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IOL News
19 hours ago
- Business
- IOL News
Mike Mabuyakhulu: South Africa stands ready for US sanctions amid Palestine support
Senior ANC KwaZulu-Natal leader, Mike Mabuyakhulu, says South Africa is ready for US sanctions. Image: Tumi Pakkies / Independent Newspapers While the United States mulls sanctions against South Africa, senior ANC KwaZulu-Natal leader, Mike Mabuyakhulu, says South Africa is ready for it. "When we decided to take Israel to the International Court of Justice we knew what was going to follow - that friends of the Israeli apartheid state would isolate us and that is what's happening now. Yes we will suffer the consequences but we are prepared because we are standing up for a just cause," Mabuyakhulu told a gathering in Durban on Monday evening. Attendees turned up to welcome a senior Palestinian delegation to the city. They included members of Fatah, the second largest party in the Palestinian Legislature and Fatah Secretary General, Jibril Rajoub. KZN ANC convener Jeff Radebe and Fatah Secretary-General, Major General Jibril Rajoub. Image: Tumi Pakkies / Independent Newspapers Mabuyakhulu's comments comes amid the passing of a bill by the United States House Committee on Foreign Affairs. The bill is aimed at reviewing its relationship between the US and South Africa and possible sanctions against South Africa for policies which the US disagrees with. These include South Africa's position on the Israel/Gaza war and South Africa's expropriation bill. The Trump administration has misinterpreted the bill as allowing the seizure of white owned, Afrikaner agricultural land without compensation. As a further consequence, South Africa also faces the wrath of Trump's tariff war on the world - with a potential 30% tariff on goods to the US, bar a few exceptions like key South African minerals like gold, platinum, coal, manganese and chrome. KZN ANC provincial coordinator Mike Mabuyakhulu, KZN ANC Provincial convener Jeff Radebe, Fatah secretary-general Major General Jibril Rajoub, advisor to Palestinian President Salman Elherfi, and Deputy Convener Weziwe Thusi. Image: Tumi Pakkies / Independent Newspapers The bill will still need to go through further legal hoops and a vote in the house of Representatives before it could become law and binding. There's mixed predictions so far on what the outcome will be, with most political analysts predicting it will not muster enough votes to succeed. South African president Cyril Ramaphosa has reacted with calm to the looming threat, saying he is 'hopeful' of a solution to avert a crisis. But, Mabuyakhulu is less diplomatic, saying the ANC, and South Africa, did not fear the consequences of standing with Palestine. "We do not fear because we stand for the right cause. We stand tall as a nation proud of its own freedoms. In the words of tata Madiba our friends are our friends and your enemies cannot be our enemies. We shall stand with Palestine at all times, through thick and thin," he said. IOL
IOL News
5 days ago
- General
- IOL News
Water Woes Deepen as South Africa Prepares to Host G20
Across Gauteng, the picture is just as grim. Multiple municipalities are under pressure from aging infrastructure, erratic water pressure, and reservoirs running dry. Image: Tumi Pakkies / Independent Newspapers As the world's economic leaders prepare to descend on South Africa for the G20 Summit, the country's deepening water crisis threatens to overshadow its moment in the global spotlight. Across Gauteng, water supply issues are intensifying, and in places like Hammanskraal, desperation has reached a boiling point. On Wednesday, angry Hammanskraal residents gathered outside the local water purification plant in protest. Their message was clear: fix the water crisis or face a community that refuses to stay silent. They demanded an audience with either the Mayor of Tshwane or the MMC for utility services. Neither official made an appearance, further fuelling frustrations. This protest follows years of water shortages, contamination scares, and what residents say is an unbearable reliance on water tankers and makeshift boreholes. Some have now gone as far as to say that even contaminated tap water would be better than their current situation, where the only option is often unregulated water from unsafe sources. The City of Tshwane has acknowledged the crisis, citing a breakdown in infrastructure and a contaminated water system as the root causes. Officials were on the ground this week attempting to address resident concerns. But many believe these are temporary measures that fail to deal with the long-term problem: a lack of sustainable and safe water supply. Across Gauteng, the picture is just as grim. Multiple municipalities are under pressure from ageing infrastructure, erratic water pressure, and reservoirs running dry. In Johannesburg, Rand Water has had to implement restrictions due to high demand and low reserves. Areas like Soweto, Roodepoort, and the West Rand are experiencing intermittent supply, with residents often going days without running water. Taps are running dry in parts of Ekurhuleni and the Vaal as well. The situation in Sedibeng is especially concerning, where water contamination has left thousands dependent on costly water tanks and filtered supplies. Even Pretoria East, once known for its stable infrastructure, has recently seen unscheduled outages and supply reductions. The Department of Water and Sanitation has repeatedly promised reforms and funding for infrastructure renewal, but progress has been slow. Meanwhile, climate change, urban population growth, and poor maintenance have combined to worsen the crisis. As South Africa welcomes global dignitaries and economic powerhouses for the G20, the contrast between international prestige and domestic neglect is becoming stark. Experts say the country risks embarrassment if the current water crisis is not urgently addressed. Images of parched communities relying on water trucks while world leaders sip bottled water in air-conditioned conference centres could damage South Africa's global reputation. 'There is no dignity in queuing for water every day,' said Sarah Moeketsi, a Hammanskraal resident who attended Wednesday's protest. 'We are tired of empty promises. If the G20 delegates were coming to my house, maybe they would finally fix this.' Civil society groups are now warning of possible nationwide protests if no permanent solutions are found. Activists are calling for a transparent action plan with realistic timelines and community consultation. Many believe this is the only way to restore faith in local governance. As South Africa takes centre stage at the G20, the pressure is not just on its political leadership to impress foreign investors and heads of state. The pressure is also on to prove that the government can deliver the most basic of human rights to its people — clean, safe, and reliable water. For now, the people of Hammanskraal and other affected areas remain in limbo, hoping that their cries for help are heard not just by the world, but by those elected to serve them.
