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Articles by David Ritchie
R10bn fuel-relief Bill moves closer to National Assembly debate
HARDE PAD: Motorists are feeling the pinch at petrol stations Image: David Ritchie Dr Mmusi Maimane has called for fuel relief before December. Image: Parliament RSA/Supplied A R10 billion plan to bring South Africans some relief at the petrol pump is in the works at Parliament. This comes after fuel prices hit R30 a litre for unleaded petrol at the start of October, and the Automobile Association warned of another R4.58 hit for motorists in November.
R10bn plan to bring fuel relief to SA
Staff Reporter|Published 39 minutes ago HARDE PAD: Motorists are feeling the pinch at petrol stations Image: David Ritchie Dr Mmusi Maimane has called for fuel relief before December. Image: Parliament RSA/Supplied A R10 billion plan to bring South Africans some relief at the petrol pump is in the works at Parliament. This comes after fuel prices hit R30 a litre for unleaded petrol at the start of October, and the Automobile Association warned of another R4.58 hit for mense in November.
Court trap briek on NUFAS' Golden Arrow strike
ALL ABOARD: Golden Arrow strike has been blocked in court Image: David Ritchie/Independent Newspapers Passengers get on a Golden Arrow bus in the Western Cape. The company has secured an interdict halting strike action which was expected to commence on Thursday. Image: Ayanda Ndamane/ANA Studio GOLDEN Arrow commuters can get their kaartjie reg for their ride to work after the company secured a court order preventing planned strike action by its employees.
Petrol price up by R1.34
PAIN AT THE PUMP: Petrol and diesel prices rocket Image: David Ritchie /Archive MOTORISTS and commuters are facing a harde pad with petrol prices revving up by R1.34 at the start of September. The news is even worse for diesel, with the Central Energy Fund (CEF) data showing that prices could rise by around R2.94 in the case of 500ppm diesel and R3.15 for 50ppm. Illuminating paraffin is looking set for an increase in the region of R2.12.
Why Immigration Compliance Must Remain A Priority For Care Providers
David Ritchie’s articles from Lewis Silkin are most popular: within Immigration topic(s) in North America in North America with readers working within the Healthcare and Media & Information industries Lewis Silkin are most popular: within Cannabis & Hemp and Transport topic(s) When the Skilled Worker visa route closed to new overseas recruitment of care workers and senior care workers in July 2025, care providers might have expected immigration to become less of a workforce concern.
CoS Allocation Requests: Difficult Issues For Sponsors
LS Lewis Silkin More We have two things at our core: people – both ours and yours - and a focus on creativity, technology and innovation. Whether you are a fast growth start up or a large multinational business, we help you realise the potential in your people and navigate your strategic HR and legal issues, both nationally and internationally.
difficult issues for sponsors
A more detailed version of this article was published on 8 July 2026 focussing on the care sector. You can access that article using this link: CoS allocation requests: difficult issues for care sector and other sponsors. A CoS allocation increase request is submitted via the sponsorship management system (SMS), which is the online portal through which sponsors make requests and notifications to the Home Office.
R1-a-litre fuel hike on the kaarte
Petrol and diesel prices are expected to increase sharply in September. Image: David Ritchie / Independent Newspapers South African motorists can expect a steep fuel price hike in September as international oil prices remain high due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The latest information from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) is pointing to petrol price increases in the region of 80 cents for 93 Unleaded and 90 cents for 95 Unleaded.
Migration Advisory Committee Recommends Slimmed-down Temporary Shortage List
Lewis Silkin are most popular: within Cannabis & Hemp topic(s) The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has published its second stage report on the Temporary Shortage List (TSL), recommending 28 occupations for inclusion for 18 months from 1 January 2027 and proposing separate treatment for dancers and musicians. This article summarises the main recommendations and the practical implications for sponsors. The report was published on 23 July 2026 and a link to it is here.
