South Africa Mail & Guardian

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 08:28:48 GMT
Sardine deaths: high levels of pilchard herpesvirus found in South African fish
High levels of pilchard herpesvirus have been found in sardines involved in South Africa’s extensive mortality event, with the virus detected in all 15 fish in an initial detailed round of testing. Scientists are yet to establish whether the virus ...

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 15:13:51 GMT
Political analyst warns of assassinations as MK Party rank and file jostle for positions before municipal elections
A political analyst warns of escalating hostilities and potential deadly skirmishes within the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party ahead of municipal elections, fueled by tensions between new and old members over key positions, particularly in the eThekwini ...

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 15:10:24 GMT
#CancelCoal: SCA to hear government appeal over 1 500MW new coal plan
Youth and environmental organisations are back in court to defend their 2024 victory against 1,500MW of new coal-fired power, as Electricity and Energy Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa appeals the high court ruling. The case before the Supreme Court of...

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 13:33:57 GMT
Passenger vehicle sales for July the best since 2014
South Africa's new vehicle market experienced a significant surge in July 2026, with sales reaching 57 708 units. Passenger vehicle sales, contributing 40 912 units, marked the best performance since September 2014, according to Naamsa. This growth w...

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 11:24:44 GMT
Ford Ranger Raptor: A wild dragon that refuses to be tamed
Last year, I tested the impressive BYD Shark 6, which immediately attempted to dethrone the Ford Ranger Raptor when it arrived in South Africa. I remember too clearly the massive billboard on the N3 towards Sandton. It boasted about the Shark's 321kW...

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 10:41:33 GMT
Taxi boss Msibi, Motsumi, KT Molefe and Sergeant Nkosi plotted to sell phone-grabbers to eSwatini
Evidence leader Matthew Chaskalson detailed WhatsApp exchanges involving taxi boss Jotham “King Mswazi” Msibi and Sergeant Fannie Nkosi in which they discussed an alleged plan to acquire and sell cellphone-interception devices, commonly known as ...

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 10:22:58 GMT
‘This is how we do it’: 30 years of caring for a son with cerebral palsy
Keneilwe Dikoma's life changed forever when her son Lorato was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at six months old. For three decades, she has navigated the complexities of care in rural South Africa, facing challenges from inadequate medical facilities ...

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 10:14:06 GMT
When will she be safe? The continuum of violence in refugee and migrant women’s lives
While South Africa celebrates Women's Month, many refugee and migrant women continue to face a continuum of violence, from the trauma of forced displacement to xenophobia, discrimination, and barriers to essential services within the country. This pi...

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 09:33:02 GMT
Beyond AI detection: African universities must choose transparency over policing
The debate around academic integrity in universities has evolved beyond plagiarism to how institutions should respond to AI. This article explores the challenges of AI detection and advocates for transparency, AI literacy, and new assessment methods ...

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 09:22:00 GMT
How Zambia lost the plot: Inside a troubled election
An expert analysis delves into Zambia's 2026 election, highlighting a troubling weakening of institutional safeguards. The article raises legitimate questions about procedural certainty and outcome, advocating for an independent forensic audit of the...

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 08:56:17 GMT
Lifestyle Audits: Building integrity, restoring trust and strengthening the State
Lifestyle audits in the Public Service are playing a significant role in preventing misconduct and safeguarding public resources. This strategy moves beyond arrests and prosecutions, focusing on identifying early warning signs to prevent corruption b...

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 08:37:18 GMT
More South African Rugby Coaches Deserve Global Stages—But Culture and Structure Remain Barriers
South Africa's rugby system consistently produces world-class players and coaches, yet many highly successful coaches struggle to secure major overseas roles. This article delves into the unique coaching culture and structural pathways that define So...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 17:05:17 GMT
SANParks newly-launched Golden Gate Zipline set to woo tourists in the Free State
The SA National Parks (SANParks) has officially launched the Golden Gate Zipline near Clarens, Free State, aiming to boost the region's tourism economy. This new adventure offering at the Golden Gate Highlands National Park complements existing attra...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 16:27:57 GMT
Gardee takes aim at AfriForum: "We won’t be distracted by lizards; We have a crocodile to face."
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) deputy president Godrich Gardee has dismissed AfriForum as a distraction, stating the party is focused on its election campaign for November 4th. This comes after AfriForum filed a contempt of court application against...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 15:40:13 GMT
Matlala denies knowing Mchunu, says he hates alleged fixer Mogotsi
Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala denies ever meeting suspended police minister Senzo Mchunu, refuting claims that Mchunu disbanded the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) at his request. Matlala also reveals his strong dislike for alleged fixer Brown Mogot...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 14:28:16 GMT
Sama32 celebrates South Africa’s musical excellence, diversity and global influence
The 32nd South African Music Awards (Sama32) concluded its Homecoming Edition at Sun City, honouring the rich diversity and evolution of South African music over two nights. The event celebrated artists, producers, and creative professionals across v...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 14:24:04 GMT
Right of Reply: KZN Art Fair
The KZN Art Fair issues a right of reply to an article by Heidi Thembeka Sincuba, addressing concerns about the conflation of roles and claims regarding student access and the expectation of free entry to cultural events.

