For Creamer Media in Johannesburg, I’m Thabi Shomolekae.

Making headlines: SIU’s Kaizer Kganyago joins NPA; DoH senior officials arrested for fraud, theft; And, South Africa can expect fuel price increases amid Middle East conflict

SIU’s Kaizer Kganyago joins NPA

Special Investigating Unit spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago has joined the National Prosecuting Authority as its national spokesperson, effective today.

The NPA explained that “proactive communication” was a strategic focus area for the organisation and said Kganyago would add value to the implementation of the NPA’s communication strategy.

The NPA pointed out that as it focusses on driving the implementation of the NPA strategy and implementing the annual performance plan, including the Quick Wins Action Plan, it has become critical to further enhance its capacity to communicate with all stakeholders to improve public confidence in its work and performance.

Kganyago's previous experience includes his role as head of communications at the South African Broadcasting Corporation, SIU chief stakeholder relations and communications officer.

DoH senior officials arrested for fraud, theft

Three senior officials from the Department of Health were arrested today, in an ongoing investigation into allegations of theft and fraud of over R1-million in public funds.

The government said as the matter is under active investigation by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, no further details can be disclosed.

Government further emphasised that all individuals are considered innocent until proven guilty in court and urged the public to allow the investigative and judicial processes to proceed without interference.

It added that fighting corruption is a priority and aligns with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s 2026 State of the Nation Address, in which he stressed the need to intensify efforts against organised crime and systemic corruption, identifying these as critical threats to democracy and economic stability.

And, South Africa can expect fuel price increases amid Middle East conflict

The biggest immediate impact of the US-Israeli attack on Iran on countries like South Africa will be the elevated uncertainty about global oil prices and the prospect of higher fuel costs in the months ahead, says North-West University Business School economist Professor Raymond Parsons.

Oil prices are widely expected to spike in the short-term and stay high for a period, depending on the outcome of the war and in the absence of any new supply measures to offset higher oil prices.

Parsons said South Africa must not underestimate the potential negative economic and business implications that could yet unfold for many economies from the US-Israel attack on Iran.

Travel and tourism in the Middle East has been disrupted, with air flights having been cancelled on a large scale, he said.

Further, although the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries has undertaken to increase output soon, the bigger unknown factor is whether the navigation and transport of Iranian oil through the Strait of Hormuz will be disrupted by prevailing war conditions.

That’s a roundup of news making headlines today

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