# News

- Link: https://dearsouthafrica.co.za/news-2/
- Published: 2024-01-03T16:23:08+02:00
- Author: dearSA

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### MINISTER CREECY’S 0% ALCOHOL LIMIT IS AN IRRATIONAL DISTRACTION

##### Transport Minister Barbara Creecy’s ongoing push to amend Section 65 of the National Road Traffic Act and lower South Africa’s permissible blood alcohol concentration limit from 0.05g/100ml to an absolute zero is not just unworkable—it is an ill-informed and irrational idea.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/21143401/Strict-
zero-percent-alcohol-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://dearsouthafrica.co.za/news-2/zero-percent-alcohol-limit/)

### THE TROJAN HORSE IN YOUR BACKYARD: MUNICIPAL BY-LAWS, POLITICAL GASLIGHTING, AND THE COST OF SILENCE

##### When citizens think of government overreach, their minds naturally drift to Parliament: controversial national statutes, sweeping ministerial decrees, and contentious constitutional amendments. Yet the most pervasive, invasive erosion of personal liberty in South Africa rarely arrives through a presidential proclamation. It creeps in quietly through municipal gazettes, tucked inside mundane local by-laws that slip beneath the public radar until an enforcement officer knocks on the front door.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/06151712/JP-Smith_CoCT-
Animal-by-law-SM-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://dearsouthafrica.co.za/news-2/the-trojan-horse-in-your-backyard/)

### THE GREAT SOLAR BAIT-AND-SWITCH: HOW THE STATE RECRUITS CITIZENS TO SAVE THE GRID, THEN PENALISES THEM FOR DOING SO

##### There is a distinct regulatory cynicism in watching a government plead with its citizens to spend their own life savings to resolve a national crisis, only to brand those very same citizens as economic freeloaders the moment the crisis abates.

![The Great Solar Bait-and-Switch: How the State Recruits Citizens to Save the Grid,
Then Penalises Them for Doing It](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/
2026/08/28154340/SOLAR-BAIT-AND-SWITCH-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://dearsouthafrica.co.za/news-2/the-great-solar-bait-and-switch/)

### NEW CONSPIRACY, INSTIGATION & INCITEMENT LAWS ARE COMING

##### New laws are set to be implemented in South Africa to replace the Riotous Assemblies Act, which was deemed unconstitutional.

![New laws are set to be implemented in South Africa to replace the Riotous Assemblies
Act, which was deemed unconstitutional.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/
uploads/2026/08/23141244/Conspiracy-Instigation-and-Incitement-to-Commit-Offence-
Bill-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/871490/new-conspiracy-instigation-and-incitement-laws-for-south-africa-are-coming/)

### NEW MUNICIPAL DEMARCATION LAWS SENT TO RAMAPHOSA TO SIGN

##### New laws will replace the country’s existing municipal demarcation framework, changing how municipal boundaries and wards are determined.

![New laws will replace the country’s existing municipal demarcation framework, 
changing how municipal boundaries and wards are determined.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/14122851/new-municipal-demarcation-laws-1024x1024.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/869949/new-laws-sent-to-ramaphosa-to-sign/)

### NEW SMOKING AND VAPING LAWS A STEP CLOSER

##### The Portfolio Committee on Health has begun clause-by-clause deliberations on South Africa’s new smoking laws, bringing the years-long, oft-delayed legislation closer to reality.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/14120513/new-smoking-
laws-1-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/870154/strict-new-smoking-laws-for-south-africa-step-closer/)

### END OF TV LICENCES IN SOUTH AFRICA

##### The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) intends to remove TV licences in the country, as the system becomes increasingly ignored, with a new plan coming in the 2028 financial year.

![In the 2025 financial year, there were over 1 million unpaid TV licence fees, 
representing an 85% non-payment rate.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/
uploads/2026/07/30171442/SABC-NON-PAYMENT-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/media/867808/end-of-tv-licences-in-south-africa/)

### SOUTH AFRICA SENDS A MESSAGE TO THE UNITED STATES

##### South Africa says it will continue to engage with the United States in an effort to reduce or remove the latest tariffs imposed by Washington. However, it made it clear that it will not abandon key domestic policies such as black economic empowerment (BEE).

![South Africa sends a message to the United States](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/27170748/US-duties-301-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/867485/south-africas-message-to-the-united-states-after-another-blow/)

### CAPE TOWN'S UNLAWFUL RUBBISH AND WATER CHARGES ON HOMEOWNERS

##### The City of Cape Town will have to overhaul the way it charges homeowners for certain municipal services. This comes after the Western Cape High Court ruled that several property value-linked levies are unlawful.

![The City of Cape Town will have to overhaul the way it charges homeowners for 
certain municipal services. This comes after the Western Cape High Court ruled that
several property value-linked levies are unlawful.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/24145820/COCT-loses-court-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/867348/cape-towns-unlawful-rubbish-and-water-charges-on-homeowners/)

### RAMAPHOSA BANKS ON NEW STATE OWNED COMPANY AND NEW LAWS

##### President Cyril Ramaphosa says a new state-owned entity, the National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency, and new laws in the Water Services Amendment Bill will help South Africa’s water crisis.

![National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.
za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/23101050/National-Water-Resources-Infrastructure-Agency-
1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/866799/ramaphosa-banks-on-new-state-owned-company-and-new-laws-for-south-africa/)

### WARNING OVER NEW RULES FOR SPAM CALLS

##### New regulations on spam calls have been welcomed, but questions remain about how effective they will be at deterring unwarranted direct marketing.

![Warning over new rules for spam calls in South Africa](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/16170705/Call-centre-spam-regulations-1-1024x1024.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/telecommunications/866482/warning-over-new-rules-for-spam-calls-in-south-africa/)

### GOVERNMENT ISSUES A WARNING TO ANYONE WHO EMPLOYS A DOMESTIC WORKER

##### The Department of Employment and Labour has warned that employers who hire a domestic worker for 24 hours or more per month could face legal action if they do not register them for the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF).

![The Department of Employment and Labour has warned that employers who hire a domestic
worker for 24 hours or more per month could face legal action if they do not register
them for the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF).](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.
za/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/15165427/UIF-registration-of-domestic-workers-1024x1024.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/866274/government-issues-a-warning-to-anyone-who-employs-a-domestic-worker-in-south-africa/)

### WARNING ABOUT GUARDS SCANNING DRIVING LICENCES AT ESTATES AND OFFICES

##### Guards at the gates of estates, complexes, office parks, or gated communities should not make digital copies of your driving licence, as it could infringe on the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).

![Guards at the gates of estates, complexes, office parks, or gated communities 
should not make digital copies of your driving licence, as it could infringe on 
the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/29141503/POPIA-rules-for-entrance-guards-1024x1024.
jpg)

 [read more](https://mybroadband.co.za/news/security/655347-warning-about-guards-scanning-driving-licences-at-estates-and-offices-in-south-africa.html)

### RAMAPHOSA'S ESKOM PLAN RAISES RED FLAGS

##### The head of South Africa’s state power utility, Eskom, said a government plan to spin off its transmission assets needs to be implemented in a way that is sustainable for the company. That plan was overruled in February by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.

![Ramaphosa’s Eskom plan](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/
06/26123047/Ramaphosa-Eskom-plan-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/business/864483/ramaphosas-eskom-plan-raises-red-flags/)

### STRICT NEW SMOKING LAWS ON THE WAY

##### After years of delays, amendments, lapses, and revivals, South Africa is finally moving closer to implementing new smoking laws.

![Strict new smoking laws](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/
2026/06/25142900/Strict-new-smoking-laws-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/864552/strict-new-smoking-laws-for-south-africa-are-coming/)

### NEW BASIC INCOME SUPPORT GRANT FOR SA

##### The Department of Social Development (DSD) hopes to finalise the policy for a new Basic Income Support (BIS) grant by March 2027, getting it ready for implementation.

![NEW BASIC INCOME SUPPORT GRANT](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/
2026/06/18150435/basic-income-support-grant-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/863799/new-social-grant-for-south-africa/)

### BIG CABINET RESHUFFLE COMING

##### The Democratic Alliance (DA) has confirmed that it has asked President Cyril Ramaphosa to reshuffle its members within his cabinet.

![The Democratic Alliance (DA) has confirmed that it has asked President Cyril Ramaphosa
to reshuffle its members within his cabinet.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/
wp-content/uploads/2026/06/17151116/cabinet-reshuffle-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/863784/big-cabinet-reshuffle-coming/)

### END OF AN ERA FOR TRAFFIC FINES IN SA

##### South Africa has less than a month to go until the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences Act (AARTO) is introduced nationwide.

![South Africa has less than a month to go until the Administrative Adjudication
of Road Traffic Offences Act (AARTO) is introduced nationwide.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/16140530/AARTO-ROLLOUT-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://topauto.co.za/features/155638/end-of-an-era-for-traffic-fines-in-south-africa/)

### R100,000 FINE FOR ANYONE EMPLOYING A DOMESTIC WORKER IN SA

##### Recently gazetted laws will hit employers hiring illegal foreign workers with a R100,000 fine for first offenders, including households that employ domestic workers.

![ENFORCEMENT AGAINST THE EMPLOYMENT OF FOREIGN NATIONALS](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/12154515/employment-of-foreign-nationals-1024x1024.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/863223/r100000-fine-warning-for-anyone-employing-a-domestic-worker-in-south-africa/)

### SAY GOODBYE TO CAR LICENCE DISCS AND DRIVING LICENCES

##### The Road Traffic Management Corporation of South Africa (RTMC) is planning to move away from physical vehicle licence discs towards an electronic disc regime relying on number plate recognition.