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 13:51:16 GMT
South Africa's R75bn Gambling Industry Has a Problem: The Online Market Is Outrunning the Rules
South Africa’s gambling industry generated roughly R75 billion in gross gambling revenue (GGR) in 2024/25, up from R59.3 billion a year earlier — an increase of about 26%. The striking part is not only the growth. While consumers have moved rapid...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 13:43:53 GMT
Are schools giving learners false hope about careers in Stem?
Many matriculants find their career ambitions thwarted by subject pairings that limit their options for higher education, particularly in STEM fields. This article argues for urgent institutionalised career guidance to address this systemic issue in ...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 13:35:47 GMT
South Africa’s unemployment crisis is a national emergency
South Africa's unemployment crisis is a structural economic challenge, not merely cyclical. The latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey reveals a staggering 33.6% official unemployment rate, demanding a coordinated and sustained policy response focused ...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 13:17:57 GMT
When Foreign Workers Lose, South African Workers Don’t Win
An encounter with Edward, a migrant worker in Cape Town, highlights the harsh realities faced by foreigners in South Africa's labour market. Despite challenges, his story offers a glimpse into how extending rights to foreign workers could benefit the...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 12:44:26 GMT
The key to the regional success of the SADC is integration
South Africa, often struggling in global markets, holds a powerful card in the Southern African Development Community (SADC). As International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola assumes the SADC Council of Ministers chairpersonship, the nation has a re...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 11:33:48 GMT
Building government relations that withstand political change
South Africa's political landscape has entered an era of heightened political competition, fundamentally changing how government, business, and stakeholders operate. This article explores how increased political competition affects policy certainty, ...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 11:10:25 GMT
The missing link in Southern Africa’s energy future
Southern Africa possesses a significant surplus of generating capacity, yet millions struggle with unreliable power due to inadequate transmission infrastructure. This article highlights the critical need for improved cross-border interconnectors to ...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 11:04:34 GMT
Matlala refuses to answer Medicare24 questions at Madlanga Commission
Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala asserted privilege over the R360 million Medicare24 contract and denied any connection with suspended police minister Senzo Mchunu and deputy crime intelligence head Feroz Khan while conceding to have met KwaZulu-Natal poli...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 10:18:07 GMT
The university is not ours to own
This article explores the complex question of university ownership and governance, arguing that universities are not owned by any single constituency but are institutions held in trust across generations. It proposes an "Intergenerational University ...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 10:00:12 GMT
The Case for Being a “Nosy” Neighbour
In estates and complexes, we often hear everything from barking dogs to late-night parties. But when the noise is a scream, why do we hesitate to act? A writer shares her personal story and urges us to question when "none of my business" becomes an e...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 09:52:13 GMT
NSFAS faces fresh uncertainty after court suspends administrator
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) faces renewed uncertainty after the Pretoria High Court suspended administrator Professor Hlengani Mathebula and restored the scheme’s board, raising critical questions about governance and student ...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 06:11:49 GMT
Portraits of Power celebrates women who changed the course of history
The 'Portraits of Power' exhibition has officially opened at the historic Union Buildings in Pretoria, honouring women who have made significant contributions globally. Hosted by the Charlotte Mannya-Maxeke Institute and the Presidency, the exhibitio...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 06:04:02 GMT
Tunisia Bids Farewell to Diplomatic Leader Hasna Tizaoui Dkhillali
The Embassy of Tunisia in South Africa hosted a farewell reception for Deputy Head of Mission Ms Hasna Tizaoui Dkhillali, marking the end of her distinguished diplomatic service in the country. Ambassador Karima Bardaoui praised Dkhillali's commitmen...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 05:57:13 GMT
Singapore Celebrates 61 Years of Independence and Growing Partnership with South Africa
The High Commission of Singapore in Pretoria marked Singapore’s 61st National Day, celebrating the nation's journey since independence and its strengthening partnership with South Africa, with discussions on trade, investment, and future cooperatio...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT
Trust: The Most Valuable Thing We Give Away for Free
Explore the profound role of trust in our daily lives, from personal interactions to societal institutions. This article delves into the 'Trust Deficit', the distinction between trust and certainty, and how trust is cultivated and eroded, particularl...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT
Critical minerals new game-changer for DRC economic growth
The Democratic Republic of Congo's vast mineral wealth, including cobalt and copper, is transforming its economy and making it a pivotal player in the global energy transition. Despite security challenges, the nation is prioritising domestic processi...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT
No girl should face this alone: Why China and the UN are standing together for Lesotho's girls
In the remote highlands of Mokhotlong, Lesotho, adolescent girls and young women face a 'Triple Threat' of high HIV burden, pervasive gender-based violence, and early pregnancy. This article highlights a new initiative by China and UNAids to address ...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT
The unfinished march: Why women's empowerment remains South Africa's greatest infrastructure challenge
The 1956 Women's March against apartheid pass laws was a pivotal moment for South African women. Decades later, the fight for true gender equality and economic inclusion remains an urgent, structural challenge, essential for national prosperity.

