South Africa

South Africa, officially the Republic of South Africa (RSA), is the southernmost country in Africa. It is bounded to the south by 2,798 kilometres (1,739 mi) of coastline that stretches along the South Atlantic and Indian Ocean; to the north by the neighbouring countries of Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe; and to the east and northeast by Mozambique and Eswatini. It also completely enclaves Lesotho. It is the southernmost country on the mainland of the Old World, and the second-most populous country located entirely south of the equator, after Tanzania. As of July 2024 South Africa has the largest economy in Africa. South Africa is a biodiversity hotspot, with unique biomes, plant and animal life. With over 62 million people, the country is the world's 23rd-most populous nation and covers an area of 1,221,037 square kilometres. Pretoria is the administrative capital, while Cape Town, as the seat of Parliament, is the legislative capital. Bloemfontein has traditionally been regarded as the judicial capital. The Constitutional Court, the country's highest court, is located in Johannesburg.
south-africa

Some of the key events about South Africa

  • 1652
    Dutch colonization of the Cape began, leading to displacement of indigenous peoples
  • 1795
    British forces seized control of the Cape Colony from the Dutch
  • 1836
    The Great Trek of Boers began, resulting in conflicts with indigenous African populations
  • 1879
    The Anglo-Zulu War resulted in the defeat and subjugation of the Zulu Kingdom
  • 1899
    The Second Boer War broke out, leading to widespread suffering and concentration camps
  • 1910
    The Union of South Africa was established, uniting four British colonies into a single country
  • 1931
    South Africa gained independence from the United Kingdom through the Statute of Westminster
  • 1948
    The National Party came to power, officially implementing the apartheid system
  • 1960
    The Sharpeville massacre occurred when police fired on peaceful protesters
  • 1961
    South Africa became a republic, formally severing ties with the British monarchy
  • 1976
    The Soweto uprising began, resulting in violent clashes and numerous deaths
  • 1985
    A state of emergency was declared, granting police extensive powers to quell unrest
  • 1990
    The ban on anti-apartheid organizations was lifted, marking a significant step towards democracy
  • 1991
    All remaining apartheid laws were repealed, officially ending the system of racial segregation
  • 1993
    Right-wing extremists assassinated prominent anti-apartheid leader, derailing peace negotiations
  • 1994
    South Africa held its first democratic elections, marking the end of apartheid rule
  • 1995
    South Africa hosted and won the Rugby World Cup, fostering national unity
  • 1996
    The new Constitution of South Africa was adopted, enshrining human rights and equality
  • 2004
    South Africa was awarded the right to host the 2010 FIFA World Cup
  • 2010
    South Africa successfully hosted the FIFA World Cup, the first African nation to do so

Disclaimer: This material is written based on information taken from open sources, including Wikipedia, news media, podcasts, and other public sources.

South Africa Latest news

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South African Central Bank Cuts Interest Rate, Forecasts Stable Inflation

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South African Court Postpones Hearing in Ramaphosa Farm Theft Case

South African Court Postpones Hearing in Ramaphosa Farm Theft Case

Three suspects appeared in court for allegedly stealing $580,000 from President Ramaphosa's game farm. The case, which has sparked political controversy, has been postponed until next month.

Society, Politics •   •  895 views
South African President's Farm Theft Case: Suspects Face Court

South African President's Farm Theft Case: Suspects Face Court

Three individuals accused of stealing from President Ramaphosa's game farm in 2020 are set to appear in court. The case, known as "Farmgate," previously threatened Ramaphosa's leadership.

Society, Politics • October 7 2024, 08:15 AM  •  558 views
Lebanese Diaspora Grapples with Homeland's Escalating Conflict

Lebanese Diaspora Grapples with Homeland's Escalating Conflict

Lebanese expatriates worldwide face emotional turmoil as violence escalates in their homeland. From California to South Africa, diaspora members worry about relatives and Lebanon's uncertain future.

Society, Economics, Politics • October 6 2024, 05:39 AM  •  1161 views
South African Court to Revisit Ramaphosa Impeachment Case

South African Court to Revisit Ramaphosa Impeachment Case

South Africa's Constitutional Court will hear a case to revive impeachment proceedings against President Cyril Ramaphosa over a cash scandal. Opposition parties argue Parliament failed to hold the president accountable.

Economics, Politics • October 3 2024, 07:01 PM  •  430 views
South African Rand Fluctuates Amid Global Economic Tensions

South African Rand Fluctuates Amid Global Economic Tensions

The South African rand showed mixed performance against a strong dollar, influenced by Middle East tensions and U. S. economic data. Despite recent gains, the currency faces pressure from global factors.

