Headlines from South Africa
This compilation of news articles from May 6, 2025, covers a variety of topics including local South African news, business, crime, and international relations. From the state of the used car market, to the expansion of internet access in Africa, to commentary on South Africa's international relations, the articles reflect a diverse set of issues.
South Africa's Political and Economic Landscape
Lisette Ijssel de Schepper, Chief Economist at the Bureau for Economic Research, discussed the South African economy on CNBC Africa, highlighting challenges such as global uncertainties and slow structural reforms. She emphasized the importance of strong leadership and policy clarity for driving economic growth. The South African economy faces challenges from global uncertainties and slow progress on structural reforms, impacting growth forecasts. While risks persist, there are opportunities for South Africa to diversify trade relationships and capitalize on global shifts.
In other news, the Gautrain is offering a 50% discount on train trips to make the rapid rail service more accessible to a larger share of the population in Gauteng. The new "KlevaMova" initiative aims to reduce the cost of living for many South Africans by providing discounted fares to eligible customers. Passengers with return trips booked may also park at its stations for only R1 a day until the end of July. The 50% discount on train trips is available to individuals living in households with a combined household annual income of R350,000 or less, students under the age of 25, scholars, pensioners and recipients of the SA Social Security Agency’s (Sassa) disability grant. Gauteng’s 25-Year Integrated Transport Master Plan (ITMP25) prioritizes a passenger rail network as the backbone of the province's modernised and integrated transport system. Taking more people off the roads will indeed bring numerous benefits including less road congestion, road accidents, and harmful carbon dioxide emissions.
Crime and Justice
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s government is facing criticism for allocating millions of rands to reopen investigations into Apartheid-era killings while thousands of recent murders remain unsolved across the country. Critics argue that South Africa’s current crime crisis—with over 27,400 murders recorded in 2023 alone—demands urgent attention, rather than revisiting historical cases. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) recently announced plans to pursue fresh inquests into decades-old cases, reigniting debate over the government’s misplaced priorities.
Three men accused in the fatal hijacking of 5-year-old Ditebogo Phalane are expected to appear in the Pretoria North Magistrate’s Court. The tragic incident, which occurred in May 2023, sent shockwaves across the country after the young boy was caught in the crossfire during the violent carjacking.
KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has issued a warning that carrying weapons will not be tolerated at the stadium during the Soweto derby. Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium will host the Nedbank Cup final on Saturday between arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.
Business and Technology
The new and used car markets showed positive growth in March 2025, following strong performances in January and February. Used car sales are up monthly and annually, while new car sales have decreased slightly since February 2025 but show positive year-on-year growth. In March, 29,896 used vehicles were sold, representing a YoY and month-on-month (MoM) increase of +9.6% and +3.5%, respectively.
Kennedy Chinganya, new CEO and executive vice president (EVP) of Interfile, says the provider of citizen-focused solutions for government, municipalities, and private sector organisations is poised for expansion. Interfile offers a suite of solutions for government, municipalities, and private sector organisations, enabling them to make tax payments, obtain ID cards or passports, file for unemployment insurance fund benefits, and engage with or pay for local municipal services. The firm was acquired by Harris in 2023.
Pan-African telecom operator Airtel Africa has partnered with SpaceX to deliver high-speed Internet through Starlink across its African markets. SpaceX has secured the necessary licenses in nine of the 14 countries within Airtel Africa's footprint. They will explore rural coverage expansion through cellular backhauling. Airtel Africa plans to use Starlink’s low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to enhance its next-generation satellite connectivity offerings.
Mining and Sustainability
As the global spotlight intensifies on climate change and sustainability, mining companies are under increasing pressure to prove that economic growth and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. ESG frameworks guide mining companies in assessing and improving their environmental and social performance. Anglo American, Fortescue Metals, BHP, and Newcrest Mining have emerged as leaders in ESG performance. Pan African Resources has commissioned a grid-tied solar photovoltaic (PV) plant at its Elikhulu Tailings Retreatment Plant, significantly reducing its carbon footprint and operational costs.
Healthcare
The Gauteng health department has assured the public services at Weskoppies Psychiatric Hospital are continuing despite the City of Tshwane cutting its power supply because of unpaid municipal bills. The delay in payment was due to the transition to the new financial year. The department spokesperson Motalatale Modiba said the owed amount is being processed for payment and the hospital has backup power supply systems.
Sports
The Kenya Simbas have unveiled a 50-man provisional squad set to begin preparations for the upcoming Rugby World Cup 2027 qualifiers. Head coach Jerome Paarwater and his technical team will kick off the qualification journey with a residential training camp in Kakamega from 11th to 18th May 2025. The South African-led technical team is optimistic that the structured build-up—spanning domestic camps and high-intensity exposure abroad—will equip the Simbas for a strong showing in Kampala as they bid for a place at the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Arts and Culture
The Durban Music Festival was a success despite some challenges. Blue Screen Entertainment issued a statement, saying they were saddened to hear about challenges stemming from stadium security not allowing some of their VIP guests and artists into the approved areas. eThekwini municipality spokesperson Gugu Sisilana said the organisers are responsible for issuing accreditation for access to various restricted areas, including suites, during events — not the city or stadium management.
