Visit North West University press office South Africans are no longer just living in suburbs. They are living in defended zones. High walls, cameras and private security may protect some South Africans, but they are not solving crime – they are displacing it onto more vulnerable communities. Crime in South Africa is no longer treated as temporary. Fear has become embedded into daily life, reshaping how people move, socialise and even perceive strangers. South Africa’s “suburban arms race” is turning cities into fragmented islands of protection, where access, exclusion and fear increasingly define urban life. Violent crime in South Africa is rampant, with the country frequently ranked as one of the most dangerous in the world, as well as among the most unsafe in Africa. Citizens are afraid, and justifiably so, adapting to crime as though it is no longer temporary but permanent. This fear has, for decades, quietly been redesigning suburban South Africa. Across the country, cities are being turned into defended zones as defensive living becomes the norm. Spiked palisade walls, mounted cameras and roaming private security firms are not just a common sight in the country’s suburbs, they are increasingly defining them. According to Prof Gideon van Riet from the North-West University’s (NWU) School for Government Studies, this fear of crime is not irrational, but barricaded homes are not addressing the issue. They are displacing it. “Fear of crime in South Africa is not irrational. Violent crime is a lived reality for many, shaping how people think, move and protect themselves. Fear is reasonable. South Africa has a high crime rate. Crime is often violent, both inside and outside the non-continuous laager,” he explains, referring to the fragmented social boundaries that separate those with access to commercial security infrastructures from those without. Yet, he argues that the way society interprets and responds to crime may be just as important as crime itself. “The narratives we choose to attach to crime, however, are something we can and should control more carefully and urgently.” It is a difficult task as, it can be argued, many South Africans have institutionalised attitudes towards this disruptive pandemic. For many, crime is no longer an occasional concern but a constant factor in how their daily lives are organised. Routes are planned around perceived danger, certain streets are avoided after dark and neighbourhood WhatsApp groups function as informal early-warning systems. Security becomes less of a precaution and more of a routine. Fear begins to influence behaviour long before crime itself occurs. People gradually reorganise their lives around the possibility of victimhood, creating habits that become normalised over time. Cities are turning into fragmented protected zones He further states that as fear becomes embedded into routine, urban space itself has changed. South African suburbs increasingly resemble fragmented islands of protection, noting how these security infrastructures create what he describes as a “non-continuous laager” – a patchwork of defended spaces rather than a single protected boundary. “This means suburbs become divided into pockets of access and exclusion. Security infrastructures allow enough integration between those inside and outside the defended zone to maintain an elementary sense of legitimacy, but they also reinforce separation,” he explains. Inequality and exclusion remain central drivers While fear shapes behaviour, crime itself cannot be separated from deeper structural conditions. South Africa’s high levels of unemployment, inequality and social exclusion create environments where crime becomes more likely, even necessary for basic survival. “Crime should not be viewed purely as an individual moral failing. Instead, it is often linked to economic frustration and limited access to opportunity. In contexts where symbols of success are highly visible, but legitimate means of achieving them remain limited, strain and resentment become powerful forces,” he says, pointing to inequality as a critical underlying driver – one that cannot be resolved through walls, alarms or armed response alone. The unintended consequences of protection The suburban arms race creates a difficult paradox. As homeowners invest in stronger security, crime is not necessarily eliminated; it may simply move elsewhere. Van Riet warns that security upgrades can unintentionally redistribute vulnerability. Homes protected by multiple layers of expensive security infrastructure become harder targets, pushing criminal activity towards areas with fewer resources and weaker protection. “The problem of crime is not resolved. Instead, it is merely moved to those with less access to relatively effective security infrastructures.” The effects of fear extend beyond architecture and security spending. They also reshape how communities interact, who belongs in certain spaces and how strangers are perceived. Prof Van