Migration Advisory Committee recommends slimmed-down Temporary Shortage List
The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has published its second stage report on the Temporary Shortage List (TSL), recommending 28 occupations for inclusion for 18 months from 1 January 2027 and proposing separate treatment for dancers and musicians. This article summarises the main recommendations and the practical implications for sponsors. The report was published on 23 July 2026 and a link to it is here.
Navigating the geopolitical crisis- an opportunity for the energy transition Original
PCC Blessing Manale|Published 9 minutes ago Explore how the September 11 attacks reshaped global geopolitics and created an opportunity for energy transition in South Africa. Image: David Ritchie Twenty-five years ago, the September 11 attacks in New York City were dubbed a redefining moment for geopolitics, security and multilateralism.
CoS Allocation Requests: Difficult Issues For Care Sector And Other Sponsors
LS Lewis Silkin More We have two things at our core: people – both ours and yours - and a focus on creativity, technology and innovation. Whether you are a fast growth start up or a large multinational business, we help you realise the potential in your people and navigate your strategic HR and legal issues, both nationally and internationally.
difficult issues for care sector and other sponsors
Sponsors seeking to increase their allocation of undefined Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) from the Home Office can face significant procedural challenges, particularly in the care sector. In this article we explore the difficulties inherent in CoS allocation requests, the increasingly onerous further information requests from the Home Office, and offer practical guidance to assist sponsors in navigating these challenges effectively.
The 75-metre divide: exploring economic disparities between Alexandra and Sandton Original
REAL NUMBERS Pali Lehohla|Published 8 minutes ago Discover how the Lehohla Ledger's analysis reveals a stark socio-economic divide in South Africa, illustrated by the 75-metre stretch of the M1 highway, and what it means for the future of communities like Alexandra and Sandton. Image: David Ritchie / Independent Newspapers The spatial metadata speaks with an unyielding voice.
Winter school holiday traffic surge: Why you should avoid night driving on the N3
Motorists are urged to avoid night travel on the N3 Toll Route, as traffic surges and hazardous conditions arise. Image: David Ritchie / Independent Media Motorists travelling on the N3 Toll Route during the winter school holidays have been urged to avoid driving after dark as authorities brace for a surge in traffic volumes from Friday.
University of Cape Town to host landmark safe sport conference with global leaders
Ebeth Grobbelaar, Deputy Director of the South African Doping Control Laboratory, speaks to the media at a press briefing in this file picture. Safer sport comes under the spotlight at the upcoming Safe Sport International Conference, featuring global leaders and groundbreaking discussions.
Correlated insulator in the kagome flat band of a two-dimensional electrostatic crystal
Abstract The electronic properties of solids are determined by their crystal structure and electron interactions, giving rise to phenomena such as superconductivity, strange metals and correlated insulators. Many of these effects remain poorly understood, motivating efforts to create artificial crystals that mimic real materials while allowing controlled tuning of key parameters.
The economic fallout of increased fuel prices in South Africa Original
CONSUMERS Recent fuel price hikes have left South Africans grappling with financial strain, as the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy announced significant increases in petrol and diesel prices. With the cost of living already high, consumers brace for further economic challenges. Image: David Ritchie / Independent Media Fuel price increases across the board announced this past week has left South Africans reeling.
Mayday, Mayday!
A petrol bomb to hit South Africans' wallets this month Significant petrol and diesel price increases have been confirmed for May 6. Image: David Ritchie / Independent Media SOUTH Africans will be hit with another round of fuel price increases from Wednesday, May 6, with petrol and diesel set to rise at an even higher rate than initially anticipated.
May fuel price higher than expected: Here’s what you'll pay for petrol and diesel from Wednesday
Significant petrol and diesel price increases have been confirmed for May 6. Image: David Ritchie / Independent Media South Africans will be hit with another round of fuel price increases from Wednesday, May 6, with petrol and diesel set to rise at an even higher rate than initially anticipated. The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) confirmed on Monday that the price of both grades of petrol will increase by R3.27 per litre, while diesel will go up by R6.19.
