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IOL News
4 days ago
- Politics
- IOL News
SAPS urged to address misinformation on farm attacks and genocide claims
The Institute for Security Studies says police and agricultural unions should correct misinformation and the false narrative regarding genocide and farm murders in South Africa. Image: David Ritchie, ANA The SAPS, agricultural unions and private security firms have been requested to debunk and correct the misinformation and false narratives circulating on social media and other platforms on farm attacks in South Africa. A policy brief released by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) found that there is no evidence of any form of genocide taking place in the country. The institute added that white people are statistically less at risk of violent crime than other racial groups as it explains why the country is so violent and why there is no evidence of a genocide. This comes after the US State Department's Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor (DRL) claimed that attacks on farms display a distinctly brutal pattern. The bureau claimed that these were not ordinary crimes, adding that in some documented cases, reports detail victims tortured or killed without anything being stolen. The bureau said local sources reported 296 farm attacks and 49 murders in 2023, adding that victims are disproportionately elderly, isolated and face delayed police response. AfriForum said the report confirmed what the organisation had been emphasising for years, that farm attacks are not ordinary crimes. 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 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. Next Stay Close ✕ The organisation added that farm attacks are brutal, targeted attacks that are often accompanied by torture, murder without anything being stolen and politically charged rhetoric such as the 'Kill the Boer' slogan. However, the ISS, through its policy brief, found that a vast majority of farm attacks were motivated by robbery, not racial hatred, saying agricultural unions, the SAPS, private security and community leaders should actively counter misinformation and false narratives circulating via social media and other platforms. AfriForum's chief spokesperson for Community Safety, Jacques Broodryk, said it has never been the organisation's position that there is genocide taking place in South Africa, adding their position is that there are unique elements to farm attacks that justify classifying it a 'priority crime', in the same way that taxi violence, gender based violence and illegal mining are classified as 'priority crimes' due to their unique nature. 'There are however genocidal calls made by influential figures such as the chanting of Kill the Boer, Kill the farmer. The chanting of the slogan has been directly linked to attacks on farms. If one however looks at the US's legal definition of genocide, it is understandable why US officials can refer to farm attacks as a genocide,' he said. ISS added that of the 49 who were killed on farms in 2023, not all victims were farmers, adding that the figure represents 0.2% of 27,621 murders reported during that period. 'Half of all murders in South Africa occurred in just 12% of police precincts. Most of these high murder areas are townships in metropolitan areas inhabited largely by black residents,' the institution said. Agri SA executive officer Johann Kotze declined to comment. Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said she was waiting for a response from her colleagues. The ISS said the idea of a 'white genocide' has been around for many years, propagated by fringe or extremist groups. However, there is no credible evidence to support claims of a 'white genocide' or any form of genocide taking place in South Africa. It added that multiple independent investigations have found no systematic or organised targeting of white people or farmers based on race or ethnicity, nor any indication that attacks aim to destroy an ethnic group or drive farmers from their land. 'These investigations include the 2003 Committee of Inquiry into Farm Attacks and the 2014 South African Human Rights Commission National Investigative Hearings into Safety and Security Challenges in Farming Communities,' ISS said. The institute added that South Africa's crime statistics show that most armed violent crime occurs in urban areas, mostly in public spaces such as streets or parks, but also in homes and businesses. 'Murder victimisation correlates more with class, gender and location than race. Lower income and high inequality are linked to higher rates of crime and violence. About half of all murders take place in just 12% of SAPS precincts, and 20% in fewer than 3% of stations – 30 in total,' said the ISS, adding that these areas are mostly townships or poor urban communities, mostly populated by coloured or black African people.