![The Road Traffic Management Corporation of South Africa (RTMC) is planning to 
move away from physical vehicle licence discs towards an electronic disc regime 
relying on number plate recognition.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/
uploads/2026/06/11165747/digital-licence-discs-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://mybroadband.co.za/news/motoring/652990-south-africans-can-say-goodbye-to-car-licence-discs-and-driving-licence-cards.html)

### END OF THE GREEN ID BOOK IN SA IS COMING AFTER FIVE DECADES

##### Minister of Home Affairs Dr Leon Schreiber said the government is rapidly moving to phase out South Africa’s green barcoded ID books after nearly five decades in circulation.

![End of the green ID book in South Africa is coming after five decades](https://
cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/04114239/end-of-the-green-Id-
book-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/862086/end-of-the-green-id-book-in-south-africa-is-coming-after-five-decades/)

### NEW LAWS FOR WORKERS IN SOUTH AFRICA ARE COMING

##### The Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) has gazetted its intention to table the Employment Services Amendment Bill in the National Assembly shortly.

![The Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) has gazetted its intention to table
the Employment Services Amendment Bill in the National Assembly shortly.](https://
cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/28134314/NEW-Labour-LAWS-1024x1024.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/861638/new-laws-for-workers-in-south-africa-are-coming/)

### RAMAPHOSA SIGNS NEW RULES FOR BUSINESSES INTO LAW

##### President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed major changes to South Africa’s Companies Act into effect, introducing stricter rules around executive pay, remuneration disclosures, and shareholder oversight at public and state-owned companies.

![President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed major changes to South Africa’s Companies
Act into effect, introducing stricter rules around executive pay, remuneration disclosures,
and shareholder oversight at public and state-owned companies.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/27100643/Ramaphosa-signs-new-rules-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/861370/ramaphosa-signs-new-rules-for-businesses-in-south-africa-into-law/)

### THE HALLUCINATED POLICY: WHEN GOVERNMENT AI FAILS ITS OWN TEST

##### There is a profound, almost poetic irony in watching the very custodians of our national technology policy get tripped up by the exact tools they are attempting to regulate.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/19150459/Ai-policy-
withdrawn-SM-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://dearsouthafrica.co.za/news-2/the-hallucinated-policy/)

### MAJOR LAW FIRMS IN SOUTH AFRICA TAKE NEW BEE RULES TO COURT

##### Some of South Africa’s biggest law firms have asked a court to set aside the nation’s policy governing Black ownership and representation in the profession, saying that it’s “unlawful” and “unworkable” in its present form.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/30101601/Bee-high-
court.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/business/858738/major-law-firms-in-south-africa-take-new-bee-rules-to-court/)

### CALLS TO CHANGE SCHOOLS IN SOUTH AFRICA

##### Millions of young South Africans have matriculated from the school system, but many lack the necessary skills to enter the job market.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/28042737/youth-
unemployment-copy.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/business-opinion/857757/calls-to-change-schools-in-south-africa/)

### PETROL PRICE HEARTBREAK FOR SOUTH AFRICA IN MAY

##### Data from the Central Energy Fund for the end of the third full week of April shows that motorists are still in store for a big price hike at the pumps in May—despite the early-month shock receding significantly.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/26081029/fuel-hikes.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/858381/petrol-price-heartbreak-for-south-africa-in-may/)

### ESKOM GIVES THE ALL-CLEAR FOR WINTER

##### Power utility Eskom says that South Africa is entering the winter months with a stable power system, with no hint of load shedding or national interruptions on the cards.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/23082544/escom-
winter-ready-copy.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/858025/eskom-gives-the-all-clear-for-winter/)

### SAY GOODBYE TO SPAM CALLS AS YOU KNOW THEM

##### The Minister of Trade, Industry & Competition, Parks Tau, has amended the Consumer Protection Act to protect consumers from spam calls.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/21051536/spam-block.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/telecommunications/857741/say-goodbye-to-spam-calls-as-you-know-them-in-south-africa/)

### HUGE RELIEF FOR THE RAND AND OIL PRICES

##### Iran said it would open the Strait of Hormuz for the duration of a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, increasing the prospect of a wider peace deal.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/19093453/relief-
for-rand.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/finance/857608/huge-relief-for-the-rand-and-oil-prices/)

### RAMAPHOSA TO TAP ‘OLD FRIEND’ AS NEXT US AMBASSADOR

##### South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is poised to tap veteran political negotiator Roelf Meyer as the country’s next envoy to the US.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/16050156/Roelf-
Meyer.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/857175/ramaphosa-to-tap-old-friend-as-next-us-ambassador/)

### WARNING ABOUT VAT CHANGES FOR BUSINESSES

##### The VAT registration threshold limit has increased in South Africa, but small businesses that deregistering from VAT could lead to an unexpected tax event.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/14082456/VAT-SME.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/finance/856954/warning-about-vat-changes-for-businesses-in-south-africa/)

### PLAN TO BLACKLIST MORE SOUTH AFRICAN COMPANIES

##### Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has reiterated his department’s clampdown on non-compliant contractors, with 52 already blacklisted, and more are likely to follow.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/12112352/blacklisting-
1.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/856451/plan-to-blacklist-more-south-african-companies-with-52-already-confirmed/)

### MASSIVE CHANGES COMING FOR VISA AND IMMIGRATION RULES IN SOUTH AFRICA

##### The Cabinet has approved the Updated White Paper on Citizenship, Immigration, and Refugee Protection (CIRP), marking one of the most intricate and significant governance initiatives of the democratic period.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/10131707/visa-immigration.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/856311/massive-changes-coming-for-visa-and-immigration-rules-in-south-africa/)

### STATE-OWNED COMPANY RELAUNCHES PRODUCT TO PROTECT SOUTH AFRICA FROM SOCIAL UNREST

##### Sasria has relaunched its Wrap Cover, which provides large corporate insurance against escalating risks linked to civil commotion, riots, strikes, public disorder, and terrorism.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/07062625/sasria.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/855669/state-owned-company-relaunches-product-to-protect-south-africa-from-social-unrest/)

### THE EFF IS NOW IN CHARGE OF THE FINANCES OF SOUTH AFRICA’S RICHEST PROVINCE

##### The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) are now part of the Gauteng Provincial Government, with Nkululeko Dunga named Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Finance.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/05101214/EFF-finance-
head.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/855902/the-eff-is-now-in-charge-of-the-finances-of-south-africas-richest-province/)

### SOUTH AFRICANS URGED TO WORK FROM HOME, DRIVE SLOWER, AND CARPOOL

##### With record fuel price hikes hitting South Africa this week, several groups, including the International Energy Agency (IEA), are offering up practical ways to cut petrol and diesel bills.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/02073003/fuel-increase-
copy.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/855657/south-africans-urged-to-work-from-home-drive-slower-and-carpool/)

### NEW LAWS COMING AFTER AFRIKANER TOWNS

##### The Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK) Party has gazetted its intention to table a Private Members’ Bill in Parliament, seeking to repeal Section 235 of the Constitution and remove the explicit right to self-determination.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/31093339/laws-for-
towns-copy.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/855265/new-laws-coming-after-afrikaner-towns-in-south-africa/)

### SOUTH AFRICAN ENGINEERS’ WARNING OVER CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE COLLAPSE

##### Engineers are warning that South Africa’s water crisis is not about a lack of water, but rather the collapse of municipal infrastructure—an issue they argue is both man-made and fixable.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/29063524/infrastructure-
collapse.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/854493/south-african-engineers-warning-over-critical-infrastructure-collapse/)

### LIFESTYLE AUDITS GOING AFTER GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS’ BANK STATEMENTS

##### Not only are interest rate cuts in South Africa increasingly unlikely, but theThe Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has advised the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) to include three-year bank statements and financial records when conducting lifestyle audits of government officials.market is now also predicting a significant rate increase.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/26130441/lifestyle-
audits.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/854901/government-going-after-bank-statements-and-financial-records-in-south-africa-as-officials-dodge-lifestyle-audits/)

### FROM BAD TO MUCH WORSE FOR INTEREST RATES

##### Not only are interest rate cuts in South Africa increasingly unlikely, but the market is now also predicting a significant rate increase.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/24102508/rate-hikes-
1.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/finance/854699/from-bad-to-much-worse-for-interest-rates-in-south-africa/)

### BIGGEST PETROL PRICE HIKE

##### The latest data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) shows that petrol prices are now building for the single biggest jump in South Africa’s history, more than doubling the previous record.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/22095451/petrol-
hike.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/854503/biggest-petrol-price-hike-in-south-africas-history-coming-next-month/)

### BAD NEWS ABOUT US’ INVESTIGATION INTO SAF

##### The new United States investigation into South Africa and other countries’ trade practices could carry significant economic risks for South Africa, even if its stated rationale is questionable.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/19122238/tariffs-
crisis.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/854325/bad-news-about-united-states-investigation-into-south-africa/)

### ONE GOVERNMENT DECISION THAT COULD END IN DISASTER

##### The government’s decision not to expand or modernise the country’s fuel storage could lead to disastrous consequences for South Africans and the broader economy.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/15080920/fuel-storage-
crisis.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/853705/one-government-decision-that-could-end-in-disaster-for-south-africa/)