Riet says that suspicion often becomes tied to appearance, movement or perceived belonging. “People who appear ‘out of place’ may increasingly be viewed as threats rather than fellow residents. This reshaping of public space has wider implications for trust, social cohesion and the shared experience of city life.” Fear may be reasonable, but its consequences are not neutral He also makes a distinction between fear itself and what fear produces. While concern about violent crime is understandable, the long-term systems built around fear can deepen fragmentation. “The growth of private security, surveillance and fortified suburban life may create short-term reassurance, but it also risks reinforcing division. Again, fear is reasonable, but the narratives and structures that grow around fear deserve closer scrutiny.” What would change look like? If crime is rooted partly in exclusion and inequality, then long-term solutions require more than individual protection. Prof Van Riet suggests that reducing fear sustainably depends on building stronger social cohesion, improving access to economic opportunity and addressing deep structural divides. “Crime should be understood as a shared concern rather than a problem divided along class, geography or identity. Greater empathy and support for shared concerns across lines of division are required,” he says, “so that we may one day finally relegate the concept of the laager to the history books.” The answer to South Africa’s suburban fortifications, which insulate rather than address the issue of crime, is not a call to arms, but a call to understanding. Time will tell which one is heard. • Follow the link to the published article here:

On the initiative of the Embassy of Tunisia in South Africa, under the leadership of HE Karima Bardaoui, a delegation of South African women took part in the ninth edition of the Financing Investment and Trade in Africa Conference 2026 (Fita), in Tunis from 28 to 30 April 2026.  The strategic engagement underscores Tunisia’s growing role as a gateway for African trade and investment, while highlighting the importance of women’s leadership in shaping the continent’s economic future. The delegation included Wendy Mpendulo, the president of the Africa Progressive Women Chamber for Trade and Industry, accompanied by two businesswomen from the chamber.  Their participation reflected a broader commitment to strengthening intra-African collaboration and empowering women entrepreneurs across value chains. A highlight of the conference was a dedicated workshop hosted by the chamber, where Mpendulo delivered a compelling address on “Women leadership and free initiative: Supporting women’s participation in African value chains.” Her presentation emphasised the importance of inclusivity in trade, advocating for increased access to markets, financing and leadership opportunities for women across the continent. Fita 2026, held under the theme “African Value Chains: Developing Strategic Levers for the Transformation of the Continent”, brought together more than 3 000 participants from more than 65 countries. Attendees included ministers, policymakers, business leaders, development institutions and private investors, creating a vibrant platform for dialogue and deal-making.  The conference reinforced its reputation as a pan-African hub for investment. This year’s edition focussed on sectors critical to Africa’s transformation, including digital innovation, clean technologies, infrastructure development and financial services. Through panels and networking platforms such as the “Deal Room”, participants explored practical pathways to unlock the continent’s economic potential. Wendy Mpendulo, the president of the African Progressive Women Chamber in SA and Anis Jaziri, the president of the Tunisian-African business council. A major outcome of the conference was the signing of 15 partnership agreements between the Tunisian African Business Council and various African chambers of commerce and employers’ organisations. The agreements span key sectors such as energy, water, telecommunications, engineering and infrastructure, reflecting a strong commitment to collaborative growth. Among the most notable initiatives discussed was a large-scale urban development project in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, covering about 43 000 hectares. Known as “Novation City Kinshasa,” the project includes plans for a technology park, textile manufacturing hubs and integrated urban infrastructure, with an estimated investment of €100 million (about R2 billion).  