COUNTDOWN TO THE RAND SHOW 2026 – GAUTENG PROVINCE, JOHANNESBURG, SOWETO, NASREC EXPO CENTRE

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COUNTDOWN TO THE RAND SHOW 2026 – GAUTENG PROVINCE, JOHANNESBURG, SOWETO, NASREC EXPO CENTRE

BY: CHANNON LECODEY MERRICKS – ONLINE EDITOR

The countdown has officially begun for one of South Africa’s most anticipated annual events. The Rand Show 2026, widely recognised as the largest and most iconic consumer exhibition in South Africa, will take place from 2 April to 6 April 2026 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre in Nasrec, just outside Soweto.

For more than a century, the Rand Show has been a cultural landmark in Gauteng, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors from across South Africa and the African continent. This year’s event promises to be bigger, louder, and more exciting than ever, combining entertainment, technology, shopping, education, and family experiences into one massive five-day festival.

Show organisers say the 2026 edition is designed for every generation, from young children and students to entrepreneurs, music fans, and families looking for an unforgettable day out.

A Five-Day Festival of Entertainment.

Visitors can attend the show daily from 09h00 to 19h00, with entrance gates closing at 18h00.

The Rand Show has always been known for its electric atmosphere, but the 2026 Main Stage lineup is expected to draw massive crowds, especially from Johannesburg and surrounding townships like Soweto, Diepkloof, Meadowlands, and Orlando.

Some of South Africa’s most popular performers will take to the stage across the five-day event.

Main Stage Highlights :

Thursday – 2 April 2026

Mr Keyz – 12:00

JazziQ – 16:00

Friday – 3 April 2026

Mr Keyz – 12:00

OVERJOY – 13:00

Nkosazana Daughter – 16:00

Saturday – 4 April 2026

Mr Keyz – 12:00

Soweto’s Finest – 14:00

Morda – 16:00

Sunday – 5 April 2026

Mr Keyz – 12:00

OVERJOY – 13:00

Soweto’s Finest – 14:00

DJ Young – 15:00

Zola Seven – 16:00

Monday – 6 April 2026

Mr Keyz – 12:00

Soweto’s Finest – 14:00

Kelvin Momo – 16:00

Music lovers can expect live Amapiano, Afro-house, and South African urban music, creating a festival atmosphere inside the Expo Centre grounds.

For many Visitors, the Main Stage concerts alone are worth the ticket price, bringing together major artists and local talent in a celebration of South African Culture.

Kids’ Zone – Bigger Than Ever

Families visiting the Rand Show will find a massive Kids’ Zone located in Hall 8, which organisers say will be bigger and more interactive than any previous year.

The Kids’ Zone offers daily entertainment and immersive experiences designed for children and parents to enjoy together.

One of the biggest attractions this year is Jungle Magic, a spectacular sensory experience that transforms an entire hall into an indoor jungle environment.

Children will enter a colourful world filled with jungle sounds, giant animal sculptures, themed play areas, and even an indoor waterfall feature designed to spark imagination and adventure.

Other family-friendly attractions include:

• Dienkie and Doodles – Daily Stage Performance

• Freddy the Frog and Ivy’s Wild Adventure – two Shows every day

• Interactive learning zones

• Trampoline fun areas

• Creative play stations

• Parent relaxation lounges

For families attending the show, the Kids’ Zone experience is included in the standard ticket, making it one of the most valuable attractions at the event.

The Future Arrives: Tech and Gaming Arena

One of the most exciting new additions to the Rand Show 2026 is the Tech and Gaming Arena, a space dedicated to innovation, education, and future digital careers.

Organisers say this zone represents a shift in how the Rand Show engages with young people and modern society.

Instead of focusing only on entertainment, the Tech and Gaming Arena is designed to introduce visitors to the technology shaping tomorrow’s world.

Visitors will Experience:

• Robotics demonstrations

• Coding workshops and programming logic demonstrations

• Gaming tournaments for schools

• Digital literacy sessions

• Career and study pathway discussions

• Free gaming play zones

Experts believe technology and gaming are becoming major global industries, and the Rand Show aims to give South African youth access to these opportunities.

The arena will also help learners understand how fields like software development, engineering, esports, and artificial intelligence can become future career paths.

For many young visitors, this could be their first exposure to advanced technology in an interactive environment.

Shopping, Food, and Lifestyle Experiences

Beyond entertainment and education, the Rand Show remains one of the largest shopping events in South Africa.

Visitors can explore hundreds of Exhibition Stalls featuring:

• Fashion and clothing

• Electronics and gadgets

• Home décor and appliances

• Beauty and lifestyle products

• Automotive displays

• Tourism experiences

• Food markets and street cuisine

Food lovers will also enjoy a wide variety of local South African dishes, street food, desserts, and international flavours.

