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.

The Constitutional Court's landmark ruling against Parliament paves the way for a potential impeachment inquiry into President Cyril Ramaphosa, marking a pivotal moment in South Africa's political history.

Real Reform for ECD urges the Department of Basic Education to prioritise nutrition support for over 1,000 Eastern Cape ECD centres, addressing the critical issue of child malnutrition in South Africa.

Rescue teams, including police divers and the NSRI, are battling to reach dozens of people stranded along the Gamtoos River after some residents ignored evacuation orders as catastrophic flooding ravages the Garden Route and Kouga region. Rescue operations underway as trapped residents wait for help About 40 people were stranded along the Kingsway area near the Gamtoos River mouth on Friday morning, 8 May, after refusing to evacuate ahead of devastating floods that have swept through the Garden Route and Kouga, destroying homes, submerging farmland and crippling infrastructure. Speaking on Friday morning, Kouga Municipality Mayor Hattingh Bornman confirmed that a major rescue operation was underway at the Gamtoos River. “This is the Gamtoos River behind me, where the NSRI has got a lot of these small boats, unpropelled, unmotored boats, that’s going across to the Kingsway area, where there’s about 40 plus, estimated 40 people that are being taken out of the area,” he said. “We’ve got NSRI and Rescue SA, and the surf divers are here. There are really incredible people who are assisting residents to evacuate.” Bornman issued an urgent plea to anyone still refusing to leave. “We’ve seen out here that if you do not evacuate when asked, we do sit with big problems, so please take care,” he said. Evacuation orders ignored as floodwaters rose overnight On Thursday, the Kouga Municipality issued evacuation orders for residents in the Gamtoos Valley after Kouga Dam exceeded its storage capacity. Residents of Kingsway Village, Big Fish, Gamtoos Mouth Resort, Ferry Hotel and all low-lying areas in the Gamtoos Valley were urged to leave. More than 100mm of rain has reportedly fallen across the region. Despite the warnings, scores of residents chose to stay. Bornman said conditions overnight had been relentless for emergency personnel. The mayor described scenes unlike anything the region had experienced in a generation. “It’s flooding as we’ve never seen before in the last 30 years that I’ve been here; it’s incredible the amount of damage that our infrastructure has taken, that the roads have taken, and unfortunately, many of our residents and houses are also underwater,” he told eNCA. Kromme and Gamtoos rivers prompt fresh evacuation warnings With conditions still deteriorating on Friday morning, Bornman issued an urgent fresh evacuation call for residents along two river systems. “Kromme River and Gamtoos River in the low-lying areas, please evacuate as soon as possible,” he said, warning that water levels along the Kromme were climbing rapidly. “The Kromme River, the levels are rising very fast there. So we want to urge residents to please get to safety. Do not take chances.” The municipality confirmed that residents in low-lying areas along both the Kromme and Gamtoos rivers must evacuate immediately. An update on the Kromme River was expected as soon as officials received a report from staff stationed at Impofu Dam, which was sitting at 110% of capacity on Friday morning. Bornman added that while canal levels were being monitored, they were not yet under threat. “The canals, at this stage, [and the] levels we see are rising, but it’s not under threat yet. The biggest concern is the river’s low-lying areas along the Kromme River itself,” he said. Bornman said the flooding has been widespread across the municipality, with Humansdorp bearing the brunt of the destruction. Roads cut off across the region, and travel strongly discouraged The R102 has been completely blocked by flooding on the Gamtoos River, with the municipality urging anyone travelling between Jeffreys Bay and Nelson Mandela Bay to use the N2 instead. The mayor urged the public to avoid unnecessary travel altogether. “Please do not travel at this stage unless absolutely necessary,” Bornman