News 16 Feb 2026

 

1.[Politics/Social] SONA 2026: Ramaphosa Declares War on Organized Crime: 

In his State of the Nation Address, President Ramaphosa labeled organized crime and "construction mafias" as immediate threats to economic development. He promised an intelligence-led policing model and a new Whistle-Blower Protection Bill. Additionally, the government aims for over 40% of the energy supply to come from renewables by 2030.

•  (Source): SAnews / Explain.co.za (2026.02.12-14)

 

2. [Economy/Stats] SA Economy Grows for 4th Consecutive Quarter, 1.9% Growth Forecast: 

Reports from the UN and IMF project SA's GDP to grow by 1.9-2.0% in 2026. Easing inflation (3.5%) provides space for interest rate cuts, while renewable energy investments support the recovery. However, the 31.9% unemployment rate remains a persistent challenge, highlighting the need for inclusive structural reforms.

• • (Source): United Nations South Africa / Trading Economics (2026.01.28-02.11)