IOL News
21-07-2025
- Health
- IOL News
South Africa's HIV Response: Hope, Tools, and Resolve
South Africa has the world's largest HIV treatment programme, with over 5.5 million people receiving antiretrovirals (ARVs). Yet we still see more than 100 000 new HIV infections each year. That is unacceptable — and preventable. Image: Tumi Pakkies/ Independent Newspapers Earlier this month, more than 3,600 scientists, activists, policymakers, and journalists gathered in Kigali, Rwanda, for the 13th International AIDS Society (IAS) Conference on HIV Science. It was the first time this major global event took place in an African city outside South Africa, marking a powerful recognition of the continent's critical role in the global HIV response. The conference came on the heels of deeply concerning news: in January, the US government announced sharp cuts to funding for the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), a move that cast a long shadow over the global fight against HIV, particularly in Africa. The numbers are staggering: of the 40.8 million people living with HIV globally, over 26 million (65%) are in Africa. And more than half of all new infections in 2024 occurred on the continent. A Call to Stay the Course Despite fears about reduced funding, the mood in Kigali was one of resolve. Delegates affirmed their commitment to ending HIV, recognising the extraordinary progress made in Eastern and Southern Africa. Many echoed a common sentiment: "We cannot stop now. We must fight to the end", emphasising the need for sustained commitment and effort to achieve an AIDS-free future. That optimism was reinforced by encouraging developments. The pharmaceutical company Gilead announced that Lenacapavir, a new HIV prevention drug administered via two injections a year, has shown high efficacy in clinical trials. If made widely accessible, this could be a game-changer— especially for those who struggle with daily pill regimens. Further hope came when the US Congress ultimately approved continued PEPFAR funding, although uncertainties remain around the duration and scope of future support. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading What This Means for South Africa South Africa has the world's largest HIV treatment programme, with over 5.5 million people receiving antiretrovirals (ARVs). Yet we still see more than 100 000 new HIV infections each year. That is unacceptable — and preventable. To address this, the government launched the '1.1 Million Campaign' in February to close the gap between those who know their HIV status and those who are virally suppressed. But for this initiative to succeed, we need national mobilisation. Every political leader, community organiser, religious institution, and employer must actively support the campaign. Unfortunately, media coverage has been limited, and public awareness remains low. Doing More with Less With reductions in funding from the Global Fund and PEPFAR, and despite increased domestic investment, every rand in our HIV response must count. Managers and community activists in the health and social development sectors must track data rigorously: Who is being tested? Who is on treatment? Who is virally suppressed? Who is using Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) — and who should be, but isn't? We must also stand firm against stigma. There is no justification for discrimination against people living with HIV or those using preventive treatments like PrEP. They are taking responsible steps to protect themselves and others. They should be commended and supported, not shamed. The Tools Are in Our Hands We now have powerful tools to fight HIV. HIV self-test kits are available free at public clinics and affordable at private pharmacies. Oral PrEP— a once-a-day pill to prevent HIV — is also free at government health facilities. And injectable PrEP, which could significantly improve adherence, is expected to be available next year. Condoms remain a highly effective prevention method. Let's not forget—they also prevent sexually transmitted infections like syphilis and gonorrhoea and help avoid unplanned pregnancies. They are free at all public clinics. Let's also remember the link between HIV and tuberculosis (TB). People with HIV are more susceptible to TB. If you have symptoms or have been in contact with someone with TB, get tested. Early detection saves lives. Health Is Everyone's Business Building a healthier South Africa is not just about medicine—it is about national prosperity. A healthy population is more productive, more resilient, and more able to seize economic opportunity. Each of us has a role to play in protecting our health and the health of our communities. Let's work together to end HIV. The finish line is in sight—but only if we don't stop now. Prof Yogan Pillay is the Director for HIV and TB delivery at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. He was previously the Country Director of the Clinton Health Access Initiative in South Africa and senior director for universal health coverage. He has worked in various capacities at the National Department of Health. In 2021, the University of Cape Town awarded him an honorary doctorate, and in the same year, he was appointed extraordinary professor in the Division of Health Systems and Public Health, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University. Foster Mohale is the National Department of Health Spokesperson
