Thandiwe Zulu

Public works launches action plan to end construction failures

Rabu, 29 Oktober 2025 Thandiwe Zulu

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.

Court overturns apartheid-era ruling on Chief Albert Luthuli's death

The Pietermaritzburg high court has ruled that ANC leader and Nobel laureate Chief Albert Luthuli was murdered by apartheid forces in 1967, overturning a flawed inquest that claimed his death was an accident. The judgment vindicates decades of family efforts and highlights systemic judicial manipulation under apartheid. It recommends further investigation into witness disappearances.

Township entrepreneurs deserve parity in R1-trillion economy

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.

South Africa's provincial nature reserves in crisis

South Africa's provincial nature reserves, vital for biodiversity conservation, are deteriorating due to underfunding, poaching, and mismanagement. A recent report highlights systemic failures across provinces, threatening ecological and economic potential. Urgent reforms are needed to meet national and international obligations.

Mashatile defends Ramaphosa over DA municipality comments

Kamis, 30 Oktober 2025 Thandiwe Zulu

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.

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.

Financial coach advises avoiding frail-care costs for children

A financial wellness coach recommends factoring frail-care expenses into retirement plans after a reader shared subsidizing their mother's R30,000 monthly facility costs. With one in 10 people likely reaching 100, proactive planning can prevent children from facing similar burdens. Options include dedicated investment funds and specialized annuities.

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

Rabu, 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.

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.

Russia charges Ukrainian biologist with treason over Antarctic protections

Russian authorities have accused Antarctic marine biologist Dr. Leonid Pshenichnov of high treason for his work on marine protected areas that could hinder Russia's resource ambitions in the region. The 70-year-old Ukrainian, arrested in occupied Crimea, was set to represent his country at an international conservation meeting. The case has raised alarms about scientific freedom and Russia's compliance with Antarctic treaties.

Ramaphosa reaffirms commitment to strengthen SA-Switzerland relations

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.

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.