### THE TRUE COST AND POWER OF TRADITIONAL LEADERS

##### The scale of traditional leadership is significantly larger than most realise

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/12104150/traditional-
leaders.jpg)

 [read more](https://dearsouthafrica.co.za/news-2/the-billion-rand-question-the-true-cost-and-power-of-traditional-leaders-in-south-africa/?preview_id=27395&preview_nonce=8811cfdfd6&_thumbnail_id=-1&preview=true)

### R36 BILLION GOLDMINE HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT

##### The illicit cannabis industry in South Africa is valued at an estimated R36 billion

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/10091806/cannabis-
goldmine.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/853285/r36-billion-goldmine-for-south-africa-hidden-in-plain-sight/)

### 5 WAYS MOTORISTS CAN SAVE PETROL IN SA

##### South Africans are at risk of higher fuel prices in the coming months amid the crisis in the Middle East.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/08151849/petrol-
saving.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/motoring/852985/5-ways-motorists-can-save-petrol-in-south-africa/)

### GOVERNMENT TELLS SOUTH AFRICANS TO EVACUATE THE MIDDLE EAST

##### The South African Government has told its citizens living in the Middle East to evacuate several countries, as heavy attacks are expected in the region for the coming days.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/05095224/evacuate-
dubai.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/852884/government-tells-south-africans-to-evacuate-the-middle-east/)

### ANOTHER DISASTER LOOMING FOR SOUTH AFRICA

##### The US-Iran conflict has escalated after a US attack killed Iran’s Supreme Leader on Saturday, 28 February, causing elevated uncertainty in South Africa on multiple fronts.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/03091506/US_Iran-
conflict-1.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/852631/big-trouble-ahead-for-south-africa/)

### ROLLING THE DICE IN THE DARK

##### South Africa’s patchwork approach to gambling regulation

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/03102145/onlinegambling.
jpg)

 [read more](https://dearsouthafrica.co.za/news-2/gambling-regs/)

### MY BUDGET TIP FOR THE MINISTER OF FINANCE

##### Proposal: Adjustment of the VAT Registration Threshold from R1 million to R2 million

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/03092619/budgettip.
jpg)

 [read more](https://dearsouthafrica.co.za/news-2/budget-tip-1/)

### MY BUDGET TIP #2 FOR THE MINISTER OF FINANCE

##### Proposal: Scrap Personal Income Tax (PAYE) — replace with a Consumption-Based Tax System (VAT)

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/03095125/budgettip2.
jpg)

 [read more](https://dearsouthafrica.co.za/news-2/27354-2/?preview_id=27354&preview_nonce=c45bf54daf&_thumbnail_id=-1&preview=true)

### THE BIG WINNERS AND LOSERS IN SA’S 2026 BUDGET

##### South African Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana delivered his annual budget to lawmakers in Cape Town on Wednesday (25 February).

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/26103200/budgetspeech.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/budget-speech/852182/the-big-winners-and-losers-in-south-africas-2026-budget/)

### RESERVE BANK PLANS TO SCRAP THE PRIME RATE

##### South Africa’s central bank seeks to replace prime, the main reference commercial banks use to price trillions of rands of loans, with its benchmark interest rate.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/17103049/primeratescrapped.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/finance/851177/reserve-bank-plans-to-scrap-the-prime-rate-in-south-africa/)

### DARK CLOUDS FOR ALCOHOL CONSUMERS AND PRODUCERS

##### President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced a new government push to curb alcohol use in the country, which will impact both consumers and producers of these products.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/15095356/alcoholconsumers.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/business/850949/dark-clouds-for-alcohol-consumers-and-producers-in-south-africa/)

### RAMAPHOSA: KING OF CONTRADICTIONS

##### President Cyril Ramaphosa’s 2026 State of the Nation Address delivered at the Cape Town City Hall was intended to be a roadmap for a unified and growing South Africa. Instead, it cemented his legacy as a leader caught in a tightrope walk between fundamentally opposing ideologies.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/13140411/SONA-SM-
1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://dearsouthafrica.co.za/news-2/sona2026/)

### SOUTH AFRICA’S MOST IMPORTANT PROVINCE UNDER SIEGE

##### The Democratic Alliance (DA) has announced it will launch legal action against the City of Johannesburg over the persistent water crisis that has left thousands of homes and businesses running dry.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/12171108/hellenonwatercrisis-
1.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/850646/south-africas-most-important-province-under-siege/)

### SOUTH AFRICA SHRUGS OFF TRUMP TARIFFS WITH RECORD EXPORTS

##### South African agricultural exports hit an annual record of $15.1 billion in 2025, even as sales to the US slumped in the second half.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/10102438/exportsurges.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/finance/850417/south-africa-shrugs-off-trump-tariffs-with-record-exports/)

### EAST LONDON AND GRAAFF-REINET ARE OFFICIALLY NO MORE

##### The Department of Sports, Arts and Culture has gazetted official name changes for geographic features and towns in South Africa, marking the end of the road for East London and Graaff-Reinet.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/08101036/townnamechanges.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/850166/east-london-and-graaff-reinet-are-officially-no-more/)

### WARNING ABOUT PETROL PRICES IN SOUTH AFRICA

##### While lower petrol prices in South Africa are great news for motorists, the impact on inflation is limited because half the price goes to tax.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/06131103/petrolpricetax-
1.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/finance/850037/warning-about-petrol-prices-in-south-africa/)

### PRETORIA HIT WITH MASSIVE WATER OUTAGE AFTER MAJOR BLACKOUT

##### Huge areas of Tshwane, and parts of Midrand, have been hit with a widespread water outage following a major power outage over the weekend.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/03200910/ptawater-
issue-copy.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/849554/pretoria-hit-with-massive-water-outage-after-major-blackout/)

### IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT ESKOM’S WARNING TO HOMEOWNERS WITH ROOFTOP SOLAR

##### The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) has pushed back strongly against recent warnings from Eskom and several municipalities. These warnings stressed that homeowners with rooftop solar could face fines or even disconnection if their systems are not registered.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/30103824/solarpanels.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/849096/important-information-about-eskoms-warning-to-homeowners-with-rooftop-solar/)

### SARS IS COMING AFTER TAXPAYERS, LEAVING NOWHERE TO HIDE

##### he South African Revenue Service (SARS) wants to introduce new laws that will enable wide-reaching lifestyle audits, helping it clamp down on taxpayers whose lifestyles don’t match their means.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/28100439/sarsweapon.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/finance/848852/sars-is-coming-after-taxpayers-with-a-new-weapon-leaving-nowhere-to-hide/)

### RAMAPHOSA LAUNCHES IMPORTANT NEW LAWS FOR SOUTH AFRICA

##### President Cyril Ramaphosa has commenced outstanding sections of South Africa’s Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Amendment Act

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/26163238/Cyrilsignslaws.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/848764/ramaphosa-launches-important-new-laws-for-south-africa-3/)

### WARNING FOR PEOPLE WHO NEED A SMART ID CARD OR NEW PASSPORT IN SOUTH AFRICA

##### The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has warned of scammers charging South Africans to secure bookings at its offices for smart ID and passport applications.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/26094811/smart-
ID-scammers.jpg)

 [read more](https://mybroadband.co.za/news/government/626316-warning-for-people-who-need-a-smart-id-card-or-new-passport-in-south-africa.html)

### ONE WEEK TO DISASTER FOR SOUTH AFRICANS

##### South African electricity users are on a countdown to see just how much more they will be paying for electricity in 2026, with a potential 10.5% price hike on the cards.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/23140755/escom-
increase-copy.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/848530/one-week-to-disaster-for-south-africans/)

### THE SENTENCING LOTTERY: WHY YOUR JAIL TIME MAY SOON DEPEND ON YOUR ACCUSER'S FEELINGS, NOT THE LAW

##### The Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Act is now the law of the land. Whether you supported it or opposed it, that debate is over. The President has signed it.

![The Sentencing Lottery: Why your jail time may soon depend on your accuser’s feelings,
not the law.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/21074126/
the-sentencing-lottery-SM-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://dearsouthafrica.co.za/news-2/the-sentencing-lottery/)

### NATIONAL DISASTER FOR SOUTH AFRICA

##### South Africa officially has another National Disaster following severe weather and widespread flooding across five provinces.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/19091156/raindisaster-
copy.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/848173/another-national-disaster-for-south-africa/)

### A 0% ALCOHOL LIMIT IS 100% THE WRONG SOLUTION

##### Transport Minister Barbara Creecy’s recent announcement that the government intends to amend the National Road Traffic Act to a 0.00% blood alcohol limit is a headline-grabber. On the surface, it sounds morally unassailable, however ...

