History of South Africa in Timeline
South Africa, officially the Republic of South Africa (RSA), is a nation located at the southern tip of Africa, known for its extensive coastline, diverse geography, and status as the southernmost country on the Old World's mainland. It shares borders with Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Eswatini, and fully encloses Lesotho. Home to over 62 million people, it stands as the world's 23rd most populous country, encompassing an area of 1,221,037 square kilometers. South Africa's administrative, legislative, and judicial capitals are Pretoria, Cape Town, and Bloemfontein, respectively, with the Constitutional Court situated in Johannesburg.
1902: End of the Second Boer War
The Second Boer War, which lasted from 1899 to 1902, ended with a British victory after a brutal conflict marked by guerilla warfare and scorched-earth tactics. The war resulted in the annexation of the Boer republics into the British Empire, paving the way for the formation of the Union of South Africa.
1909: The South Africa Act
The South Africa Act of 1909, passed by the British Parliament, set the stage for the creation of the Union of South Africa. This act granted nominal independence to the union while outlining its governance structure.
May 1910: Formation of the Union of South Africa
On May 31, 1910, the Union of South Africa was established as a dominion within the British Empire. This union brought together the Cape, Transvaal, and Natal colonies, along with the Orange Free State republic, marking a new chapter in South Africa's history.
1910: Unification of South Africa and Establishment of Parliament
Following the unification of South Africa in 1910, a central parliament was established, tasked with enacting laws specific to the newly unified nation, building upon legislation previously passed by the individual member colonies.
1911: First Census in South Africa Reveals Racial Demographics
The first census conducted in South Africa in 1911 showed that the white population made up 22% of the total population.
1913: The Natives' Land Act
The Natives' Land Act of 1913, enacted shortly after the formation of the Union of South Africa, severely restricted land ownership by black South Africans. This act allocated only 7% of the country's land to the indigenous population, further entrenching racial inequality.
1924: Discovery of the Taung Child
The discovery of the Taung Child fossil, identified by Raymond Dart in 1924, marked a significant moment in understanding human evolution. This find, made near Taung, was the first hominin fossil unearthed in Africa, establishing the continent's crucial role in human ancestry.
1930: Mhudi by Solomon Thekiso Plaatje
In 1930, Solomon Thekiso Plaatje wrote Mhudi, one of the first well-known novels by a black author in an African language, marking a significant contribution to South African literature.
1931: South Africa Gains Full Sovereignty
With the passage of the Statute of Westminster in 1931, the Union of South Africa achieved full sovereignty from the United Kingdom. This legislative act removed the last vestiges of British legislative authority in the country.
1934: Formation of the United Party
Seeking political unity among white South Africans, the South African Party and the National Party merged in 1934 to form the United Party. This unification aimed to bridge the divide between Afrikaners and English-speaking whites.
1939: United Party Splits Over World War II
The outbreak of World War II in 1939 exposed deep divisions within South Africa's United Party. The party fractured over the decision to join the war on the side of the United Kingdom, a move opposed by those sympathetic to Nazi Germany.
1945: Recording Fungal Species in South Africa
By 1945, more than 4,900 species of fungi, including lichen-forming species, had been documented in South Africa.
1948: Unofficial Highest Temperature Recorded in South Africa
An unofficial temperature of 51.7 °C (125.06 °F) was recorded near Upington in the Northern Cape Kalahari in 1948, but this measurement is not officially recognized due to non-standard equipment.
1948: Cry, the Beloved Country Published
In 1948, Alan Paton published his novel Cry, the Beloved Country, which became one of the most notable works by a white South African author.
1948: National Party's Rise and Apartheid
The 1948 elections saw the National Party rise to power, setting the stage for the formal implementation of apartheid. Their victory ushered in an era of intensified racial segregation and discrimination that would last for decades.
1948: Implementation of Apartheid
The National Party, winning the elections in 1948, formalized racial segregation by implementing apartheid. This system divided the population into racial categories, granting the white minority vast privileges and power over the black majority, leading to decades of systematic discrimination and oppression.
1950: South Africa's Population According to UN Estimates
In 1950, the United Nations estimated South Africa's total population to be 13.6 million.
