Latest news in South Africa? September 12th, 2026
12-09-2026
- BRICS Summit Representation: President Cyril Ramaphosa is currently leading a major delegation in New Delhi, India, for the 18th BRICS Summit. A key focus has been pushing for increased trade diversification, local-currency settlements, and securing foreign investment in South Africa’s critical minerals, infrastructure, and electric-vehicle supply chains. South African Government+ 1
- China–South Africa Scientific Cooperation: South Africa was designated as the “Country of Honour” at the 19th Pujiang Innovation Forum in Shanghai, where Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Blade Nzimande delivered a message from Ramaphosa marking 28 years of diplomatic relations and strengthening bilateral research partnerships. South African Government News Agency
- Economy and the Rand: The South African rand is hovering around R16.10 to the US dollar. Markets are closely tracking domestic inflation, mining output data, and rising global oil prices, which have climbed above $100 per barrel and heightened expectations around upcoming South African Reserve Bank interest-rate discussions. BusinessTech+ 1
- Fiscal Debates on Social Grants: Domestic policy debates have intensified following renewed political proposals to raise monthly social grants up to R4,400, drawing sharp pushback from economists warning of heavy strain on the country’s narrow tax base. BusinessTech
- Diplomatic Tensions Over Foreign Nationals: Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg have formally called on the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) to accelerate investigations into recent incidents resulting in the deaths of foreign nationals in South Africa. UA.NEWS