IOL News
15-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
South African metros share R17 billion in fuel levy revenue amid legal challenges
The biggest municipalities in the country have shared almost R17 billion in general fuel levy revenue in 2024/25. Image: Tumi Pakkies / Independent Newspapers The country's eight metropolitan municipalities have shared nearly R17 billion in general fuel levy revenue while the increase announced by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana is still subject to legal action by the EFF. The City of Johannesburg received the lion's share of the allocation with just under R4.6bn, eThekwini got about R3.9bn, and Cape Town was allocated R2.85bn in 2024/25, according to a notice published by Godongwana last week. Ekurhuleni's share is almost R1.8bn and the City of Tshwane received about R1.67bn. Nelson Mandela Bay and Buffalo City in the Eastern Cape were allocated R862 million and R798m, respectively, while Mangaung got R427.5m. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading In terms of the Taxation Laws Amendment Act, an amount equal to a fixed percentage of revenue raised from the collection of the general fuel levy goes to metropolitan municipalities. The Act states that the allocation to which metropolitan municipalities are entitled is fixed at 23%. Godongwana may annually revise the percentage and must publish the revised percentage by notice in the government gazette. Additionally, he must, for each financial year, determine an equitable allocation to be made to each metropolitan municipality. During the Budget speech in May, Godongwana announced an inflation-linked increase to the general fuel levy over a period of three years. As a result, last month the fuel levy increased by 16 cents per litre for petrol and 15 cents per litre for diesel. The increase sparked widespread opposition, with the EFF unsuccessfully approaching the Western Cape High Court to suspend Godongwana's increase in the general fuel levy and interdicting the minister from giving effect to the impugned decision pending the finalisation of part B of its application. In part B, the EFF wants the high court to review and set aside the increase of the general fuel levy. The fuel levy was initially set aside for road maintenance and infrastructure upgrades, and there have been calls for it to be ring-fenced for allocation to the SA National Roads Agency Limited. EFF treasurer-general Omphile Maotwe did not respond to questions on when part B of the party's application would be heard by the high court.
IOL News
03-07-2025
- IOL News
Experience Durban's festive July: Christmas in July and the Hollywoodbets Durban July
Four-year-old Jiyana Daya is celebrating Christmas in July and having the time of her life skating on a pop up ice ring at The Pearls in uMhlanga. Image: Tumi Pakkies / Independent Newspapers Durban is set to become a playground of excitement and entertainment during the month of July, with something for everyone. From family-friendly activities to horse racing and cinematic showcases, the bustling city offers an unforgettable winter wonderland for all. uMhlanga Tourism Chairperson Jeannie Sarno highlighted July as an ideal month to welcome visitors. Sarno noted that the "phenomenal weather", combined with the energy brought by school visitors, creates a vibrant atmosphere. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ The Pearls Mall in uMhlanga, north of Durban, is hosting its inaugural 'Christmas in July' celebration. This holiday programme, which runs from Monday until July 20, aims to transform the holiday experience by offering a unique fusion of winter enchantment for both locals and visitors. A free ice skating rink with snow for children is among the attractions. 'We wanted to offer a unique experience at The Pearls Mall and create some holiday fun that Durbanites don't normally encounter,' said Nilesh Singh, director of The Pearls in uMhlanga. Sarno added that parents can enjoy coffee or browse the mall while their children skate. Four-year-old Jiyana Daya is celebrating Christmas in July and having the time of her life skating on a pop up ice ring at The Pearls in uMhlanga. Image: Tumi Pakkies / Independent Newspapers The Pearls is also running a Winter Donation Drive dedicated to collecting blankets, warm clothing, and non-perishable food items to support those in need during the coldest time of the year, culminating in a special event on Mandela Day. 'We invite all members of our community to contribute by donating items that can help those less fortunate. Every contribution, no matter how small, has the power to make a difference,' said events manager Priyal Nathoo. Nathoo said donations can be dropped off at the uMhlanga Tourism Desk at The Pearls Mall until July 17, culminating in a special event on Mandela Day. Four-year-old Jiyana Daya next to a Winter Donation Drive box at The Pearls in uMhlanga. Image: Tumi Pakkies / Independent Newspapers No Christmas in July celebration is complete without festive food. The Oyster Box Hotel in uMhlanga said Durbanites need an excuse to celebrate. 