5 important things happening in South Africa today

·15 Mar 2023

Here’s what is happening in and affecting South Africa today:

Eskom targets graft: Eskom chair Mpho Makwana says he is determined to fight graft at the embattled power utility and that the board wants to crack down on rent-seeking maintenance contractors. He added that Eskom has started investigating these contractors and their work patterns. He said that the board cannot probe recent allegations made by Andre de Ruyter, which alleged that criminal cartels were receiving considerable contracts, as the former CEO did not divulge any information. [BusinessDay]

New gold rush: Eric Putsman from PV Consult says electricians who install solar power systems are experiencing something similar to a gold rush. He said solar panels are scarce due to high demand – pushing prices up. He added that the market is growing in commercial and residential properties and utility companies, with many installers scrambling to get necessary equipment – resulting in six to eight weeks of waiting for consumers. The greatest demand is in Gauteng, Cape Town, and eThekwini. [City Press]

Hate crime bill passes: A bill to criminalise hate crimes and hate speech has passed through the national assembly – five years after it was introduced. Although some opposition parties argued that the bill could limit freedom of speech, there was considerable support for the bill. Deputy Justice Minister John Jeffery said that the existing laws were proving ineffective in stopping incidents of hate crimes. Jeffrey added that the bill is not targeting any specific group of people and applies to everyone equally. [EWN]

DA on EFF intimidation: The DA has drafted a template affidavit that can be used by business owners who feel threatened by the EFF ahead of its national shutdown next week. The DA said that the affidavit will allow those in danger to be proactive, prevent looting and aggressive behaviour, and hold law enforcement accountable. Party Leader John Steenhuisen said that the party would not let the EFF threaten livelihoods, businesses and the safety of South Africans. [News24]

Markets: The South African rand saw minimal movement against the US dollar on Tuesday. South Africa’s mining output fell on an annual basis for the 12th consecutive month in January, while manufacturing also declined in the same period. Although both sectors saw monthly production rises, they are still signs of the nation’s economic stagnation. On Wednesday (15 March), the rand was trading at R18.14/$, R19.48/€, and R22.06/£. Brent crude is trading at $78.25 a barrel. [Daily Maverick]

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