1955: Adoption of the Freedom Charter
In 1955, the Congress Alliance, a coalition of anti-apartheid organizations, adopted the Freedom Charter. This document called for a non-racial South Africa based on equality and democratic principles, outlining a vision for a society free from racial discrimination.
May 1961: South Africa Becomes a Republic and Leaves Commonwealth
Following a whites-only referendum, South Africa shed its dominion status and became a republic on May 31, 1961. This move led to its exit from the Commonwealth of Nations due to widespread condemnation of its apartheid policies.
1961: South Africa Becomes a Republic
In 1961, South Africa transitioned from a British dominion to a republic following a whites-only referendum. This change saw Queen Elizabeth II lose her title as Queen of South Africa, and the country adopted a new republican constitution.
December 1967: World's First Heart Transplant
In a groundbreaking medical achievement, cardiac surgeon Christiaan Barnard successfully performed the world's first human-to-human heart transplant at Groote Schuur Hospital in December 1967.
1970: Historic Gold Production Peak
In 1970, South Africa achieved a record-breaking gold production of 1,000 metric tons, representing approximately 80% of the global mine supply at that time.
1974: Mahlabatini Declaration of Faith
The Mahlabatini Declaration of Faith, a pioneering agreement between black and white political leaders in South Africa, was signed in 1974 by Mangosuthu Buthelezi and Harry Schwarz, advocating for peaceful power transition and equality.
1979: Alleged Nuclear Test by South Africa
Although officially denied, South Africa is alleged to have conducted a nuclear test over the Atlantic Ocean in 1979. Former President F.W. de Klerk, however, maintained that South Africa had never carried out a secret nuclear test.
1979: Jody Scheckter Wins Formula One Championship
In 1979, South African Jody Scheckter won the Formula One World Championship, becoming a notable figure in motor racing history.
1980: Decline in White Population According to Census Data
By 1980, the white population in South Africa had decreased to 16% according to census data.
1980: Commencement of Nuclear Weapons Production
South Africa initiated the production of nuclear weapons between 1980 and 1990, ultimately assembling six devices.
1983: Constitutional Changes and the "Strong Presidency"
The Constitution Act of 1983, enacted under Prime Minister P.W. Botha, significantly altered South Africa's political landscape. This act abolished the position of prime minister and introduced a powerful executive presidency with expanded authority.
1990: Access to Water and Sanitation
At the outset of the 1990s, approximately 66% of South Africa's population had access to water, while 71% had access to sanitation facilities.
1990: Completion of Nuclear Weapons Production
By 1990, South Africa had successfully developed six nuclear weapons. These weapons were subsequently dismantled in 1991.
1990: Lifting of Ban on Political Organisations
In 1990, the South African government took its first step towards ending apartheid by lifting the ban on the African National Congress (ANC) and other political organisations, and released Nelson Mandela after 27 years of imprisonment.
1991: Estimated Number of Black Muslims in South Africa
In 1991, there were an estimated 12,000 black Muslims in South Africa.
1991: South Africa Dismantles Nuclear Weapons Program
In 1991, South Africa became the first country, followed by Ukraine, to voluntarily dismantle its nuclear weapons program and sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
1991: Nadine Gordimer Wins Nobel Prize
In 1991, Nadine Gordimer became the first South African to be awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, recognizing her significant contributions to literature.
1991: Estimated Number of English Speakers in South Africa
Estimates based on the 1991 census suggested that slightly less than half of South Africa's population could communicate in English.
1992: Peak Life Expectancy in South Africa
South Africa reached its highest life expectancy of 62 years in 1992, just before the HIV/AIDS pandemic began to significantly impact the country's health outcomes.
1992: Referendum for Ending Apartheid
With the approval from the white electorate in a referendum held in 1992, the South African government continued negotiations to end apartheid, paving the way for a democratic future.
January 1993: Official Highest Temperature Recorded in South Africa
The highest officially recorded temperature in South Africa was 48.8 °C (119.84 °F), measured at Vioolsdrif in January 1993.
1993: Bilateral Discussions for Transition
In 1993, F.W. de Klerk initiated bilateral discussions with Nelson Mandela, marking a significant step towards dismantling apartheid and establishing new government policies in South Africa.
June 1994: South Africa Signs the Rio Convention on Biological Diversity
On June 4, 1994, South Africa signed the Rio Convention, which focuses on the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity.
