Opinion Pieces

Human Rights Month may have drawn to a close, but the significance of human rights extends further than a mere month.

South Africa’s first democratic elections on 27 April 1994 signalled not only the end of the brutal system of apartheid, but also a change in the country’s international image.

With the smell of roses and perfume likely to fill the air more than at any other time of the year today, we ought to dedicate a stem or two from our Valentine’s Day flower bouquets as a token of love for our country.

South Africa’s time has arrived! That’s the sentiment that reverberated in Davos during the World Economic Forum (WEF) as our nation shared with global leaders the many advances we have had over the last year.

South Africa’s Presidency of the G20 is a first for the African continent and provides a platform for the African continent’s voice to be better heard, writes Neo Semono.

By Nomonde Mnukwa

As we approach the end of 2024, reflecting on our nation's challenges and opportunities is important.

South Africa recently participated in the 36th Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (MOP 36) in Bangkok, Thailand.

Violence, particularly against women and children, continues to be a sting on our collective South African skin, and it is a battle that requires our collective effort to win, writes Neo Semono.

The tragic cases of foodborne illnesses have brought to the fore pressing concerns over the health, safety and hygiene standards in community retail outlets. While these outlets provide a valuable service to communities, their inadequate hygiene practices often leave communities vulnerable to foodborne illnesses.

The first 100 days as Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, under the Government of National Unity (GNU), have been a period of significant learning and action.

Social Development Month and Mental Health Awareness Month are two significant twin observances that fall in October. The aim of these observances is to promote all-encompassing strategies that tackle social concerns as well as mental health requirements, ultimately resulting in communities that are healthier and more resilient.

The past three years have been challenging for South Africa's livestock and poultry industry because of the spread of animal diseases. Throughout this period, we have had various cases of foot and mouth (FMD) disease in cattle, African swine fever in pigs, and avian influenza in poultry. While animal disease outbreaks are not unique to South Africa and indeed common across the world, South Africa's challenges have intensified in the recent past.

By Morapedi Sibeko

For decades, the rapid urbanisation and industrial growth experienced by many nations, had come at a high environmental cost. Landfills overflowed, plastic waste contaminated rivers and oceans, and emissions from improper waste disposal intensified the climate crisis.

Government remains committed to building a better South Africa for all, as envisaged by former President Nelson Mandela.

Sport has a cunning, yet magical way of bringing people together, no matter one’s race, creed or colour.

On the 29th of May this year, South Africans went to polls to renew our constitutional democracy based on the will of the people and rule of law.

It is often said that the more things change, the more they stay the same - and to some extent this is true.

Every year on 18 July, South Africans from all walks of life join together to celebrate and honour a man who changed the world for the better. This commemoration pays tribute to the life and works of the late former President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, who was the first black president of our democratic government and a global icon.