May fuel price: Here’s what you’re likely to pay for petrol and diesel from Wednesday
South Africa's government has announced a temporary R3 cut to the fuel levy to alleviate the burden of soaring fuel prices on citizens, amid escalating global oil market tensions. Image: David Ritchie / Independent Newspapers South Africans will be hit with another round of fuel price increases from Wednesday, May 6, with petrol and diesel set to rise significantly.
Pre-transplant azacitidine does not improve survival in allogeneic HSCT for higher-risk MDS
To the Editor: Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is the only curative therapy for myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and optimising patients for transplant is critical to achieving the best outcomes [1, 2]. Hypomethylating agents (HMAs), particularly azacitidine, are used as a bridging strategy with the aim of achieving disease control and limiting leukemic transformation.
Consumer Price Inflation in South Africa rises to 3.1% amid Middle East tensions
Economy Stats SA's release of consumer price inflation (CPI) on Wednesday indicated a slight increase to 3.1% in March 2026 from 3.0% in February 2026. Image: David Ritchie / Independent Media Consumer price inflation (CPI) data released on Wednesday indicated a slight increase to 3,1% in March 2026 from 3,0% in February 2026.
The real impact of rising fuel costs on South Africans: driving a hidden crisis Original
A recent survey reveals more than half of South Africans face severe financial strain due to rising diesel and fuel costs, signaling a critical tipping point in the cost-of-living crisis. Read on to discover the alarming statistics and emotional toll behind the numbers as households struggle to cope. Image: David Ritchie / Independent Media The latestDebt Rescueconsumer survey has revealed that South African consumers are on the brink of a financial crisis.
sponsors face increased compliance risk
The Home Office's April changes to the Skilled Worker sponsor guidance confirm that the stakes are now higher for sponsors regarding salary compliance. The Home Office has re-emphasised that sponsors must understand and correctly apply the rules on salary payments. Compliance action is also more likely to be taken in practice because of data cross-checking between the Home Office and HMRC.
Salaries Under Scrutiny: Sponsors Face Increased Compliance Risk
LS Lewis Silkin More We have two things at our core: people – both ours and yours - and a focus on creativity, technology and innovation. Whether you are a fast growth start up or a large multinational business, we help you realise the potential in your people and navigate your strategic HR and legal issues, both nationally and internationally.
Who will watch the watchmen: unique challenges of T-cell redirecting therapies in T-cell malignancies
Get full text access Log in, subscribe or purchase for full access. References 1. Zhang, Y ∙ Zhang, Z The history and advances in cancer immunotherapy: understanding the characteristics of tumor-infiltrating immune cells and their therapeutic implications Cell Mol Immunol. 2020; 17:807-821 2. Tang, L ∙ Huang, Z ∙ Mei, H ∙ et al. Immunotherapy in hematologic malignancies: achievements, challenges and future prospects Signal Transduct Target Ther. 2023; 8:306 3.
Government steps in with temporary fuel levy reduction amid rising costs Original
South Africa's government has announced a temporary R3 cut to the fuel levy to alleviate the burden of soaring fuel prices on citizens, amid escalating global oil market tensions. Image: David Ritchie / Independent Newspapers Government stepped up to the task on Tuesday to help cushion the impact of soaring fuel prices on citizens, announcing a temporary R3 cut to the fuel levy.
LIVE | Godongwana cuts fuel levy by R3 to cushion motorists from looming price hikes
Fuel prices are set to increase significantly from Wednesday, April 1. Image: David Ritchie / Independent Newspapers Government is set to slash the fuel levy by as much as R3 per litre in an effort to cushion motorists and businesses from a sharp spike in fuel prices, according to a report by Bloomberg. The intervention comes as global oil prices surge and the rand remains under pressure, raising the prospect of one of the steepest fuel price increases on record.
Free concert to kick off 2026 CTIJF
Voice Entertainment Reporter|Published 20 minutes ago IT'S A JOL: Free jazz concert takes place on Wednesday in the Greenmarket Square. Image: David Ritchie/Independent Newspapers The Mother City is set to come alive with music, culture, and creativity this week as the Cape Town International Jazz Festival takes over the town.
