THE APPOINTMENT OF COMMISSAR NKULULEKO DUNGA AS MEC FOR FINANCE IN GAUTENG

KASIBC_AFRICA BREAKING NEWS 

THE APPOINTMENT OF COMMISSAR NKULULEKO DUNGA AS MEC FOR FINANCE IN GAUTENG 

BY : CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR 

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) welcomes the appointment of Provincial Chairperson, Commissar Nkululeko Dunga, as Member of the Executive Council (MEC) responsible for Finance in Gauteng. 

This appointment marks a progressive step towards strengthening governance in the province and ensuring stability within the administration. It further confirms the EFF’s participation in the Government of Provincial Unity, in line with our long-standing organisational principle that we will form part of government at both provincial and national levels, provided that our key principles are upheld. 

These include the 7 NonNegotiable Cardinal Pillars of the EFF, and the clear exclusion of racist organisations such as the DA and VF Plus from governance arrangements. 

The appointment of Commissar Dunga is welcomed with confidence, as the EFF firmly believes in his leadership capabilities, discipline, and ability to work within a collective while safeguarding and advancing the political programme of the EFF. 

Commissar Dunga previously served as a Member of the City of Ekurhuleni Council, where he held the position of EFF Caucus Leader. He also served as an oversight committee chairperson for Municipal Public Accounts (MPAC) and and an MMC for Finance, responsibilities which he executed with excellence and in the interests of the people.  

During his tenure, he provided decisive leadership and, together with the EFF caucus, championed several pro-poor and transformative interventions, including: 

1. Leading the successful insourcing of security guards and cleaners, ending exploitative outsourcing practices and restoring dignity to workers. 

2. Launching the “Siyacima manje namhlanje” campaign which was a credit control measure, targeting industries and government departments who owe the city leading to the recovery of R350 million in revenue 

3. Achieving an increase of cash on hand in the municipality from R350 million to approximately R2.1 billion 

4. Spearheading the amendment of the Indigent Policy, increasing the qualifying threshold from R350,000 to R500,000 property value, thereby expanding access to relief for approximately 500,000 households. 

5. Receiving two awards from the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) for reducing unauthorised, irregular and wasteful expenditure and implementing consequence management in the 2023/24 Financial Year. 

6. Advocating for the extension of indigent support to SASSA grant recipients. 

7. Proposing the removal of indigent residents from municipal debtors’ lists, a motion unjustly rejected by the ANC, DA, and ActionSA. 

8. Driving the publication of housing beneficiary lists to enhance transparency and combat corruption in housing allocation. 

9. Championing the relocation of residents living in flood-prone areas, particularly in Wards 9 and 91, to ensure safer human settlement 

10. Leading the removal of apartheid and racist symbols and statues in Ekurhuleni, as part of advancing spatial and historical justice. 

11. Contributing to the establishment of the Ekurhuleni Roads Agency to improve infrastructure delivery and maintenance. 

12. Promoting a hands-on governance approach, ensuring that public representatives spend the majority of their time on the ground engaging communities and holding departments accountable. 

These achievements reflect Commissar Dunga and the EFF’s unwavering commitment to the working class and the poor, as well as his capacity to translate revolutionary policies into practical governance outcomes. 

The EFF is confident that, as MEC for Finance, Commissar Dunga will advance a people-centred fiscal agenda that prioritises service delivery, economic justice, and equality, while ensuring transparent and accountable management of public resources in the interests of the most marginalised. 

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A Boy from Kliptown: The Rise of Chanon Lecodey Merricks, Founder of KASIBC_AFRICA

KASIBC_AFRICA BREAKING NEWS 

A Boy from Kliptown: The Rise of Chanon Lecodey Merricks, Founder of KASIBC_AFRICA

BY : CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR 

In the heart of Soweto, where history, struggle, and resilience intersect, lies the historic township of Kliptown. Known worldwide as the place where the Freedom Charter was adopted in 1955, Kliptown has long symbolized the fight for justice, equality, and opportunity in South Africa. 

But beyond its political legacy, Kliptown has also produced individuals driven by ambition, creativity, and a desire to tell the stories of their communities.