Additional projects in countries such as Guinea further illustrate the expanding footprint of Tunisian enterprises across Africa. The Tunisian African Business Council and the Africa Progressive Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry signed a memorandum of understanding. The milestone agreement aims to strengthen cooperation, promote women-led enterprises and facilitate greater participation of women in African trade networks. Canada was featured as the guest non-African country, highlighting growing interest in sub-Saharan Africa’s trade opportunities and reinforcing the importance of international partnerships. Discussions encouraged the continent to leverage its financial resources and reduce reliance on external funding. Taking in the sites: (From left) The author on the steps of the Café des Nattes, established in 1894, alongside HE Ambassador Shakilla Umutoni of Rwanda to Tunisia and Hisham Ben Khamsa. Photos: Marion Smith Tunisia’s broader economic strategy was also brought into focus, with ambitions to increase foreign direct investment to four billion dinars (about R217bn) by the end of 2026.  Beyond the conference halls, Tunisia revealed itself as a destination rich in history, culture and natural beauty. Widely regarded as a safe and accessible country, Tunisia offers visa-free entry for South African citizens on short stays, making it an increasingly attractive travel option. One of the country’s iconic destinations is Sidi Bou Saïd, a breathtaking village perched above the Mediterranean Sea. Known for its striking blue-and-white architecture, it is often compared to the Greek island of Santorini. With its panoramic views, art galleries and charming cafés, the village offers a serene yet culturally vibrant experience.  It was here that I got to sit on the steps of the historic Café des Nattes, established in 1894, soaking in the atmosphere alongside HE Ambassador Shakilla Umutoni of Rwanda to Tunisia and Hisham Ben Khamsa, who kindly shared insights into the heritage and character of the remarkable town and other sites. Nearby, the ancient Carthage stands as a testament to Tunisia’s rich historical legacy. Founded in the 9th century BC by Phoenicians, this Unesco World Heritage Site features remarkable ruins, including the Antonine Baths, Punic ports, and Roman villas, offering visitors a journey through centuries of Mediterranean civilisation. Equally captivating is Dougga, one of the best-preserved Roman sites in North Africa. Set on a hilltop, Dougga combines ancient architecture with sweeping views of olive groves and wildflower fields, creating a striking contrast between history and nature. Blend of old and new: (From left) From intricately designed doors to bustling markets, the medina is a living museum of Tunisian culture and craftsmanship. The Harbour in Bizerte, Dougga, one of the best-preserved Roman sites in North Africa. Dougga combines ancient architecture with sweeping views of wildflower fields. The capital, Tunis, offers a cosmopolitan blend of old and new. At its heart lies the Medina of Tunis, a Unesco-listed site renowned for its labyrinthine streets, vibrant souks and more than 700 historic monuments. From intricately designed doors to bustling markets, the medina is a living museum of Tunisian culture and craftsmanship. Tunisia’s culinary landscape is rooted in Mediterranean traditions and enriched by Berber, Arab and French influences. Tunisian cuisine is both diverse and flavourful. Dishes such as couscous, lablabi and merguez sausages highlight the country’s love for bold spices, particularly harissa. A standout experience is enjoying brik, a delicate pastry filled with egg and tuna, requiring both skill and enthusiasm to savour. Coastal towns like Bizerte offer a more relaxed charm. Dining at establishments such as Le Sport Nautique provides an opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood against the backdrop of the Mediterranean, followed by leisurely walks through historic harbour districts. From its golden beaches and sun-drenched landscapes to its rich cultural heritage, Tunisia lives up to its reputation as the “balcony of the Mediterranean”.  In bringing together economic ambition and cultural richness, Tunisia offers more than just a destination, it presents an opportunity. Whether through high-level platforms like Fita or through its vibrant tourism offerings, the country positions itself as a key player in Africa’s future while inviting the world to discover its timeless charm.

Authorities have launched urgent relief efforts for hundreds of residents displaced by the devastating Quarry Road informal settlement fire in Durban, with immediate focus on securing school uniforms for nearly 300 affected children so they can return to class, while humanitarian groups and government departments provide shelter, food, healthcare and document replacement services.

When Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi landed in Beijing on Tuesday for talks with Chinese counterpart Wang Yi, the symbolism was unmistakable. It was their first in-person meeting since the United States and Israel initiated war with Iran on February 28, a conflict that has reshaped the geopolitics of the Middle East, strangled global energy markets, and placed China in an increasingly uncomfortable position between two of its most consequential relationships.