From gourmet burgers and traditional braai to sweet treats and specialty drinks, the Rand Show offers something for every taste.

A Historic Event in South African Culture

The Rand Show has been part of South African life for more than 130 years, making it one of the oldest and most respected exhibitions on the continent.

Originally launched in the late 1800s during the gold mining boom, the show was created to showcase industrial innovation, agriculture, and trade in the growing city of Johannesburg.

Over time, it evolved into a massive public festival combining business, entertainment, and cultural celebration.

Today, it stands as a symbol of Johannesburg’s vibrant energy and Gauteng’s economic power.

Boost for Tourism and Local Economy

Events like the Rand Show bring major economic benefits to the city.

Thousands of visitors travel to Johannesburg during the show period, supporting hotels, restaurants, taxis, and local businesses.

Small entrepreneurs and township vendors also use the exhibition to showcase their products to large audiences, creating new opportunities for trade and networking.

For the surrounding communities of Soweto, Crown Mines, and Nasrec, the event generates temporary jobs and tourism activity.

Why the Rand Show Still Matters

In a world dominated by digital entertainment and online shopping, the Rand Show continues to succeed because it offers something unique: real-world experiences shared by thousands of people in one place.

Families attend together. Children discover new interests. Young people see new career opportunities. Businesses connect with customers.

It is more than just an exhibition — it is a celebration of South African creativity, innovation, and community spirit.

Final Countdown

With only days remaining until opening day, excitement is building across Gauteng.

From live music and immersive kids’ attractions to gaming arenas and massive shopping experiences, the Rand Show 2026 promises to deliver one of the biggest entertainment events of the year.

For Five Days, the Johannesburg Expo Centre at Nasrec will transform into a vibrant festival city, welcoming visitors from across South Africa.

And for many families, it will once again become the ultimate day out.

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Border Management Authority Easter Operational Plan 2026

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Border Management Authority Easter Operational Plan 2026

BY : CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR

 

BMA Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato on the 2026 Easter Operational Plan

Deputy Commissioner for Corporate Services Madam Jane Thupana,

Deputy Commissioner for Operations, Major General (rtd) David Chilembe,

Assistant Commissioners and Deputy Assistant Commissioners present,

Representatives of our public and private partners present,

The entire border management community,

Members of the media,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Good Morning

As the Border Management Authority, we are once again gathered here to present the Easter festive season plan which is aimed at ensuring the efficient, secure and seamless movement of people and goods across South Africa’s 71 ports of entry during the Easter period. This plan reflects the Authority’s commitment for the robust implementation of border law enforcement functions while enabling legitimate travel, tourism and trade during one of the busiest periods on the country’s national calendar. 

The plan is supported by various structures across our national security cluster that include, the inter-ministerial consultative committee on border management, the border technical committee of directors-general and heads of entities, the natjoints, the provjoints and other critical structures in the broader border management ecosystem.

The operational plan is structured into four key phases and those are planning, execution, demobilisation and sustenance.

Planning Phase

Our planning phase commenced at the tail-end of the festive period which was between December 2025 and January 2026, specifically on the 05th of February 2026 and set to end tomorrow, the 30th of March 2026. Given the existing BMA resource constraints, this phase has focused on integrated stakeholder engagements for the purposes of identifying partnerships that would assist in augmenting our resources. 

As part of these efforts, we have continued to maintain our critical partnerships with the Western Cape Government which has allocated approximately 50 officials to support the BMA as immigration officers at Cape Town International Airport. Similarly, the Gauteng Provincial Government has maintained its support through the deployment of 80 officers assisting as immigration officers at OR Tambo International Airport.

To tackle the cross-border social protection challenges, particularly the safeguarding of minors and vulnerable travellers including those without requisite travel documentation and victims of trafficking, we partnered with the Department of Social Development to deploy various social workers to the various ports of entry through their provincial structures. In addition, we welcome the continued partnership with the Department of Tourism wherein they deployed over 160 tourism safety officers to enhance the seamless flow of traveller movements within the port premises. 

With regards to infrastructure augmentation, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) through its continued support will provide temporary lighting, ablution facilities, barricades and jojo water tankers, amongst others to enhance conditions within the ports of entry and transit corridors.

For corridor management, the national, provincial and local traffic authorities will be intensifying their deployments to ensure strict and full compliance with the traffic protocols.

Beyond the public sector collaboration, we welcome partnerships with DCD Protected Mobility, Paramount Group, Aselsan South Africa, and Unipro Protective Wear. These partnerships align with the quest for technology driven border management as they support the deployment of an integrated suite of advanced surveillance, mobility and protective technologies for this Easter period. In the same vein, Sanlam and Assupol will assist with the health and wellbeing of officials in the border environment during this period.