One such individual is Chanon Lecodey Merricks, a boy from Kliptown who grew up witnessing both the challenges and the vibrant spirit of township life. 

Today, Merricks is known as the founder of KASIBC_AFRICA, a growing digital media platform that aims to amplify African voices, local stories, and community-driven journalism.

His journey from the streets of Soweto to building an online media brand reflects a broader story about determination, digital entrepreneurship, and the power of storytelling in the modern age.

Growing Up in Kliptown

Kliptown is one of the oldest areas in Soweto, filled with layers of South African history. For many residents, life in the township has always been a mix of hardship and hope. Informal housing, unemployment, and economic inequality remain realities for many families.

For Chanon Lecodey Merricks, growing up in this environment shaped his perspective on life. Like many children in the township, he was surrounded by strong community bonds, street culture, music, politics, and everyday survival stories.

These experiences would later influence his vision for a media platform that reflects the voices of ordinary people.

Instead of focusing only on headlines from global cities or elite circles, Merricks believed that township stories matter.

He often observed how mainstream media sometimes overlooked local narratives from places like Soweto, Alexandra, Tembisa, and other communities across South Africa.

That realization planted the seed for what would eventually become KASIBC_AFRICA.

The Digital Media Dream.

The digital revolution has changed the way news is produced and consumed across the world. With smartphones, social media, and blogging platforms, individuals no longer need massive corporate newsrooms to share information.

Recognizing this shift, Merricks saw an opportunity.

Instead of waiting for traditional media companies to tell township stories, he decided to create his own platform.

That platform became KASIBC_AFRICA, an online media and blogging initiative designed to cover:

Breaking news

Politics

Community issues

Economic developments

Entertainment and culture

Social justice topics affecting African communities

Through online publishing, the platform began sharing articles, commentary, and analysis about current events in South Africa and beyond.

For Merricks, the goal was simple but powerful: Give a voice to communities that are often ignored.

Building KASIBC_AFRICA from the Ground Up

Starting a media platform is not easy. Major news organizations often rely on large teams, corporate funding, and sophisticated technology.

But Merricks’ approach reflects a growing global trend: independent digital journalism.

Using online publishing tools and social media distribution, KASIBC_AFRICA began reaching readers interested in news from a grassroots perspective.

The platform focuses on stories such as:

Government policies affecting ordinary citizens

Community activism

Youth entrepreneurship

Political developments

Social and economic issues impacting South Africans

Over time, articles from the platform began circulating across social networks, demonstrating how digital media allows even small publishers to reach large audiences.

For Merricks, every article published represents another step toward his vision of building a recognized African media brand.

The Power of Township Storytelling

Townships like Soweto are often portrayed through stereotypes or limited narratives. Yet these communities are full of entrepreneurs, artists, activists, and innovators.

Merricks believes storytelling can change perceptions.

Through KASIBC_AFRICA, stories can highlight:

Local success stories

Community leaders

Cultural achievements

Grassroots political discussions

Youth voices shaping the future

In many ways, township storytelling is not only about news—it is about representation.

When people see their own communities reflected in media coverage, it builds pride, awareness, and engagement.

The Rise of Independent African Media

Across Africa, a new generation of digital creators and independent journalists is emerging. Traditional media outlets still play a major role, but online platforms are increasingly shaping public discourse.

Independent media founders like Merricks are part of this broader movement.

From bloggers and podcasters to YouTube journalists and digital magazines, African creators are redefining how information is shared.

Platforms like KASIBC_AFRICA contribute to this ecosystem by offering:

Alternative perspectives

Community-focused reporting

Faster digital distribution of news

In a world where algorithms determine what stories people see, independent publishers are proving that authentic local voices can still reach global audiences.

The Vision for the Future

For Merricks, the journey is only beginning.

Like many entrepreneurs in the digital media space, he understands that growth requires persistence, creativity, and innovation.

The long-term vision for KASIBC_AFRICA includes expanding its reach and influence while continuing to focus on African stories.

Potential goals for the platform could include:

Increasing readership across Africa

Collaborating with journalists and writers

Covering more regional and international stories.

