Stories from South Africa

South Africa is marking 30 years of democracy. The Free State province, with a history of resistance, saw protests against apartheid laws in 1913. Women in the Orange Free State were among the first to rise against these laws.

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Aoud-Adwa expressed dissatisfaction with the team's performance, comparing the match to karate rather than football. He questioned the nature of the game played.

On Freedom Day, men in South Africa are called upon to end gender-based violence and grant women and young women freedom from fear. This challenge is directed at the men of South Africa. The nation's freedom day is highlighted as an opportunity to uphold these values. The country also faces concerns regarding undocumented and illegal migrants, but authorities said that these concerns should not lead to xenophobia or hatred towards people from other African nations. South Africa is clamping down on illegal migration and businesses that hire undocumented individuals, prioritizing citizens.

The Free State province is leading South Africa in providing comprehensive agricultural support to emerging and aspiring farmers. This initiative aims to ensure equal access to quality healthcare and support productive lives for families working the land. President Cyril Ramaphosa described South Africa's first democratic election as a reminder of sacrifices made. He urged citizens to protect and strengthen democracy for future generations. Women from the Orange Free State protested apartheid laws in 1913. South Africa is celebrating the 30th anniversary of its democratic era. The milestone marks three decades since the end of apartheid and the establishment of a multi-racial government. Commemorative events are being held across the country.

A member of the South African government is under investigation for suspected corruption. Transparency advocates claim the minister misled Parliament and violated transparency rules. The source noted that what should have been a breakthrough in South African policymaking is now burdened by this oversight. The report indicated a lack of robust supervision during the drafting process. The South African government reportedly used artificial intelligence to draft a national guideline for regulating artificial intelligence. A media report indicates the AI-generated draft contains numerous errors, incorrect citations, and nonsensical content. The error occurred within the responsible ministry. An internal investigation has been launched to determine how the errors occurred.

Approximately 11,000 children die from malnutrition every year in South Africa. Paraffin prices are expected to remain above 1.5 rand per litre, according to the report. The South African National Treasury and the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources are extending a fuel levy reduction for petrol for another month. The relief also includes pausing the tech In Mahi Gang, Bax-Mixon diesel levy to cushion consumers from expected price increases in May caused by the war in the Middle East. This extension will bring the estimated total cost of the temporary relief, which began on April 1, to 17.2 billion rand in foregone tax revenue. The extension is scheduled to take effect after 7 o'clock. Non-governmental organizations have issued an alarm regarding South Africa's decision to extend the lifespan of coal-fired power plants until 2050.

South Africa is observing Freedom Day with official commemorations led by President Cyril Ramaphosa in Bloemfontein. The Abahlali baseMjondolo movement, described as the country's largest shack dwellers movement, is also marking the day. The movement argues that the freedoms established in 1994 have not been realized for millions of citizens. The day serves as a reflection on the sacrifices made for the nation's freedom. The observance includes acknowledgments of the struggle for democratic progress. Approximately 11,000 children die from malnutrition every year in South Africa. High unemployment rates and increasing poverty levels contribute to these mortality figures. The situation remains a critical challenge for the nation's social welfare.

Measles vaccination coverage in South Africa has declined from 80% to 76% within one year. The country recorded 58,000 additional zero-dose children in 2024. One in five South African children is currently not fully vaccinated. African Vaccination Week begins this week. The data was presented during a national briefing by Kevimu Satana.

Three people drowned during a baptism ceremony at the Olifants River in Imalenthim, Mpumalanga. The victims include a 15-year-old woman and three teenagers aged 8, 17, and 19. Police spokesperson Jabun Dubani stated that a 59-year-old woman was conducting the ceremony. The cause of the incident is currently under investigation.

Faith in democracy in KwaZulu-Natal has declined from approximately 50% in previous years to 6%. This trend reflects a broader global decline in democratic confidence. Analysts suggest the 1994 democratic model may require redefinition to meet evolving challenges. A speaker argued that the current electoral system was a negotiated settlement from a time of crisis and needs specific changes.