Why the SASSA Old-Age Grant May Be Less Than R2 400
Learn why SASSA Old-Age Grant payments may be less than R2 400 due to a means-tested sliding scale based on your assessed annual income.
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November 2026 (7)
School holidays add food costs for South African families
South African families face increased financial strain during the December school holidays as the National School Nutrition Programme pauses for the break.
How motorists can soften rising fuel costs
South African motorists can mitigate the impact of rising fuel prices by improving driving efficiency and utilizing fuel reward programs.
Meat drives South Africa’s food inflation as broader price pressures rise
Statistics South Africa reports that rising meat prices are the primary driver of food inflation as headline consumer prices climb to 4.5 percent.
KeyHealth ordered to fully fund rare-disease treatment
The Council for Medical Schemes has ordered KeyHealth to provide full, unconditional funding for a teenager's rare blood disorder treatment.
South Africa’s expected November fuel price relief
South Africa will see petrol prices drop by 50 cents per litre in November 2026, alongside significant temporary reductions to the General Fuel Levy.
Homeowners Face Triple Costs for Private Utilities
South African homeowners are facing a triple financial burden as they pay for municipal rates, private utility backups, and additional municipal
October 2026 (29)
How the repo rate affects South African borrowing costs
Learn how the South African Reserve Bank repo rate influences the prime lending rate and impacts variable-rate loan repayments for South African consumers.
Treasury Plans Permanent Fuel Levy Overhaul
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced plans to replace fuel levies with alternative revenue sources to lower petrol and diesel prices in South
Tax risks of large bank balances
Holding large cash balances in local and offshore accounts can trigger significant tax liabilities for South African residents due to interest income
Why South African Medical Aid Contributions Are Rising in 2027
South African medical aid schemes are raising contributions by 7.35% to 8.9% for 2027, driven by higher healthcare costs and increased service utilisation.
Basic food basket rises to R5,512.53 in October
The cost of a basic food basket for low-income families in South Africa rose to R5,512.53 in October 2026, driven by rising prices for core staple foods.
How South Africa’s two-pot retirement system works
South Africa's two-pot retirement system allows early access to savings. Learn how the system works, contribution splits, and the long-term financial
Cheaper food offers limited relief as transport costs rise
South African households face mixed economic news as lower food prices for maize and fruit are offset by rising transport and rental costs.
SARS filing deadline passes for non-provisional taxpayers
The 2026 tax filing season for non-provisional taxpayers has closed. SARS warns that late returns may incur monthly administrative penalties.
Building Versus Buying a Home in South Africa
Building a new home in South Africa costs 20% to 30% more than buying an existing property, with significant price variations across different provinces.
Forecourt shoppers cut broader spending as inland petrol tops R30/l
A Trade Intelligence survey reveals that 92 percent of South African forecourt shoppers have reduced broader spending as inland petrol prices exceed R30.
Restaurant agreement raises closure and job-loss fears
Fedhasa warns that a new collective bargaining agreement extending to all South African restaurants could force small businesses to close and cut jobs.
Gauteng 95 petrol price surges 43% in just over a year
The price of 95 unleaded petrol in Gauteng has surged by 43 percent in just over a year, reaching R30.25 per litre by October 2026.
Rand Water Warns Gauteng Municipalities Over Excessive Consumption
Rand Water has issued a formal warning to Johannesburg, Tshwane, and Emfuleni, threatening supply cuts due to water consumption exceeding licensed limits.
Godongwana expected to cut 2026 growth forecast
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana is expected to lower South Africa's 2026 economic growth forecast following the impact of the US-Iran conflict.
Godongwana faces fuel levy pressure before 2026 MTBPS
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana faces mounting pressure to suspend the fuel levy in the 2026 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement to provide cost relief.
Sassa revises November grant payment schedule for elections
Sassa has updated the November 2026 social grant payment schedule in South Africa to accommodate the Local Government elections held on 4 November.
Empowering Voters: How to Shape South Africa's Urban Future Before Elections
South African voters can shape urban development and service delivery by pushing municipalities for better planning before the 2026 local elections.
South Africa to Release 2.5 Million Hectares of State Land to Black Farmers
South Africa's government will release 2.5 million hectares of state land to black farmers to address historical inequalities and boost agriculture.
South Africa's R68 Billion Illicit Trade Crisis
South Africa faces a R68 billion illicit trade crisis, impacting the economy, state revenue, and public safety. Experts warn of serious consequences if
Ramaphosa Pushes for Agricultural Transformation, Land Release for Black Farmers
President Ramaphosa is releasing 2.5 million hectares of state land to black farmers to transform agriculture, boost output, and create new commercial
Special Vote Application Deadline Looms for 2026 Local Government Elections
The application deadline for special votes for South Africa's 2026 Local Government Elections is today, October 12, 2026, at 5 pm.