Building a recognizable African media brand

In the modern digital economy, media platforms that combine strong storytelling with consistent publishing have the potential to reach millions of readers worldwide.

Inspiration for the Next Generation

The story of Chanon Lecodey Merricks carries an important message for young people growing up in townships and communities across South Africa.

Success does not always begin with wealth or privilege. Sometimes it begins with an idea, a voice, and the courage to act.

From Kliptown’s historic streets to the digital landscape of modern journalism, Merricks represents a new generation of African storytellers determined to shape their own narratives.

His journey highlights the importance of:

Entrepreneurship

Media independence

Community storytelling

Digital innovation

For many aspiring writers, bloggers, and journalists, the message is clear:

You don’t need permission to tell your story

From Kliptown to the World

Kliptown has always been a place where history is made.

Decades ago, it was the birthplace of the Freedom Charter, a document that envisioned equality and justice for all South Africans.

Today, individuals like Chanon Lecodey Merricks are continuing that legacy in a different way—by using digital platforms to amplify voices and share stories from the ground up.

The rise of KASIBC_AFRICA represents more than just a blog or media outlet.

It represents a belief that every community has stories worth telling.

And sometimes, all it takes is one determined voice from Kliptown, Soweo to start telling them to the world.

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Gauteng Provincial Government Welcomes the Adoption of 2025/2026 Provincial Adjustment Budget

KASIBC_AFRICA BREAKING NEWS 

Gauteng Provincial Government Welcomes the Adoption of 2025/2026 Provincial Adjustment Budget 

BY : CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR 

 The Gauteng Provincial Government welcomes the adoption of the 2025/2026 provincial adjustment budget by the Provincial Legislature today.  

This adjustment budget adds resources amounting to R3.3 billion to the provincial budget to address frontline services such as health, education and social welfare, as a means of equipping GPG to continue responding to the provincial imperatives underpinning the 2024 – 2029 Medium Term Development Plan and the G13 priorities.

The adjustment budget marks a significant breakthrough in our shared commitment to growing the province’s economy.  It also provides the financial framework to fulfil our core mandate of delivering quality services, creating an environment conducive to investment, and improving the quality of life for all residents. 

We extend our gratitude to the members of the provincial legislature and all political parties that supported the budget for their constructive proposals, and the oversight they exercised throughout the budget process. 

These constructive discussions have ensured that the budget reflects the priorities of our people, balancing fiscal prudence with the urgent need to address service delivery challenges outlined in the State of the Province Address. “This adjustment budget demonstrates our government’s commitment to putting the residents of our province first. We are determined to ensure that every rand allocated translates into tangible improvements in their lives,” said Premier Lesufi. 

The provincial government acknowledges the constrained fiscal environment and remains committed to efficient spending of the limited resources and rooting out corruption across the entire province. 

We look forward to a year of accelerated service delivery and reaffirm our dedication to building a people-centred administration that provides hope and opportunities for the residents of Gauteng. 

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Government Announces R3 Per Litre Fuel Levy Cut to Protect South Africans from Global Oil Crisis

KASIBC_AFRICA BREAKING NEWS 

Government Announces R3 Per Litre Fuel Levy Cut to Protect South Africans from Global Oil Crisis

By: Chanon Lecodey Merricks – Online Editor | KASIBC Africa

South Africans are set to receive temporary relief from rising fuel prices after Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana and Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe announced a major intervention to reduce the general fuel levy by R3 per litre for one month.

The joint announcement comes as the escalation of conflict in the Middle East threatens global energy markets, pushing crude oil prices higher and placing heavy pressure on fuel costs around the world. According to the Central Energy Fund Group, South Africa was facing one of the largest fuel price increases in recent years starting April 2026 if government had not stepped in with emergency relief measures.

To protect households, businesses and the broader economy, government has introduced a two-phase relief plan aimed at stabilising fuel costs and shielding consumers from extreme price shocks.

90.6 

The most immediate relief measure will take effect Wednesday, 1 April 2026, when the general fuel levy will be temporarily reduced by R3 per litre.

