Covera Trend

South Africa has been officially removed from the European Union’s list of “High-Risk Third Country Jurisdictions,” a move expected to ease financial friction with Europe and support trade and cross-border investment. The EU published the decision on 9 January 2026, which will take effect from 29 January 2026.



The decision follows South Africa’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) greylist and the United Kingdom’s high-risk list, signaling progress in addressing strategic deficiencies in anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CFT). National Treasury welcomed the announcement, noting that EU-mandated enhanced due diligence on transactions had previously added friction to financial flows and investment.



Alongside South Africa, five other African countries — Burkina Faso, Mali, Mozambique, Nigeria, and Tanzania — were also delisted after improving the effectiveness of their AML/CFT regimes. The EU acknowledged that all six countries had met the commitments outlined in their FATF action plans.



Treasury cautioned, however, that delisting does not automatically eliminate internal risk assessments by European financial institutions, and significant work remains to strengthen the prevention, detection, investigation, and prosecution of financial crimes. South Africa will undergo its next FATF mutual evaluation, with a final report expected in October 2027.



The EU’s decision is seen as a milestone for South Africa, helping to restore confidence in its financial system and reduce barriers for trade, payments, and investment, particularly with European partners.



#SouthAfrica #Finance #Investment #TradeRelations
#AML #Compliance #FinancialRegulation #FATF
#GlobalMarkets #EconomicDevelopment #PolicyUpdate

20 hours ago | [YT] | 1

Covera Trend

A late-night home invasion in Big Spring, Texas, ended in tragedy when a homeowner shot and unalive an armed intruder on Friday night. Joel Adrian Florez, 43, was arrested and charged with murder following the incident.



Police reported that officers found Florez and a 40-year-old woman standing outside the residence, while the intruder, 36-year-old Phillip Samuel Lozano Jr., was pronounced dead inside the home. Authorities confirmed Lozano had forced his way into the house while armed and suffered multiple gunshot wounds.



Investigators have not disclosed whether Florez and Lozano knew each other. Under Texas law, the Castle Doctrine allows residents to use deadly force to defend themselves, their families, and property from intruders without the duty to retreat.



Florez remains in the Howard County Detention Center as authorities continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The case highlights the complex legal and moral questions surrounding self-defense laws in the United States.



#HomeSafety #SelfDefense #TexasCrime #CastleDoctrine
#LegalUpdate #PublicSafety #CrimeNews
#ResponsibleReporting #CommunityAwareness

20 hours ago | [YT] | 2

Covera Trend

An industrial chemical spill released a plume of orange smoke over Montague Gardens in Cape Town on Monday, 12 January 2026, prompting evacuations and widespread public concern. Residents and workers shared images and videos on social media as the fumes spread across the industrial area.



City of Cape Town officials later clarified that the incident was not caused by a fire, but by an exothermic chemical reaction at an industrial site. Disaster Risk Management spokesperson Charlotte Powell said the fumes originated from chemicals stored on the premises.



According to the City’s Fire and Rescue Services, the orange smoke resulted from a reaction between nitric acid and phosphoric acid inside a 10,000-litre tank. One person was taken to hospital with burn injuries and breathing difficulties.



Authorities confirmed that the situation has since stabilised and the affected premises have been handed back to business owners. Emergency services continue to monitor the area to ensure there is no ongoing risk to public health.



The incident has renewed public concern around industrial chemical safety, with residents questioning emergency preparedness, accountability, and the long-term health effects of exposure to hazardous fumes.



#CapeTown #MontagueGardens #ChemicalSpill
#PublicSafety #IndustrialSafety #EmergencyResponse
#DisasterManagement #HealthAndSafety
#SouthAfricaNews #BreakingNewsSA
#EnvironmentalSafety #CityOfCapeTown

20 hours ago | [YT] | 2

Covera Trend

Police have told the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court that further arrests are imminent in the murder case of popular media personality Warrick Stock, widely known as DJ Warras. The investigating officer confirmed that authorities are preparing to arrest the girlfriend of the alleged mastermind behind the killing, pending the completion of forensic analysis.



DJ Warras was shot dead on 16 December outside the Zambesi Building in Johannesburg’s CBD. Victor Majola (44) has since been arrested and is facing charges of murder, premeditated murder, and conspiracy to commit murder. During Majola’s bail hearing, police detailed evidence linking him to the planning and execution of the crime.



According to testimony, investigators have identified the alleged shooter and expect to make an arrest once ballistic and forensic reports are finalised. Police also allege that Majola’s girlfriend, a tenant at the building where DJ Warras’ security company operated, played a role in prior threats made against the victim.



The state argues that the killing stemmed from a long-running dispute over the illegal collection of rent at the property, following attempts to restore lawful management and security systems. CCTV footage and digital evidence reportedly place Majola at the scene before and after the shooting.



The matter has been postponed for further evidence, as the state opposes bail, citing risks of witness intimidation and flight. Family members of DJ Warras were present in court as details of the case were presented.