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/16154039/Zero-tolerance-
SM-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://dearsouthafrica.co.za/news-2/zero-tolerance/)

### NEW STATE OF DISASTER ON THE CARDS FOR SOUTH AFRICA

##### Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, announced that he will table a declaration of the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak as a state of disaster at the next Cabinet meeting.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/15094830/footnmouth.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/847931/new-state-of-disaster-on-the-cards-for-south-africa/)

### 1986 REDUX: WE CANNOT ‘MACGYVER’ OUR WAY OUT OF TRUMP’S TARIFF THREAT

##### For South Africans of a certain vintage, the headlines this week induced a distinct sense of déjà vu. The United States, leveraging its massive consumer market, is once again threatening to turn off the tap unless South Africa alters its foreign policy.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/13183242/MacRama-
SM-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://dearsouthafrica.co.za/news-2/ramagyver/)

### 2025 MATRIC PASS RATE HITS RECORD 88% IN SOUTH AFRICA

##### Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has announced that the 2025 matric class achieved a pass rate of 88%, the highest level in history, following a 2024 pass rate of 87.3%

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/13091515/matric-
passrate.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/847709/2025-matric-pass-rate-hits-record-88-in-south-africa/)

### R25 MILLION PAYDAY FOR SUSPENDED POLICE OFFICERS

##### The South African Police Service (SAPS) has paid R25 million in salaries to more than 230 suspended officers in just two years.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/10094117/police-
payout-1-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/847434/r25-million-payday-for-over-200-suspended-saps-officers/)

### VICTORY FOR PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: MINISTER GAZETTES STARLINK-FRIENDLY POLICY

##### DearSouthAfrica.co.za welcomes the publication of Government Gazette No. 53855 , in which the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Mr. Solly Malatsi, has officially issued the Policy Direction on Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment.

![VICTORY FOR PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: MINISTER GAZETTES STARLINK-FRIENDLY POLICY](
https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/11173331/Starlink-victory-
SM-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://dearsouthafrica.co.za/news-2/starlink-victory/)

### SOUTH AFRICANS FORCED TO PAY FOR A R76 BILLION MISTAKE

##### The public has until 21 January 2026 to comment on energy regulator Nersa’s plan to force South African energy users to pay Eskom an additional R76 billion for its mistakes.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/07093036/escom-
mistake.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/847271/south-africans-forced-to-pay-for-a-r76-billion-mistake/)

### WASHINGTON SLEEPS EASY: SA ENVOY TO VENEZUELA CALLS OFF 'PLANS' FOR MILITARY ACTION AGAINST THE US

##### Uncle Sam must be immensely relieved. South Africa’s ambassador to Venezuela has eventually retracted his offer to send the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to help Venezuela fight off a putative invasion by the United States.

![Uncle Sam must be immensely relieved. South Africa’s ambassador to Venezuela has
eventually retracted his offer to send the South African National Defence Force (
SANDF) to help Venezuela fight off a putative invasion by the United States.](https://
cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/05135545/ramadictator-SM-1024x1024.
jpg)

 [read more](https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2018-08-17-washington-can-sleep-easy-again-sa-envoy-calls-off-plans-for-military-action-against-us/)

### SOUTH AFRICA SLAMS THE UNITED STATES

##### The South African government has condemned the United States after a large-scale military strike in Venezuela and the capture of its leader, Nicholas Maduro.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/04095711/sa-slams-
usa.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/846987/south-africa-slams-the-united-states/)

### 2026 SCHOOL CALENDAR PUBLISHED BY DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

##### The Department of Basic Education has published the 2026 school calendar, which kicks off on 14 January 2026 for all learners.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/03161457/school-
calendar-SM-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/846487/here-is-the-school-calendar-for-2026-including-one-special-holiday/)

### MASSIVE PAYDAY FOR RAMAPHOSA, MINISTERS AND OTHER POLITICIANS

##### The Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office-Bearers has published its recommended salary hikes for South Africa’s top government officials, pushing an above-inflation increase of 4.1%.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/29080840/payday.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/846809/massive-payday-for-ramaphosa-ministers-and-other-politicians-in-south-africa/)

### OVER 37,830 MILLIONAIRS IN GOVERNMENT

##### Data from the Department of Public Service and Administration show that over 37,800 government employees are paid more than R1 million per annum.

![South Africa has over 37,830 millionaires in government](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/28104759/milionairs-SM-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/846464/south-africa-has-over-37830-millionaires-in-government/)

### PETROL PRICE JOY FOR SOUTH AFRICA IN JANUARY

##### The latest data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) at the end of the fourth week of December shows that motorists are in store for an even bigger cut in prices in the new year.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/27101708/petroldrop-
1.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/846796/petrol-price-joy-for-south-africa-in-january/)

### BIG TAX HIKES TO LOOK OUT FOR IN 2026

##### South African taxpayers face another round of tax hikes in 2026, with the National Treasury’s plan to collect an additional R20 billion in tax revenue contingent on the success of SARS’s collection efforts.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/22075602/bigtaxhikes.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/finance/846493/big-tax-hikes-to-look-out-for-in-2026/)

### RAMAPHOSA WAITING TO SIGN 7 NEW LAWS FOR SOUTH AFRICA

##### President Cyril Ramaphosa has seven bills on his desk awaiting his signature, including critical legislation needed for the budget and changes to South Africa’s immigration laws.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/20080810/7newlaws.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/846563/ramaphosa-waiting-to-sign-7-new-laws-for-south-africa/)

### FRAUD WARNING FROM THE LARGEST INSURER IN SOUTH AFRICA

##### Sanlam, South Africa’s largest insurer, has warned South Africans to be vigilant for scams this festive season.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/18095130/fraudwarning.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/finance/845267/fraud-warning-from-the-largest-insurer-in-south-africa/)

### NEW LAW IN SOUTH AFRICA BRINGING BIG CHANGES FOR FAMILIES AND EMPLOYERS

##### The Constitutional Court has ruled that parents can now split four months of maternity leave between them, which brings significant changes to how employees take time off.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/16082635/lawbringschange.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/business-opinion/845299/new-law-in-south-africa-bringing-big-changes-for-families-and-employers/)

### RAMAPHOSA SENDS A WARNING TO THE DA AND OTHER PARTIES IN GOVERNMENT

##### Cyril Ramaphosa, as president of the ANC, has thrown his party’s weight behind the Government of National Unity (GNU), but warned his GNU colleagues to stick to its transformation agenda.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/13120928/warning-
to-the-DA.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/business-opinion/846287/ramaphosa-sends-a-warning-to-the-da-and-other-parties-in-government/)

### UNITED STATES MOVING TO PUNISH SOUTH AFRICA

##### United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on Tuesday said he is open to treating South Africa differently from other African countries if Washington extends a trade initiative with sub-Saharan Africa that expired in September.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/11094907/USpunishSA-
1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/846013/united-states-moving-to-punish-south-africa/)

### SOUTH AFRICA’S 8-YEAR DRIVER’S LICENCES GET THE GREEN LIGHT

##### South Africa is “definitely” getting an extension on its driver’s licence validity period from five to eight years.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/09121203/8yrs-drivers-
license-1-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://topauto.co.za/news/138467/south-africas-8-year-drivers-licences-get-the-green-light/)

### NEW DRIVING LAWS DELAYED

##### The national rollout of the new Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) system has been delayed.

![New driving laws for South Africa delayed](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-
content/uploads/2025/11/10180142/AARTO-delayed-again-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/842653/new-driving-laws-for-south-africa-delayed/)

### GOVERNMENT DOUBLES DOWN ON PLAN TO GIVE BLACK BUSINESSES R55 MILLION EVERY DAY FOR FIVE YEARS

##### The government has reaffirmed its plan to establish a R100 billion Transformation Fund to direct large-scale financial and developmental support to black-owned businesses over the next five years.

![Government doubles down on plan to give black businesses R55 million every day
for five years](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/08160106/
blck-business-grant-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/842029/government-doubles-down-on-plan-to-give-black-businesses-r55-million-every-day-for-five-years/)

### SA COULD SOON SAY GOODBYE TO DRIVING LICENCE CARDS

##### South Africans may soon be able to say goodbye to their physical plastic driving licence card, as the government moves closer to launching a fully digital licence system.

![South Africans could soon say goodbye to driving licence cards ](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/07122313/digital-driving-licence-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/motoring/842190/south-africans-could-soon-say-goodbye-to-driving-licence-cards/)

### RAMAPHOSA PROMISES FASTER TURNAROUND FOR SA

##### The leaders of South Africa’s coalition government pledged to accelerate economic reforms and work more closely together during a two-day meeting aimed at improving the functioning of the administration.

![Ramaphosa promises faster turnaround for South Africa](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/04120045/CR-turnaround-promise-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/841845/ramaphosa-promises-faster-turnaround-for-south-africa/)

### WHAT NERSA DOESN'T WANT YOU TO KNOW ABOUT ELECTRICITY PRICES

##### The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has argued in court that municipal customers have no right to know what councils pay Eskom for electricity.

![What NERSA doesn’t want you to know about electricity prices in South Africa](
https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/03125816/electricity-
price-secret-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/841469/what-nersa-doesnt-want-you-to-know-about-electricity-prices-in-south-africa/)

### BAD NEWS FOR MEDICAL AID MEMBERS IN SA

##### The Department of Health provided a roadmap to the implementation and funding model for the NHI, which includes the eventual removal of medical aid tax credits.

![Bad news for medical aid members in South Africa ](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/02131238/NHI-medical-aid-problems-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/841550/bad-news-for-medical-aid-members-in-south-africa-2/)

### BIG VAT CHANGES COMING FOR SA

##### National Treasury has outlined the significant Value-Added Tax (VAT) changes contained in the draft Tax Laws Amendment Bill (TLAB) as well as its plans to modernise South Africa’s VAT regime.

![National Treasury has outlined the significant Value-Added Tax (VAT) changes contained
in the draft Tax Laws Amendment Bill (TLAB) as well as its plans to modernise South
Africa’s VAT regime.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/
09/18134530/New-Tax-laws-SM-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/837742/big-vat-changes-coming-for-south-africa/)

### GOVERNMENT WITHDRAWS CONTROVERSIAL LAW CHANGES

##### Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau has withdrawn controversial draft amendments to the National Credit Act of 2005 after facing public opposition.

![Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau has withdrawn controversial
draft amendments to the National Credit Act of 2005 after facing public opposition.](
https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/17071512/NCA-Amendments-
withdrawn-SM-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/finance/836498/government-withdraws-controversial-law-changes-in-south-africa/)

### THE NEW LAW THAT COULD PREVENT YOU FROM SELLING YOUR CAR

##### The new Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act could stop motorists from selling their cars if they have unresolved fines.

![The new Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act could
stop motorists from selling their cars if they have unresolved fines.](https://cdn.
dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/31152749/AARTO-selling-cars-SM-
1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/motoring/835120/the-new-law-that-could-stop-people-from-selling-their-car-in-south-africa/)

### BACKLASH BREWS OVER PROPOSED NEW SMOKING LAWS

##### South African liquor traders have raised serious objections to proposed new smoking legislation that would require significant changes to bars, taverns, and restaurants across the country.

![South African liquor traders have raised serious objections to proposed new smoking
legislation that would require significant changes to bars, taverns, and restaurants
across the country. ](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/
06/24123711/new-smoking-laws-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://iol.co.za/lifestyle/health/2025-06-23-puff-puff-pass-outside-backlash-brews-over-new-proposed-smoking-laws/)

### SARS GOING AFTER ONE GROUP

##### Although the sugar tax was not increased in the budget for 2025, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) is now targeting businesses involved in the manufacturing of sugary beverages.

![Although the sugar tax was not increased in the budget for 2025, the South African
Revenue Service (SARS) is now targeting businesses involved in the manufacturing
of sugary beverages.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/
06/12131215/sugar-tax-other-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/business/827244/sars-going-after-one-group-in-south-africa/)

### CRACKDOWN LOOMS ON PUBLIC SECTOR GHOST EMPLOYEES

##### Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Public Service and Administration says public sector workers should report in person to prove they’re not ghost employees.

![‘Real people drawing fraudulent salaries’ — crackdown looms on public sector ghost
employees](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/10145248/
ghost-employees-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2025-06-09-real-people-drawing-fraudulent-salaries-crackdown-looms-on-ghost-employees-in-public-sector/)

### END OF ANOTHER STATE MONOPOLY IN SA

##### The gazetting of new IT procurement rules means that government departments and state companies can finally access top-shelf services without being forced to use the State Information Technology Agency (SITA).

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/09152900/No-more-
SITA-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/business-opinion/827329/end-of-another-state-monopoly-in-south-africa/)

### BIG CHANGES FOR TAXIS IN SOUTH AFRICA

##### The Department of Transport is forging ahead with its overhaul of South Africa’s minibus taxi operations, including the scrapping of over 1,900 vehicles and converting 400 to use alternative fuel.

![The Department of Transport is forging ahead with its overhaul of South Africa’s
minibus taxi operations, including the scrapping of over 1,900 vehicles and converting
400 to use alternative fuel.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/
2025/05/27165859/Big-change-for-taxis-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/motoring/824795/big-changes-for-taxis-in-south-africa/)

### MOST SOUTH AFRICAN UNIVERSITIES MUST BE CLOSED

##### Renowned economist Dawie Roodt says that most public South African universities should be closed, and that the government should allocate more funds to private institutions.

![MOST SOUTH AFRICAN UNIVERSITIES MUST BE CLOSED](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.
za/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19120416/University-Close-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/823720/most-south-african-universities-must-be-closed/)

### KISS PASSPORTS AND BOARDING PASSES GOODBYE AT AIRPORTS

##### New airport laws aim to replace physical passports and boarding passes with a smartphone-based system at airports worldwide, including South Africa.

![South Africans could kiss passports and boarding passes goodbye at airports](https://
cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/18123907/Digital-Passports-
1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/technology/823446/south-africans-could-kiss-passports-and-boarding-passes-goodbye-at-airports/)

### MUNICIPAL TARIFFS GET SERIOUS PUSHBACK

##### Public participation platform DearSouthAfrica.co.za has launched a campaign encouraging South Africans across the country to have a say on increases proposed by their local municipality. To date, Over 46,000 angry residents have voiced their concerns.

![Municipal tariff reforms get serious pushback](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.
za/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/15132105/Municipal-increases-2025-media-release-1-
1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://dearsouthafrica.co.za/news-2/municipal-tariff-reforms-get-serious-pushback/)

### ESKOM COULD FLIP THE SWITCH ON SA'S RICHEST CITY

##### The City of Johannesburg faces new threats of legal action over its debt to Eskom, and parts of the city risk power cuts if the utility’s bills aren’t paid. This is the message from Chris Yelland, energy expert and director of EE Business Intelligence, who warned that the dispute between the City and the power utility has reignited.

![ESKOM COULD FLIP THE SWITCH ON SA'S RICHEST CITY](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/07101800/ESKOM-pulling-the-plug-1-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/823031/eskom-could-flip-the-switch-on-south-africas-richest-city/)

### SA'S MOST IMPORTANT CITY COLLAPSING IN FRONT OF OUR EYES

##### The City of Johannesburg faces severe challenges, including water outages, traffic light problems, electricity blackouts, infrastructure collapse, and billing chaos. Solly Msimanga, leader of the opposition in the Gauteng Legislature and DA Gauteng leader, said Johannesburg’s collapse is palpable and tragic.

![SA'S MOST IMPORTANT CITY COLLAPSING IN FONT OF OUR EYES](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/05163803/City-Collapse-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/821603/south-africas-most-important-city-collapsing-in-front-of-everyones-eyes-2/)

### BUSINESSES IN SA WILL BE PUNISHED FOR IGNORING NEW EMPLOYMENT EQUITY LAWS

##### Businesses that fail to comply with South Africa’s new transformation laws face fines of R1.5 million or 2% of turnover, and will find themselves blocked from doing business with the state. The Department of Employment and Labour has published South Africa’s new employment equity laws and transformation targets that businesses will have to hit over the next five years.

![BUSINESSES IN SA WILL BE PUNISHED FOR IGNORING NEW EMPLOYMENT EQUITY LAWS](https://
cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/30114732/Equity-copy-1024x1024.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/business/821315/businesses-in-south-africa-will-be-punished-for-ignoring-new-employment-equity-laws/)

### GOODBYE ESKOM – BIG ELECTRICITY CHANGES COMING

##### South Africa is on the cusp of starting a traded electricity market that will give consumers a choice of power products along with a range of pricing options, according to a top investment bank.

![South Africa is on the cusp of starting a traded electricity market that will 
give consumers a choice of power products along with a range of pricing options,
according to a top investment bank. ](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/
uploads/2025/04/27153948/Private-Electricity-1024x1024.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/820787/goodbye-eskom-big-electricity-changes-coming/)

### NUMBER PLATE WARNING FOR CAR OWNERS

##### South African motorists could face an uphill battle trying to prove their innocence over speeding fines accumulated on their profile due to a criminal cloning their number plate.

![South African motorists could face an uphill battle trying to prove their innocence
over speeding fines accumulated on their profile due to a criminal cloning their
number plate.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/19185128/
PLATES-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://mybroadband.co.za/news/security/586598-number-plate-warning-for-people-who-own-cars-in-south-africa.html)

### NEW TAX FOR HOUSEHOLDS AND BUSINESSES IN ONE OF SA'S BIGGEST CITIES

##### The City of Tshwane plans to boost revenue by introducing a new R185 per month levy for properties using private waste collectors. It will target properties worth over R250,000 that do not have a waste account with the municipality and pay for private waste collectors.

![New tax for households and businesses in one of South Africa’s biggest cities](
https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/15132428/Rubbush-tariffs-
1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/819539/new-tax-for-households-and-businesses-in-one-of-south-africas-biggest-cities/)

### 7.9 MILLION TAX PAYERS FUNDING 28 MILLION GRANT RECIPIENTS

##### Instead of growing the economy and encouraging job creation through business-friendly policies, the government added more pressure on the very narrow tax base.

![Instead of growing the economy and encouraging job creation through business-friendly
policies, the government added more pressure on the very narrow tax base.](https://
cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/11122545/Social-Grants-Post-
1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/budget-speech/816563/south-africa-has-7-9-million-taxpayers-funding-28-million-grant-recipients/)

### BIG CHANGE FOR DRINKS WITH LOTS OF SUGAR

##### Over half of South African beverages will require warning labels for high levels of sugar and artificial sweeteners. One of the interventions is amending the regulations around advertising food products, including a proposal regarding warning labels for sugary drinks.

![Over half of South African beverages will require warning labels for high levels
of sugar and artificial sweeteners.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/
uploads/2025/04/02162227/Soda--1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/lifestyle/816445/big-change-for-drinks-with-lots-of-sugar-in-south-africa/)

### SOUTH AFRICA'S TICKING TIME BOMB

##### South Africa’s population may still be young, but it is ageing, and more elderly people are becoming dependent on the working population. Data from a recent Stats SA report, South African Age-Sex Structure, 1996-2022: Is the Population Ageing?, shows that the age and sex structure in South Africa’s 2022 Census aligns with expectations.