Petrol could rise nearly R5/l in November
Early Central Energy Fund projections indicate that petrol prices in South Africa could increase by nearly R5 per litre in November 2026.
Boxer prices fell, but food inflation looms
Boxer Superstores reported a 2.4% average price decrease over six months, but the retailer warns that rising food inflation may soon return to South
SARS can chase tax debts as low as R5,000
The South African Revenue Service is intensifying debt collection efforts, targeting taxpayers with outstanding debts as low as R5,000 through third
Transport department plans tighter identification rules for traffic documents
South Africa's transport department plans to amend regulations to stop traffic register certificates and driving licences from being used as general IDs.
Tshwane mother’s petrol frustration resonates nationwide
A Tshwane mother's viral TikTok video highlighting the impact of rising petrol prices on her household budget has struck a chord with South Africans.
South Africa launches National Opt-Out Registry to curb spam calls
The National Consumer Commission has launched a national opt-out registry allowing South Africans to block unsolicited marketing calls and text messages.
Johannesburg's Mayoral Choice: A Call for Ruthless Leadership
Johannesburg's severe financial and operational crises demand a ruthless leader to combat corruption and incompetence, according to one analysis.
October fuel hikes deepen household cost pressure
South African fuel prices surged in October 2026, with petrol and diesel hikes expected to increase transport costs and pressure household budgets.
September 2026 (64)
Street Race Leads to Multiple Arrests, Patrol Vehicle Collision
A street race from Cape Town CBD resulted in a Mercedes crashing into a patrol vehicle. Three drivers were arrested, with a fourth later detained for
The ANC's Political Emancipation: A First Step Towards True Liberation
The ANC's political emancipation is a first step, but true liberation requires addressing South Africa's persistent economic and social inequality.
ProNutro Cereal Discontinued in South Africa After Taste Reformulation Fails
ProNutro cereal is being discontinued entirely in South Africa after a taste reformulation failed to meet consumer expectations.
Minors Among 11 Arrested in Cape Town Smash-and-Grab Crackdown
Eleven suspected smash-and-grab offenders, including three minors, were arrested in Cape Town over five weeks during a crackdown on rising roadside
Cruel Feather Harvesting Exposed in South African Ostrich Farms Supplying Luxury Brands
South African ostrich farms use cruel feather plucking methods on live birds for luxury brands, exposing animal welfare concerns.
Misgund Residents Face Daily Water Crisis Amidst Failing Infrastructure
Misgund residents in the Eastern Cape face a daily water crisis, with households receiving supply for only one to two hours or going without for days due
Suspected Serial Rapist Remanded in Custody in Durban
A 46-year-old suspected serial rapist linked to 14 incidents in Cato Manor and potentially dating back to 2014 has been remanded in custody in Durban.
ANC's Descent: Registration Blunders and Internal Strife Signal Decline
The ANC faces legal challenges and criticism for failing to register candidates for local elections, highlighting the party's decline.
Villiersdorp Police Station Cells Dilapidated, Risking Escapes
Dilapidated cells at Villiersdorp police station risk criminal escapes and hinder police operations, according to DA MP Nicholas Gotsell.
Cape Town Data Centre Approval Suspended Amid Process Reform Calls
Cape Town's MPT suspends Equinix data centre approval due to evidence gaps, prompting the city to reform its development process.
South Africa Braces for Severe Weekend Storms
South Africa braces for severe weekend storms, with warnings issued for thunderstorms, heavy downpours, damaging winds, and flooding across multiple
Street Racing Violence Injures Officers, Damages Vehicles in Paarden Eiland
Two City of Cape Town Traffic Services officers were injured and three vehicles damaged during a violent illegal street racing incident in Paarden Eiland.
President Ramaphosa's Return to Public Life Uncertain Amidst Illness
President Cyril Ramaphosa's return to public engagements is uncertain after the Presidency confirmed he is booked off due to ill health and advised to
South Africa's Cycle of Violence: A 'Monday Cane' Justice System
South Africa's justice system is a 'Monday cane,' prioritizing retrospective punishment over proactive prevention, perpetuating a cycle of violence and
Community Resilience: The Unsung Heroes Saving Johannesburg
Community groups and CIDs are vital in preventing Johannesburg's collapse, stepping in to provide essential services as the city grapples with systemic
Woman Dies After Kidnapping, Torture, and Robbery in Cape Town
A 56-year-old woman, Nomakhwezi Zitha, died from head injuries after being kidnapped, tortured, and robbed in Cape Town. Authorities are investigating.
