By Odwa Bafana Mkentane GIWUSA has raised serious concerns over South Africa’s latest economic performance, following a 0.2% contraction in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the second quarter of 2026. The union says the decline in manufacturing, mining and trade reflects deeper structural weaknesses in the economy, which it attributes
By Odwa Bafana Mkentane The devastating floods in Nepal have left communities facing widespread destruction, displacement and loss of life. Homes and roads have been washed away, leaving many people without shelter or basic necessities. The Al-Imdaad Foundation is on the ground providing emergency food and essential supplies, while also
As the countdown to the November Local Government Elections continues, VOC’s Meet the Mayors segment is giving listeners the opportunity to hear directly from the candidates vying to lead the City of Cape Town. This week, the spotlight turns to People’s Movement for Change mayoral candidate Deon Daniels, better known
South Africa’s economy contracted by 0.2% between April and June 2026, ending six consecutive quarters of growth. According to the latest Gross Domestic Product figures from Statistics South Africa, mining, trade and manufacturing were the biggest drags on economic activity during the second quarter. Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke said the mining
The Public Procurement Amendment Bill is being described as a key tool in strengthening the fight against corruption and state capture. The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) said workers and ordinary taxpayers have paid a heavy price for billions of rand lost to corruption, making stronger procurement regulations
By Odwa Bafana Mkentane The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU) is calling on President Cyril Ramaphosa to sanction Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube over her decision to keep the new Foundation Phase textbook catalogue suspended. The union argues that investigations into the procurement process have cleared it of wrongdoing,
By Odwa Bafana Mkentane Patients at the Site B Khayelitsha Community Health Centre are facing yet another challenge, with broken toilets affecting a facility that serves between 25,000 and 28,000 people every month. Speaking to VOC News, Khayelitsha Development Forum (KDF) chairperson Mawande Jara says, according to the facility manager,
As World Suicide Prevention Day is marked on 10 September, this year’s theme, “Every Conversation Counts,” highlights the importance of speaking openly about suicide and knowing how to support someone who may be struggling. SADAG Project Manager for Education, Roshni Parbhoo-Seetha, said starting a conversation and simply listening can make
The newly elected Mowbray Muslim Cemetery Board has convened its inaugural meeting, with the 11-member board electing its office bearers following elections held on 23 August. The meeting was overseen by the Independent Panel of Convenors and Electoral Officers, chaired by Igshaan Higgins. Higgins said the main purpose of the
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.
