South African Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago said greater competition in payment services could drive innovation and reduce costs for consumers, but regulation must keep pace with changes in the sector. Speaking at the bank’s Payments Conference 2026, Kganyago said non-bank providers should be allowed to offer certain payment services
Former president Thabo Mbeki has dismissed as a “complete fabrication” allegations that he held secret meetings with apartheid-era generals to protect them from prosecution for crimes committed under apartheid. Mbeki made the remarks while testifying before the Khampepe Commission, which is investigating alleged political interference and delays in prosecuting apartheid-era
By Odwa Bafana Mkentane Anti-human trafficking organisation Shattering Shackles is facing a funding crisis as it continues its efforts to combat human trafficking in South Africa. The organisation plays a crucial role in supporting victims and raising awareness about trafficking, but limited resources threaten its ability to sustain its operations
Economist Khaya Sithole says any relief South Africans may receive from rising fuel prices is likely to be temporary, with government facing difficult trade-offs as Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana prepares to deliver the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement on Wednesday, 21 October. The statement will outline government’s updated economic forecasts, spending
By Odwa Bafana Mkentane The growth of South Africa’s illicit cigarette trade is raising concerns about lost tax revenue and the impact on the country’s economy. A new Ipsos study, commissioned by British American Tobacco South Africa, has found that cigarettes priced below the minimum collectable tax threshold remain widely
Western Cape Social Development MEC Wendy Kaizer-Philander has welcomed the decision by the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration’s Essential Services Committee to designate critical child protection services as essential services. Kaizer-Philander said the decision is an important step towards strengthening safeguards for vulnerable children and recognising the vital role
National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola said his return to duty marks a renewed commitment to unity, accountability, institutional reform and improved frontline policing. Masemola addressed the media following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision last week to lift his suspension. He stressed that the South African Police Service (SAPS) is bigger than
The Madlanga Commission has welcomed the arrest of North West businessman Suliman Carrim at OR Tambo International Airport in Gauteng on Thursday night. Carrim appeared before the commission in March but missed subsequent hearings, citing medical reasons. Commission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels said charges were laid against Carrim after he failed
As the world marks World Food Day on 16 October, attention is turning to the need to address hunger and improve access to safe, nutritious food. Despite South Africa’s strong agricultural sector, many households continue to struggle to afford adequate meals amid high unemployment, poverty, inequality and rising living costs.
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.