#SouthAfricaNews #CourtUpdate #JusticeSystem #RuleOfLaw
#CrimeInvestigation #PublicSafety #Accountability
#JohannesburgCBD #LegalProceedings #MediaIndustry
#BreakingNewsSA #SAJustice #LawAndOrder

21 hours ago | [YT] | 2

Covera Trend

It is excellent news for millions of South African households relying on SASSA Child Support Grants in February 2026. Speaking during a recent ministerial outreach programme in the North West, Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe announced a major improvement to grant services: same-day processing of new applications.

According to SASSA’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, an applicant named Boipelo Mamadi had her Child Support Grant application processed immediately during the outreach. This marks a significant shift from the previous waiting period of up to three months.

The next scheduled payment date for all Childcare Grants — including Child Support, Foster Child and Care Dependency Grants — is Thursday, 5 February 2026. The grant amount remains R560 per child, paid on a four-week cycle, bringing welcome consistency after recent extended payment gaps.

Shorter Payment Gaps and Possible Grant Increases

The February payment date also signals relief for beneficiaries, as the gap between payments is no longer five weeks. March payments will again fall on the first Thursday of the month, maintaining the four-week cycle.

Attention now turns to Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s Budget Speech on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, where annual SASSA grant increases are traditionally announced. With inflation pressures continuing to affect households, many South Africans are hoping for an above-inflation increase across core grants.

Same-Day Processing: What Applicants Need

The introduction of same-day processing follows the ministerial outreach programme held at Manamakgotheng Village in the Moses Kotana Municipality. SASSA CEO Temba Matlou described Child Support Grants as a critical lifeline for vulnerable communities nationwide.

To qualify for same-day approval, applicants must arrive at a SASSA office with all required documentation, including:

Valid South African IDs for the applicant, child and spouse (if applicable)

Proof of marital status

Official birth certificate and ID of the child

Proof of income for both parents (if married)

Certified bank statements (last three months)

Proof of residential address

Income-Based Qualification, No Asset Test

Currently, around 13 million families receive the Child Support Grant. Eligibility is based on income, not assets. Parents must earn less than R5,600 per month if single, or R11,191 per month if married.

Over 18 years, the grant can contribute nearly R189,000 per child — a substantial support for families facing economic hardship.

Why the Grant Matters More Than Ever

Recent studies show that nearly 40% of children under six live below the food poverty line, increasing the risk of malnutrition and long-term health challenges. This reality has renewed discussions around a proposed Maternal Support Grant, aimed at assisting mothers during pregnancy and the first 1,000 days of a child’s life.

SASSA Contact Details

Toll-Free: 0800 60 10 11

Head Office: 012 400 2322

Email: grantenquiries@sassa.gov.za

While access to SASSA services can still be challenging due to long queues and high demand, the move to same-day processing marks a significant step forward.

💬 Do you think same-day processing will be rolled out nationwide by February 2026? Share your thoughts in the comments.

#SASSA #ChildSupportGrant #SameDayProcessing #SocialDevelopment #SouthAfrica #FamilySupport #ChildWelfare #SASSAUpdate #GrantRelief #SupportForFamilies #SocialSecuritySA #SASSA2026 #EmpoweringCommunities #GovernmentServices #SAFamilies #ChildCareSupport #FinancialRelief #SASSANews #SocialAssistance #SouthAfricaUpdates

1 day ago | [YT] | 2

Covera Trend

A standout learner from the Western Cape has captured national attention following the release of the 2025 National Senior Certificate results on 13 January 2026. Abigail Kok from York High School was named the top matric candidate in South Africa, earning widespread praise for her exceptional academic performance.

Her achievement comes as the Western Cape recorded an 88.2% matric pass rate, the highest since the introduction of the National Senior Certificate and an improvement on last year’s 86.6%. Education officials and social media users alike hailed the province’s strong showing and Kok’s individual excellence.

Speaking after the announcement, Kok reflected on the key influences that shaped her success, crediting her parents and teachers for their constant encouragement. She said her parents reminded her that her efforts were for her own growth, while her teachers pushed her to think beyond the syllabus and develop deeper understanding.

Kok also shared insights into her personal study habits, admitting that managing distractions such as social media was a challenge. She said strong organisation, strict study schedules and regular revision helped her remain focused throughout the demanding matric year.

Faith and balance also played an important role in her journey. Kok said prayer helped her stay grounded during stressful periods, and she encouraged future matriculants to work hard while still enjoying the unique experiences that matric year offers.

#MatricResults2025 #SouthAfrica #Education #AcademicExcellence #WesternCape #TopAchiever #YouthSuccess #Inspiration

1 day ago | [YT] | 2

Covera Trend

South Africa has reached a major mining milestone after Ivanhoe Mines’ Platreef project in Limpopo produced its first concentrate, marking the transition from construction into commercial operations. One of the world’s largest undeveloped precious-metals projects, Platreef is now ramping up production toward its planned capacity of 5 million tonnes per annum.

The Phase 1 concentrator achieved first concentrate in November 2025 and is expected to reach around 80% of nameplate capacity by mid-2026. Ivanhoe also confirmed that its high-capacity Shaft #3 is scheduled to be ready for hoisting by April 2026, significantly increasing ore-handling capability and supporting the next stage of expansion.

