape Town magistrate has handed down the toughest sentence available under South Africa’s Animal Protection Act after two severely emaciated boerboels were rescued in the Sea Winds area. The case dates back to 2022, when inspectors from the Cape of Good Hope SPCA responded to a complaint and discovered the dogs in a critically…
