Let’s wrap up some of the top stories happening in South Africa this week:
This week, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana presented the 2025 Budget Speech, proposing a 0.5% increase in VAT for 2025/26 and another in 2026/27, while forecasting consolidated spending to rise to R2.83 trillion by 2027/28.
South Africa faced a series of tragic bus accidents, with fatal collisions in Germiston, Johannesburg, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Free State, claiming numerous lives and leaving many injured.
Malawi’s court has approved the extradition of Shepherd Bushiri and his wife, Mary, to South Africa to face charges, including fraud, rape, and immigration violations.
The South African government is set to increase excise duties on alcohol and tobacco products, with a 6.75% rise for alcoholic beverages and 4.75% for tobacco, including cigarettes and vaping products.
Comedian and actor Ebenhaezer Dibakwane has tragically passed away at the age of 31, with early indications pointing to suicide. The family is awaiting confirmation from the post-mortem examination.
Here are the top stories of the week:
GOVERNMENT SPENDING TO REACH R2.83 TRILLION BY 2027/28
The South African government’s consolidated spending is set to rise from R2.4 trillion in 2024/25 to R2.83 trillion in 2027/28, growing at an annual rate of 5.6%, according to the National Treasury’s 2025 Budget Review. For 2025/26, spending will total R2.59 trillion, with 61% allocated to the social wage, covering health, education, social grants, and employment programmes.
Economic development will see the fastest growth at 8.1% annually, driven by increased infrastructure investments.
Key allocations include:
– Learning and Culture: R508.7 billion
– Health: R298.9 billion
– Social Development: R422.3 billion
– Economic Development: R289.8 billion
– Peace and Security: R266.1 billion
To address spending pressures of R232.6 billion over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), government has prioritized R46.7 billion for infrastructure, R35.2 billion for the COVID-19 social relief grant extension, and R23.4 billion for public service wage costs.
VAT TO HIT 16%
In response to mounting financial pressures in health, education, transport, and security, the South African government proposed an increase on value-added tax (VAT) by 0.5 percentage points annually over the next two years. This will bring the VAT rate to 16% by the 2026/27 financial year.
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced the decision on Wednesday, emphasizing the need to sustain essential public services. The first increase takes effect on 1 May 2025, followed by another on 1 April 2026. The minister stated that delaying these adjustments would hinder the government’s ability to meet its constitutional obligations.
COMEDIAN EBENHAEZER DIBAKWANE DIES AT 31, FAMILY REVEALS TRAGIC DETAILS
South African comedian and actor Ebenhaezer Dibakwane has tragically passed away at the age of 31. The comedian’s family has shared that early evidence points to suicide, though they await the confirmation of the post-mortem.
In a heartfelt statement, the Dibakwane family expressed their grief: “The past few days have been excruciating for us, as we battle to deal with this loss. Preliminary evidence suggests that Ebby died by suicide, which we expect will be confirmed by the post-mortem examination. We are touched and immensely grateful for the outpouring of love, comfort and support that we have been receiving from many.”
The family highlighted the contrast between Ebenhaezer’s infectious ability to make people laugh and his struggles with depression over the years.
Ebenhaezer Dibakwane passed away on Friday, 7 March 2025.
FOUR MAJOR BUS CRASHES IN A WEEK SPARK ROAD SAFETY CONCERNS
A string of tragic bus accidents has claimed multiple lives across South Africa in recent days. On 12 March, a school bus collided with a truck at the intersection of Blackreef and Dekema Road near Wadeville, Germiston.
This comes just a day after a devastating crash near Johannesburg killed at least 16 people and injured 45 others, with some passengers ejected as the bus overturned on the highway.
On 09 March, another deadly accident on the N2 in KwaZulu-Natal resulted in nine fatalities, including a young child. Earlier, on 5 March, a collision between a bus and a truck on the N6 in the Free State left ten people dead, leaving communities mourning their losses.
Authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution as investigations continue into these tragic incidents.
