The West African state of Togo has made international headlines following protest action that took place wherein citizens challenged a constitutional change that critics argue would enable President Faure Gnassingbe to remain in power indefinitely. The protests have largely been orchestrated by Togo’s youth, with some commentators arguing that the
President of Kenya, William Ruto, has come under increased criticism following his comments to police to shoot protestors in the leg. This follows renewed protests in the East African state over police brutality. A report by the Police Reforms Working Group, a coalition based in Kenya that includes grassroots and
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has filed a notice of appeal at the Randburg Magistrate’s Court following the decision to grant bail to 12 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers accused of murdering Hawks Specialist Investigator, Lieutenant-Colonel Frans Mathipa. The accused were each granted bail of R10,000. NPA spokesperson
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has reaffirmed its statutory mandate to regulate and oversee the electricity supply industry, announcing the development of new electricity trading rules aimed at fostering a fair and balanced energy market. Acting spokesperson Poppie Mahlangu explained that NERSA’s legislative authority enables it to
Over 30 states from around the world gathered in Bogotá, Colombia, to halt Israel’s ongoing offensive in Gaza on 15 and 16 July. “The Bogotá conference will be remembered as a pivotal moment in history when states finally took a stand to do the right thing,” stated United Nations (UN)
Cape Town residents are growing increasingly vocal about their frustration over rising electricity tariffs, with many stating the soaring costs are becoming unaffordable and even calling for a return to load-shedding. A recent VOC News poll on Instagram revealed that 70% of respondents would rather endure rolling blackouts than continue
The Gugulethu community is in shock following a horrific shooting incident on Wednesday night that left three men dead and two others wounded. The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed that a case of triple murder and attempted murder is under investigation. Police spokesperson André Traut said the shooting
The Department of Health has officially launched a nationwide vaccination drive as the number of mpox cases continues to rise across South Africa. Health authorities have confirmed two new laboratory-confirmed cases — one in Gauteng and another in the Western Cape — bringing the cumulative total of confirmed cases to
Advocacy group Black Sash has rejected claims of a dispute with the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) over the ongoing review of social grants, labelling such reports as misleading and counterproductive. Executive Director Rachel Bukasa clarified that the organisation remains committed to working collaboratively with SASSA, despite raising concerns
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.