![South Africa’s population may still be young, but it is ageing, and more elderly
people are becoming dependent on the working population. Data from a recent Stats
SA report, South African Age-Sex Structure, 1996-2022: Is the Population Ageing?,
shows that the age and sex structure in South Africa’s 2022 Census aligns with expectations.](
https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/20124206/Timebomb-1024x690.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/lifestyle/815248/south-africas-ticking-time-bomb-2/)

### WE SHOULD BE PAYING R12.74 FOR A LITRE OF PETROL

##### Although the slightly lower fuel prices will make many motorists happy, people often forget how much tax the government takes. Total taxes on petrol are around R9.58, meaning that 43.2% of the price paid for petrol goes directly to covering taxes.

![Although the slightly lower fuel prices will make many motorists happy, people
often forget how much tax the government takes. Total taxes on petrol are around
R9.58, meaning that 43.2% of the price paid for petrol goes directly to covering
taxes.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/15131646/Petrol-
price-adjustment-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/815236/south-african-motorists-should-pay-r12-74-for-a-litre-of-petrol/)

### THE SCENARIO THAT COULD CHANGE WORKING HOURS IN SA

##### South Africa is considered to have some of the longest working hours in the world, but to change this would require massive increases in wages and changes to the country’s labour laws. In a parliamentary Q&A back in 2023, the Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) said there was a possibility of reducing working hours in South Africa.

![South Africa is considered to have some of the longest working hours in the world,
but to change this would require massive increases in wages and changes to the country’s
labour laws. In a parliamentary Q&A back in 2023, the Department of Employment and
Labour (DEL) said there was a possibility of reducing working hours in South Africa.](
https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/12175115/Work-Hours-
Time-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/business/814238/the-scenario-that-could-change-working-hours-in-south-africa/)

### IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR SOUTH AFRICANS WITH ROOFTOP SOLAR

##### The South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) says that all Small-Scale Embedded Generators (SSEG) must heed Eskom’s warnings and register their installations.

![The South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) says that all Small-
Scale Embedded Generators (SSEG) must heed Eskom’s warnings and register their installations.](
https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/06140310/Solar-Image-
news-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/814228/important-notice-for-south-africans-with-rooftop-solar/)

### PLANS TO EXPROPRIATE 3% OF PRIVATE COMPANY PROFIT FOR NEW R100 BILLION FUND

##### The South African government plans to establish a R100 billion Transformation Fund to foster economic transformation by supporting black-owned businesses and Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs).

![Plans to expropriate 3% of private company profit for new R100 billion fund](https://
cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/23164014/piece-of-the-pie-300x202.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/807490/plans-to-expropriate-3-of-private-company-profit-for-new-r100-billion-fund/)

### ALL THE BIG NAME CHANGES FOR SA CITIES, TOWNS AND VILLAGES IN 2024

##### The South African Geographical Names Council (SAGNC) has been actively reshaping the country’s geographical identity through an extensive program of renaming cities, towns, villages, and other notable features, and this continued in 2024.

![All name changes in SA 2024](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/
2024/12/29183827/all-name-changes-2024-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/804706/all-the-big-name-changes-for-south-african-cities-towns-and-villages-in-2024/)

### MASSIVE ELECTRICITY PRICE HIKE — D-DAY IS COMING

##### Energy regulator Nersa says that it will make a decision on Eskom’s application for a massive 36% price hike before the end of January 2025. The decision would have been made in December, but the deliberations were delayed due to an extended public hearing period, the information received and further clarification required, it said.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/26154524/Dear-Electricity-
tariffs-d-day-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/804931/massive-electricity-price-hike-for-south-africa-d-day-is-coming/)

### STORM BREWING OVER NEW SCHOOL LAWS

##### President Cyril Ramaphosa has clarified that the recently signed agreement between the Minister of Basic Education and Solidarity regarding two contentious clauses of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act “has no bearing.”

![Storm brewing over new school laws for South Africa](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/05133515/Dear-South-Africa-FB-School-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/802274/storm-brewing-over-new-school-laws-for-south-africa/)

### WE ASKED EVERY GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENT FOR COMMENT — THIS IS WHO ACTUALLY RESPONDED

##### Government spokespeople are critical in communicating government plans, programmes, and policies and in building and maintaining relations with journalists.

![Government spokespeople are critical in communicating government plans, programmes,
and policies and in building and maintaining relations with journalists.](https://
cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/21124606/parliament-responses-
1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/business-opinion/787059/we-asked-every-government-department-for-comment-this-is-who-actually-responded/)

### GOODBYE EAST LONDON – BIG NAME CHANGES COMING FOR SA

##### MEC for Sports, Recreation, Art and Culture in the Eastern Cape, Sibulele Ngongo, says her department is moving ahead with further name changes in the province, with big towns being targeted.

![MEC for Sports, Recreation, Art and Culture in the Eastern Cape, Sibulele Ngongo,
says her department is moving ahead with further name changes in the province, with
big towns being targeted.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/
2024/08/15114051/Name-changes-1-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/786531/goodbye-east-london-big-name-changes-coming-2/)

### GOVERNMENT PROMISES AFFORDABLE NUCLEAR FOR SOUTH AFRICA

##### Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, says South Africa will seek to build a nuclear plant for electricity generation at “a scale and speed that we can afford”

![Government promises ‘affordable’ nuclear for South Africa](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15094203/Nucllear-power-plants-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/782447/government-promises-affordable-nuclear-for-south-africa/)

### NEW REGULATIONS TO FIX PUBLIC SCHOOLS – WITH TIGHT DEADLINES

##### The Department of Basic Education has gazetted new regulations which compel all schools in the country to meet minimum energy, sanitation and infrastructure standards—or put them in their active plans—within the next 12 to 18 months.

![The Department of Basic Education has gazetted new regulations which compel all
schools in the country to meet minimum energy, sanitation and infrastructure standards—
or put them in their active plans—within the next 12 to 18 months.](https://cdn.
dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06170518/School-regulations-1024x690.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/774501/new-regulations-to-fix-public-schools-in-south-africa-with-tight-deadlines/)

### SARS HAS A NEW TARGET

##### The South African Revenue Service (SARS) is ramping up its compliance efforts with high-net-worth individuals (HWIs) in South Africa and launching a fresh volley of notices targeting small and medium businesses (SMMEs).

![The South African Revenue Service (SARS) is ramping up its compliance efforts 
with high-net-worth individuals (HWIs) in South Africa and launching a fresh volley
of notices targeting small and medium businesses (SMMEs).](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/02130450/SARS-new-target-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/774080/sars-has-a-new-target-in-south-africa-2/)

### BIG TAX HIKES ARE COMING

##### The African National Congress (ANC) has planned major social security changes for the country—the main ones being the BIG and the NHI—pointing to tax reforms and hikes as the main source of funding.

![The African National Congress (ANC) has planned major social security changes 
for the country—the main ones being the BIG and the NHI—pointing to tax reforms 
and hikes as the main source of funding.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/
uploads/2024/05/30190233/Big-tax-hikes-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/773921/big-tax-hikes-for-south-africa-are-coming/)

### NHI HEADS TO COURT

##### A South African labor union and a medical-insurance industry body have challenged the government’s new health-insurance law in court.

![A South African labor union and a medical-insurance industry body have challenged
the government’s new health-insurance law in court.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/30110335/NHI-heads-to-court-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/774295/nhi-heads-to-court/)

### BLOCKING PEOPLE FROM JOBS BASED ON CRIMINAL RECORDS – WHAT BOSSES SHOULD KNOW

##### A recently settled case in the Labour Court demonstrated that excluding a job applicant because of their criminal record is only lawful when the requirements of that job explicitly outline and justify the need for a clean criminal record.

![A recently settled case in the Labour Court demonstrated that excluding a job 
applicant because of their criminal record is only lawful when the requirements 
of that job explicitly outline and justify the need for a clean criminal record.](
https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/27110652/criminal-records-
and-jobs-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/business/768960/blocking-people-from-jobs-based-on-criminal-records-in-south-africa-what-employers-should-know/)

### IT TOOK TAXPAYERS IN SA 141 DAYS TO PAY FOR GOVERNMENT IN 2024 – NOW YOU ARE ‘FREE’

##### 20 May 2024 marked “Tax Freedom Day” in South Africa – the first day of the year on which the nation as a whole has theoretically earned enough income to pay off the government’s tax burden.

![20 May 2024 marks “Tax Freedom Day” in South Africa – the first day of the year
on which the nation as a whole has theoretically earned enough income to pay off
the government’s tax burden.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/
2024/05/27100834/tax-freedom-day-1411-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/finance/772526/it-took-taxpayers-in-south-africa-141-days-to-pay-for-government-in-2024-now-youre-free/)

### BIG CHANGES TO TRAFFIC FINES IN SA COMING SOON

##### The Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) system, which streamlines traffic offences and introduces a demerit points system that could lead to suspended or cancelled licences, is expected to be rolled out across South Africa from 1 July 2024.

![The Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) system, which
streamlines traffic offences and introduces a demerit points system that could lead
to suspended or cancelled licences, is expected to be rolled out across South Africa
from 1 July 2024.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/
19144034/AARTO-countrywide-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/motoring/772445/big-changes-to-traffic-fines-in-south-africa-coming-soon/)

### NATIONAL HEALTH INSURANCE IS NOW LAW IN SA

##### President Cyril Ramaphosa has made good on his promise to sign the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill into law before the 2024 national election, bringing the contentious healthcare system into South Africa’s reality.