IOL News
5 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
Know your rights: What to expect from SASSA during grant reviews
SASSA urges beneficiaries to check their August 2025 payment dates and fix any issues with cards or bank accounts ahead of payday. Image: David Ritchie It's all "hands on deck" for the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) as they prepare for the upcoming grant reviews in August 2025. The August SASSA grants payment dates are set for August 5 - 7, 2025 While SASSA aims to streamline the process, we break down the rights of beneficiaries and dive into what they can expect during this time. Key expectations from SASSA Physical presence of managers Beneficiaries should expect SASSA managers to be physically present at local offices during the review process. This initiative, led by SASSA CEO Themba Matlou, aims to ensure that beneficiaries receive immediate assistance. If you encounter any issues, you have the right to speak directly with a manager who can help resolve your concerns. Proactive assistance Beneficiaries can expect SASSA officials to be proactive in assisting them. Senior leaders are instructed to engage actively with clients, ensuring that all queries are addressed promptly. You have the right to receive clear information about your grant status and any necessary documentation. Respect and dignity As a beneficiary, you are entitled to be treated with respect and dignity throughout the review process. If you feel that this right is not being upheld, it is important to voice your concerns and seek assistance from a supervisor. Timely Communication SASSA said it's committed to keeping beneficiaries informed. You should expect timely communication regarding your grant review status and any required actions. If there are delays, you have the right to inquire about the reasons and seek updates. Documentation Requirements Beneficiaries identified for review should prepare the following documents: Valid South African ID (13-digit barcoded ID or smart ID card). Proof of income (e.g., payslips, pension slips, or affidavits if no longer employed). Bank statements (last 3 months) for all active bank accounts. Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill or letter from a local authority). Marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applicable). Death certificate (if relevant). Any other supporting documents relevant to your grant type. While the social grant reviews are key for safeguarding government funds and ensuring eligibility, SASSA's immediate focus should be on the welfare of its beneficiaries. Affected grant recipients are encouraged not to be alarmed but to comply with the review process, which also serves to update personal details for smoother future communication. IOL
IOL News
04-08-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Manufacturing sector sees unexpected resurgence in July after eight months of decline
The last time the headline PMI was in the above-50 expansionary territory was in October 2023 at 52.6 points. Image: David Ritchie/Independent Newspapers. Manufacturing activity in South Africa in July returned to positive territory for the first time in nine months, in a significant turnaround for the struggling economy. The Absa Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) released on Friday indicated that the index edged above the 50-point mark and recorded an expansion, following eight consecutive months in contractionary territory. The last time the headline PMI was in the above-50 expansionary territory was in October 2023 at 52.6 points. According to Absa, new sales orders rose by 9.7 points to 55.9 in July, recording a third consecutive month of improvement and signalling a much stronger recovery in demand at the start of the third quarter. 'Export sales also showed a significant increase, but at a low level, signalling that manufacturers remain cautious amid regulations and ongoing trade negotiations,' Absa said. 'The improvement in demand fostered an uptick in production, seeing the business activity index tick up 5.2 points to 47.1 points in July – still coming in below the neutral-50 mark for the ninth consecutive month.' Absa added that the supplier deliveries index increased by 1.4 points to 56.4 in July on the back of the strong uptick in new orders, which typically leads to longer delivery times and some delays. 'Despite the strong recovery in demand which filtered through into an uptick in production, the employment index declined by 6 points in July, reaching 43.7 - reversing the gains made in June and returning to levels seen earlier in the year,' it said. 'The weak employment level may be due to the slow recovery in activity, which, despite ticking up, remains in contractionary territory, signalling that manufacturers may wait to see a stronger recovery in demand before increasing employment.' The purchasing price index also increased by 1.2 points in July, signalling growing cost pressures as the cost of some input materials increased. Absa noted that crude oil prices increased fuel prices in the country, with petrol and diesel prices rising by 52 to 84 cents a litre, depending on the grade. It said the positive news was that, despite the uptick in the index, the current levels remained the second-lowest in over eight years. Furthermore, despite heightened global uncertainty, Absa said the rand stayed below R18/$ for July. However, Absa note that expected business conditions in six months' time declined from 62.5 points in June to 56.4 in July. 'Although still above the 50-neutral level, the direction of the index suggests that manufacturers are faced with an increasingly volatile and challenging trading environment on both the global and domestic front.' Investec economists have welcomed the findings of the PMI, a survey conducted by the Bureau for Economic Research (BER) and sponsored by Absa. Investec economist Lara Hodes said the PMI moved into expansionary territory in July after tracking below 50 since October last year. 'Specifically, it rose by 2.3 points to 50.8. The new sales orders index jumped to 55.9 from 46.1 previously, indicating 'a much stronger recovery in demand at the start of the third quarter,' according to the BER,' Hodes said. 'Export sales picked up from low levels logged in previous months; however, uncertainty around trade tariffs has weighed notably on manufacturers.'
