President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the 2026 State of the Nation Address this evening, 12 February. He has delivered the SONA address since 2018.
Watch proceedings LIVE at the links below:
Cupid or Con? How to Avoid Valentine’s Fraud
The South African Southern African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS) has warned that scammers are on the rise during the month of February.
While many South Africans search for love, fraudsters are on the hunt, preying on trust and emotional vulnerability.
Manie van Schalkwyk, CEO of SAFPS says romance scams have become highly sophisticated, psychologically engineered, and technologically advanced.
“While romance scams are a reality all year round, scammers actively target and exploit people’s emotions more around Valentine’s Day. We want South Africans to be alert, informed, and protected.”
Schalkwyk says scammers often create profiles that seem perfect. They study victims’ online behaviour to build trust, using daily messages and flattery to create emotional dependency.
“This is known as social engineering, where they use their victim’s behaviour and what they share with the world against them in order to influence or deceive them. People underestimate how powerful emotional engineering can be. Scammers don’t just steal money, they steal trust, dignity, and emotional security.”
He further adds that there are several signs to look out for to protect yourself from becoming a victim of “love”.
“Warning signs include avoidance of in-person meetings, unusual interest in personal details, and requests for money or unrealistic investment opportunities. If something feels off, trust your instincts.”
Cachalia: plans to address WC crime and gang violence
Acting police Minister, Firoz Cachalia, says the South African Police Service (SAPS) is finalising a revised stabilisation plan to address the ongoing gang violence and organised crime plauging the Western Cape.
In a recent statement, the minister said the plan was intitially developed in September last year following extensive consultations with provincial stakeholders, but requires more time to take effect as well as some adjustments.
The revised plan will reportedly includes enhanced deployment of specialised units, in addition to the Anti-Gang Unit, to areas most affected by gang-related violence.
“This enhanced approach aims to improve operational capability, increase police visibility, and strengthen intelligence-driven policing in hotspots across the province.”
According to the ministry, Cachalia has met and will still be meeting with several civil society, religious, and community-based organisations, which includes the Muslim Judicial Council (MJC) and Cape Crime Crisis Coalition (C4), as part of government’s commitment to inclusive and community-centred policing.
As part of his ongoing programme, Cachalia will also reportedly meet with the Premier of the Western Cape, Alan Winde as well as stakeholders in Kayamandi and Cloetesville in Stellenbosch in the coming weeks.
These engagements are reportedly to discuss policing challenges in the Western Cape and strengthen measures to improve safety in communities across the province.
Police Probe Violent Altercation at Eerste River Secondary School
Two learners from Eerste River Secondary School face disciplinary action following a stabbing incident that left both injured.
The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) says the learners, in Grade 9 and 12, had an altercation during assembly this morning, the argument escalated, and both learners stabbed each other.
WCED spokesperson Bronagh Hammond says the matter has been handed over to SAPS.
“The two learners have been sent to a medical facility for treatment. SAPS have been informed and the school will institute disciplinary procedures.”
SAPS has since confirmed that a case of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm has been registered.
“The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation. Anyone with any information about this incident can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the mobile application MySAPS anonymously.”
Love Jams Weekend
Sometimes the right words don’t come easily. Simple phrases like “I love you,” “I’m sorry,” or “I miss you” feel bigger than what we know how to say. That’s when the music takes over…
This Valentine’s weekend, let the songs do the talking as Smile FM presents Love Jams Weekend — a celebration of the greatest love songs ever recorded. From timeless ballads to heartfelt anthems, the playlist is filled with emotion, memories, and melodies that say exactly what’s in your heart.
Whether you’re celebrating new love, honouring a lifelong partnership, healing old wounds, or simply reminiscing, these are the songs that capture every shade of romance — powerful voices, sweeping choruses, and lyrics that linger long after the final note fades.
Join us on Saturday and Sunday, 14 & 15 February from 9am, and let Smile FM be the soundtrack to your Valentine’s weekend.