Beyond the operational breakthrough, the project carries major economic implications for South Africa. Ivanhoe has secured underwriting for a $700 million senior project finance facility to fund Phase 2, which targets completion by late 2027 and annual production of roughly 450,000 ounces of platinum, palladium, rhodium and gold.

Platreef sits on one of the world’s largest and thickest known ore bodies, enabling mechanised mining that improves safety and lowers costs compared to traditional narrow-reef operations. This efficiency strengthens the mine’s ability to remain viable through commodity cycles while anchoring long-term export revenues.

For Limpopo and the broader economy, Platreef is expected to drive job creation, infrastructure development and skills growth, while reinforcing South Africa’s position as a key global supplier of strategic minerals amid rising demand linked to the energy transition and industrial technologies.

#SouthAfrica #Mining #Platreef #IvanhoeMines #CriticalMinerals #EconomicGrowth #Limpopo #GlobalSupplyChains #EnergyTransition

1 day ago | [YT] | 2

Covera Trend

The United States House of Representatives has approved a three-year extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a key trade programme granting eligible sub-Saharan African countries duty-free access to US markets. The bill passed with strong bipartisan support and now moves to the US Senate for consideration.

AGOA had expired last October, raising concerns among economists and exporters about potential disruptions to African trade with the United States. While the extension offers relief to many countries, South Africa’s continued participation remains uncertain amid strained diplomatic and trade relations with Washington.

Tensions have grown in recent years over South Africa’s foreign policy stance, including its military engagements with countries viewed by the US as adversaries. These issues have prompted senior US lawmakers to question whether South Africa still meets AGOA’s eligibility requirements.

Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chair Jim Risch has been particularly critical, arguing that South Africa’s claim of non-alignment is undermined by its international military activities. He has suggested that these actions signal hostility towards the US, casting doubt on future trade cooperation.

As the Senate deliberates, South African businesses await clarity, with AGOA access seen as vital for exports, job creation, and economic stability. The final outcome could significantly shape the future of US–South Africa trade relations

#AGOA #USTrade #SouthAfrica #AfricanEconomy #GlobalTrade #EconomicPolicy #ExportGrowth #USCongress #AfricaUSRelations

1 day ago | [YT] | 2

Covera Trend

ABU DHABI – South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is in the United Arab Emirates this week for Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026, taking part in high-level discussions on climate action, renewable energy, and investment opportunities. The annual summit brings together global leaders, investors, and civil society to drive cooperation on sustainability and climate-resilient development.

During the visit, Ramaphosa will hold bilateral talks with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and deliver a keynote address at the Youth 4 Sustainability Forum, highlighting inclusive growth and skills development for South Africa’s transition to a green economy. He is also scheduled to attend the Zayed Sustainability Prize Awards and participate in panels on energy futures and infrastructure investment in the Global South.

The visit aims to strengthen South Africa–UAE economic ties and attract investment in renewable energy, transport, and logistics sectors. According to the Presidency, Ramaphosa will engage top business leaders to unlock fresh opportunities for capital inflows and sustainable development projects.

Accompanying the President are International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, Trade and Industry Minister Parks Tau, and Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi, underlining the strategic economic and diplomatic significance of the trip.

Ramaphosa’s presence at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026 positions South Africa at the forefront of global climate discussions while reinforcing the country’s call for a just energy transition that balances decarbonisation with economic growth and job creation.

#AbuDhabiSustainabilityWeek #SouthAfrica #CyrilRamaphosa #GreenEconomy #RenewableEnergy #Investment #GlobalSouth #ClimateAction #Sustainability #EconomicDevelopment #JustTransition

2 days ago | [YT] | 1

Covera Trend

GAUTENG – Forensic investigator Paul O’Sullivan has reportedly left South Africa with his family, claiming there is a state-sanctioned plan to seriously harm him if he returns to testify before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee probing alleged interference and corruption in the criminal justice system.

O’Sullivan, who holds multiple citizenships, is believed to be in the United Kingdom. He has requested to testify virtually, citing safety concerns, but Members of Parliament have insisted on in-person testimony. The issue has sparked debate, with some political figures openly opposing his request to appear online.

In communications with Parliament and the National Prosecuting Authority, O’Sullivan said his fears were heightened by past incidents involving witnesses who later lost their lives after cooperating with official inquiries. He maintains that his work exposing alleged corruption within law-enforcement structures places him at risk.

O’Sullivan has further alleged that KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has incited hostility against him, claims which Mkhwanazi strongly denies. The police commissioner has since launched a R5 million defamation lawsuit against O’Sullivan.

The claims have divided public opinion, with social media users questioning both O’Sullivan’s departure and the broader implications for witness protection, accountability, and transparency within South Africa’s justice system.

#SouthAfrica #Parliament #Accountability #RuleOfLaw #JusticeSystem #WitnessProtection #Governance #PublicTrust #LegalAffairs

2 days ago | [YT] | 1