1994: Start of Period with High Murder Numbers
The period between 1994 and 2019 witnessed a tragic loss of life due to murder in South Africa, with over 526,000 people becoming victims of this crime.
1994: Establishment of the South African National Defence Force
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) was established in 1994 as a volunteer military force. It incorporated personnel from the former South African Defence Force, armed groups involved in the anti-apartheid struggle (uMkhonto we Sizwe and the Azanian People's Liberation Army), and the defense forces of the former Bantustans.
1994: Establishment of the Constitutional Court
The Constitutional Court of South Africa, the country's highest court, was established in Johannesburg in 1994.
1994: First Universal Elections
South Africa held its first universal elections in 1994, marking the end of apartheid and the beginning of a new era. The ANC won the election with an overwhelming majority and has been in power ever since.
1994: SANDF Deployment in Support of SAPS
Since its establishment in 1994, the SANDF has been frequently called upon to support the South African Police Service (SAPS) in crime-fighting operations, particularly in situations where the police are overwhelmed.
1994: End of Apartheid and Formation of Multiracial Democracy
In 1994, South Africa abolished its apartheid system, dismantling decades of racial segregation. This marked a turning point in the country's history, ushering in an era of multiracial democracy and political representation for all ethnic and linguistic groups. This period also saw South Africa rejoin the Commonwealth of Nations.
1994: Post-Apartheid Socioeconomic Challenges
Following the end of apartheid in 1994, South Africa faced deep-seated socioeconomic challenges, including high unemployment rates, particularly among the black population, and an increase in poverty among white South Africans, who had previously experienced low levels of poverty.
1994: Start of Period with Xenophobic Attacks
Between 1994 and 2018, South Africa experienced a wave of xenophobic violence, with more than 500 attacks targeting foreign nationals.
1994: Post-Apartheid Economic Policy
After the end of apartheid in 1994, the South African government implemented policies to combat inflation, stabilize public finances, and attract foreign investment, though economic growth remained below expectations.
1994: Reinstatement into the Commonwealth
After the dismantling of apartheid and the establishment of a multiracial democracy in 1994, South Africa was welcomed back into the Commonwealth of Nations. This marked international recognition of its transition to a more inclusive and equitable society.
November 1995: South Africa Officially Joins the Convention on Biological Diversity
South Africa became an official member of the Convention on Biological Diversity on November 2, 1995.
1995: South Africa Wins 1995 Rugby World Cup
In 1995, South Africa hosted and won the Rugby World Cup, marking the nation's first victory in the tournament.
1995: Turning Point in Human Development
The year 1995 marked a turning point in South Africa's human development trajectory, with the United Nations Human Development Index reaching a peak before experiencing a decline until 2005.
1996: Penny Heyns Wins Olympic Gold
In 1996, swimmer Penny Heyns won Olympic gold at the Atlanta Games, becoming one of South Africa's most celebrated athletes.
1996: Income Inequality in South Africa
In 1996, South Africa's Gini coefficient stood at 0.61, reflecting significant income inequality. This measure assesses the distribution of income, with a higher value indicating greater inequality.
1996: South Africa Wins 1996 African Cup of Nations
In 1996, South Africa hosted and won the African Cup of Nations, with their national team Bafana Bafana emerging victorious.
1998: South Africa Wins 1998 ICC KnockOut Trophy
In 1998, South Africa's national cricket team won the inaugural ICC KnockOut Trophy, defeating the West Indies in the final.
1999: Financial Aid Scheme Introduced
A financial aid scheme aimed at supporting students in higher education was introduced in South Africa in 1999.
2001: Religious Demographics of South Africa Based on 2001 Census
According to the 2001 census, Christians represented the largest religious group in South Africa, constituting 79.8% of the population. This included various Protestant denominations, syncretic African-initiated churches, Roman Catholics, and other Christian groups.
2001: Eskom Recognized as a Top Electricity Utility
In 2001, Eskom, South Africa's primary electricity provider, garnered global recognition as the world's best electricity utility.
2002: Nobel Prize for Molecular Biology
Sydney Brenner, a renowned South African scientist, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2002 for his groundbreaking contributions to the field of molecular biology.
