South Africa Roundup: Fire disasters, drug busts, corruption allegations

Action against corrupt construction mafias

The South African Department of Public Works and Infrastructure is initiating thorough investigations into a staggering number of leases, alongside a significant R300 million (about $17 million) IT security breach. All Africa reports Minister Dean Macpherson is prioritising the lawful execution of leases and adherence to market-related pricing in a bid to combat corruption within the sector, targeting construction mafias through legal action, including a lawsuit against Kroucamp Plumbers over unlawful tenders.

Eastern Cape Game Reserve fires

Recently, intense wildfires wreaked havoc in the Lawrence de Lange Game Reserve, devastating more than half of its grazing land. Fortunately, the fire was contained without any reported injuries to wildlife. According to News24, local municipalities, however, felt the brunt of the disaster, exacerbated by prevailing dry weather conditions and powerful winds, highlighting the vulnerability of the region’s ecosystems.

Durban drug busts

In a major crackdown on drug-related crimes, two suspects were apprehended in Durban with a substantial cache of illegal drugs, valued at over R3 million (over $170,000). One individual was found in possession of 900 heroin capsules, prompting further investigations that led to additional drug seizures at other locations. As reported by News24, one individual also faced charges related to illegal residency, showcasing the multifaceted nature of crime in the area.

Battle for Africa's richest title

In notable financial news, South Africa's Johann Rupert has surpassed Nigeria's Aliko Dangote to become Africa's richest man, according to the latest Bloomberg Billionaires Index. Africa.com highlights that Rupert's net worth surged by $1.9 billion to reach $14.3 billion, while Dangote experienced a decline of $1.7 billion to a net worth of $13.4 billion, as a result of Nigeria's current economic challenges. Despite maintaining the title of Africa's richest according to Forbes for an impressive 13 consecutive years, Dangote now finds himself in second position on Bloomberg's list, with other prominent billionaires such as Nicky Oppenheimer, Nassef Sawiris, and Natie Kirsh ranking third, fourth, and fifth respectively.

Corruption allegations aimed at Justice Minister

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has formally requested Justice Minister Thembi Simelane to address escalating corruption allegations relating to her involvement in a $130 million banking scandal with VBS Mutual Bank. Under scrutiny, Simelane is alleged to have received an illegal loan exceeding 500,000 rands during her tenure as mayor of Polokwane. As calls for her resignation intensify, opposition parties, including the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the Democratic Alliance (DA), are questioning her integrity and leadership abilities. According to News Central, appointed only in June, Simelane’s credibility faces significant challenges given the history of corruption associated with several high-ranking ANC officials and the VBS scandal's detrimental impact on impoverished rural depositors.