Thandiwe Zulu

Mashatile defends Ramaphosa over DA municipality comments

Deputy President Paul Mashatile defended President Cyril Ramaphosa's remarks on learning from DA-led municipalities, claiming they were taken out of context during a parliamentary session. He highlighted disparities in service delivery in Western Cape townships despite clean audits. The exchange drew reactions from MPs across parties.

US sets refugee admissions cap at 7500, lowest on record

The United States has confirmed a refugee admissions cap of 7,500 for the year, the lowest in its history, with a significant portion reserved for white South African Afrikaners. This marks a sharp departure from the previous administration's limit of 125,000. The policy prioritizes certain groups amid a broader overhaul of the resettlement program.

Assault case reinstated against ex-ambassador's wife

The National Prosecuting Authority has confirmed the reinstatement of an assault case against Nokwazi Ngonyama, wife of former South African ambassador to Japan Smuts Ngonyama, for allegedly beating domestic worker Tandiswa Tokwe in Tokyo in 2023. The case, which was struck off the court roll in August due to delays, will be re-enrolled with a summons to be served by mid-November. Tokwe expressed frustration over procedural hurdles during a press conference marking two years since filing the charge.

South Africa signals economic revival amid US diplomatic thaw

South Africa's economy shows positive signs with growth exceeding 1% and removal from the FATF Grey List, while diplomatic ties with the US under the Trump administration begin to improve. Speculation surrounds the appointment of a new ambassador to Washington, and a US ambassador-designate expressed willingness to reset relations despite longstanding grievances. However, challenges like trade barriers and political disputes persist.

Ramaphosa reaffirms commitment to strengthen SA-Switzerland relations

30. oktober 2025 Thandiwe Zulu

President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed South Africa's commitment to strengthening trade and diplomatic relations with Switzerland during his historic state visit to Bern. The visit, the first by a democratic South African president, included bilateral talks and the signing of new cooperation agreements. Leaders highlighted shared values and opportunities for deeper collaboration.

South Africa beats England to reach first women's cricket world cup final

29. oktober 2025 Thandiwe Zulu

South Africa's Proteas women's cricket team secured a historic 125-run victory over England in the World Cup semi-final. Captain Laura Wolvaardt scored an unbeaten 169, while Marizanne Kapp took five wickets for 20 runs. The win propels South Africa to their maiden final against the winner of India versus Australia.

Township entrepreneurs deserve parity in R1-trillion economy

30. oktober 2025 Thandiwe Zulu

Millions of township entrepreneurs in South Africa's independent economy have built a R1-trillion sector, yet face systemic barriers to formal recognition. A new Standard Bank report highlights that 80% of these businesses remain unregistered, prompting calls for redesigned accountability and respect equal to that given to corporates. Authors from UNDP and Wakanda Food Accelerator argue for parity through community-based systems and tiered regulations.

Witness details Matlala's alleged bribes to minister and police

In testimony before the Madlanga Commission, Witness C revealed claims by organised crime accused Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala that he paid R500,000 to support sidelined Police Minister Senzo Mchunu's ANC presidency bid. Matlala allegedly felt betrayed after the minister failed to protect him from investigations. The evidence also implicated top police officials in receiving bribes from Matlala.

South Africa ends load shedding and boosts rail services

South Africa has seen significant improvements in electricity supply and rail transport under the national coalition government formed in June 2024. Load shedding has ended, easing economic pressures, while Transnet's enhancements have increased mining sales. These changes reflect the ANC's shift toward private sector involvement in key services.

Creecy launches RFI for Prasa's 600 million passenger trips

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has issued a request for information to attract private investment in rebuilding South Africa's passenger rail network, targeting 600 million annual journeys by the end of the decade. The initiative emphasizes state ownership while seeking market input to design the future of rail amid past challenges like theft and mismanagement. Recent improvements in service reliability offer cautious optimism for recovery.

Halloween horrors spotlight South African challenges in 2025

A Daily Maverick article uses Halloween themes to critique key issues in South Africa for 2025, from health insurance woes to corruption and gambling concerns. Published on October 29, it frames these as national 'monsters' and 'cans of worms'.

Public works launches action plan to end construction failures

South Africa's Department of Public Works and Infrastructure has unveiled the South African Construction Action Plan to address chronic issues in public construction projects. Minister Dean Macpherson announced the initiative in Cape Town, aiming to restore accountability and halt the cycle of incomplete schools, hospitals, and escalating costs. The plan targets mismanagement, disappearing contractors, and criminal interference in the sector.