Oyisa George

The Housing Assembly is challenging the approval of a proposed hyperscale data centre near Cape Town International Airport, raising concerns over its potential impact on water, electricity and surrounding communities. The Municipal Planning Tribunal approved the application on 14 July, but activists have since lodged an appeal, temporarily halting the approval while the process continues. Housing Assembly activist Kenneth Matlawe said the organisation’s objection was rejected by the tribunal, but […]

South African Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago has warned that a major cyberattack on a financial institution or payment system could trigger the next global financial crisis. He made the remarks at the third Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection Forum on Africa and geopolitics in Johannesburg. Cybersecurity specialist Anna Collard agrees with the warning, saying concerns over AI-driven cyber risks are shared by international organisations, including the International Monetary Fund […]

Rabies has claimed 16 lives in South Africa this year, with 75% of those who died being under the age of 15. Speaking to VOC News on World Rabies Day, specialist veterinary pathologist at the South African Veterinary Association, Dr Didi Classen, said the deaths were particularly tragic because rabies is preventable when people receive medical attention quickly after exposure. “It sounds like a small number if you compare it […]

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness expects that more mpox cases could be identified as contact tracing continues following two social gatherings linked to a cluster in Cape Town. Speaking to VOC News, the department’s Chief Operating Officer, Dr Saadiq Karriem, said 13 of the province’s cases had been identified since mid-August and were linked to the two gatherings. “We were able to pick up a number of […]

The first visit to South Africa by Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah has opened discussions on improving travel and strengthening cooperation between the two countries. Speaking to VOC News, Safeer Hajj and Umrah Chairman Sedick Steenkamp says one of the key developments was an announcement that Saudia is expected to resume direct flights to South Africa in 2027, which could make travel easier […]

Exam anxiety, perfectionism and fear of failure can place significant pressure on young people, particularly as Grade 12 learners prepare for their final exams. Speaking to VOC News ahead of Suicide Prevention Day on Thursday, 10 September, clinical psychologist Thabang Tlaka says high expectations from families can leave learners feeling unable to make mistakes. “When family always says things like, ‘we know you can do it, you’re supposed to get […]