Afghan Trafficking Kingpin Extradited to US, Echoing Past South African Drug Cases
Afghan trafficking kingpin Abdul Ahir Qadeer was extradited from Kenya to the US in July 2026 to face drug and weapons trafficking charges.
Cape Town Considers Water Restrictions Amid Falling Dam Levels
Cape Town is considering water restrictions as dam levels fall and a hotter, drier summer is forecast. The city is assessing water availability and
South African Parties Embrace Humor and Unconventional Tactics in Digital Election Campaigns
South African political parties are using humor, impersonations, and food promises in digital campaigns to engage voters ahead of local elections.
New Study Reveals Alarming Decline in Global Coral Reef Health
New study reveals alarming decline in global coral reef health, citing rising ocean temperatures, acidification, and pollution as primary causes. Urgent
FF Plus Rules Out Coalitions with EFF, MK, and PAC
FF Plus leader Dr. Corné Mulder states the party will not form coalitions with the EFF, MK Party, or PAC after local elections due to differing values and
South Africa's Agricultural Sector Better Prepared for El Niño Drought
South Africa's agricultural sector is better prepared for El Niño drought due to higher dam levels and improved resilience, despite severe forecasts.
Severe Storms Batter KwaZulu-Natal, Disrupting Roads and Settlements
Severe storms, including heavy rain, hail, and strong winds, have impacted KwaZulu-Natal, disrupting roads and settlements, particularly in the eThekwini
South African Runners Unite in Grief and Advocacy After Runner's Death
South African runners unite in grief and advocacy for women's safety following the death of Elizabeth Moselakgomo in Kempton Park.
Air Pollution Linked to Increased Invasive Pneumococcal Disease Risk in South Africa, Study Finds
Study finds higher PM2.5 air pollution linked to increased invasive pneumococcal disease risk in South Africa, varying by age and bacterial strain.
SARS Commissioner Shifts Focus to Taxpayer Relationships
SARS Commissioner Johnstone Makhubu is shifting the agency's focus from aggressive revenue collection to building trust and stronger relationships with
South Africa Secures $1 Billion NDB Loan for Municipal Infrastructure Upgrade
South Africa secures $1 billion NDB loan for metropolitan municipal infrastructure upgrades under the Metro Trading Services Reform Programme.
69th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference Opens in Cape Town
The 69th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference opened in Cape Town with over 900 delegates, focusing on multilateralism and the rule of law.
Beyond Saviours: Cultivating Collective Leadership for South Africa's Democracy
South Africa's democracy needs collective leadership and active citizenship, moving beyond reliance on individual saviours to strengthen its democratic
The Widespread Danger Facing Women in South Africa
Four women were found murdered in Kempton Park, South Africa, raising alarm about the pervasive danger women face nationwide and prompting calls for
South Africa Urged to Confront Suicide Crisis
South Africa faces a daily suicide crisis with 23 deaths and 460 attempts. Experts urge confronting stigma and improving mental health care access.
Tiffany Meek Murder Trial Resumes in Johannesburg
The murder trial of Tiffany Meek, accused of killing her son Jayden-Lee Meek, resumes in Johannesburg High Court. Meek has pleaded not guilty.
South African Homeownership: The Gap Between Earning Potential and Reality
South African homeownership is complex. While average salaries might theoretically qualify for a bond, living expenses and repayments make it difficult.
South Africa's 'Weigh-and-Pay' Shops Combat Food Poverty and the 'Poverty Tax'
South Africa's 'weigh-and-pay' shops combat food poverty and the 'poverty tax' by selling goods in small, affordable quantities by weight.
TGRC Drives South Africa's Glass Recycling Ecosystem Through Member Investment
The Glass Recycling Company (TGRC) strengthens South Africa's glass recycling ecosystem through member investment, fostering a circular economy and
South Africa's Medical Schemes Reviewing Prescribed Minimum Benefits for Primary Healthcare Overhaul
South Africa's Council for Medical Schemes is reviewing Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMBs) to create a new primary healthcare package, aiming to reduce
At Least 21 Dead in South Africa Minibus Taxi Crash
At least 21 people died and four were seriously injured in a crash involving two minibus taxis and an SUV on South Africa's N1 highway.
South Africa Aims to Restore Direct Flights to India to Boost Economic Ties
South Africa aims to restore direct flights to India to boost trade, tourism, and economic ties, according to President Cyril Ramaphosa.
SAPS Investigates Four Kempton Park Deaths, Warns Women to Exercise Caution
SAPS is investigating four suspicious deaths of women in Kempton Park, urging residents to exercise caution due to concerning similarities.
India's Solar Industries to Acquire South Africa's Omnia for R21.8 Billion
India's Solar Industries will acquire South Africa's Omnia for R21.8 billion, a deal that will lead to Omnia's delisting from the JSE.
