South Africa’s president Cyril Ramaphosa is in the news over crime-fighting efforts and diplomatic tensions, after decades as an anti-apartheid activist and business leader.
A collision between a minibus taxi and a truck near Durban has resulted in 11 deaths, including a schoolchild. The truck was found to be in poor condition, and the taxi's license had expired. Authorities call for stricter enforcement of road safety laws.
On January 30, 2026, South Africa declared Ariel Seidman, Israel's charge d'affaires, persona non grata, ordering him to leave within 72 hours over alleged insults to President Ramaphosa and breaches of diplomatic protocol. Israel retaliated by expelling South Africa's ambassador to Palestine, Shaun Edward Byneveldt. The tensions stem from South Africa's 2024 genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
Mozambique and Egypt deepen cooperation with the UAE, focusing on environmental projects, digital transformation, and infrastructure. Mozambique aims to industrialize agriculture sustainably, while Egypt and Turkey expand trade and energy collaboration. South Africa emphasizes educational partnerships with China. These developments signal strategic regional shifts.
John Steenhuisen announced he will not seek re-election as leader of South Africa's Democratic Alliance in April, amid ongoing political tensions. He plans to focus on managing a severe foot-and-mouth disease outbreak as he remains Cape Town mayor and agriculture minister. His departure could impact coalition stability.
The UN is preparing to withdraw South African troops from the DRC's MONUSCO mission by the end of 2026, following President Ramaphosa's decision to realign military resources after 27 years of support. Recent developments include ongoing negotiations, a planned ceasefire monitoring mechanism, and the return of UN personnel to Goma amid renewed conflict concerns.
President Ramaphosa has ordered the deployment of the South African National Defence Force to support police efforts against gang violence and illegal mining in Gauteng and Western Cape. The move follows rising homicide rates and ongoing criminal syndicates, with plans to deploy troops within days and coordinate targeted interventions.
As of February 2026, over 1,780 Africans from 36 countries, including South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, and Kenya, have been deceived into joining Russian forces in Ukraine, often without military training. South Africa has repatriated 15 men lured into fighting, with two still in Russia. Investigations and diplomatic efforts continue amid rising concerns over illegal recruitment and exploitation.
Jesse Jackson's funeral services took place across Chicago, South Carolina, and Washington, D.C., honoring his legacy as a civil rights leader and activist. The events included lying in state, memorial services, and tributes from global leaders, emphasizing his lifelong fight for equality and justice.
African countries including Ghana, South Africa, and Kenya are confronting reports of their citizens being deceived and recruited to fight for Russia in Ukraine. Despite official denials, evidence suggests thousands have been lured with false promises, with some killed or captured. Governments are working to counter illegal recruitment schemes amid diplomatic tensions.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has ordered the deployment of 550 soldiers across five provinces to combat organized crime, gang violence, and illegal mining. The move follows rising homicide rates and public concern, marking a significant escalation in efforts to restore law and order in South Africa. The deployment is set to last until March 2027.
A building under construction in Ormonde, Johannesburg, collapsed on March 2, killing nine workers. The incident is linked to a poorly constructed slab and lack of approved plans. An investigation is underway, and demolition of the unsafe structure is planned.
Mosiuoa Lekota, a prominent anti-apartheid activist, politician, and founding leader of COPE, died at age 77 after a period of illness. He was a Robben Island prisoner, served as Free State Premier, Defence Minister, and was influential in South Africa’s transition to democracy. His death marks the end of a significant political era.
U.S. Ambassador Leo Bozell's controversial remarks about South Africa's courts and policies have led to his summoning by South African officials. The incident underscores worsening diplomatic relations amid disputes over racial policies, judicial independence, and perceived interference, with ongoing tensions over the country's stance on Iran and domestic laws.
Muslim communities worldwide observe Eid al-Fitr today, ending Ramadan with prayers and festivities. This year, celebrations are affected by ongoing conflicts, including Hezbollah's missile attack on Israel and regional instability, with many communities expressing hopes for peace amid violence. South Africa marks Eid with a somber tone, reflecting global tensions.
The US is negotiating health aid deals with African nations that include demands for access to critical minerals and data sharing, causing pushback from countries like Zimbabwe and Zambia. The secrecy and conditions raise concerns about exploitation and sovereignty, with some nations walking away from negotiations.
South Africa has appointed Ralph Meyer as its new US ambassador, following a vacancy since 2025 and the expulsion of Ebrahim Rasool. Meyer, a key figure in ending apartheid, is expected to improve diplomatic relations with Washington amid recent tensions, including the US refugee program for white South Africans and diplomatic expulsions.
South Africa has appointed Roelf Meyer as its new ambassador to the US, replacing Ebrahim Rasool. Meyer, a former apartheid-era minister and key negotiator for the end of apartheid, is expected to help stabilize strained US-South Africa relations amid ongoing diplomatic tensions and US criticisms of South Africa's policies.
Julius Malema, leader of South Africa's Economic Freedom Fighters, has been sentenced to five years in prison for firing a rifle at a 2018 rally. He has been released on bail pending appeal. If upheld, the sentence will disqualify him from Parliament, dealing a major blow to his party.
Venezuelan opposition leader Machado has visited Spain, meeting with opposition figures and avoiding talks with the government. She has received a warm welcome from conservative leaders, highlighting divisions within Venezuelan politics and contrasting her approach with that of the Spanish government, which emphasizes democratic sovereignty.
South Africa's National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola has been placed on precautionary suspension amid allegations of corruption linked to a police tender. President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Puleng Dimpane as acting police commissioner. The case involves accusations of procurement law violations and possible bribery connected to a 360-million-rand contract for police health services. The suspension follows a broader inquiry into corruption within the criminal justice system, ahead of upcoming municipal elections.