SOCIAL GRANTS SET TO INCREASE IN APRIL
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has confirmed that all social grants, except for the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, will increase from April 2025. This follows the announcement in the 2025 Budget Speech, where it was revealed that social grants will receive an allocation of R284.7 billion for the 2025/26 financial year.
The new grant amounts include:
– Old age grant: R2,315 (up from R2,185)
– War veterans grant: R2,335 (up from R2,205)
– Disability grant: R2,315 (up from R2,185)
– Foster care grant: R1,250 (up from R1,180)
– Care dependency grant: R2,315 (up from R2,185)
– Child support grant: R560 (up from R530)
– Grant-in-aid: R560 (up from R530)
Godongwana emphasized that South Africa’s social safety net remains one of the most extensive among emerging economies. Meanwhile, the future of the SRD grant will be determined by an ongoing review of labor market programs, set to conclude by September 2025.
MALAWI COURT RULES SHEPHERD BUSHIRI CAN BE EXTRADITED TO SOUTH AFRICA
A Malawian court has ruled that self-proclaimed prophet Shepherd Bushiri and his wife, Mary, can be extradited to South Africa to face trial on multiple criminal charges. The decision, confirmed by Malawi’s justice ministry, allows the couple to be tried for four out of ten charges, including rape, fraud, contravening financial laws, and violating immigration regulations.
Bushiri and his wife fled South Africa in 2020 while out on bail for a multi-million-rand fraud and money laundering case. Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, welcomed the ruling, stating that it reinforces judicial independence and international legal cooperation.
The South African government, in coordination with INTERPOL, is prepared to facilitate the extradition process. However, the Bushiris have indicated they will appeal the decision.
HEAVY RAINS EXPECTED IN KZN
An orange level 6 weather warning has been issued for parts of KwaZulu-Natal, with severe rains expected to cause widespread disruption from Thursday to Friday. Forecasts indicate heavy downpours in southeastern KZN, raising concerns over flooding, infrastructure damage, and risks to informal settlements.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has identified eThekwini, KwaDukuza, Mkhambathini, Ndwedwe, Ray Nkonyeni, Umdoni, Umuziwabantu, and Umzumbe as high-risk areas. A cold front and ridging high-pressure system are set to bring persistent showers and thunderstorms until Friday evening.
Authorities warn of potential service disruptions, including water, electricity, and communication outages. Residents are urged to avoid crossing swollen rivers, move valuables above flood levels, and turn off electricity at supply points. If trapped in a vehicle during floods, people should exit and seek higher ground.
Emergency services remain on high alert as the province braces for impact.
EXPECT HIGHER TAXES: ALCOHOL AND TOBACCO TO COST MORE
The government has announced plans to raise excise duties on alcohol and tobacco products above the expected inflation rate for the 2025/26 financial year. According to the National Treasury’s Budget Review, excise duties on alcoholic beverages will increase by 6.75%, while tobacco products—including cigarettes, cigarette tobacco, and vaping devices—will see a 4.75% hike. Pipe tobacco and cigars will also face a 6.75% increase.
The adjustments will take effect from April 1, 2025, as part of an effort to simplify implementation. The Treasury is also reviewing alcohol excise tax structures, with public consultations planned for 2025.
Some of the key excise duty increases include:
– Spirits: R94.46 per 750ml bottle (up from R88.49)
– Cigarettes: R22.81 per pack of 20 (up from R21.77)
– Unfortified wine: R5.95 per litre (up from R5.57)
– Sparkling wine: R19.03 per litre (up from R17.83)
The government says these measures aim to balance revenue collection with public health concerns.
CREATIVE INDUSTRY MOURNS LOSS OF JAY BADZA, FOUNDER OF ORCHARD ON 25
The creative agency Orchard on 25 has announced with deep sadness the passing of its founder and leader, Jay Badza, affectionately known as Mr. Jay.
Described as a “true visionary” by the agency, Jay’s legacy goes beyond his professional accomplishments. Orchard on 25 praised him for his unwavering commitment to nurturing young talent: “He wasn’t just a mentor but a guiding light who ignited the potential of countless individuals. His relentless pursuit of excellence not only transformed the industry—it transformed lives.”