said. “Our teams are working hard to make sure we get flooded and blocked areas cleared.” Unconfirmed reports indicate several further road closures across the region. The R102 between Ferry Hotel and Thornhill is reportedly completely closed due to flooding. Both bridges on the R331 at Weston and Patensie are reportedly submerged and impassable, while the R330 between Hankey and Humansdorp is reportedly closed at the Hankey bridge. Multiple access roads into Loerie and Weston are reportedly cut off by rising water. Emergency shelters opened across the municipality Several evacuation points have been opened to accommodate displaced residents and visitors. Katrina Felix Hall in Thornhill is serving as the primary evacuation shelter for residents from the Ferry Hotel area. Loerie Community Hall is open for residents from Loerie and the lower Gamtoos areas, while Vuyelwa Hall in Hankey is accommodating those evacuated from the Weston and Centerton areas. Residents in immediate danger or requiring evacuation assistance are urged to contact the Kouga Call Centre on 042 200 2200 or Saps on 10111. Farmland devastated as river bursts its banks The SABC on Friday morning reported widespread devastation along the Gamtoos River, with entire farming areas submerged and families losing livestock, equipment and homes. Homes are reportedly sitting completely underwater between the Kouga municipality and Jeffreys Bay. Furthermore, the human cost extended well beyond residents. Reportedly, farmers in areas close to the river were seen in tears after cattle were washed away, and farm workers’ homes were also swept away in the floodwaters. The situation on the ground is so severe that, reportedly, the only way people could access the area is by boat. Dam levels and what the department said On Thursday, 7 May, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) confirmed that Kouga Dam had reached 120.6% of its storage capacity, with peak outflows recorded at 2 491 cubic metres per second, equivalent to a one-in-50-year flood event. Department spokesperson Wisane Mavasa said the dam remained structurally sound and was functioning exactly as engineers had designed it. “Kouga Dam is a 72-metre-high double-curvature concrete arch dam equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and two radial gates.” Mavasa explained that the spillway alone can discharge more than 6 100 cubic metres per second before reaching the non-overspill crest, more than double the flow at the time of the statement. “Even in the unlikely event of overtopping, the integrity of the dam would not be compromised,” she said. The department chose not to operate the dam’s radial gates due to Alkali-Aggregate Reaction in the concrete, a condition that causes swelling and could prevent the gates from closing safely. Mavasa said this precaution was deliberate. “Operating the gates under these conditions may create challenges in safely closing them, potentially resulting in permanent loss of storage capacity,” she said, confirming that the uncontrolled spillway was more than sufficient to manage current flows. Mavasa said the department was continuing to track all developments. “The Department continues to closely monitor inflows, reservoir levels, and the dam’s structural behaviour,” she said, urging downstream communities to remain cautious as river levels were expected to stay elevated during spilling. Broader Algoa system transformed after weeks of drought stress The broader Algoa Water Supply System has seen a dramatic turnaround following the rainfall. As recently as 4 May 2026, the system’s overall surface water storage had dropped to just 35.6%. Within 48 hours, that picture changed entirely. Churchill Dam reached 115% of capacity, Loerie Dam 119%, Impofu Dam – now reported at 110% on Friday morning – and Groendal Dam at 72%. Mavasa noted the significance of the recovery for a region grappling with serious water security concerns. “The other dams in the Algoa Water Supply System have also made a huge upsurge in the last 48 hours to almost full recovery,” she said. The department reassured the public that Kouga Dam “remains safe, stable and fully operational, and that all necessary measures are in place to protect downstream communities”.

