By Marcus Moloko
South Africa’s festive season has been marked by a mix of celebration and concern, with three major stories dominating headlines this week.
Heavy rains and storms swept across parts of the country, causing flooding, infrastructure damage, and widespread travel disruptions.
The South African Weather Service issued warnings as communities in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng faced rising water levels and power outages.
Emergency services have been stretched, with rescue operations underway in affected areas. The storms have highlighted gaps in urban infrastructure and the urgent need for climate resilience planning.
Scams
While families prepare for festive gatherings, December has also become South Africa’s most dangerous month for mobile fraud.
Reports show a 32% year-on-year increase in scam calls and phishing attempts, with 68% of South Africans experiencing attempted fraud in the past year.
Experts have warned that the festive season remains a concerning period as people are often distracted and financially stretched, which translates to prime time for cybercriminals.
Music has once again united the nation. Spotify’s Wrapped 2025 revealed that Amapiano continues to dominate South Africa’s festive playlists, with tracks like Abalele by Ami Faku, DJ Maphorisa, and Kabza De Small leading the charge.
Global hits such as I Gotta Feeling and Party Rock Anthem also remain timeless favourites, proving that South Africans love blending nostalgia with local rhythms to fuel their December celebrations.
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