Thandiwe Zulu

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.

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

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.

Ritshidze report highlights healthcare staff shortages after Pepfar cuts

29 октября 2025 Thandiwe Zulu

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.

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.

Mashatile defends Ramaphosa over DA municipality comments

30 октября 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.

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.

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'.

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.

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.

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

29 октября 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.

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.