South African Reserve Bank's New R2 Coins: AI-Assisted Design Sparks Discussion
South Africa's Reserve Bank launched new R2 coins, with one commemorating the 1956 Women's March featuring AI-assisted design elements.
South Africa's Water Crisis: Progressive Laws Fail to Deliver
South Africa's progressive water laws fail to deliver clean water and sanitation to millions due to bureaucracy, corruption, and weak political commitment.
New R3.2 Billion Afrikaans University Campus Under Construction in Tshwane
A new R3.2 billion Afrikaans university campus is under construction in Mooiplaats, Tshwane, developed by Akademia and the Solidarity Movement, marking a
Iqbal Survé Trust Opens Applications for Bursaries
The Iqbal Survé Bursary Trust has opened applications for South African students pursuing studies in medicine, science, and business. Financial aid is
Nine South African Companies Named Among World's Best by Time Magazine
Nine South African companies are recognized on Time Magazine's inaugural list of the world's best businesses, evaluated on overall performance.
Minister Demands Action Amid Surge in Attacks on Women Exercising
Minister Chikunga demands urgent action against rising attacks on women exercising, including four murders in Kempton Park, to ensure public safety.
South African Parliament's Oversight Lacks Accountability, Report Finds
South African Parliament's oversight mechanisms fail to ensure accountability, according to a new report. The focus needs to shift from activity to
SAPS Investigates String of Kempton Park Deaths
SAPS is investigating the deaths of four women found in Kempton Park, Gauteng, over two months. The victims showed similar injuries, raising safety
South Africa's Economy Reverses Course in Q2 2026 Amidst Rising Import Costs
South Africa's economy contracted by 0.2% in Q2 2026, with GDP falling and the current account moving into deficit due to rising import costs.
SARS Embraces Digital Future to Boost Revenue and Compliance
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) is digitizing tax administration to boost revenue collection and compliance, focusing on people, modernization
South African Parliament's Oversight: Activity vs. Accountability
South Africa's Parliament saw a rise in oversight activities, with 7,771 questions posed and 1,187 meetings held. Yet, questions remain about its
Pilchard Virus Outbreak Triggers Fears for South Africa's Canned Fish Supply
A pilchard herpesvirus outbreak in South Africa has caused mass fish die-offs, sparking concerns for canned fish supply, the fishing industry, and the
Pensioner Loses Court Bid Over Shelter Eviction, Court Rules Facility Not a 'Home'
A pensioner lost her court bid challenging eviction from a Western Cape shelter. The court ruled the facility was not her "home" under eviction law.
Delft Named South Africa's Hijacking Epicenter Amidst National Decline
Delft has become South Africa's hijacking epicenter with 249 incidents, despite a national decline in carjacking during 2025/26.
South Africa's Processed Meat Dilemma: Navigating MDM Imports and Food Security
South Africa imports nearly 240,000 tonnes of chicken MDM annually for processed meats, relying heavily on foreign sources due to low domestic production.
South Africa Faces "Valley of Death" in Research Commercialisation, Calls for "Twin Strategy"
South Africa faces a 'valley of death' in research commercialisation, needing a 'twin strategy' of increased government and private sector investment to
Man Arrested for Trespassing at Parliament Precinct
A man was arrested for allegedly trespassing and sleeping inside Cape Town's Parliament precinct after scaling a fence. He is in police custody.
Beyond Superficiality: Fostering Genuine Understanding This Heritage Month
South Africa's Heritage Month should focus on fostering genuine understanding of diverse histories and traditions, moving beyond superficial celebrations.
Historic Royal Hotel Remains Closed Amidst Tender Woes and Worker Dispute
The historic Royal Hotel in Pilgrim's Rest has been closed for years due to worker and tender disputes. The provincial government struggles to find a new
Architecture Must Drive Spatial Justice in South Africa, Minister Urges
South Africa's minister urges architects to drive spatial justice, addressing inequalities and shaping equitable communities through design.
South Africa Sweeps Namibia Series with Dominant Final ODI Win
South Africa completed a series sweep against Namibia with a dominant nine-wicket win in the final ODI. Opener Connor Esterhuizen scored an unbeaten 68.
South Africa and China Explore Mining and Metallurgy Innovation Alliance
South Africa and China explore a mining and metallurgy innovation alliance to boost mineral processing, technology transfer, and battery material
Navigating Election Promises: A Voter's Guide to Political Spin
Voters in South Africa must learn to identify political spin and critically evaluate election promises to make informed choices in the upcoming local
DA's Zille Courts Soweto Votes Amidst Historical Distrust
DA candidate Helen Zille campaigns in Soweto, a traditional ANC stronghold, seeking votes for Johannesburg mayoral election amidst historical distrust.