2003: J.M. Coetzee Wins Nobel Prize
In 2003, J.M. Coetzee won the Nobel Prize in Literature, with the Swedish Academy highlighting his portrayal of the outsider in his works.
2003: South Africa Hosts 2003 Cricket World Cup
In 2003, South Africa hosted the Cricket World Cup, a major event in the sport's international calendar.
2003: Unemployment Trends in Post-Apartheid South Africa
Official statistics revealed a worsening unemployment rate for black South Africans between 1994 and 2003, though expanded definitions suggested significant declines. The government grappled to balance wealth redistribution with economic growth.
2004: Economic Growth and Job Creation
Starting in 2004, South Africa experienced a period of significant economic growth, accompanied by increases in both employment and capital formation.
2004: Tertiary Education Reform
South Africa embarked on a significant reform of its tertiary education system in 2004, which involved merging and incorporating smaller universities into larger institutions and renaming all tertiary education institutions to "university".
2004: Increase in Popular Protests
Since 2004, South Africa has experienced a surge in popular protests, some of which have turned violent, leading one academic to label it the "most protest-rich country in the world".
2004: South African Swimming Team Wins Olympic Gold
In 2004, the South African swimming team, comprising Roland Schoeman, Lyndon Ferns, Darian Townsend, and Ryk Neethling, won the gold medal in the 4×100 Freestyle Relay at the Athens Olympics, breaking the world record.
2004: Increase in the Number of Black Muslims in South Africa
By 2004, the number of black Muslims in South Africa had risen to 74,700, showing a significant increase in the Muslim population.
2005: Impact of HIV/AIDS Pandemic
By 2005, South Africa's life expectancy had plummeted to 53 years, down from a high of 62 years in 1992, largely due to the HIV/AIDS pandemic and the government's inadequate initial response.
2005: U-Carmen e-Khayelitsha Wins Golden Bear
In 2005, the film U-Carmen e-Khayelitsha won the Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival, marking another significant achievement for South African film.
June 2006: South Africa Submits National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan
The Convention on Biological Diversity received South Africa's National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan on June 7, 2006.
2006: Legalization of Same-Sex Marriage
South Africa made history in 2006 by becoming the first African country to legalize same-sex marriage, a distinction it still holds.
2006: Initial Indictment Against Zuma
The 2006 indictment against Jacob Zuma on charges of fraud, corruption, racketeering, and money laundering marked the beginning of a protracted legal battle that would continue for over a decade.
2006: Decline of Gold Production
Until 2006, South Africa held the position of the world's leading gold producer for nearly a century.
2006: Tsotsi Wins Academy Award
In 2006, the film Tsotsi won the Academy Award for Foreign Language Film at the 78th Academy Awards, bringing international recognition to South African cinema.
2006: Estimated Number of Fungal Species in South Africa
In 2006, it was estimated that South Africa was home to around 200,000 species of fungi. This estimate, however, did not consider fungi that have a symbiotic relationship with insects.
2006: South Africa Chairs the Group of 77
In 2006, South Africa served as the chair of the Group of 77, an intergovernmental organization of developing countries at the United Nations.
2006: South African Attitudes Towards Immigration
A 2006 survey by the South African Migration Project revealed that South Africans held stronger anti-immigration sentiments compared to other nationalities, reflecting growing concerns about competition for jobs and resources.
2007: Construction of Mega Power Stations Commences
In 2007, Eskom embarked on the construction of two mega power stations, Kusile and Medupi, designed to be the world's largest dry-cooled power stations.
2007: Adult Literacy Rate
In 2007, South Africa boasted an adult literacy rate of 89%.
2007: South Africa Hosts 2007 World Twenty20
In 2007, South Africa hosted the World Twenty20 Championship, showcasing their capabilities in organizing international cricket events.
2007: South Africa Wins 2007 Rugby World Cup
In 2007, South Africa won the Rugby World Cup for the second time, further establishing their dominance in the sport.
2007: Government's Response to HIV/AIDS
In 2007, facing international pressure, the South African government initiated efforts to combat HIV/AIDS.
2007: Estimated Refugee and Asylum Seeker Population in South Africa
In 2007, the estimated refugee and asylum seeker population in South Africa was around 144,700, according to the World Refugee Survey 2008.