![President Cyril Ramaphosa has made good on his promise to sign the National Health
Insurance (NHI) Bill into law before the 2024 national election, bringing the contentious
healthcare system into South Africa’s reality.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/
wp-content/uploads/2024/05/18154327/NHI-now-law-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/772134/national-health-insurance-is-now-law-in-south-africa/)

### CHANGES FOR DIVORCE IN SA SIGNED INTO LAW

##### President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed the Divorce Amendment Bill into law, bringing changes to Muslim divorces in South Africa.

![President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed the Divorce Amendment Bill into law, bringing
changes to Muslim divorces in South Africa.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-
content/uploads/2024/05/11172737/changes-for-divorce-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/771282/changes-for-divorce-in-south-africa-signed-into-law/)

### RAMAPHOSA SIGNS NEW HATE SPEECH LAW FOR SA

##### President Cyril Ramaphosa has given his approval to the Preventing and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill, which criminalises hate crimes and hate speech. The law also outlines the prosecution process for individuals who perpetrate these offences.

![President Cyril Ramaphosa has given his approval to the Preventing and Combating
of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill, which criminalises hate crimes and hate speech.
The law also outlines the prosecution process for individuals who perpetrate these
offences.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09223408/
Hate-free-speech-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/771277/ramaphosa-signs-new-hate-speech-law-for-south-africa/)

### WHY SA'S 2024 ELECTIONS SHOULDN'T SCARE YOU

##### South Africa’s upcoming national election on 29 May 2024 is causing large amounts of anxiety, but Allan Gray says the country’s market tends to survive during periods of volatility.

![Why South Africa’s 2024 elections shouldn’t scare you](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/06165852/scary-elections-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/finance/770467/why-south-africas-2024-elections-shouldnt-scare-you/)

### SOUTH AFRICA'S R2.4 BILLION DOCTOR PROBLEM

##### According to the Department of Health, there are currently 2,012 unfunded vacant medical doctor posts in the health sector across South Africa’s nine provinces, and the government requires R2.4 billion to fill them.

![According to the Department of Health, there are currently 2,012 unfunded vacant
medical doctor posts in the health sector across South Africa’s nine provinces, 
and the government requires R2.4 billion to fill them. ](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/02143320/unemployed-doctors-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/768850/south-africas-r2-4-billion-doctor-problem/)

### TRANSMISSION COMPANY ON TRACK TO START TRADING BY JULY

##### The National Transmission Company of SA (NTCSA), which has been established as part of the unbundling of Eskom’s generation, distribution and transmission businesses, is expected to start trading by the beginning of July.

![The National Transmission Company of SA (NTCSA), which has been established as
part of the unbundling of Eskom’s generation, distribution and transmission businesses,
is expected to start trading by the beginning of July.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/30134305/new-transmission-company-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://www.businesslive.co.za/bd/national/2024-04-22-transmission-company-on-track-to-start-trading-by-july-says-ramokgopa/)

### MASSIVE R550 PRE-PAID ELECTRICITY CHARGE FOR JOBURG – CITY POWER EXPLAINS

##### City of Joburg power utility City Power has refuted claims by the Democratic Alliance (DA) that it would be charging prepaid electricity users R554 a month on top of an 18.84% increase in electricity tariffs from July this year.

![City of Joburg power utility City Power has refuted claims by the Democratic Alliance(
DA) that it would be charging prepaid electricity users R554 a month on top of an
18.84% increase in electricity tariffs from July this year.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/24142742/CoJ-explains-R550-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/769010/massive-r550-prepaid-electricity-charge-for-joburg-city-power-clarifies-proposal/)

### PROPOSED NEW LAW TO CHANGE THE CONSTITUTION IN SA – TARGETING CORRUPTION

##### Democratic Alliance member of parliament Glynnis Breytenbach has gazetted notice of a new private members’ bill she intends to introduce in parliament, looking to make the 21st amendment to South Africa’s constitution. The constitutional change, should it be approved and made law, would see a new Anti-Corruption Commission established in South Africa as a Chapter 9 institution.

![Democratic Alliance member of parliament Glynnis Breytenbach has gazetted notice
of a new private members’ bill she intends to introduce in parliament, looking to
make the 21st amendment to South Africa’s constitution. The constitutional change,
should it be approved and made law, would see a new Anti-Corruption Commission established
in South Africa as a Chapter 9 institution.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-
content/uploads/2024/04/22140353/constitution-21st-amendment-anti-corruption-1024x690.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/768873/proposed-new-law-to-change-the-constitution-in-south-africa-targeting-corruption/)

### SA'S NEW 'SPY BILL' STILL RAISING RED FLAGS

##### The General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill (GILAB) that is currently sitting in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) is set to undergo another process of public participation – but civil society groups are worried that crucial suggestions will fall on deaf ears.

![The General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill (GILAB) that is currently sitting
in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) is set to undergo another process of
public participation – but civil society groups are worried that crucial suggestions
will fall on deaf ears.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/
04/21154217/spy-bill-returns-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/767782/south-africas-new-spy-bill-still-raising-red-flags/)

### INSURANCE PREMIUMS IN SA COULD SOON INCLUDE CLIMATE CHANGE RISKS

##### Major South African insurance company Santam is working on a technology-driven tool that helps underwriters determine when a property is at greater risk of climate change-related events.

![Major South African insurance company Santam is working on a technology-driven
tool that helps underwriters determine when a property is at greater risk of climate
change-related events.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/
04/18154929/Climate-change-insurance-premiums-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://mybroadband.co.za/news/it-services/532463-insurance-premiums-in-south-africa-could-soon-include-climate-change-risks.html)

### NEW EXIT CERTIFICATE FOR SCHOOL KIDS IN SA – WHERE 40% DROP OUT

##### The GEC is a standardised qualification being piloted in South Africa for learners completing grade 9, which will give any school leavers some type of “currency” they can use to either find a job or pursue a different stream of schooling.

![New ‘exit’ certificate for school kids in South Africa – where 40% drop out](https://
cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/12115041/Leaving-school-1024x690.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/765299/new-exit-certificate-for-school-kids-in-south-africa-where-40-drop-out/)

### MORE MONEY FOR POOR SERVICE DELIVERY

##### Economist Dawie Roodt said South African public servants are overpaid and don’t deliver the quality services they are supposed to. Roodt’s comments come after Public Service and Administration Minister Noxolo Kiviet announced that public servants will receive a 4.7% salary increase.

![Economist Dawie Roodt said South African public servants are overpaid and don’t
deliver the quality services they are supposed to. Roodt’s comments come after Public
Service and Administration Minister Noxolo Kiviet announced that public servants
will receive a 4.7% salary increase.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/
uploads/2024/04/09135412/Gov-Salary-Increases-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/finance/766367/more-money-for-poor-service-delivery-in-south-africa/)

### MASSIVE PROPERTY, ELECTRICITY AND WATER RATE HIKES ON THE WAY

##### The draft budget proposals for the 2024/25 financial year have been presented by the major metros of South Africa, and they reveal that residents can expect a significant increase in tariffs.

![The draft budget proposals for the 2024/25 financial year have been presented 
by the major metros of South Africa, and they reveal that residents can expect a
significant increase in tariffs.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/
2024/04/05085823/2024-tariff-increases-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/765431/massive-property-electricity-and-water-rate-hikes-expected-to-hit-major-cities-in-south-africa-soon/)

### BIG NAME CHANGES FOR SA PUSHED THROUGH – GOODBYE LADYSMITH

##### The Department of Sports, Arts and Culture has gazetted the latest round of name changes for South Africa, which includes the official changes for Ladysmith in KZN and William Nicol Drive in Joburg.

![The Department of Sports, Arts and Culture has gazetted the latest round of name
changes for South Africa, which includes the official changes for Ladysmith in KZN
and William Nicol Drive in Joburg.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/
uploads/2024/04/04075056/more-name-changes-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/762955/goodbye-ladysmith-big-name-changes-for-south-africa-pushed-through/)

### SOUTH AFRICA REQUIRES COMPREHENSIVE AI LEGISLATION

##### “South Africa’s ambition to be a player in the global Artificial Intelligence `{`AI`}` space necessitates a regulatory regime that can regulate the robustness of AI and the possible threats that it may impose on individuals and organisations.” This was argued by ICT legal experts at ENS Africa, Ridwaan Boda, Era Gunning and Lindo Ntuli, who prompted the discussion following the European Parliament passing pioneering Artificial Intelligence Act on 13 March – a first piece of legislation of this nature seen globally.

![“South Africa’s ambition to be a player in the global Artificial Intelligence [
AI] space necessitates a regulatory regime that can regulate the robustness of AI
and the possible threats that it may impose on individuals and organisations.” This
was argued by ICT legal experts at ENS Africa, Ridwaan Boda, Era Gunning and Lindo
Ntuli, who prompted the discussion following the European Parliament passing pioneering
Artificial Intelligence Act on 13 March – a first piece of legislation of this nature
seen globally.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/01141212/
Articificial-Intelligence-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/technology/762653/south-africa-requires-comprehensive-ai-legislation-experts/)

### VEHICLE CHECKS AND VIDEO RECORDINGS AT ROADBLOCKS – KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

##### When you get pulled over by a traffic officer in South Africa, it can be a stressful and even frightening experience, even if you haven’t done anything wrong. Therefore, it’s essential to be aware of your constitutional rights in this situation for the next time you encounter it.