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT
From the Vaal to Victoria Falls: Africa must design resilience, not merely discuss it
Africa's climate crisis is a lived reality, affecting millions and demanding a shift from mere discussion to designing resilient systems. This article highlights the urgent need for interconnected solutions, regional collaboration, and the pivotal ro...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT
Cape Town should not sacrifice its water for data centres
As the Western Cape champions data centres as the 'engine of the future economy,' this article critically examines the hidden cost: water. Drawing parallels with water-scarce Querétaro, Mexico, it questions whether economic growth should come at the...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT
Reclaiming reason for transformation: Academic populism and the university
Universities are ethical institutions. They shape how society thinks, argues, judges and imagines its future. At their best, they cultivate critical reason, democratic judgment and public responsibility. Their task is not only to produce knowledge bu...

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 03:00:00 GMT
Tougher illegal mining laws raise questions over who will be targeted
A recent mine collapse in Nkaneng, Rustenburg, highlights South Africa's illegal mining crisis as the government introduces the General Mining Laws Amendment Bill. The bill proposes significantly tougher penalties for illicit mining, but critics ques...

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 13:29:10 GMT
‘People over profits’: Constitutional Court deals blow to Shell’s Wild Coast plans
The Constitutional Court has delivered a significant blow to Shell and Impact Africa's Wild Coast exploration plans, setting aside their exploration right. The court found that thousands of affected community members were unlawfully excluded from dec...

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 13:20:24 GMT
Eastern Cape ANC court battles threaten 2027 national conference
Senior ANC leaders are concerned that ongoing litigation in the Eastern Cape, which has disrupted the provincial conference and seen the Provincial Task Team declared unconstitutional, could set a precedent for further legal challenges across provinc...

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 13:12:38 GMT
DA to lay criminal charges against 10 municipal managers over failures of financial management
The Democratic Alliance (DA) is taking decisive action, announcing criminal charges against 10 municipal managers from nine municipalities across South Africa. The charges stem from persistent failures in financial management, accountability, and a h...

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 13:00:32 GMT
Gauteng steps up road safety efforts as 5 592km road network gets attention
The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport is intensifying its efforts to enhance road safety across the province. Initiatives include extensive road repairs, crucial bridge upgrades, heightened law enforcement, and public awareness campaigns to p...

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 12:37:14 GMT
What South Africa’s latest unemployment figures mean for a generation still waiting
Millions of young South Africans will vote in November without ever having held stable employment. Persistent unemployment is delaying economic independence for an entire generation, carrying lifelong consequences for savings, pensions, credit, and a...

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 11:03:13 GMT
Kaizer Chiefs Vs Mamelodi Sundowns - A classic rivalry of old peers
The highly anticipated Kaizer Chiefs vs Mamelodi Sundowns fixture is set for Saturday, 15 August 2026, at FNB Stadium. While both clubs boast rich histories and massive support, the league head-to-head record in the modern PSL era heavily favours Sun...

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 09:26:26 GMT
Changemakers driving innovation to feature at Singularity Summit South Africa 2026
Singularity South Africa announces a new lineup of world-class speakers for its 2026 Summit in Johannesburg, featuring experts in AI, digital transformation, urban development, and robotics. The event highlights women's influential role in innovation...

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 06:57:16 GMT
FALF DAY 2026: Commercialisation of South African Intellectual Property from Universities
The Female Academic Leaders Fellowship (FALF), sponsored by Standard Bank Private Banking, hosted its annual gathering in South Africa. The event focused on advancing dialogue, collaboration, and action on research commercialisation, innovation, and ...

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 23:39:01 GMT
Power of Women 2026 nominations are now open
The Mail & Guardian is calling for nominations for the Power of Women 2026, an initiative celebrating extraordinary women whose work, leadership, and ideas are shaping a stronger South Africa. This year's theme, "Building Resilient Economies for All,...

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 23:24:52 GMT
Hloni Modise Matau is giving women their flowers, now
Hloni Modise Matau, founder of the Basadi in Music Awards, has dedicated years to building a platform that celebrates women in an industry that often overlooks them. Her story is one of resilience, community, and an unwavering belief in what is possi...

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 23:19:43 GMT
Inside the complicated bond at the heart of ‘Umthetho’
Go behind the scenes of Netflix's new South African crime series, 'Umthetho', as lead actors Nqobile 'Nunu' Khumalo and Tony Kgoroge discuss their roles as Mbali and Moses, the intricate sibling dynamic, and the show's powerful reflection of real-wor...

home