Author: Nomthandazo Ntisa

Gauteng’s MEC for Finance and Economic Development, Lebogang Maile, delivered the 2025/26 Provincial Budget Speech on Tuesday, 3 June 2025, outlining how Africa’s economic powerhouse plans to navigate constrained fiscal conditions, national growth, and mounting service delivery demands. The re-tabled budget prioritizes economic recovery, infrastructure expansion, public service efficiency, and social transformation. ALSO READ: Gauteng Education MEC Mourns Tragic Murder of Learner Likhona Fose Gauteng’s Economic Reality As South Africa’s smallest yet most populous province, Gauteng contributes over 35% to the national GDP, with Johannesburg and Tshwane driving economic activity. In 2024, the provincial economy grew by 1.3%, and forecasts…

In a landmark decision, South Africa’s Cabinet has chosen the Nasrec Expo Centre in Soweto to host the 2025 G20 Leaders Summit, scheduled for November. This bold move doesn’t just elevate Soweto onto the global stage — it marks a defining moment in the country’s mission to promote spatial integration and economic inclusivity. ALSO READ: W20 South Africa 2025: Driving Women’s Empowerment Within the G20 Agenda A Symbolic Choice for a Global Gathering Situated beside the iconic Soccer City stadium — known for hosting the 2010 FIFA World Cup’s opening and final matches — the Nasrec Expo Centre has long…

The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) has issued a firm warning to the public. This came after a wave of fake job advertisements circulated online. These fraudulent posts, which have appeared on social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), falsely claim that Sassa is hiring for positions like “Finance Clerks 2025” and “Grant Administrators (x21).” These adverts promise attractive salaries—reportedly R22 412 per month with no prior experience required. They also attempt to mislead job seekers by listing popular locations such as Sassa’s head office in Pretoria and other unspecified “selected Sassa offices in South Africa.” More alarmingly,…

Johannesburg residents are experiencing another round of water supply disruptions as Rand Water enters Phase 2 of its infrastructure maintenance programme. The water outage, which began on Tuesday, 3 June 2025, is expected to last 10 hours, from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m., affecting pumping capacity at 67%. ALSO READ: Joburg Braces for 21-Day Water Outage as Rand Water Launches Pipeline Repairs Water Outage: A City-Wide Impact on Water Supply The second phase of maintenance is targeting Johannesburg’s Palmiet System, impacting various key areas including: Though pumping has not ceased completely, it has been reduced significantly. Rand Water and Johannesburg…

Gauteng, South Africa’s most populous province and economic powerhouse, is facing a growing healthcare crisis as more than 34,000 patients remain on waiting lists for surgery in its public hospitals. This alarming figure was revealed in a written response by Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko to questions posed by the DA’s Shadow Health MEC, Jack Bloom. While efforts have been made to reduce waiting times, the province’s healthcare system continues to buckle under the pressure of an ever-increasing patient load, resource constraints, and systemic challenges. ALSO READ: Gauteng Health Urges Parents to Adhere to Child Immunisation Schedule Amid Rising Health…

State funerals are solemn occasions that honour individuals who have made significant contributions to South Africa. The State, Official and Provincial Funeral Policy Manual, published by The Presidency in 2016, clearly defines the categories, criteria, and management of state-funded funerals in the country. This policy highlights not only political leaders but also distinguished figures who have shaped South African society. With the recent passing of renowned actor Presley Chwenyegae, many South Africans are wondering if he will receive such a prestigious honour. Let’s explore who qualifies for a state funeral today and look back at some of the iconic South…

Rand Water has officially launched its critical B16 pipeline maintenance programme. This is a massive infrastructure overhaul expected to impact water supply across Johannesburg and surrounding areas for up to 21 days. The programme, which began at 3 am on Thursday, 29 May, aims to improve long-term service delivery but will bring short-term water supply disruptions to major parts of Gauteng. ALSO READ: 21-Day Water Outage in Johannesburg: Areas Affected and How to Prepare What Residents Need to Know Rand Water has confirmed that valve isolation has been completed as part of the initial stage of the operation. The project…

South Africa has made history by launching Women20 South Africa (W20SA). The launch was on 26 February 2025 at the NRF Auditorium in Pretoria. As an official G20 engagement group, W20 plays a pivotal role in shaping global policy discussions on gender equality and women’s economic empowerment. This launch aligns with South Africa’s presidency of the G20 in 2025. It offers the country a unique platform to ensure that the voices of women, especially from Africa and the Global South, are integrated into G20 priorities and ultimately influence global decision-making. ALSO READ: Youth Empowerment and Urban Renewal Ahead of the…

As winter tightens its grip on South Africa, Eskom has moved swiftly to debunk claims that the country will face 14-hour load shedding periods in June 2025. Social media platforms were abuzz this week with alarming posts suggesting that residents in Gauteng and the Northern Cape should brace for prolonged blackouts due to heightened electricity demand. However, Eskom has categorically denied these reports, labeling them as “fake news.” ALSO READ: Alexandra Residents Clash with City Power Over Illegal Electricity Disconnections No 14-Hour Load Shedding Planned, Says Eskom In a strongly worded statement, Eskom dismissed the claims circulating online, assuring South…

Johannesburg is set to endure a challenging 21-day water outage beginning on 30 June 2025, as Rand Water launches a large-scale maintenance program across the city’s critical water supply systems. The planned maintenance, which will run until 21 July 2025, is aimed at improving long-term infrastructure efficiency, but it will come with significant short-term disruption for residents and businesses alike. ALSO READ: Rand Water Pours R400 Million into Maintenance While Gauteng Endures Extended Water Outages Water Outage: Widespread Impact Across Joburg The scheduled maintenance will affect multiple major water systems, including: During the initial phase, no water pumping will occur…