Springbok hopeful Ruan Venter has been shifted to the loose-trio for the Lions’ crucial round 17 United Rugby Championship match against Leinster in Dublin on Saturday (6.30pm). Venter, who has one Springbok cap, has been in superb form of late and there has been talk of him returning to the Bok fold this season, especially because of his versatility which can see him play at lock and loose forward. And with a number of Bok locks injured, among them Eben Etzebeth, Lood de Jager and RG Snyman, Venter will be keen to continue his good form in a key away match this weekend. Playoffs place on the line A win for the Lions will guarantee them a place in the URC quarter-finals for the first time, with one regular season game to spare, next weekend against Munster. The Lions are currently third on the points table, but so tightly congested is the log that should Ivan van Rooyen’s team not pick up any log points from their two remaining fixtures and other results go against them they could finish in ninth place and out of the playoff mix. Besides Venter shifting to flank, because Etienne Oosthuizen is again fit and able to take up his place in the second row, where he replaces Darrien Landsberg, there are not too many changes to the Lions team that has been in superb form of late. In fact, the only other change to the team that featured against Connacht sees the wings swap sides, with Erich Cronje moving to the right and Angelo Davids to the left. Kriel to hit 50 Speaking to the media earlier this week, assistant coach in charge of defence, former Springbok Jaque Fourie, said the team’s recent successful home run has lifted the hopes of a good showing in Dublin this weekend. “For us now, I think we’ve had four or five big results at home, that has built a lot of confidence,” Fourie explained. “But that’s what you need when you come to Leinster to play them. “We’ve found our identity. We know how we want to play. We know what we need to do on Saturday to win and to beat them.” Saturday’s match will also see Lions centre Richard Kriel reach his 50th international match for the side. Lions: Quan Horn, Erich Cronje, Henco van Wyk, Richard Kriel, Angelo Davids, Chris Smith, Morne van den Berg, Francke Horn (capt), Ruan Venter, Siba Mahashe, Reinhard Nothnagel, Etienne Oosthuizen, Asenathi Ntlabakanye, PJ Botha, SJ Kotze. Bench: Franco Marais, Eddie Davids, Sebastian Lombard, Darrien Landsberg, Batho Hlekani, JC Pretorius, Nico Steyn, Kelly Mpeku

I got ready in the dark this morning. One, because it’s almost the depth of winter now so the sun doesn’t come up until, like, noon. Secondly, because I was cold and too lazy to switch on a light. But more importantly, because I thought to myself, “I have this.” But it only took me turning on the wrong tap in the shower, my toothpaste covering only half of my toothbrush and the other half in the sink, and putting on two different socks to realise that, actually, I did indeed not “have this.” The same feeling of “we got this” came moments after President Cyril Ramaphosa was re-elected as president in 2024. Not because of his election, but because of National Coloured Congress (NCC) leader Fadiel Adams stunning rebuke of Ramaphosa. It was a warning to the president that things had to change, that he could no longer let corruption and crime run amok. It was a caution that Ramaphosa was accountable to communities and the average South African, not funders and mafia bosses. It was a stirring speech which gave me hope that a leader who was still in touch with issues on the ground would finally hold the president to account, without excuses and the baggage of bias. Less than two years later, and this week, that hope was being carried away in a police van, with a cigarette in his mouth and the declaration “I probably needed a holiday anyway”. More ‘wasted years’? Adams has had a turbulent time as MP over the last year and 10 months, with allegations of leaking classified information and interfering with police investigations, just the latest in a series of incidents that have seen him hog the spotlight. A crime-busting avenger is what he wants South Africans to see him as, but his dodging arrest and allegation-filled outbursts as he was being carried away in cuffs blurred that image. He will now wait for a court of law to decide whether the charges against him are true or, as he claims, a vendetta against him. But perhaps he should use the time to reflect on what he has done with the responsibility given to him by the South Africans who gave him their vote. “Mr President, the coloured people are dying, and this house has done nothing about it,” he declared in June. But how has Adams used his platform to make material change to crime and squalor in underdeveloped areas? How has he helped the communities that he accused Ramaphosa of neglecting? Has he made empty promises to the very people he accused the president of lying to? Has being an MP benefited his voters or just himself? He has been outspoken and held many to account in the chambers of parliament, but unless that leads to actual change, it is hard to see it as anything other than grandstanding and politicking for his supper.