Business, Economics • October 3 2024, 09:10 AM  •  6898 views
Prince Harry Returns to Lesotho for Charity Work and Independence Day

Prince Harry Returns to Lesotho for Charity Work and Independence Day

Prince Harry visits Lesotho for Sentebale charity, meeting youth and officials. The trip coincides with Lesotho's Independence Day and 200th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the nation's rich history and challenges.

Society, Politics, Culture • October 2 2024, 01:05 PM  •  943 views
South African Rand Dips Amid Middle East Tensions and Strong Dollar

South African Rand Dips Amid Middle East Tensions and Strong Dollar

South African rand weakens slightly against a stable dollar due to Middle East tensions. Despite short-term setbacks, long-term outlook remains positive with expected rate cuts.

Business, Economics • October 2 2024, 10:27 AM  •  236 views
Legal Battles Unfold in The Hague Over Israel-Hamas Conflict

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International courts in The Hague are addressing multiple cases related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. The ICC and ICJ are considering allegations of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide.

Society, Politics • October 1 2024, 01:27 PM  •  869 views
South African Manufacturing Rebounds in September, PMI Shows Growth

South African Manufacturing Rebounds in September, PMI Shows Growth

South African manufacturing activity increased in September, with the Absa PMI rising to 52. 8. The sector shows signs of stabilization, but employment challenges persist amid improved demand and recent interest rate cuts.

Business, Economics • October 1 2024, 09:08 AM  •  655 views
UN Assembly Concludes Amid Growing Global Tensions and Calls for Unity

UN Assembly Concludes Amid Growing Global Tensions and Calls for Unity

World leaders depart UN General Assembly with heightened concerns over escalating conflicts and international divisions. Despite gloomy outlook, adoption of "Pact for the Future" offers glimmer of hope for multilateral cooperation.

Society, Politics • October 1 2024, 01:09 AM  •  591 views
Elon Musk's Immigration Claims: A Critical Analysis

Elon Musk's Immigration Claims: A Critical Analysis

Elon Musk's recent Twitter post about immigration and US elections sparks debate. Experts challenge his assertions, highlighting misconceptions about naturalization processes and voting patterns.

Society, Politics • September 30 2024, 10:12 PM  •  77 views
South African Village Tragedy: Death Toll Rises to 18 in Mass Shootings

South African Village Tragedy: Death Toll Rises to 18 in Mass Shootings

Mass shootings in Lusikisiki village, South Africa, claim 18 lives. President Ramaphosa condemns the attack as investigation continues. Recent incidents highlight country's high homicide rate.

Society, Politics • September 30 2024, 03:26 PM  •  1887 views
Mali Detains Four Barrick Gold Employees Amid Shifting Mining Policies

Mali Detains Four Barrick Gold Employees Amid Shifting Mining Policies

Mali's military government has arrested four senior Malian employees of Barrick Gold, allegedly for financial crimes. This move reflects growing pressure on international miners and Mali's pivot towards Russia.

Business, Economics, Politics • September 27 2024, 10:02 PM  •  1729 views
Labor Icon William Lucy Dies at 90, Leaving Legacy of Civil Rights Advocacy

Labor Icon William Lucy Dies at 90, Leaving Legacy of Civil Rights Advocacy

William Lucy, a prominent figure in labor and civil rights movements, passed away at 90. Known for his work with AFSCME and against apartheid, Lucy leaves behind a legacy of social justice advocacy.

Society, Politics • September 27 2024, 08:21 PM  •  313 views
Belarus Publisher Honored for Defending Belarusian Language Despite Persecution

Belarus Publisher Honored for Defending Belarusian Language Despite Persecution

A Belarusian publishing house, now operating from Poland due to government persecution, receives a prestigious award from U. S. publishers for its courage in promoting Belarusian literature.

Politics, Culture • September 27 2024, 12:16 PM  •  762 views
South Africa's Foreign Policy Shift: Balancing Morality and Pragmatism

South Africa's Foreign Policy Shift: Balancing Morality and Pragmatism

South Africa's new foreign minister discusses the country's stance on global issues, from the ICJ case against Israel to BRICS expansion. The interview reveals a complex balancing act between moral principles and pragmatic diplomacy.

Society, Politics • September 27 2024, 10:30 AM  •  66 views
South Africa Welcomes Home 42 Anti-Apartheid Heroes' Remains

South Africa Welcomes Home 42 Anti-Apartheid Heroes' Remains

42 South African freedom fighters' remains repatriated from Zimbabwe and Zambia. Government initiative honors struggle heroes and brings closure to families after decades of exile during apartheid era.

Society, Politics • September 27 2024, 08:41 AM  •  8017 views
Eswatini Opposition Leader Allegedly Poisoned Amid Political Tensions

Eswatini Opposition Leader Allegedly Poisoned Amid Political Tensions

Eswatini's opposition party claims its leader was poisoned in an assassination attempt. The incident highlights ongoing political tensions in one of Africa's last absolute monarchies.