![When you get pulled over by a traffic officer in South Africa, it can be a stressful
and even frightening experience, even if you haven’t done anything wrong. Therefore,
it’s essential to be aware of your constitutional rights in this situation for the
next time you encounter it.](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/
2024/03/30112659/roadblock1-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/motoring/764171/vehicle-checks-and-video-recordings-at-roadblocks-in-south-africa-know-your-rights/)

### NATIONAL ASSEMBLY PASSES 8 NEW BILLS – INCLUDING 'SPY BILL'

##### he National Assembly had a busy day on Tuesday (26 February), giving the green light to eight bills, including ones that see an overhaul of South Africa’s State Security Agency, retirement reform, and the creation of a water state-owned enterprise.

![National assembly passes 8 new bills - including 'Spy Bill'](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/29131828/Spy-bill-passed-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/764145/parliament-passes-8-new-bills-including-changes-for-pensions-and-a-new-soe-in-south-africa/)

### SOUTH AFRICA CAN'T AFFORD TO 'CLIMATE PROOF' ITS INFRASTRUCTURE

##### While much talk from cabinet has been about ramping up funding for climate-resilient infrastructure to mitigate the negative effects of climate-related weather events on property, there is a big problem – the government can’t afford it

![South Africa can’t afford to ‘climate-proof’ its infrastructure](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/20172808/Climate-proof-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/761749/south-africa-cant-afford-to-climate-proof-its-infrastructure/)

### GOVERNMENT PROMISES SOUTH AFRICA'S NEW CLIMATE FUND WONT GET LOOTED

##### Barbara Creecy, the Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, has backed the creation of the Climate Response Fund, which she says represents a crucial measure to tackle the consequences of climate-related catastrophes – but assures that it will not suffer the same ill fate as other funds which had “no oversight”.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/28121953/climate-
fund-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/752961/government-promises-south-africas-new-climate-fund-wont-get-looted/)

### 4 NEW BILLS PASSED BY PARLIAMENT – WITH BIG CHANGES FOR PENSIONS IN SOUTH AFRICA

##### The National Assembly has passed four Bills, with one having a significant impact on South Africa’s pension system. NA has passed the Revenue Laws Amendment Bill, the Plant Health (Phytosanitary) Bill, the Deeds Registries Amendment Bill, and the Municipal Fiscal Powers and Functions Amendment Bill.

![4 new bills passed by parliament – with big changes for pensions in South Africa](
https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/21151535/New-Bills-
1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/753571/4-new-bills-passed-by-parliament-with-big-changes-for-pensions-in-south-africa/)

### NEW LAWS FOR SCHOOLS IN SOUTH AFRICA AN ‘OVERREACH BY THE STATE’: GOVERNING BODIES

##### As the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill moves closer to being signed into law, supporters hope that the new legislation will close many ‘loopholes’ in the education system. However, many school governing bodies (SGBs) continue to oppose the coming changes and worry that their concerns have fallen on deaf ears.

![NEW LAWS FOR SCHOOLS IN SOUTH AFRICA AN ‘OVERREACH BY THE STATE’: GOVERNING BODIES](
https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/19155150/BELA-and-SGB-
1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/751124/new-laws-for-schools-in-south-africa-an-overreach-by-the-state-governing-bodies/)

### 2024 BUDGET PREDICTIONS: TAX HIKES, MEDICAL AID CREDIT CHANGES AND MORE

##### The upcoming 2024 budget speech requires the Minister of Finance to prioritise disciplined budgeting, efficient tax collection, responsible spending, and sustainable economic growth promotion by promoting a balance between promoting economic development and easing the burden on South African households.

![2024 Budget predictions: Tax hikes, medical aid credit changes and more](https://
cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/15171340/Budget-predictions-
1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/budget-speech/751274/2024-budget-predictions-tax-hikes-medical-aid-credit-changes-and-more/)

### RAMAPHOSA DOUBLES DOWN ON BASIC INCOME GRANT FOR SOUTH AFRICA

##### President Cyril Ramaphosa has doubled down on plans to make the shift to a permanent Basic Income Grant a reality in South Africa. Delivering the 2024 State of the Nation Address, the president said that this will be done by extending and amending the Social Relief of Distress `{`SRD`}` Grant.

![Ramaphosa doubles down on Basic Income Grant for South Africa](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.
co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/09125859/Basic-Income-Grant-1024x690.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/750208/ramaphosa-doubles-down-on-basic-income-grant-for-south-africa/)

### HOW MUCH PREPAID ELECTRICITY WILL COST AFTER THE 2024 PRICE HIKES

##### South Africans using prepaid electricity should expect a significant increase in their monthly bill from April this year. Last year, the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) approved Eskom price increases of 18.65% for 2023/24 and a 12.74% increase that will start in April 2024.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/25150046/pre-paid-
tariff-300x202.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/744295/how-much-prepaid-electricity-will-cost-in-south-africa-after-the-2024-price-hikes/)

### ANOTHER MASSIVE ELECTRICITY PRICE HIKE HITTING SOUTH AFRICANS SOON

##### Despite having the worst year of load shedding in 2023, and many analysts noting it is firmly here to stay in 2024, South Africans must prepare for another double-digit Eskom tariff increase this year.

![Another massive electricity price hike hitting South Africans soon](https://cdn.
dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/17110337/Electricity-tariff-increase-
300x202.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/742375/another-massive-electricity-price-hike-hitting-south-africans-soon/)

### SOUTH AFRICA’S BIG PLAN TO END LOAD SHEDDING IS SERIOUSLY FLAWED

##### In the first week of 2024, the South African energy minister, Gwede Mantashe, released a proposed roadmap for the future of electricity in South Africa. Unfortunately, the draft Integrated Resource Plan is a major disappointment.

![SOUTH AFRICA’S BIG PLAN TO END LOAD SHEDDING IS SERIOUSLY FLAWED](https://cdn.
dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/15113103/flawed-energy-plan-300x202.
jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/741491/south-africas-big-plan-to-end-load-shedding-is-seriously-flawed/)

### 9 NEW LAWS WAITING TO BE SIGNED BY RAMAPHOSA – FROM NHI TO HATE SPEECH

##### With the national elections coming up, Parliament has been pushing through large amounts of legislation, with several laws only needing the President’s signature for assent.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/05140037/9-laws-
ramaphosa-300x202.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/740281/9-new-laws-for-south-africa-waiting-to-be-signed-by-ramaphosa-from-nhi-to-hate-speech/)

### PARLIAMENT'S MAD RUSH BEFORE END OF TERM

##### Parliament had a busy 2023, as lawmakers were steadfast in getting legislation to the president’s desk before the legislature comes to a close in May.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/03181042/parliament-
rush-300x202.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/739905/parliaments-mad-rush-before-end-of-term/)

### GOVERNMENT LOOKS TO FINALISE EXPROPRIATION LAWS AHEAD OF 2024 ELECTIONS

##### One of the first items on parliament’s agenda for 2024 is to bring the widely-debated Expropriation Bill into law ahead of this year’s general elections.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/03155730/ecpropriation-
300x202.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/739833/government-looks-to-finalise-expropriation-laws-ahead-of-2024-elections/)

### OUTRAGEOUS PREDICTIONS FOR 2024 – INCLUDING AN AI DEEPFAKE CRISIS, AND THE FALL OF CAPITALISM IN THE USA

##### Denmark-based Saxo Bank has continued its nearly two-decades tradition by publishing eight outrageous predictions for 2024.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/03161710/2024-predictions-
300x202.jpg)

 [read more](https://www.home.saxo/en-gb/insights/news-and-research/thought-leadership/outrageous-predictions/)

### BIG CHANGES TO PARENTAL LEAVE IN SOUTH AFRICA

##### A South African high court has ushered in a new era of parental leave with a landmark ruling that new parents can share four months of parental leave, previously available only to mothers.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/03161905/paternity-
leave-300x202.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/lifestyle/737787/big-changes-to-parental-leave-in-south-africa/)

### ALL THE NEW NAME CHANGES FOR SOUTH AFRICAN CITIES, TOWNS AND VILLAGES IN 2023

##### Throughout 2023, there have been several proposed name changes for towns and villages in South Africa as part of the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture’s goal of speeding up transformation reflected across the country’s geographical landmarks.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/03162100/Name-changes-
300x202.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/737785/all-the-new-name-changes-for-south-african-cities-towns-and-villages-in-2023/)

### THIS TAX IS NOT WORKING IN SOUTH AFRICA

##### The tax on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB), known as the Health Promotion Levy (HPL), has been ineffective in reducing the nation’s sugar intake and obesity levels.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/03162248/sugar-
tax-300x202.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/lifestyle/737033/this-tax-is-not-working-in-south-africa/)

### SOUTH AFRICA BACKS GLOBAL CLIMATE DEAL TO KISS FOSSIL FUELS GOODBYE

##### The South African government has welcomed a deal struck at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai, where nearly 200 countries have agreed to begin moving away from fossil fuels by ramping up renewable energy to counter the impact of climate change.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/03162731/no-more-
coal-300x202.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/738545/south-africa-backs-global-climate-deal-to-kiss-fossil-fuels-goodbye/)

### WARNING OVER NEW SMOKING LAWS IN SOUTH AFRICA

##### Gauteng residents are divided on the hotly contested draft Control of Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Bill, with businesses warning that implementing the new laws will have negative consequences for the country’s township economy.

![](https://cdn.dearsouthafrica.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/03162924/smoking-
laws-300x202.jpg)

 [read more](https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/735781/warning-over-new-smoking-laws-for-south-africa/)