Consumers can expect to spend approximately R300 more on basic grocery items starting in May, as Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana confirmed that the 0.5 percentage point Value Added Tax (VAT) increase will proceed as planned. Speaking on VOC Breakfast on Tuesday morning, Sibusiso Mboto, Advocacy Coordinator at Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice
With Freedom Day approaching, it is a time to reflect not only on South Africa’s democracy but also on the role of media freedom in shaping the country over the past 31 years. Media ethics, freedom of expression, and the media’s role in holding power to account have evolved significantly
Police have made another breakthrough in the investigation into the murder of former taxi operator Dingalomoya Chintso (50), who was shot and killed inside the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court earlier this month. A 24-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident and is expected to appear in the Wynberg
The Palestinian resistance group Hamas reported that over 150 scholars, academics, university professors, and researchers were executed following escalated Israeli tension in the Gaza Strip. According to the resistance, over 820 Mosques were completely destroyed, over 160 Mosques were severely damaged and in need of restoration, and 19 cemeteries were
The body of an unidentified man was discovered in an open field near Bofors Circle, Epping, on Friday morning (18 April). Police spokesperson Joseph Swartbooi confirmed the incident and said the victim sustained gunshot wounds and was declared dead on the scene. “Elsiesriver police attended a complaint this morning Friday
Spine Road High School has marked its 40th anniversary with a heartfelt tribute, renaming its newly reopened school hall the Riyaadh Najaar Education Centre in honour of former principal Mr. Riyaadh Najaar. Described as a true champion of growth and learning, Najaar leaves behind a legacy that continues to uplift
The Minister of Correctional Services in South Africa has admitted that a number of parolees in the country have reoffended, with alleged crimes ranging from violent acts and housebreaking to absconding. The minister has also acknowledged that reintegrating parolees into society has certain difficulties, including limited possibilities and social stigmatization.
By Kouthar Sambo Following residents raising alarms over long queues, medicine stockouts, and understaffing, Deputy Health Minister Joe Phaahla and Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko toured the Olivenhoutbosch Clinic on Tuesday. This comes as officials admit that resources are stretched thin, with migrant care being a major strain on the
By Rachel Mohamed The civil organization Section 27 has called for reforms to the 2025/2026 Fiscal Framework to address the growing inefficiencies in various sectors of the Republic of South Africa while ensuring the measures do not negatively impact vulnerable communities. Speaking on VOC’s News Beat show, Matshidiso Lencoasa,
VOC became the first Muslim radio station in South Africa when a special events license was granted to the station in Ramadan/January 1995. Subsequent temporary broadcast licenses were granted, permitting the station to broadcast for 24 hours.