The intervention will remain in place until Tuesday, 5 May 2026, providing South African motorists with temporary relief during a period of rapidly rising international oil prices.

Under the new measures:

Petrol levy will drop from R4.10 per litre to R1.10 per litre

Diesel levy will drop from R3.93 per litre to R0.93 per litre

However, the reduction does not include other existing levies, such as the Road Accident Fund (RAF) levy and the Carbon Fuel Levy, which will remain unchanged.

Even with those levies still in place, the R3 per litre reduction is expected to soften the impact of rising fuel prices significantly.

For millions of South Africans who depend on private vehicles, taxis, buses, trucks and delivery services, the move could help reduce transport costs and limit the ripple effects of inflation across the economy.

Government Sacrifices R6 Billion in Revenue

The temporary fuel levy reduction will come at a significant cost to the country’s finances.

Government estimates that the one-month intervention will result in approximately R6 billion in lost tax revenue.

Despite this financial sacrifice, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana stated that the decision was necessary to protect South Africans from a sharp increase in the cost of living.

The National Treasury confirmed that the relief measure will be reviewed monthly over the next two months, meaning it could potentially be extended depending on global oil market developments.

Officials have also stressed that the measure will remain “fiscally neutral” within the framework of the 2026 national budget.

This means government will introduce mechanisms to recover the lost revenue later, ensuring that long-term fiscal stability is not compromised.

Protecting South African Households

The decision comes at a time when many South African households are already facing serious financial pressure due to high living costs.

Fuel prices have a direct influence on the price of food, transport and goods across the economy.

When fuel costs increase sharply, the effects are felt throughout the supply chain. Higher fuel prices can lead to:

Increased food prices in supermarkets

Higher taxi and bus fares

Increased logistics and delivery costs

Rising operating costs for small businesses

By temporarily reducing the fuel levy, government hopes to slow inflation and ease financial pressure on consumers.

Minister Godongwana explained that the decision required a careful balance between protecting vulnerable consumers and maintaining fiscal discipline.

Government Addresses Fuel Shortage Concerns

In recent days, reports have surfaced on social media suggesting that certain parts of South Africa may be experiencing fuel shortages.

Government has moved quickly to reassure the public that the country currently has sufficient fuel supplies to meet both current and future demand.

According to the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, any shortages seen in specific areas are not caused by a lack of fuel nationally.

Instead, the situation has largely been attributed to:

Localised distribution issues

Transport and logistical delays

Panic buying by motorists

Authorities believe these challenges will stabilise within the next few days.

Government has urged motorists and businesses to purchase fuel responsibly and avoid unnecessary stockpiling, as panic buying can disrupt supply chains and worsen temporary shortages.

Phase Two: Broader Economic Support Measures

While the temporary fuel levy reduction offers immediate relief, government says it is also working on longer-term strategies to protect the economy from future fuel price shocks.

Minister Gwede Mantashe confirmed that the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources will continue reviewing South Africa’s fuel pricing structure over the medium term.

The aim is to make the country’s fuel pricing system more resilient and better able to withstand global market disruptions.

Government is also developing a broader package of economic support measures to assist households and key sectors of the economy affected by rising energy costs.

These additional measures may include support for:

Public transport systems

Agriculture and food production

Freight and logistics industries

Low-income households

Further details about these interventions are expected to be announced in the coming months.

Global Oil Crisis Driving Fuel Prices Higher

The surge in fuel prices is largely being driven by international geopolitical tensions, particularly the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

The Middle East remains one of the world’s most important oil-producing regions, and instability in the area often causes global oil markets to react sharply.

When conflict threatens oil production or transportation routes, global oil prices typically rise due to fears of supply disruptions.

As a country that imports the majority of its refined fuel, South Africa is especially vulnerable to these global price increases.

When international oil prices rise:

The cost of importing fuel increases

The exchange rate becomes more influential

Domestic fuel prices rise accordingly

This is why government sometimes uses temporary tax adjustments like fuel levy reductions to cushion the impact on consumers.

What This Means for South African Motorists

For everyday motorists, taxi drivers and transport operators, the R3 per litre reduction could lead to noticeable savings at the fuel pump.