The Deutsche Internationale Schule Johannesburg (DSJ) which is 136 years old this year, is proud to present the 116th Annual Schulbasar on Saturday, 30 May 2026! Join us for a fun-filled day, where community, culture, and celebration come together.Enjoy authentic German food, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities at one of Johannesburg’s most beloved annual events. Don’t miss out on unique stalls, vibrant performances, and a festive atmosphere-mark your calendar for the Schulbasar. Purchase your tickets here: Visit: Facebook: Instagram: The competition closes Sunday, 24 May 2026 at midnight. The competition will run online and in print. Tickets will be sent electronically Tickets are not transferable or exchangeable for cash Ts&Cs apply. This competition is only open to individuals who are 18 years of age or older. By entering the competition, you accept The Citizen’s standard terms and conditions. CLICK HERE TO ENTER

The capacity utilisation of South African large manufacturers slumped to 75.5% in February 2026 from 76.4% in February 2025. This was the lowest since February 2022. Statistics South Africa said more than half of the reason for the under utilisation was due to insufficient demand. Economies of scale Manufacturers aim to have capacity utilisation in excess of 80%. This is because fixed costs such as premises and capital equipment are spread over more products. Consequently, the average cost per unit decreases as the volume of output increases. This allows them to lower prices and gain a competitive advantage. The recent peak manufacturing capacity utilisation was 84.4% in February 2008. It then eased to the 80% level between February 2010 and February 2020. The national lockdown from March 2020 onwards resulted in the record low of 59.8% in May 2020. Although there has been a recovery since the pandemic lockdowns, capacity utilisation has trended around the 78% level. It has not been able to exceed the 80% level in the past six years on average. February 2026 detail Only two out of ten manufacturing divisions had utilisation above 80% in February 2026. These were glass and non-metallic mineral products at 82.6% and radio, television and communication apparatus and professional equipment at 81.3%. Overall, seven of the ten manufacturing divisions showed decreases in utilisation of production capacity in February 2026 compared with a year ago. Increases were recorded in the petroleum, chemical products, rubber and plastic products division and the glass and non-metallic mineral products division. The motor vehicles, parts and accessories and other transport equipment division was steady at 78.5%. The largest decreases were recorded in the following divisions: wood and wood products, paper, publishing and printing; basic iron and steel, non-ferrous metal products, metal products and machinery; and electrical machinery. February manufacturing production The manufacturing production slump continued in February with a 2.8% year-on-year decline. This was the fourth consecutive year-on-year fall. Manufacturing production fell by 1.3% in 2025. It is now 7.9% less than 2019. The decline in manufacturing production is in large measure due to the extended period of electricity load shedding, as well as the high electricity prices.

Non-Eskom electricity generation grew by 16.2% year-on-year in March 2026. Correspondingly, Eskom generation declined by 9.8%. Total electricity generation fell by 7.0%. Non-Eskom generation is dependent on the sun and wind. Generally, February, March and April are low generation months. This is because the wind does not blow as hard as it does in August. In addition, clouds degrade solar photo-voltaic (PV) production. Accordingly, non-Eskom generation as a share of total generation eased to 13,5% in March from 14.9% in February, 17.1% in January and 17.3% in December. Nonetheless, the March 2026 share is significantly higher than the 10.8% share in March 2025. The share in 2026 is expected to exceed 20% as more solar PV and wind power Independent Power Producers (IPP) projects are linked to the grid. The graph is based on data provided by Statistics South Africa Impact on Eskom As the generation from IPPs has increased, so Eskom has scaled back its generation from coal-fired power stations. On 20 February 2026, Eskom had 9 897 Megawatt (MW) in cold reserve due to excess capacity. Declining electricity sales will mean that Eskom will have increase tariffs to its remaining customers. This may force more of its customers to generate their own electricity or buy electricity from cheaper electricity provided by IPPs. That is why Cape Town intends spending R6 billion for electricity grid upgrades. These are aimed at reducing reliance on Eskom. It already has its own pumped-storage scheme at Steenbras. During the load shedding years of 2022 and 2023, this helped Cape Town ‘evade’ two stages of load shedding. Electricity consumption There was an easing in the year-on-year declines in electricity consumption in March. It was ‘only’ 3.5% after a 6.1% drop in January. In December there was a 6.9% decline. This followed three months when the decline exceeded 7% year-on-year. The seasonally adjusted monthly change was a 2.1% increase in March. Statistics South Africa labels the consumption data as “distributed in South Africa.” It however excludes consumption from rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) installations at houses and businesses. These are behind the meter and this consumption is not reported to Statistics South Africa. One way of estimating this consumption is to compare cloudy day demand for grid electricity with sunny day demand. Eskom estimates there’s 7 463.6 Megawatts (MW) of behind the meter capacity currently. This may result in at least 5 000 MW generation on a sunny day and only 1 500 MW on a cloudy day. Ferroalloy deal Eskom said on 10 April that it had concluded 62c/kWh electricity tariff for ferroalloy smelters. This will save the South African ferroalloy industry. Industries such as steel and ferroalloy smelting had to close down electric arc furnaces in 2025. This was because they were unable to compete with international suppliers who had access to cheap reliable power. Consequently, South African chrome and manganese mines exported raw ore to China. There they were beneficiated into value-added ferroalloys and steel.

Most organisations invest in perimeter security. The database – where the data actually lives – is the layer most often left ungoverned.

The Competition Commission has opened the door to settlement talks over an alleged 2014 market-division pact.