Governments across the globe are scrambling to curb energy demand and shield consumers from rising fuel costs following escalating tensions in the Middle East, with a wide range of emergency measures introduced.

From enforced work-from-home policies to fuel rationing and price caps, countries in Asia, Africa, Europe and Latin America are adopting both conservation strategies and financial relief mechanisms in response to tightening energy markets.

Locally, South Africans have been assured of adequate fuel supply, but there have been reports of fuel rationing at retailers and localised shortages caused by supplier delays.

Consumers are on tenterhooks waiting for the official fuel price announcement for April, with a R6 hike in petrol and a near R11 hike in diesel looming, if no steps are taken to mitigate the impact.

Here is a list of what many other countries have done to both conserve energy and the relief mechanisms introduced:

Emergency energy conservation measures (as of 30 March)

Emergency consumer support measures (as of 30 March)

SOURCE: The International Energy Agency

In a major crackdown on criminal networks, the South African Police Service (SAPS) and its crime-fighting partners seized more than R100 million worth of fake goods in Bellville.

SAPS says these operations are striking a decisive blow against the illegal trade in counterfeit and illicit goods, sending a strong message to those profiting from criminal activity.

“The National Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit led a joint takedown operation in Bellville on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, which resulted in the seizure of counterfeit goods worth more than R117 million.”

The operation led to the confiscation of several items ranging from clothing to accessories.

“The team seized over 130 000 counterfeit items, including branded clothing, sports apparel, sneakers, caps, sunglasses, and watches,” SAPS added.

Meanwhile, in Johannesburg, the Gauteng Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit, supported by various partners, shut down a counterfeit manufacturing plant operating in a medical building in the CBD. Authorities confiscated counterfeit goods and label-printing machines valued at over R28 million.

Additionally, a large consignment of fake cigarettes worth R15 million was seized in KwaZulu-Natal.

“These operations form part of broader efforts to address the illegal trade in counterfeit and illicit goods in the country. The illegal trade in counterfeit goods not only undermines the economy of South Africa but also threatens consumer health and safety, infringes on intellectual property rights, and erodes legitimate businesses.”

Minister Senzo Mchunu, who was placed on special leave following accusations of his alleged links to underworld figures, has resumed duties as a member of the ANC’s National Executive Committee.  

He confirmed this in an interview with the SABC in Kwambonambi over the weekend. 

He was placed on a leave of absence by President Cyril Ramaphosa in July last year, with his role as police minister temporarily filled by Acting Minister Professor Firoz Cachalia. 

At the time, Ramaphosa called for an investigation into allegations that Mchunu “allegedly interfered with sensitive police investigations and colluded with business people to disband the Political Killings Task Team”. 

His name came up again recently, when Lieutenant-General Nhhlanhla Mkhwanazi returned to Parliament’s Ad-Hoc Committee probing alleged police capture.

Last week, Mkhwanazi testified that he received a handwritten document allegedly written by the cellmate of alleged crime boss Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, at the Kgosi Mampuru C-Max Prison in Pretoria. According to Mkhwanazi, the letter reportedly mentions that Mchunu met with the former National Director of Public Prosecutions, Shamila Batohi, to coerce alleged crime boss, Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, to make a statement denying that they know each other. 

In his interview with the SABC, Mchunu challenged Mkhwanazi to provide evidence of the claims.

The Westridge Swimming Pool came alive over the weekend, as around 140 young swimmers showcased the skills they’ve gained through the City’s Learn-to-Swim programme at the annual Fun Gala on Saturday.

Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham, said the event not only celebrated the swimmers’ achievements but also served as a timely reminder of water safety as school holidays get underway.

“Swimming is a critical life-saving skill that also keeps people active and confident. Given the popularity of our beaches and swimming pools, having more people who can swim and understand the importance of water safety takes the pressure off lifeguards and emergency services,” she added.

Higham says they are fully prepared for high traffic volumes at pools and beaches over the Easter holiday period. She stressed the importance of being cautious when cooling off on hot days.

“Please enjoy our amenities responsibly and always listen to lifeguards and other emergency services. Their job is to protect the public, and cooperation means a safe and enjoyable time for all,” she added.

SWIMMING POOL HOURS

The City’s community swimming pools will operate daily this week for the school holidays. They will close for the season on Tuesday, 7 April.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

The public is reminded that the pools in Delft, Bellville South, Delft, Goodwood, Langa, Lentegeur, Manenberg, and the Vulindlela swimming pools are closed due to continued planned major infrastructure repairs, maintenance, and upgrades.

The four indoor pools in Blue Downs, Long Street, Retreat, and Strand are open year-round, along with the Sea Point swimming pool.

The City’s lifeguards are on duty at all swimming pools and designated bathing areas along the coastline. Beach lifeguard hours are 10:00 until 18:00 daily.