Africa

Halloween horrors spotlight South African challenges in 2025

29 अक्टूबर 2025 Thandiwe Zulu

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'.

Financial advice complaints rise 45% amid funeral policy issues

Complaints to South Africa's Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Ombud surged 45% in 2024/25, reaching 15,404 cases, with long-term insurance like funeral policies dominating. The office awarded R31.748-million in compensation while improving case resolution times. Advocate John Simpson highlighted growing consumer awareness as a key driver.

Egypt brokers African consensus on AfCFTA rules of origin after four years

Egypt, as Chair of the AfCFTA Ministerial Council of Trade Ministers, has secured consensus among member states on rules of origin for the textile, apparel, and automotive sectors. The breakthrough, achieved through a transitional implementation mechanism, follows more than four years of negotiations. It was announced after a Cairo meeting in September and an October virtual session.

Ritshidze report highlights healthcare staff shortages after Pepfar cuts

Community monitoring group Ritshidze has uncovered severe staff shortages and service declines at public health facilities in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape following US Pepfar funding cuts earlier in 2025. Data from April to June shows over 90% of clinics in some areas lacking sufficient personnel, leading to longer waits and poorer record-keeping. The group urges national and provincial health departments to act urgently.

Hopesalive initiative empowers 60 young women with tech skills

The Hopesalive Initiative has trained 60 young women in technology skills to help close the gender gap in the sector. This program aims to boost female participation in tech fields.

High Court rules women must return dowry after divorce

A Kenyan High Court has ruled that women must return dowry payments in customary marriages upon divorce, reigniting debates on tradition and equality. The decision in the case of CKN Vs DMO emphasizes the symbolic role of dowry in dissolving unions. This precedent could reshape how divorce cases handle cultural practices.

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.

Assault case reinstated against ex-ambassador's wife

29 अक्टूबर 2025 Thandiwe Zulu

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.

Former kayole ocs breaks down in court while testifying

29 अक्टूबर 2025 Njeri Mwangi

Former Kayole police station commander SSP Dennis Omunga broke down in court while testifying in a murder case against six officers. He recalled losing 13 officers during his short tenure amid high crime. The case concerns the killing of Wycliffe Vincent Owuor, a suspect in a 2019 Sh72 million robbery.