For Example:

Filling a 50-litre petrol tank could cost approximately R150 less

Taxi operators filling multiple vehicles daily could save thousands of rand each month

Delivery and logistics companies may experience reduced operational costs

These savings could help limit increases in taxi fares and food prices, although the final impact will still depend on global oil price movements.

Government Balancing Relief with Economic Stability

Government officials have emphasised that the fuel levy reduction is a temporary and carefully planned intervention.

While the R6 billion revenue loss is substantial, leaders believe the decision is necessary to prevent a larger economic shock caused by sharply rising fuel costs.

The challenge for policymakers will be maintaining the balance between supporting consumers and protecting the country’s long-term fiscal health.

The Road Ahead

For now, South Africans can expect temporary relief at the fuel pumps starting 1 April 2026.

However, the long-term outlook will depend on several key factors, including:

Global oil price trends

Developments in the Middle East conflict

South Africa’s economic recovery

Government’s future fuel pricing reforms

As government continues working on additional support measures, millions of South Africans will be watching closely to see whether the fuel levy reduction is extended or replaced by broader economic relief policies.

One thing remains clear: fuel prices continue to play a powerful role in shaping the cost of living across South Africa, affecting everything from transport to food prices and everyday household expenses.

KASIBC AFRICA – BREAKING NEWS

Stay tuned for more updates on fuel prices, economic policy, and developments affecting South Africa’s economy.

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REAFFIRMING ROLE OF COGTA IN DETERMINING TRADITIONAL LEADERS AMIDST VIOLENT PROTESTS IN KU-GOMPO, EASTERN CAPE

KASIBC_AFRICA BREAKING NEWS 

REAFFIRMING ROLE OF COGTA IN DETERMINING TRADITIONAL LEADERS AMIDST VIOLENT PROTESTS IN KU-GOMPO, EASTERN CAPE 

BY : CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR 

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) takes this opportunity to reaffirm the importance and role of the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) in determining and legitimising Kings, Queens, traditional leaders and royal authorities in South Africa. 

This follows ongoing debate and uproar regarding the alleged and self-proclaimed coronation of an individual as the “King of the Igbo Nation” in KuGompo, formerly East London in the Eastern Cape. This irresponsible act has led to a rightful and justified outcry by the people of KuGompo, the Eastern Cape and South Africa at large. 

A responsibly provincial and national government ought to have outlined the prescripts that allow one to be recognised as a royal authority in South Africa clearly and timeously, to avoid the violence seen today in the City. 

In order for an individual to be recognised as a royal or traditional authority in South Africa, the Minister for COGTA must make recommendations to the President of the Republic of South Africa, who subsequently utilises the Traditional and Khoi San Leadership Act of 2019 to formally recognise a King or a Queen. This recognition is then officialised via a notice in a Government Gazette. 

It is therefore not only offensive, but also illegal for any individual to declare themselves a monarch outside of these legislative processes, and it is even more insulting for a foreign national to declare Kingship in another country. Kingship is not only ceremonial, but it is tied to the legislative framework of South Africa, bestowing authority over people and land to an individual under the sovereignty of South Africa. 

It is not to be taken lightly, nor should it be declared by individuals without any legal authority. The media also bears a responsibility in this regard to do due diligence and report responsibly, and not suggest to the public that there has been a coronation of a monarch without expressing clearly whether the legislative requirements for this have been met. 

The EFF therefore condemns the alleged “coronation” of a foreign King in the Eastern Cape, and calls for calm in KuGompo, while encouraging government and traditional leaders to communicate clearly the conditions that allow for the recognition of royalty in our country, in order to take South Africans into confidence. 

We further condemn all political parties and actors who have been involved in the destruction of properties in KuGompo, and those who have harmed civilians in an effort to score cheap political points from a situation that did not warrant violence. 

The EFF has, therefore, instructed its structures in the Buffalo City Metropolitan to monitor the situation closely and provide assistance to all South Africans whose infrastructure has been damaged as a result of actions by political parties. 

We additionally call for all those who instigated this violence to be arrested and held liable for damages. 

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