Let’s wrap up some of the top stories happening in South Africa this week!
This week in South Africa, top of the trending news include a notable drop in annual consumer price inflation, which fell to 4.6% in July, the lowest rate since July 2021. This decrease is largely due to lower costs in food, transport, and housing.
However, the consumer price index (CPI) still saw a slight monthly rise of 0.4%. On the labor front, Johannesburg faced major disruptions as 10,000 workers from the South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU) went on strike, demanding R10.3 million in unpaid wages. The strike led to the blockage of the M1 highway, causing severe traffic issues and impacting both the M1 and M2 highways.
In other news, Chief Justice Raymond Zondo is set to retire at the end of August, with Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya taking over on 01 September 2024.
Meanwhile, controversial pastor Paseka ‘Mboro’ Motsoeneng and his bodyguard, along with a co-accused, were denied bail by the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court. They are facing charges related to the alleged abduction of two minors from a school in Katlehong, a case that has drawn significant public attention.
Here are the top stories of the week:
SOUTH AFRICA’S INFLATION FALLS TO 4.6% IN JULY, THE LOWEST IN THREE YEARS
Annual consumer price inflation in South Africa dropped to 4.6% in July, down from 5.1% in June, marking the lowest rate since July 2021. The decrease is attributed to lower rates in food & non-alcoholic beverages, transport, and housing & utilities. However, the consumer price index (CPI) saw a monthly increase of 0.4%.
Despite an overall dip in food inflation, bread and cereals recorded a rise, while electricity tariffs continue to grow at a significant rate, outpacing other utility costs. Fuel prices also saw a second consecutive monthly decline.
SAMWU WORKERS STRIKE CLOSES DOWN M1 HIGHWAY IN JOHANNESBURG
On Thursday, 10,000 workers from the South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU) in Johannesburg went on strike, blocking the M1 highway in Braamfontein with dump trucks. The workers, including Pikitup employees and city administrators, are demanding R10.3 million in back pay they claim the metro has not paid. The strike, fueled by a wage dispute, has led to the complete closure of the M1 highway, causing significant traffic disruptions.
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has alerted the public that both the M1 and M2 highways will be severely impacted by the ongoing protest.
ZAMBIAN NATIONAL ARRESTED AT OR TAMBO AIRPORT FOR KIDNAPPING AND DRUG SYNDICATE
A 40-year-old Zambian national was arrested at OR Tambo International Airport upon arrival from Zambia on Sunday morning. The suspect, believed to be a ringleader of a kidnapping-for-ransom syndicate targeting South African businessmen, is linked to the kidnapping of a 63-year-old businessman in Roodepoort in July.
The same day the businessman was rescued, police discovered R300 million worth of crystal meth in Fourways and Bruma, allegedly tied to the suspect. A multidisciplinary team, including SAPS and private security, made the arrest. The suspect will be charged alongside eight others.
PASTOR MBORO AND BODYGUARD DENIED BAIL – WILL REMAIN BEHIND BARS
Pastor Paseka ‘Mboro’ Motsoeneng and his bodyguard, Clement Baloyi, have been denied bail by the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court. The pair, along with co-accused Vincent Motsoeneng, faced charges related to the alleged forceful removal of two minor children from a school in Katlehong earlier this month. Despite arguments from state prosecutor Pheello Vilakazi that the accused misled the court with false addresses, this claim was not sufficiently proven.
While Pastor Mboro and Baloyi remain in custody, Vincent Motsoeneng has been released on a warning.
CHIEF JUSTICE ZONDO TO RETIRE
Chief Justice Raymond Zondo will retire at the end of August, paving the way for Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya to assume the role on September 1, 2024. Zondo’s tenure, lasting just over 24 months, has been marked by significant contributions, including his leadership of the State Capture Commission and his work in labour law. His brief but impactful term draws comparisons to Chief Justice Sandile Ngcobo, who served for 21 months.
Zondo’s career, beginning as a labour attorney and including pivotal involvement in the Labour Relations Act of 1995, leaves a lasting legacy in South Africa’s judiciary.
NIGERIANS AND SOUTH AFRICANS CLASH ON UBER AND BOLT
A new online clash has erupted between Nigerians and South Africans involving Uber and Bolt ride-hailing services. Reports indicate that South Africans have begun ordering rides from Nigerian drivers and canceling them upon arrival, sending drivers on fruitless errands.
Nigerians have responded in kind, creating a cycle of wasted effort and resources for both parties. Screenshots of the cancellations reveal mocking comments from South Africans referencing recent xenophobic incidents, including the withdrawal of Nigerian-born South African Chidimma Adetshina from a beauty pageant. This disturbing trend underscores rising tensions and misuse of digital platforms.
HEALTH DEPARTMENT: MPOX OUTBREAK UNDER CONTROL
The Department of Health has assured South Africans that the current Mpox outbreak is under control but warns against complacency. With the unpredictability of viruses, the department stresses the need for continued vigilance, emphasizing non-pharmaceutical measures like personal hygiene. South Africa remains on high alert, considering additional treatments and vaccines based on epidemiological data.
Despite the WHO declaring Mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, no trade or travel restrictions have been imposed. The department continues to work with stakeholders to intensify surveillance and early detection efforts as the country records 24 cases, including three deaths.
Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, confirmed 24 cases nationwide, with 12 in Gauteng, 11 in KwaZulu-Natal, and one in the Western Cape. The outbreak has resulted in three deaths, while 19 have recovered, and two remain in home isolation. Cabinet urges the public to support efforts to curb the spread by maintaining vigilant hygiene practices.
NATIONAL HEALTH LABORATORY SERVICE FULLY OPERATIONAL AFTER CYBER ATTACK
Deputy Minister of Health, Dr. Joe Phaahla, announced that the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) has fully restored its operations after a cyber attack in June. The attack severely disrupted essential public health services. The NHLS Board and Executive Management updated Phaahla on the recovery efforts and future prevention plans.
The NHLS, which supports over 85% of South Africa’s population through 230 labs, is critical for patient diagnosis and clinical outcomes. Phaahla commended the swift restoration and urged stronger defenses against future cyber threats.
WILLIAM SMITH, ICONIC TV MATH TEACHER, PASSES AWAY AT 85
William Smith, the beloved mathematics teacher who made learning accessible through television, has passed away at the age of 85 after a long battle with cancer. Smith, born in Makhanda, Eastern Cape, became a household name in the 1990s with his groundbreaking “Learning Channel” on SABC 2. His innovative teaching methods brought mathematics and science to millions, especially during the national exam period.
Over his 25-year teaching career, Smith is estimated to have educated nearly a million students. He passed away at his home in Perth, Australia, surrounded by family.
ESKOM CRACKS DOWN ON ILLEGAL CONNECTED TRANSFORMERS IN DIEPSLOOT
Eskom, in partnership with law enforcement agencies, has removed over 35 illegally connected transformers in Diepsloot Extension 6, Gauteng. This operation is part of Eskom’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal electricity connections, which cost the utility around R5 billion in the 2022/23 financial year. These unlawful practices not only strain the power grid but also pose safety risks and disrupt service for paying customers.
Eskom’s Group Executive for Distribution, Monde Bala, praised the collaboration with SAPS, JMPD, and private security for ensuring the operation’s success.
LAST ZOO ELEPHANT FREED AFTER 40 YEARS IN CAPTIVITY
Charlie, an elephant who spent four decades in captivity, has been released back to the wild. Captured in 1984 from Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park at age two, Charlie was first taken to Boswell Wilkie Circus in South Africa for performance training.
In the early 2000s, he was moved to South Africa’s national zoo. Recent concerns from animal welfare groups about his health led to his release. Charlie’s return to the wild marks a significant moment for animal welfare and conservation efforts.
BOKS GEAR UP FOR UPCOMING TESTS AGAINST NEW ZEALAND
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has strengthened his squad by recalling three Rugby World Cup winners—Steven Kitshoff (prop), Jaden Hendrikse (scrumhalf), and Canan Moodie (utility back)—who have recovered from injuries. The squad now includes 37 players as the Boks prepare for two highly anticipated Castle Lager Rugby Championship Tests against New Zealand, scheduled at Emirates Airline Park in Johannesburg on 31 August and DHL Stadium in Cape Town on 7 September.
Erasmus also brought back Jasper Wiese (No. 8), Andre Esterhuizen (centre), and Nicolaas Janse van Rensburg (lock) as the team assembles in Johannesburg. With key locks Franco Mostert, Lood de Jager, and Jean Kleyn still sidelined due to injuries, Janse van Rensburg’s return marks his first call-up since his debut in 2021.
The squad retains 31 of the 33 players who recently toured Australia, where the Boks secured historic back-to-back victories against the Wallabies. With the return of Hendrikse and the versatile Jan-Hendrik Wessels, Morne van den Berg and Johan Grobbelaar have been excluded but remain on standby.
Erasmus emphasized the challenge ahead, noting that New Zealand, ranked third globally, will test the Boks to the limit, especially after the All Blacks’ recent 42-10 victory over Argentina.
QATAR AIRWAYS BUYS A STAKE IN SA’S AIRLINE AIRLINK
Qatar Airways has bought a 25% stake in South Africa’s regional airline, Airlink. This partnership is all about boosting Qatar Airways’ presence across Africa.
Airlink, which connects over 45 destinations across 15 African countries, will now team up even more closely with Qatar Airways, thanks to this deal. The investment is a big win for Qatar Airways’ Africa strategy, showing their commitment to the region.
As part of the partnership, Qatar Airways and Airlink will align their loyalty programs, offering enhanced benefits to customers. Qatar Airways currently serves 29 destinations in Africa, with recent additions including Abidjan, Accra, Harare, and Lusaka, further solidifying its presence on the continent.
SABC SECURES RIGHTS TO BROADCAST ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE MATCHES
The SABC has secured the rights to broadcast 33 live matches from the 2024/2025 English Premier League season.
SABC Sport will be the main channel to broadcast all the live matches, with SABC 3, www.sabcsport.com, and SABC+ streaming them simultaneously.
SABC Sport will broadcast one live Premier League match every Saturday at 3pm.
The 2024/2025 Premier League season started on Saturday, 17 August, with the SABC kicking off its coverage with the Arsenal vs. Wolverhampton Wanderers match.
A total of 33 live matches will be broadcast.
The matches will include a live studio build-up, with match previews and the latest team and player news, presented by SABC Sport anchors and analysts.
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