South Africa Weekend News Recap: 2–3 November 2025
From economic shifts to sporting triumphs and political intrigue, South Africa’s first weekend of November delivered a whirlwind of headlines. Here’s your curated recap across business, finance, sports, crime, politics, and celebrity gossip.
Business & Finance: Salaries Rise, Eskom Faces Doubts
- Salaries continue upward trend: The PayInc Net Salary Index rose to R21,428 in September, marking six consecutive months of growth. Real net salaries are up 1.2% year-on-year, despite inflation averaging just 3.1%.
- Eskom’s funding plan under scrutiny: Moody’s cast doubt on Eskom’s ability to raise capital for infrastructure upgrades, citing weak investor confidence.
- Coca-Cola’s African exit: Coca-Cola booked a R17 billion charge as it prepares to sell its African bottling operations, signalling a strategic retreat from the continent
Sports: Proteas Women Make History
- Proteas Women reach World Cup final: South Africa’s women’s cricket team defeated England to secure their first-ever ODI World Cup final berth. They faced India on Sunday, with rain threatening to delay the match.
- Springboks dominate Japan: Feinberg-Mngomezulu led a clinical win over Japan, boosting morale ahead of the next international clash.
- Orlando Pirates advance: Pirates secured a spot in the Carling Knockout semifinals, while Kaizer Chiefs face internal reshuffling.
Crime: High-Profile Arrests and Gang Violence
- Cell tower vandals jailed: A syndicate responsible for R450 million in damages to MTN infrastructure was sentenced to 20 years in prison.
- Westbury mass shooting suspect arrested: A second suspect linked to the gang-related shooting appeared in court, as police intensify efforts to curb township violence.
- Madlanga Commission revelations: Businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala allegedly bribed top police officials, including Lt-Gen Shadrack Sibiya, with monthly payments of up to R1 million.
Politics: ANC Turmoil and Historic Judgments
- Motion of no confidence in Joburg Mayor Morero: Minority coalition partners accuse Morero of administrative collapse and have filed a formal motion.
- The Pietermaritzburg High Court ruled that Chief Albert Luthuli was murdered, declaring that the Nobel laureate was beaten to death by apartheid police, overturning decades of official denial.
- Madlanga Commission deepens police scandal: Testimonies revealed alleged corruption and political interference within SAPS, prompting calls for reform.
Gossip & Entertainment: Tyla Shines, Bushiri Wins
- Tyla named Glamour Woman of the Year: The global pop sensation continues her meteoric rise, also becoming the most-streamed female artist in Nigeria.
- Bushiri extradition blocked: Malawi’s High Court ruled against South Africa’s request to extradite Shepherd and Mary Bushiri, reigniting debate over cross-border justice.
- Halloween glam: Mzansi celebrities lit up social media with spooky and stylish Halloween looks, from Sho Madjozi to Somizi.
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