Within this planning phase, at a regional level, extensive port-based inter-jurisdictional discussions have been conducted with neighbouring countries including Lesotho, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Namibia, eSwatini and Botswana to maintain streamlined border processes and enhance coordination.

Execution Phase

This phase will run for a period of ten days commencing on Tuesday, 31 March and ending on Thursday, 09 April 2026. It is divided into two segments, the departure leg from 31 March to 04 April 2026 and the arrival leg from 05 to 09 April 2026.

Peak travel volumes are expected on Thursday, 02 April 2026 for departures and on Easter Monday, 06 April 2026 for arrivals. During these peak periods, traveller volumes may exceed 25 000 travellers per day at the busiest ports of entry.

The BMA will implement heightened deployments, increased processing capacity, streamlined border checks and reinforced security to facilitate safe and efficient traveller movement while preventing illegal activities. Priority will be given to the elderly, persons with disabilities and adults travelling with children.

Demobilisation Phase

This phase will commence on 10 April 2026 and will focus on the structured scaling down of operations, resource reallocation and post-operational assessments to evaluate effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.

Sustenance Phase

Following the Easter operations, the BMA will sustain heightened operational awareness through continuous monitoring, evaluation and adaptive planning, including preparations for the 46th SADC Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government.

Key Operational Measures

On immigration, the BMA will intensify the detection and proper processing of undocumented travellers, strengthen access control and enforce strict compliance with immigration requirements. All travellers must present valid machine-readable passports with at least two blank pages and comply with visa conditions. Parents travelling with minors must present required documentation.

High-risk areas will be closely monitored through coordinated law enforcement operations. Any individual attempting to enter or exit the Republic illegally will face arrest and prosecution in line with the Immigration Act.

On port health, travellers from yellow fever endemic areas must present valid vaccination certificates. Travellers carrying health-related goods must declare them on arrival.

On agricultural and environmental biosecurity, the importation of plants, animals and related products requires proper certification. Non-compliance may result in fines or imprisonment.

Proactive Measures to Curb Corruption

The BMA will utilise technology such as drones and body worn cameras to deter corruption. Anti-corruption awareness initiatives led by the Special Investigating Unit continue to educate officials on the consequences of corrupt practices.

In conclusion, the BMA remains committed to delivering a secure, efficient and traveller-friendly border environment. This 2026 Easter operational plan reflects a balanced approach between facilitation and enforcement, ensuring that South Africa’s borders contribute positively to economic growth while safeguarding national security.

Members of the public are encouraged to plan their journeys in advance, comply with all legal requirements and cooperate fully with border officials. 

Suspicious activities and corruption can be reported via the toll-free number 0800 122 9 019 or through the official website www.bma.gov.za.

I Thank You.

BMA Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato 

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Defence Showcases Capabilities at the 2026 Rand Show

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Defence Showcases Capabilities at the 2026 Rand Show

BY : CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR 

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) will be participating in the 2026 edition of the Rand Show, taking place from 2 to 6 April 2026 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre in NASREC.

The SANDF will once more utilise the Rand Show as an opportunity to educate and raise public awareness about the SANDF as well as to bring the defence force to the people. It will also showcase and engage with the citizens of the country on a variety of careers, training opportunities, social responsibility as well as to put a spotlight on the department’s achievements in peace support operations in Africa.

The SANDF’s presence at this iconic event re-assures citizens of its commitment while demonstrating the strength, professionalism, and readiness of South Africa’s armed forces. Visitors will be treated to a range of static displays, interactive exhibitions, and live capability demonstrations, offering a rare opportunity to experience the SANDF’s military might up close.

From advanced equipment and vehicles to specialised units and operational showcases, the SANDF aims to foster greater understanding of its role in safeguarding the nation. This participation will also provide a platform for direct interaction between members of the public and the men and women who serve, reinforcing the bond between the Defence Force and the people of South Africa.

The SANDF encourages families, students, and all interested members of the media attending the Rand 

Show to Visit SANDF displays and Exhibitions in order to be part of this unique experience.

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North West Provincial Legislature on illegal mining

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North West Provincial Legislature on illegal mining

BY : CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR 

The North West Provincial Legislature Portfolio Committee on Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism chaired by Hon Mpho Khunou has raised serious concerns regarding the increasing number of illegal mining activities and unauthorised chrome wash plants operating across the province, particularly in the Bojanala and Madibeng areas. 

The concerns emerged during an engagement between the Committee and the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), where several regulatory, environmental and enforcement challenges were highlighted.

The Committee noted with concern that the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) regulations are allegedly being abused due to regulatory gaps and grey areas relating to the authorisation and regulation of chrome wash plants. The Committee has requested the Department to take it through the regulations clause by clause and outline recommendations to address the regulatory gaps, including whether amendments to Section 24G of NEMA or new regulations are required. 

