Economist Frank Blackmore says South Africans could soon feel the impact of rising oil prices following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking to VOC News, Blackmore said the blockage of the strategic shipping route is already rattling global markets. “It’s a worrisome situation. About 20% of the world’s
Concerns are mounting over the state of healthcare access in South Africa, with many communities saying seeking medical attention can feel like an uphill battle. Although healthcare is enshrined as a constitutional right, the lived reality for millions often tells a different story. Advocacy voices warn that the burden is
Forensic investigator Paul O’Sullivan may face legal consequences after walking out of a parliamentary committee while under questioning. Parliament’s Constitutional and Legal Services Office has advised that O’Sullivan’s early departure on 26 February 2026 potentially impeded the ad hoc committee’s work and amounted to failing to answer questions fully, which
Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, has stated that Iran will not negotiate with the United States. This follows an update speech by US President Donald Trump. In the speech, Trump applauded the American military for their killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and stated that operations would
The organisation Sport Stepping Stones will host a mass iftar on Saturday, 28 February 2026, at Darul Islam High School, where food and treats will be distributed to 1,000 children from various areas across Cape Town. The initiative aims to support families during Ramadan while promoting community spirit and outreach.
Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has announced his candidacy to succeed John Steenhuisen as leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA) at the party’s elective congress scheduled for 11 April. Hill-Lewis said his objective is to strengthen the party and demonstrate effective governance that benefits all South Africans. Speaking to VOC
The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) has welcomed the withdrawal of the proposed R20 billion tax increase in the 2026/2027 national budget, saying it provides temporary relief to taxpayers and small businesses. However, the organisation cautioned that the timing of the move, just ahead of local government elections, raises questions
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has opened a case against forensic investigator Paul O’Sullivan at Cape Town Central Police Station, citing contempt of Parliament under the Powers, Privileges and Immunities Act. O’Sullivan walked out of an ad hoc committee probing alleged criminal infiltration while he was still under oath. EFF
A new study has raised red flags about the marketing of baby food products in South Africa, warning that some companies may be sidestepping national health regulations designed to protect infants and support breastfeeding. Research conducted by Aneeqah Latief, a dietician and researcher at the University of the Western Cape,
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.
