Author: Nomthandazo Ntisa

Former DBSA Chief Brings Decades of Leadership Experience to Africa’s Largest Asset Manager The Public Investment Corporation (PIC), one of Africa’s most influential asset managers, has confirmed the appointment of Patrick Dlamini as its new Chief Executive Officer. The appointment, effective from 1 June 2025, was officially approved by Cabinet during its meeting on 14 May. This concludes a rigorous seven-month global executive search initiated by the PIC board. Patrick Dlamini is a seasoned leader with over 30 years of senior management experience. He will succeed Abel Sithole, who is retiring after completing a five-year term marked by significant organisational…

As of 18 May 2025, South Africa’s Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Gwede Mantashe, has officially assumed the role of Acting President of the Republic. This temporary appointment follows the simultaneous absence of both President Cyril Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile. They are currently undertaking high-level international engagements in the United States and France, respectively. ALSO READ: 12 Illegal Immigrants Arrested as SAPS Targets Expired Food in Pretoria Why Gwede Mantashe is Acting President The appointment is by Section 90(1)(b) of the South African Constitution. This section provides for the president to designate a minister to act in…

The Department of Home Affairs has recently shifted South Africa’s identity document landscape. Introducing an extended rollout of smart ID cards to naturalised citizens and permanent residents from visa-exempt countries. As part of this initiative, Home Affairs has also extended its Saturday office hours. This will happen throughout May 2025 to accommodate the expected influx of applicants. ALSO READ: Smart ID Access for All: Major Shift in Home Affairs Policy Empowers Naturalised Citizens A Modern Approach to Identity Management This move is part of a broader government effort to modernise identity documentation, boost security, and improve service delivery. The green…

In a forceful crackdown by SAPS on illicit trade and unsafe food practices, law enforcement officers arrested 12 illegal immigrants and confiscated large quantities of expired and counterfeit goods. This was during a targeted operation in Pretoria West. A multi-agency task force led by the South African Police Service (SAPS), alongside officials from the Department of Home Affairs (DOH), Tshwane Emergency Services, municipal health inspectors, labour officers, and Crime Prevention Wardens, executed the raid on several warehouses and businesses operating outside legal and health regulations. ALSO READ: When Style Meets Sport: Nedbank International Polo Steals the Spotlight SAPS Shut Down…

In a time of economic pressure, the salaries of South Africa’s top state-owned enterprise (SOE) executives have come under the spotlight. Thanks to a detailed parliamentary response by Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe, South Africans now have a clearer picture of what these public officials are earning — and the numbers are significant. ALSO READ: Petrol Prices To Drop in June 2025: Here’s What To Expect SOE Executives’ Earnings: An Overview According to Mantashe’s disclosures, most SOE CEOs operating under his department earn between R2.4 million and R6.1 million per year, excluding performance bonuses. The Central Energy Fund…

As South Africans gear up for another month of grant disbursements, speculation and misinformation continue to circulate online. The latest rumor making waves suggests that permanent SASSA beneficiaries will receive a “double payment” in June 2025. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has since stepped forward to set the record straight — and the answer is a firm no, there will be no double payment in June. ALSO READ: SASSA SRD Grant 2025: Who Qualifies & How to Apply SASSA Confirms: No Double Payments in June In a statement released to address the widespread claims, SASSA’s Head of Communications,…

South Africa’s ongoing battle against illegal mining and smuggling operations scored a major win this week. Authorities seized unwrought gold worth R16 million and arrested two suspects believed to be part of a larger illicit network. Following a critical tip-off, law enforcement intercepted the suspects on the R21 highway in Gauteng. They uncovered a cache of gold bars stashed in their vehicle. The breakthrough underlines the effectiveness of collaborative crime-fighting efforts. It also highlights the growing determination of authorities to curb the illegal trade in precious metals. ALSO READ: Petrol Prices To Drop in June 2025: Here’s What To Expect…

South African motorists have enjoyed a steady run of fuel price relief in 2025, with three consecutive cuts since March. As we approach June, mid-month data suggests that this trend may continue, offering some much-needed respite for consumers feeling the pinch of rising living costs. According to the latest unaudited figures from the Central Energy Fund (CEF), diesel and petrol prices are on track to decrease again — if current market conditions hold steady. ALSO READ: Smart ID Access for All: Major Shift in Home Affairs Policy Empowers Naturalised Citizens Overview of Current Petrol Prices As of May 2025, South…

In 2024, South Africa saw a significant surge in the distribution of prescription medications, revealing critical insights into the nation’s physical and mental health challenges. According to international healthcare analytics firm IQVIA, a staggering USD 2.28 billion (R41.3 billion) worth of prescription drugs reached South African shelves and patients, highlighting a growing reliance on medical treatment for chronic conditions, obesity, and mental health issues. ALSO READ: Smart ID Access for All: Major Shift in Home Affairs Policy Empowers Naturalised Citizens Weight Loss and Diabetes Medications Dominate in South Africa A significant portion of the medication spend—roughly R3.4 billion—was allocated to…

South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs has announced a significant policy change. This policy will allow over 1.4 million naturalised South Africans and permanent residents to apply for the modern Smart ID card starting this week. This move, spearheaded by Minister of Home Affairs Dr Leon Schreiber, marks a turning point. It shows the department’s broader digital transformation drive aimed at enhancing service delivery and restoring dignity to previously excluded groups. ALSO READ: Get A Smart ID and Passport At Your Bank Long-Awaited Inclusion For years, South Africans born abroad and those with permanent residence status could not obtain a…