The Committee further raised concerns about the environmental impact of illegal wash plants, including water pollution, illegal discharge into rivers, air pollution, land degradation and unsafe excavations, which negatively affect communities and municipal infrastructure. Members also expressed concern that illegal mining activities continue despite existing legislation, and that enforcement actions rarely lead to prosecutions and convictions.

The Committee noted that approximately 70 chrome wash plants have been inspected in the 2025/26 financial year, of which about 30 were found to be operating without environmental authorisation. Seven criminal cases have been opened with SAPS and several pre-compliance notices issued to operators, some of whom have committed to apply for rectification in terms of Section 24G of NEMA. 

However, the Committee raised concern over delays in payment of fines, appeals processes, and the slow pace of enforcement.

The Committee also raised serious concerns about the Department’s limited capacity, noting that there are currently only three compliance inspectors in the Bojanala District, which is insufficient to monitor the increasing number of mining and wash plant operations in the area.

Another major concern raised was the lack of coordination between government institutions responsible for enforcement, including the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, South African Police Service (SAPS), Home Affairs, Water and Sanitation, municipalities, Traditional Authorities and other regulatory bodies. The Committee noted that fragmented enforcement and poor coordination contribute to the continued operation of illegal mining activities and unauthorised wash plants.

Concerns were also highlighted that many wash plant operations are allegedly run by foreign nationals operating illegally in the country, and there was a call for intensified joint operations involving Home Affairs and the Department of Labour to address illegal operators and labour compliance issues.

Furthermore, the Committee raised concerns about delays in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) application processes, poor quality submissions by consultants, non-compliance with licence conditions, and allegations of corruption and bribery in licensing and inspection processes. The Committee requested the Department to provide full details on fines issued, operators involved, compliance notices issued, and timelines for ensuring that illegal operations are either compliant or shut down.

“The situation relating to illegal mining and unauthorised wash plants in the North West Province is extremely concerning. Communities are suffering environmental damage, water pollution and unsafe mining activities, while the province is not benefiting economically from these operations. 

We are particularly concerned about regulatory gaps, lack of enforcement capacity and poor coordination between institutions. 

The Committee will continue to push for stronger regulations, improved enforcement, a full audit of mining activities in the province and better coordination among all government departments involved,” stated Hon Khunou.

The Committee also called for a comprehensive audit of all mining and wash plant activities in the province, a central database of approved mining rights and environmental authorisations, and a coordinated joint enforcement programme involving all relevant government institutions.

The Committee will convene further stakeholder engagements to address the matter comprehensively and to ensure that mining activities in the province are conducted legally, responsibly and in a manner that benefits the people of the North West Province while protecting the environment.

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ELECTRICITY DEBT OWED BY SCHOOLS IN GAUTENG

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ELECTRICITY DEBT OWED BY SCHOOLS IN GAUTENG 

BY : CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR 

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) wishes to clarify matters relating to electricity debt owed by some public schools to municipalities, which led to service interruptions. 

The Department wishes to refute assertions that we gave some schools the burden of arrear accounts. We can confirm that schools were allocated funds in November 2025 specifically for them to settle their municipal obligations, including electricity accounts. 

The Department had also previously communicated with School Governing Bodies (SGBs) on the decentralisation of the payment of municipal accounts, and their responsibility to ensure the relevant allocations were accordingly utilised to settle their municipal accounts and pay their monthly electricity consumption. 

It is therefore quite concerning that some schools are not paying their municipal accounts despite having received the necessary allocations and being aware of their responsibilities to pay their accounts. 

In Eldorado Park, for example, the Department had allocated the following funds in November 2025 to the mentioned schools for the purpose of paying their municipal accounts: Kliptown Primary: R 233 167 Heerengracht Primary: R 358 739 Eldorado Park Secondary: R 523 503 Eldomaine High School: R 512 306 

We urge all affected schools to engage municipalities where applicable, in order to negotiate payment arrangements and work towards settling outstanding debt. 

The Department is currently facilitating processes for schools to receive the 2026/27 financial year allocations, which schools are expected to receive on or before 15 May 2026. 

These allocations will assist schools in meeting their operational commitments, including municipal services. In the meantime, the Gauteng Department of Education will continue to engage municipalities not to cut their services, particularly as the interruption of electricity supply may negatively affect teaching and learning. 

“We wish to reiterate that we are engaging with all municipalities as this challenge is notably experienced across the province. 

These engagements will assist schools in ensuring they consistently pay their accounts and that their payments and accounts remain accurate at all times. Going forward, schools must also ensure that they use the allocations they receive strictly for its intended purposes,” said Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane. 

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