South African firm to import 46 trains, and massive solar plant launches in the Western Cape

Today, 8 December 2025, the Phala Phala burglary trial is set to resume in the Modimolle Regional Court in Limpopo. 

Three of the suspects accused of stealing more than half a million US Dollars from President Ramaphosa’s farm in 2020 will appear. Judgment is expected to be handed down for the trial within a trial. 

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) head Shamila Batohi will return to face cross-examination in the inquiry into Johannesburg prosecutor Andrew Chauke’s fitness to hold office.

The African National Congress (ANC) is convening its fifth National General Council today in Boksburg. The party will discuss the state of the ANC, its policy direction and performance in government.

In the Kempton Park Magistrates’ Court, five suspects accused of recruiting South Africans to fight in Russia’s war in Ukraine will appear for a bail hearing.

One of the suspects is a broadcaster within the SABC. The five stand accused of contravening the Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act. 

The Rand is trading at R16.93 to the Dollar today, remaining stable below the R17 mark since last week. 

Here are five other big things happening in South Africa today:

South African firm to buy 46 trains from New Zealand – BusinessTech

Private rail operator Traxtion will invest R3.4 billion in new rolling stock, marking the largest private rail investment in South Africa.

Massive solar power farm commences operations in South Africa – MyBroadband

Built by Norwegian firm Scatec ASA, the 273 MW solar farm has commenced commercial operation and is expected to generate 700 gigawatt-hours of clean energy.

Mbalula says leadership race won’t derail ANC NGC agenda – News24

Fikile Mbalula, secretary-general of the African National Congress (ANC), insisted that the party’s 5th National General Council, kicking off in Johannesburg, will focus on renewal and rebuilding rather than internal succession battles.

Durban beaches get all clear despite failing water quality tests – Newsday

The Democratic Alliance (DA) is concerned that the eThekwini Municipality is deceiving holidaymakers by claiming that all 23 Durban beaches are safe for swimming, with thousands set to visit the area this December.

SARS set to gain access to offshore property information – Daily Investor

The South African Revenue Service is set to gain access to detailed offshore property information from more than 20 countries.