IOL News
02-08-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Prasa revises fare structure after public outcry
Prasa's revised fare structure aims to provide affordable rates for South African commuters, following significant pressure from trade unions and community groups. Image: Picture: David Ritchie The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) has made significant changes to its fare structure in response to intense objections from trade unions, commuter groups, and civil society organisations, just before the planned fare increase. This follows days of escalating pressure, with the United Commuters Voice (UCV) announcing that the new fares will now offer more affordable rates for working-class commuters, ensuring better access to public transport. The Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) was among those that voiced concern ahead of the increase, calling for fare adjustments to be tied to inflation and warning that steep hikes would alienate commuters still reeling from the high cost of living. 'While Cosatu welcomes the huge improvements Prasa has made to its infrastructure as well as the rollout of the new trains, the federation believes the proposed ticket price hike is high and will be burdensome to commuters who are already battling to cope,' said Tony Ehrenreich, Cosatu deputy parliamentary coordinator. The federation argued that Prasa should use this period to rebuild public trust by positioning itself as the primary transport option for the working class. 'To achieve this, the federation urges Prasa to limit the fare increase to the prevailing inflation rate,' it said. The new Prasa fares that came into effect on Friday. Image: Prasa It also cautioned that a sharp increase could reinforce negative perceptions from the past when Prasa was known for mismanagement and unreliable service. Instead of driving up ticket costs, Cosatu recommended attracting more passengers to improve revenue. 'Prasa should steer clear of implementing a price increase that will change the cost structure of rail transport fees,' Cosatu said. 'While mindful of the significant investment in infrastructure, the rail agency should aim to recoup costs by swelling the number of commuters rather than relying solely on increased fare contribution.' Cosatu added that any fare increases above inflation should only be implemented after public transport subsidy policies are finalised through Nedlac. UCV, which led coordinated objections with support from commuters, labour, and community groups, confirmed that Prasa has now backed down from its initial fare plan. 'The fare increase, originally scheduled for full implementation on 1 August 2025, has now been adjusted downwards to reflect more affordable rates that take into account the financial strain on low-income commuters,' said UCV National Chairperson Paul Soto. 'We thank all stakeholders who stood in solidarity with us against the initially proposed fare hikes that were threatening affordability and access to public transport,' Soto said. 'Your voices have made it clear that decisions affecting the poor must be made in consultation with the key stakeholders.' The new structure includes lower monthly ticket increases than those originally communicated, and discounts for school children, military veterans, and senior citizens. • Monthly ticket increases have been scaled down. • Pensioners and military veterans will retain their 50% off-peak discount• Schoolchildren in full uniform will receive a 50% discount at all times. • A 40% off-peak discount remains in place for general commuters travelling between 9am and 2pm. Prasa said the updated fares had been approved by the Minister of Transport and noted that this was its first fare adjustment in 10 years. 'Despite these adjustments, rail remains South Africa's most affordable public transport mode,' Prasa stated in its official announcement. The agency confirmed that the amendments were made after identifying discrepancies in the original fare table and following feedback from commuter stakeholders. It said the changes would support improved service delivery, safety, and reliability across the Metrorail network. Both Cosatu and UCV reiterated their commitment to advocating for an affordable, safe, and reliable public transport system. Cosatu also signalled its readiness to help fast-track policy processes at Nedlac that ensure fare increases are equitable and rooted in commuters' lived realities. Get your news on the go, click here to join the Cape Argus News WhatsApp channel. Cape Argus
IOL News
06-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
SACTWU reduces stake in HCI while acquiring three key properties worth over R500 million
The South African Clothing and Textile Workers Union (SACTWU) has reached agreement with Hosken Consolidated Investments (HCI), in which it owns a large shareholding, for a cash injection of over R100 million and the purchase of three investment properties. Image: David Ritchie The South African Clothing and Textile Workers Union (SACTWU) will lower its stake in Hosken Consolidated Investments (HCI) as part of two agreements that include buying three HCI properties, including Gallagher Estate, for R549.7 million in total. HCI stated in a regulatory, related party announcement to the JSE on Friday that the reason for the transactions was that SACTWU wished to increase its cash holdings for its operations, and to increase its interests in additional investment properties to generate more regular, ideally monthly cash flow to fund its operational and member benefit programs and other related employment projects. Because HCI only distributes cash dividends to shareholders on a six-monthly basis, SACTWU had recently been disposing of HCI shares on the market through the JSE order book to enable it to fund its ongoing obligations. However, these disposals were not sustainable over a longer period, and SACTWU engaged HCI to find solutions for its cash flow requirements. In terms of a cash share purchase agreement, HCI subsidiary Squirewood Investments 64 Proprietary concluded an agreement with its material shareholder SACTWU, in terms of which Squirewood will purchase 1.1 million HCI shares owned by SACTWU, for R131 per HCI share, or R144.1m in total. HCI's share price closed 2.12% lower at R127.27 on the JSE on Friday. In another transaction, HCI will sell its shares in and shareholder loan claims against three owned property subsidiaries in the HCI group: Gallagher Estate Holdings, HCI Rand Daily Mail, and HCI Solly Sachs House, to SACTWU for R549.7m in total. 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 Squirewood will purchase 4.2 million HCI shares beneficially owned by SACTWU, which represents about 4.9% of the total HCI shares in issue, for a purchase price of R131.00 per HCI share, or R549.7m in total. SACTWU is the beneficial owner of about 23.8% of the total HCI shares, and should the Squirewood share transaction and property purchase be implemented, the trade union will be left holding about 18.4% of the total HCI shares in issue. SACTWU has held its interest in HCI since 1997, primarily as an income-generating asset and significant investment vehicle to fund the trade union's objectives, aiming to benefit union members through investments in, inter alia, media, hotels, casinos, coal mines, and transport. SACTWU holds significant property interests outside of its investment in HCI, with most of its properties being occupied by the union itself. 'The parties agreed, given SACTWU's desire to increase its interests in property, that investments in immovable property generating sustainable monthly cash flows would likely be the most appropriate asset class for SACTWU to acquire to service its needs,' HCI said. SACTWU conducted due diligence on HCI's property assets, two independent valuations were done, and 'pursuant to their investigation, SACTWU selected the three subject companies it wishes to acquire,' HCI stated.
