Author: Ariana Steenkamp

President Cyril Ramaphosa recently signed the controversial Expropriation Act into law, marking a significant shift in South Africa’s land reform policies. The new legislation has sparked widespread debate among political parties, with reactions ranging from strong support to outright rejection. What Is the Expropriation Act? The Expropriation Act outlines how the government can expropriate land in the public interest, with or without compensation. This new law replaces the outdated Expropriation Act of 1975, which was based on the “willing seller, willing buyer” principle. The government argues that the updated legislation aligns with South Africa’s Constitution and provides a fair framework…

South African households should prepare for several price hikes in 2025, affecting essential services and daily expenses. Below is an overview of the key areas where costs are expected to rise: Electricity Tariffs Eskom, the state-owned power utility, has proposed a substantial increase in electricity tariffs, seeking a 36% hike in 2025. While the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) has yet to finalize the approved percentage, historical trends suggest that consumers may face significant increases. Over the past 13 years, tariff increases have averaged 10.8% annually. Water Charges Water Services Authorities (WSAs) across the country independently set water…

South Africans are bracing for a potential 66% electricity price increase as the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) reviews Eskom’s latest tariff application. Transparency Questioned as Nersa Keeps Details Private Nersa’s Electricity Subcommittee has opted to keep its recommendations on Eskom’s proposed electricity price increase confidential. This decision comes despite a 2024 pledge by Nersa to disclose all tariff-related proposals and decisions to the public. During a meeting on 21 January 2025, the subcommittee justified its choice, stating that releasing preliminary numbers could mislead the public or cause undue focus on figures subject to change. It argued that these recommendations…

The implications of Donald Trump’s second presidency on South Africa are significant, and the country must navigate a series of challenges in both economic and diplomatic spheres. Here’s what this all means for South Africa: The 60th Presidential Inauguration Ceremony https://t.co/kTB4w2VCdI— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2025 1. Economic Impact:Currency Volatility: The rand has shown signs of volatility, with the dollar strengthening in response to Trump’s policies. This could mean that South Africa will face a tougher trading environment, as a weaker rand makes imports more expensive. This could further strain South Africa’s economy, which is already grappling with…

As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office, his stance on the TikTok ban could define the start of his presidency. Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban Law On Friday, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a law mandating TikTok’s separation from its China-based parent company, ByteDance, by Sunday or face a nationwide ban. The decision dismissed TikTok’s argument that the law infringes on the First Amendment rights of users and content creators. The legislation, passed in April 2024 under President Joe Biden with bipartisan support, aims to shield U.S. user data from potential misuse by foreign adversaries. However, enforcement of the…

South African motorists should prepare for another fuel price increase next month, signaling more financial strain at the pumps. After enjoying a period of relief in late 2024, when petrol and diesel prices hit their lowest levels in three years, February 2025 is shaping up to reverse much of those gains. How Much Are Prices Expected to Increase? According to the latest data from the Central Energy Fund, petrol prices could rise by: 64 cents per liter for 95 Unleaded 68 cents per liter for 93 Unleaded Diesel prices are also predicted to increase by: 70 cents per liter for 500ppm 72 cents…

Shocking Claims from Illegal Miners After weeks of silence, Stilfontein illegal miners (zama zamas) trapped in abandoned mines have sent out two letters. One of these handwritten messages claims that 109 people have died underground. The situation remains dire as the miners are caught in a standoff with police operating under “Operation Vala Umgodi”, aimed at cracking down on illegal mining. Pleas for Help and Ritual Requests The miners are not only asking for food and cleaning supplies but also for imphepho, a traditional plant burned to communicate with ancestors. On Thursday, the body of a deceased miner was pulled…

As the world continues to grapple with the aftershocks of COVID-19, South Africans are being urged to prepare for the next pandemic. Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has issued a stark warning, citing the outbreak of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China as a timely reminder of the risks posed by climate change, habitat encroachment, and global health challenges. What Is HMPV? Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory illness first identified in 2001, although evidence suggests it has circulated globally for over 60 years. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets, causing symptoms similar to those of COVID-19, such as fever, cough,…

Refueling Issues Spark Flight Delays Travelers at OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg’s and South Africa’s busiest hub, are facing potential delays due to refueling challenges. According to Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), airlines are currently unable to refuel aircraft as usual, causing disruptions just days after South African Airways (SAA) resumed normal operations following a pilots’ strike. Official Statement from ACSA ACSA addressed the issue, stating: “Due to refueling challenges at OR Tambo International Airport, some flights may experience delays. Technicians are working diligently to resolve the situation, and we will keep passengers updated. We recommend contacting your airline for…

Hurricane Milton, a massive Category 3 storm, made landfall on Florida’s western coast near Siesta Key on October 9, 2024, causing widespread destruction. Packing winds of up to 165 km/h, the storm triggered dangerous tornadoes and life-threatening storm surges, leaving 1.6 million households and businesses without power across the state. Tornadoes and Storm Surges Wreak Havoc Before Hurricane Milton even made landfall, tornadoes began ravaging Florida’s east coast, including one that struck a senior living community, leading to unconfirmed fatalities. Tidal surges inundated large parts of western Florida’s densely populated Gulf Coast. In Sarasota, near Siesta Key, fierce winds blew…