Jazz fever hits Mother City with free concert ahead of Cape Town International Jazz Festival
The annual free jazz concert takes place on Wednesday in the Greenmarket Square. Image: David Ritchie/Independent Newspapers As Africa’s grandest gathering is set to take place this week, Cape Town is expected to be a hub of melodies as jazz events take place until Saturday, March 28. The Mother City is set to come alive with music, culture, and creativity.
Higher fuel prices mean price increases for consumers at the tills Original
As the fuel price crisis unfolds, consumers brace themselves for the soaring costs that come with it. Image: David Ritchie/Indepedent Newspapers Consumers in South Africa have been placed in jeopardy due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East taking place between Iran, the US and Israel.
The fuel-good factor is gone
Jason Woosey|Published 31 minutes ago Fuel prices are set to increase from Wednesday, March 4. Image: David Ritchie / Independent Newspapers FUEL prices are currently at four-year lows, but the good times could soon be over with petrol and diesel price increases on the cards for March, and very likely in April too.
Fuel price hikes: Here's how much you're likely to pay for petrol and diesel from March 4
Fuel prices are set to increase from Wednesday, March 4. Image: David Ritchie / Independent Newspapers Fuel prices are currently at four-year lows, but the good times could soon be over with petrol and diesel price increases on the cards for March, and very likely in April too.
Crop Estimates Committee predicts increased maize and sunflower production for 2026 Original
Crop Estimates Committee (CEC) first production forecast for summer crops for 2026 indicates a positive outlook for the 2026 summer crop Image: David Ritchie Crop Estimates Committee (CEC) first production forecast for summer crops for 2026 indicates a positive outlook for the 2026 summer crop. Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz) has welcomed the forecast.
Young man from Plumstead drowns in tragic incident at De Villiers Dam
Staff Reporter|Published 33 minutes ago Constantia Nek hiking trail on the world-famous Table Mountain A 20-year-old man from Plumstead drowned on Sunday, February 1, at De Villiers Dam, Constantia Nek. According to the National Sea Rescue Institute’s (NSRI) coxswain, Chris Westcott, they were alerted around 12.45pm by Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services Control following reports of a drowning incident at De Villiers Dam.
Fuel prices falling again: Here’s how much you'll pay for petrol and diesel from February 4
Petrol and diesel prices are coming down again this week. Image: David Ritchie / Independent Media Fuel prices are set to fall again this week, with significant price decreases confirmed for both petrol and diesel from Wednesday, February 4. The Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources has announced a petrol price cut of 65 cents per litre, while diesel is set to fall by between 50 cents (500ppm) and 57 cents (50ppm).
Fuel prices falling again: Here’s how much you'll pay for petrol and diesel from February 4
Petrol and diesel prices are coming down again this week. Image: David Ritchie / Independent Media Fuel prices are set to fall again this week, with significant price decreases confirmed for both petrol and diesel from Wednesday, February 4. The Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources has announced a petrol price cut of 65 cents per litre, while diesel is set to fall by between 50 cents (500ppm) and 57 cents (50ppm).
European Code Against Cancer 5th edition: 14 ways you can help prevent cancer
Keywords European code against cancer Evidence-based recommendations Primary cancer prevention Cancer screening European union Abbreviations EC (European Commission) ECL (Association of European Cancer Leagues) ECAC (European Code Against Cancer) ECAC4 (4th edition of the European Code Against Cancer) ECAC5 (5th edition of the European Code Against Cancer) ENDS (Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems) EONS (European Oncology Nursing Society) ESMO (European Society for Medical Oncology) EU27 (27...
