A Pietermaritzburg-based organisation has tracked the increase in the prices of basic goods since the start of lockdown, as well as monitoring the desperate measures people resort to in order to put food on the table. 
Food prices have seen an increase of as much as 30% throughout the lockdown period, and according to research, things could get even worse.

We speak to Mervyn Abrahams, Researcher at the Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice and Dignity Group

A Pietermaritzburg-based organisation has tracked the increase in the prices of basic goods since the start of lockdown, as well as monitoring the desperate measures people resort to in order to put food on the table.&nbsp; Food prices have seen an increase of as much as 30% throughout the lockdown period, and according to research, things could get even worse.
We speak to Mervyn Abrahams, Researcher at the Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice and Dignity Group

POWER Breakfast is a fast-paced three-hour news and current affairs show, alternating between the latest breaking news, political coverage, analysis, sport, market reports, weather and all your calls. Whether you’re in business, the public service or just want to stay informed, tune in as Thabiso TT Tema connects you to your world.

POWER Breakfast is a fast-paced three-hour news and current affairs show, alternating between the latest breaking news, political coverage, analysis, sport, market reports, weather and all your calls. Whether you&rsquo;re in business, the public service or just want to stay informed, tune in as Thabiso TT Tema connects you to your world.

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South Africans spending 30% more on basic food items since lockdown began

The United States government has announced an indefinite suspension of immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, a major expansion of its immigration restrictions. The decision, announced by the State Department on January 14, 2026, will take effect on January 21, 2026, and is part of the Trump administration’s intensified efforts to tighten entry standards and reduce reliance on public assistance. Thabiso Tema spoke to Dr Kingsley Makhubela.

 

The United States government has announced an indefinite suspension of immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, a major expansion of its immigration restrictions. The decision, announced by the State Department on January 14, 2026, will take effect on January 21, 2026, and is part of the Trump administration&rsquo;s intensified efforts to tighten entry standards and reduce reliance on public assistance. Thabiso Tema spoke to Dr Kingsley Makhubela.
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US Suspends Immigrant Visa Processing for Nationals of 75 Countries

Uganda’s national election on Thursday was marked by tension, heavy security, and a government‑imposed internet blackout as President Yoweri Museveni in power since 1986 sought to extend his rule into a fifth decade. The vote has drawn international scrutiny, allegations of repression, and fears of undermining democratic norms. Thabiso Tema spoke to Mercy Kanyesigye independent candidate for the National Female Youth MP in Uganda.

Uganda&rsquo;s national election on Thursday was marked by tension, heavy security, and a government‑imposed internet blackout as President Yoweri Museveni in power since 1986 sought to extend his rule into a fifth decade. The vote has drawn international scrutiny, allegations of repression, and fears of undermining democratic norms. Thabiso Tema spoke to Mercy Kanyesigye independent candidate for the National Female Youth MP in Uganda.

Uganda’s Long Serving President Museveni Seeks to Extend Rule Amid Tense, Heavily Policed Election Under Internet Blackout

BAT South Africa (BATSA) today announced it will cease local production of factory manufactured cigarettes (FMC) and close its sole South African manufacturing facility by the end of 2026, because of the devastating impact of the illicit cigarette trade on the local market. Thabiso Tema spoke to Dale McKinley Economist.

BAT South Africa (BATSA) today announced it will cease local production of factory manufactured cigarettes (FMC) and close its sole South African manufacturing facility by the end of 2026, because of the devastating impact of the illicit cigarette trade on the local market. Thabiso Tema spoke to Dale McKinley Economist.

South Africans spending 30% more on basic food items since lockdown began

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