Thandiwe Zulu

GNU clearing house adopts terms of reference after year-long delay

30. oktober 2025 Thandiwe Zulu

South Africa's Government of National Unity clearing house has finally adopted its terms of reference, more than a year after its establishment. The mechanism, aimed at resolving policy disputes in the 10-party coalition, includes an 'agree to disagree' clause for unresolved issues. This development comes ahead of the 2025 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement.

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.

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'.

Russia charges Ukrainian biologist with treason over Antarctic protections

30. oktober 2025 Thandiwe Zulu

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.