European Code Against Cancer, 5th edition - ultraviolet radiation, radon and cancer
aERR adjusted Excess Relative Risk APC annual percentage change ASR Age-Standardised Rate BCC basal cell carcinoma Bq·m−3 becquerels per cubic metre BSS basic safety standard directive CI confidence interval CM cutaneous melanoma DNA deoxyribonucleic acid EBCP Europe's Beating Cancer Plan ECAC European Code Against Cancer ECAC4 European Code Against Cancer, 4th edition ECAC5 European Code Against Cancer, 5th edition EEA European Environment Agency EOR excess odds ratio EU European Union...
February could see more fuel price relief, but oil prices remain a risk
Petrol and diesel prices could fall again in February. Image: David Ritchie / Independent Media South Africa’s petrol and diesel prices hit four-year lows following January’s significant reductions; however, fuel costs could creep even lower in February. Mid-month data from the Central Energy Fund shows strong over-recoveries for both petrol and diesel. But this comes with a big caveat.
Factory activity ends 2025 in deep contraction as PMI plunges to post-pandemic lows Original
MANUFACTURING The index remains well below the 50-point threshold that separates expansion from contraction, underscoring the severity of the downturn in manufacturing activity as the year came to an end. Image: David Ritchie/Independent Newspapers.
From One Fish to a Historic Run: How Tantrum Dominated Kona’s 2025 Marlin Season
Tantrum gaffs a qualifying marlin during the Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series. The crew weighed three of four qualifying marlin in the 2025 series. Subscribe to Marlin magazine and get a year of highly collectible, keepsake editions – plus access to the digital edition and archives. Sign up for the free Marlin email newsletter. Can one fish change the trajectory of your life? For Capt.
Take Control: How personal responsibility can improve Gauteng's road safety
Speeding remains one of the biggest killers on our roads. The highest speeding offender was arrested in Gauteng, driving at 245 km/h in a BMW on the N1 near Honeydew on 18 December. We continue to educate motorists about the risks while enforcing the law decisively. Image: David Ritchie/African News Agency Independent Newspapers While we remain in the middle of the festive holidays, preliminary data collected between 1 and 21 December shows that Gauteng may be turning the tide on road fatalities.
Loyalty programmes provide a lifeline to South African consumers amid rising costs
As South African consumers brace themselves against rising costs, find out how loyalty programmes are transforming shopping habits and providing valuable savings in a tightening economy.
Higher fuel prices threaten holiday plans for South Africans
The festive season is about to get pricier for South Africans. Higher fuel prices could disrupt holiday plans just when families are gearing up for a joyful reunion. Find out how these changes will impact your travel and budget. Image: David Ritchie / Independent Media As the festive season approaches, South African families are bracing themselves for unexpected changes that could derail their holiday plans.
The RCB with Benefact Trust to Launch Buildings Climate Impact Fund
‘The earth is the Lord’s and all that therein is.’ (Psalm 24:1) Did you know that taking positive action to address climate change is one of the five marks of Anglican mission? The Representative Church Body (RCB) is supporting parishes to achieve this mission objective in partnership with Benefact Trust, providing new funding support for…
Fuel prices going up: Here’s what you’re likely to pay for petrol and diesel from Wednesday, December 3
October's fuel price adjustments will be moderate. Image: David Ritchie / Independent Newspapers After a relatively stable year for fuel prices, South Africans will have to dig a little deeper in December, with petrol and diesel prices set to increase. Month-end data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) shows that 95 Unleaded petrol is likely to increase by 25 cents, while 93 Unleaded will go up by 20 cents.
Mashaba says Mazibuko’s mayoral proposal 'didn’t make any sense'
ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba has revealed that talks with former DA parliamentary leader Lindiwe Mazibuko about becoming his party’s Joburg mayoral candidate has collapsed.
Screening for lung cancer: A systematic review of overdiagnosis and its implications
1 Introduction Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide, with nearly 2.5 million new cases and over 1.8 million deaths annually [[1]]. Screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) has been shown to detect lung cancer at earlier, potentially more treatable stages. A systematic review of randomized clinical trials has shown mortality reductions in lung cancer of 14% and all-cause mortality of 4% [[2, 3]].
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