Jay Badza founded Orchard on 25 in July 2017, growing the agency into a leading force in the creative industry, where his innovative approach left a lasting impact.
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH BANS CANNABIS EDIBLES, HEMP PRODUCTS IN SOUTH AFRICA
The Department of Health has officially banned the sale, importation, and manufacture of cannabis-infused food products, hemp seed oil, and hemp seed flour in South Africa. The new regulations, enacted under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics, and Disinfectants Act (1972), are legally binding and carry severe penalties for non-compliance, including hefty fines and possible imprisonment.
The sudden enforcement, gazetted on March 7, has sparked confusion and concern among businesses and consumers, leaving many in the industry seeking clarity on the evolving legal landscape of cannabis in the country.
Authorities have warned that any individual or company found selling or producing these banned products will face strict legal action.
PATRICE MOTSEPE RE-ELECTED AS CAF PRESIDENT FOR SECOND TERM
Dr Patrice Motsepe has secured a second four-year term as President of the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) after being re-elected unopposed. The announcement was made at the 14th CAF Extraordinary General Assembly in Cairo on Wednesday, confirming his leadership until 2029.
Motsepe’s first term was marked by financial stability and global growth for CAF, with record-breaking viewership at AFCON 2023 in Côte d’Ivoire and increased prize money for major tournaments. His re-election followed widespread support from Member Association Presidents and key stakeholders.
‘SJAVA DID NOT SEXUALLY ASSAULT ME’ – AMANDA BLACK SETS THE RECORD STRAIGHT
South African singer Amanda Black has dismissed online claims that fellow artist Sjava sexually assaulted her. The rumors surfaced after a viral post on X (formerly Twitter) linked her emotional moment during a live performance to unverified accusations.
In response to the speculation, Amanda Black issued a statement denying the claims: “Hi everyone. I have no idea where these rumours originated, but they are untrue and did not come from me. Sjava did not sexually assault me.”
Her statement comes amid growing concern from fans over the misleading allegations circulating on social media.
BROOS NAMES BAFANA SQUAD FOR UPCOMING WORLD CUP CLASHES AGAINST LESOTHO AND BENIN
Bafana Bafana coach, Hugo Broos, has revealed his final 23-man squad for this month’s crucial back-to-back FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin.
South Africa will first face Lesotho at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on Friday, 21 March, before heading to the coast to take on Benin on Tuesday, 25 March 2025. Bafana Bafana are in Group C of the qualifiers, alongside Rwanda, Benin, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, and Lesotho. After four matches, they have two wins, one draw, and one loss under their belt.
BAFANA BAFANA FULL SQUAD:
Goalkeepers:
Ronwen Williams [Mamelodi Sundowns]
Ricardo Goss [SuperSport United]
Sipho Chaine [Orlando Pirates]
Defenders:
Sydney Mobbie [SuperSport United]
Khulumani Ndamane [TS Galaxy]
Thabo Moloisane [Stellenbosch FC]
Nkosinathi Sibisi [Orlando Pirates]
Aubrey Modiba [Mamelodi Sundowns]
Siyabonga Ngezana [FCSB FC]
Khuliso Mudau [Mamelodi Sundowns]
Fawaaz Basadien [Stellenbosch FC]
Midfielders:
Teboho Mokoena [Mamelodi Sundowns]
Jayden Adams [Mamelodi Sundowns]
Bathusi Aubaas [Mamelodi Sundowns]
Thalente Mbatha [Orlando Pirates]
Forwards:
Oswin Appollis [Polokwane City]
Iqraam Rayners [Mamelodi Sundowns]
Patrick Maswanganyi [Orlando Pirates]
Relebohile Mofokeng [Orlando Pirates]
Elias Mokwana [ES Tunis]
Lyle Foster [Burnley FC]
Percy Tau [Qatar SC]
Thapelo Morena [Mamelodi Sundowns]
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