Food parcel distribution falls prey to corruption

Guest contributors Since establishing the Lockdown Life blog several weeks ago, Corruption Watch has received many personal experiences from readers in the national lockdown. We’ve heard everything from heart-warming lockdown survival hacks, and stories of small business owners and employees alike who worry about the future of their companies, to general observations of compliance with Read more >

Hefty fines for greedy companies

By Thato Mahlangu A company found guilty of inflating prices of masks and personal protection gear has agreed to pay millions in fines after the Competition Commission conducted an investigation into its activities, following complaints. The commission said on Wednesday it referred a matter to the Competition Tribunal after finding evidence of price inflation during Read more >

Living under lockdown: 2020 AC (After Corona)

Guest contributor The thought of working from home thrilled me to no end; I have always ascertained that half the things we drive to work for, half the meetings we sit in, can be resolved by an e-mail at best. Truth be told, though South Africa as a country and its work culture is not Read more >

Corruption prisoners may be among those freed

As the Covid-19 pandemic intensifies, a number of countries have begun to free prisoners who qualify for release under the specific conditions laid down, which vary from nation to nation. In general, inmates whose crimes are considered to be non-violent have been released, as well as those who are nearing the end of their sentence. Read more >

Governance lessons from responses to Covid-19

By David Lewis First published on Maverick Citizen The formulation and implementation of economic policy are too important to be left to state officials and market participants alone. It requires the intelligence and knowledge of the citizens. The most effective source of the intelligence that should guide economic and social policy-making are community activists and Read more >

Lockdown causes funding challenges for organisations

By Thato Mahlangu Organisations that rely on individual donations and funding are also economically impacted by the scourge of Covid-19. The Abraham Kriel Children’s home, situated in Modimolle (formerly Nylstroom), was established more than 60 years ago. It’s one of many organisations that won’t get funding during the pandemic. The organisation, which is home to Read more >

Keep fit and eat healthy during the lockdown

Lucky Mkosana I hope everyone is staying safe with loved ones during this tough time. As much as the virus has affected our livelihoods, I’m using man this time to get better and improve on my weaknesses on and off the field. It’s definitely a setback, but also the perfect time for a comeback and Read more >

Government to tackle food parcel corruption

By Thato Mahlangu Government promises to deal “harshly” with people who may be suspected of stealing food parcels meant for struggling people during the lockdown. Media and social media reports have suggested that in some parts of the country people, including government officials – councillors in particular – have been accused of stealing food parcels. ANC Read more >

Community realities during the lockdown

Guest contributors These are some of the experiences shared with us: lan Tebogo Mashale My lockdown life was more characterised by my community members needing help from their different organisations/companies. Just before the start of the 21-day lockdown, the general manager of our mine in Phalaborwa, Limpopo, announced that fixed-term employees would not be required Read more >