Zimbabwe and Botswana have strengthened their cross-border animal health partnership after jointly vaccinating more than 72 000 cattle against foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in Matabeleland South Province. The five-day campaign targeted livestock in high-risk border communities where frequent movement of cattle between the two countries increases the threat of disease outbreaks. Veterinary teams focused on Beitbridge, Gwanda, Mangwe and Matobo districts, areas that have previously recorded cases of FMD. The vaccination exercise forms part of ongoing efforts by both governments to protect farmers, secure livestock production and prevent disruptions to regional trade caused by animal disease outbreaks. Botswana donates FMD vaccines to Zimbabwe As reported by The Chronicle, Botswana supplied Zimbabwe with 100 000 doses of FMD vaccine to support the programme. Authorities vaccinated 72 227 cattle out of a target of 78 034 animals during the latest round of the campaign. Officials said the exercise achieved more than 90 percent coverage, a figure veterinary authorities described as a major success in efforts to contain the disease before it spreads further. Matabeleland South provincial veterinary director Dr Enat Mdlongwa said cooperation between the two neighbouring countries remains critical in controlling diseases that move easily across borders. “The foot-and-mouth vaccination campaign is a bilateral programme involving the governments of Zimbabwe and Botswana,” said Dr Mdlongwa. “We collaborated in a bid to control transboundary diseases, particularly foot-and-mouth disease.” Border districts remain vulnerable Authorities consider districts along the Zimbabwe-Botswana border highly vulnerable because of communal grazing systems and regular livestock movement. Wildlife corridors in some parts of Matabeleland South also increase the risk of transmission between domestic animals and wild species. Zimbabwe recorded sporadic outbreaks of FMD in recent years, including a case in Mangwe earlier this year that forced veterinary authorities to impose quarantine measures and tighten disease surveillance. FMD is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, goats, sheep and pigs. Once outbreaks occur, authorities often restrict livestock movement, close cattle markets and suspend exports of livestock-related products. Farmers face economic pressure during FMD outbreaks Livestock diseases continue to threaten farmers’ incomes across Southern Africa. Many rural households depend heavily on cattle for income, farming and household security. When outbreaks occur, farmers often struggle to sell livestock or access formal markets, resulting in financial losses and disruptions to broader agricultural supply chains. Botswana embassy representative Banabotlhe Kesianye Mello said the campaign demonstrates strong relations between the two countries and highlights the importance of regional cooperation in responding to livestock diseases. “The campaign is an important step towards containing the spread of FMD and strengthening animal health systems in our region,” she said. Second FMD vaccination phase planned Authorities said the remaining vaccine doses will be used during the second phase of the campaign expected next month. Zimbabwe continues to intensify vaccination drives, border surveillance and disease monitoring as part of wider efforts to protect the national herd and restore confidence in the livestock sector.

According to the Orlando Pirates legend Lekoelea, the title race could look very different if Makgopa had played more. Makgopa started and scored in the 2-0 win over Stellenbosch FC, stepping in after concerns raised by Bafana coach Hugo Broos. The goal helped Orlando Pirates stay within touching distance of Mamelodi Sundowns, who are two points ahead before meeting Kaizer Chiefs on Wednesday night. Also read: McKenzie confirms 2010 Bafana squad to attend World Cup STEVE LEKOELEA QUESTIONS SELECTION CALLS “I’m happy the Pirates coach finally saw the light and started the game with Makgopa. So, yesterday he started and won the game for us and even scored,” Lekoelea told KickOff. “We would be talking about a different story… if he started in all those matches. After the win, this season’s league title race has become even tighter,” he added. “However, let’s wait for the last game… Sundowns are usually unstoppable during this stage. There are only 5km left to the finish line… Pirates need to win all three remaining games.” Also read: Reports: Kaizer Chiefs to announce this new CEO EVIDENCE MAKGOPA’S IMPACT FOR ORLANDO PIRATES The 25-year-old striker has recorded 5 goals and 3 assists in 20 appearances, accumulating over 860 minutes on the pitch. His efficiency is particularly notable, averaging roughly one goal contribution every 108 minutes. While often rotating with other forwards, Makgopa has frequently made his mark as an “impact player” from the bench. Beyond his domestic league form, the Orlando Pirates star has been a consistent presence for Bafana Bafana, playing a key role in South Africa’s international fixtures. The GaMampa-born star featured in three matches during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations held in early 2026, where he scored a goal in the Round of 16 against Cameroon.

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