'So get your winter woollies out (and we really need them at the moment) and bring a crowd to share in some early Christmas cheer for the Christmas in July feast. We're serving a traditional three-course festive lunch on our beautiful Ocean Terrace, with views to die for.' The lunch is scheduled to take place on July 20 and features a traditional festive lunch, including a plated starter, a buffet-style main course, and a plated dessert. Christmas in July feast at the Oyster Box in uMhlanga. Image: Supplied Meanwhile, it's all systems go for the eThekwini Municipality as it prepares to host Africa's largest horseracing event, the Hollywoodbets Durban July, at Greyville Racecourse on July 5. The city said its tourism and hospitality industry is prepared to welcome scores of visitors, and safety and security plans have also been finalised. Race Coast spokesman Tim Whitfield said the infield, marquee village, picnic spots, and grandstand area of incredible suites will provide the perfect venue to network and socialise in an atmosphere of elegance and festive fun at the Durban July. He said the area provides the best space for entertainment and food while still imbuing the raceday atmosphere. Big screens will provide the perfect way to watch each race, and quality musicians and DJs will provide music and vibes until the early hours of the morning, he added. 'This year's Hollywoodbets Durban July promises to provide everyone with a full day's entertainment: from horse racing and fashion to food, music, and entertainment, no one will be disappointed as Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse continues the proud tradition of one of the longest-running racing events in the history of horse racing,' said Whitfield. Eight On Eighteen is the favourite for the Hollywoodbets Durban July on Saturday, July 5, 2025. Image: Candiese Lenferna / Race Coast / Gameplan Media The city said that besides the exciting horse racing, the Durban July provides a platform for both upcoming and established fashion designers to showcase their creative talent. 'In this regard, 25 designers will showcase their 'Marvels of Mzansi' collections on the main stage, as part of the Durban July Fashion Experience,' it said. Shenal Zulu, wearing a DFF Rising Stars outfit designed by Mbasa Ndongeni, with Madison Valley, which is trained by Frank Robinson and will be ridden by Gavin Lerena in the Hollywoodbets Durban July on Saturday, July 5, 2025. Image: Candiese Lenferna / Race Coast / Gameplan Media To live up to its reputation as "Africa's Playground" and a premier festival and event destination, eThekwini Municipality said Durban will host events across both the city and its townships this weekend. These events include Fact Durban Rocks, Any Given Sunday, Anywhere in the City, and Mojo's July Weekend, among others. Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee, Councillor Thembo Ntuli, said the Durban July promises to deliver memorable experiences. 'It is time to celebrate the vibrant spirit of Durban as the city transforms into a hub of glamour, excitement, and world-class entertainment.' Provincial police spokesperson Captain Carmen Rhynes said various disciplines from the SAPS and other security agencies will be on high alert and deployed at the Hollywoodbets Durban July at the Greyville Racecourse on Saturday. 'Police and other law enforcement will monitor the event and ensure that there is peace and stability. The spectators and horse racing fans must behave themselves and enjoy the entertainment,' she said. Rhynes added that those who indulge in alcohol must be dropped off and picked up or alternatively use available modes of public transport. 'Parking is limited, and we advise attendees to make use of available modes of public transport as far as possible,' she said. She advised motorists to come early to avoid traffic congestion at the parking gates and to make sure that their vehicles are locked properly. The KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority (KZNTAFA) is predicting a vibrant and bustling winter holiday season with a series of hallmark events this month. KZNTAFA interim chief executive officer Sibusiso Gumbi stated that July is celebrated as Film Month in KZN. 'The province plays host to the Durban International Film Festival (DIFF), the Durban FilmMart (DFM), and the Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards on July 19. These events not only draw global creatives and industry leaders but also reinforce KZN's reputation as a leading film and content production hub in Africa.' The Durban Film Festival is scheduled for July 17 - 27, with the Durban FilmMart taking place from July 18 - 21. In addition, Sarno invited the public to put on their dancing shoes for disco night at the Oyster Box on July 12. 'If you are a seafood fanatic, then don't miss the Seafood Feast at uMhlanga Coastlands on 4 July,' she said. On Wednesdays, there is the weekly farmers market at Prestondale, while artistic lovers can indulge in the Sip and Paint event at The Press Club Salta on July 8, she said.