Society, Politics • September 26 2024, 08:07 AM  •  2663 views
G7-Backed Clean Energy Transition Faces Hurdles in Developing Nations

G7-Backed Clean Energy Transition Faces Hurdles in Developing Nations

G7-supported JETP program encounters challenges in developing countries. South Africa, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Senegal struggle with implementation and fund disbursement for ambitious carbon reduction goals.

Economics, Politics • September 25 2024, 01:11 AM  •  214 views
Indonesia's Coal Plant Closure Deal Faces Setbacks Amid Transition Challenges

Indonesia's Coal Plant Closure Deal Faces Setbacks Amid Transition Challenges

G7-backed initiative to close Indonesian coal plant hits snags. Legal and financial concerns delay Cirebon-1 shutdown agreement, raising questions about future energy transition projects in emerging markets.

Economics, Politics, Science • September 25 2024, 01:11 AM  •  176 views
Biden's U.N. Swan Song: A Call for Service Amid Global Tensions

Biden's U.N. Swan Song: A Call for Service Amid Global Tensions

In his final U. N. address, President Biden urged leaders to prioritize public service over power, reflecting on historical changes and current challenges. His optimism contrasted with criticisms from world leaders on various issues.

Society, Politics • September 25 2024, 12:27 AM  •  299 views
Biden's Final U.N. Address: A Call for Service Amid Global Tensions

Biden's Final U.N. Address: A Call for Service Amid Global Tensions

President Biden delivers his last U. N. speech, emphasizing leadership's duty to serve. His optimistic tone contrasts with global concerns, as world leaders critique U.S. policies on various issues.

Society, Politics • September 25 2024, 12:09 AM  •  502 views
Deadly Snowstorms Paralyze South African Coastal Regions

Deadly Snowstorms Paralyze South African Coastal Regions

Unexpected late snowstorms in South Africa's coastal areas result in two fatalities and major highway closures. Authorities warn of potential flooding as snow melts, impacting KwaZulu-Natal and Free State provinces.

Society, Science • September 23 2024, 02:59 PM  •  483 views
American Student's Tragic Hike on Table Mountain Ends in Fatality

American Student's Tragic Hike on Table Mountain Ends in Fatality

A 20-year-old American student from North Carolina lost her life while hiking on Table Mountain in Cape Town. Authorities recovered her body after a search operation involving aircraft and rescue teams.

Society, Culture • September 23 2024, 11:05 AM  •  888 views
South Africa's Racial Economic Divide Persists 30 Years Post-Apartheid

South Africa's Racial Economic Divide Persists 30 Years Post-Apartheid

South Africa grapples with persistent racial economic disparities three decades after apartheid's end. Unemployment, management roles, and company ownership reflect ongoing challenges in achieving equality.

Society, Economics • September 23 2024, 07:58 AM  •  821 views
Global Rhino Population Rises Slightly, But Poaching Threat Persists

Global Rhino Population Rises Slightly, But Poaching Threat Persists

Recent report shows a minor increase in worldwide rhino numbers, with white rhino population growing. However, poaching remains a significant threat, particularly in South Africa, where most killings occur.

Society, Science • September 22 2024, 04:27 AM  •  3036 views
Erdogan Condemns Israel's Actions, Urges Global Response at UN Assembly

Erdogan Condemns Israel's Actions, Urges Global Response at UN Assembly

Turkish President Erdogan criticizes Israel's regional actions, plans to address Gaza war at UN. He calls for increased pressure on Israel and global solutions to prevent further escalation.

Society, Politics • September 21 2024, 02:04 PM  •  419 views
Unprecedented Rabies Outbreak Among Seals Discovered in South Africa

Unprecedented Rabies Outbreak Among Seals Discovered in South Africa

Scientists identify first known rabies outbreak in sea mammals off South African coast. At least 24 Cape fur seals affected, raising concerns about transmission and control measures in marine environments.

Society, Science • September 20 2024, 09:53 AM  •  384 views
South African Central Bank Cuts Interest Rate, Forecasts Stable Inflation

South African Central Bank Cuts Interest Rate, Forecasts Stable Inflation

South Africa's central bank reduced its main interest rate for the first time in over four years, projecting inflation to remain below the target range midpoint until 2026. This move aligns with global trends in emerging markets.

Economics, Politics • September 19 2024, 02:09 PM  •  291 views
Norway Reports First Bluetongue Cases Since 2009, Joining European Outbreak

Norway Reports First Bluetongue Cases Since 2009, Joining European Outbreak

Norway has detected bluetongue virus in livestock, marking its first cases since 2009. The outbreak, affecting several European countries, poses a threat to sheep and cattle but is harmless to humans.

Science • September 19 2024, 09:33 AM  •  521 views