2007: Onset of Energy Crisis
South Africa's energy crisis, characterized by frequent rolling blackouts known as loadshedding, began in 2007 and has persisted, posing significant challenges to the country's economy and infrastructure.
May 2008: Xenophobic Riots in South Africa
In May 2008, South Africa experienced a wave of xenophobic riots, resulting in the deaths of over 60 people and the displacement of an estimated 100,000, primarily targeting migrants and refugees, highlighting tensions over resources and immigration.
May 2008: Anti-Immigrant Riots Erupt in South Africa
A series of riots targeting immigrants began in South Africa in May 2008.
2008: World Refugee Survey Publishes Statistics on South Africa
The U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants published the World Refugee Survey in 2008.
2008: Gold Production Figures
In 2008, South Africa's gold production reached 205 metric tons.
2008: Xenophobic Riots in Johannesburg
In 2008, Johannesburg was rocked by xenophobic riots, characterized by violence and looting directed at foreign nationals, exposing the deep-seated issue of xenophobia in the country.
2008: Racial Disparity in HIV/AIDS Infection
A 2008 study highlighted the racial disparity in HIV/AIDS infection rates in South Africa, revealing that 13.6% of black South Africans were HIV-positive, compared to only 0.3% of white South Africans.
2009: Continued Decline in Gold Production
By the close of 2009, South Africa's gold mining industry had experienced a significant decline.
2009: Surveys Reveal High Incidence of Rape
Disturbing findings from two surveys conducted in 2009 revealed the alarming prevalence of rape in South Africa. A Medical Research Council survey in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape found that one in four men admitted to having raped someone. Another survey by CIET Africa in Johannesburg revealed that one in three women reported being raped in the preceding year.
2009: New Health Minister and HIV/AIDS Policy
Following the 2009 general elections, newly elected President Jacob Zuma appointed Aaron Motsoaledi as health minister, who committed to increasing funding and expanding HIV treatment programs.
2009: Life Expectancy Disparity
In 2009, South Africa witnessed a significant disparity in life expectancy based on race, with white South Africans having a life expectancy of 71 years compared to 48 years for black South Africans, as per the South African Institute of Race Relations.
2010: Improvements in Water and Sanitation Access
By 2010, South Africa had made significant progress in expanding access to essential services, with water access reaching 79% and sanitation access also reaching 79% of the population.
2010: Jordy Smith Wins Billabong J-Bay Open
In 2010, Durban surfer Jordy Smith won the Billabong J-Bay Open, making him the highest-ranked surfer in the world at that time.
2010: South Africa Hosts 2010 FIFA World Cup
In 2010, South Africa hosted the FIFA World Cup and received high praise from FIFA president Sepp Blatter for successfully organizing the event.
2010: South Africa and China Elevate Bilateral Ties
President Jacob Zuma of South Africa and President Hu Jintao of China signed the Beijing Agreement in 2010. This agreement upgraded the countries' relationship to a "comprehensive strategic partnership" in economic and political areas, enhancing collaboration between their governing parties and legislative bodies.
2011: Assessment of Xenophobia in South Africa
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees reported in 2011 that despite persistent xenophobia in South Africa, recent violence had not reached the same scale as previously feared.
2011: South Africa Joins BRICS
South Africa, under President Zuma's leadership, became a member of the BRICS group (Brazil, Russia, India, China) in 2011. Zuma highlighted these nations as South Africa's primary trading partners and key players in African trade. He emphasized that BRICS members would cooperate through platforms such as the UN, G20, and the India, Brazil, South Africa (IBSA) forum.
2011: South Africa Publishes First National Climate Change Report
South Africa released its first national report addressing climate change in 2011.
2012: Economic Impact of Tourism
According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, the tourism industry in South Africa made a direct contribution of ZAR 102 billion to the country's GDP in 2012 and supported 10.3% of jobs nationwide.
2012: Iron Ore Production and Exports
By 2012, South Africa surpassed India as the third-largest global supplier of iron ore to China, the world's largest consumer of this resource.
2012: Oscar Pistorius Competes in Olympics
In 2012, Oscar Pistorius became the first double amputee sprinter to compete at the Olympic Games, participating in the London Olympics.
August 2013: South Africa as an Investment Destination
In August 2013, fDi Intelligence recognized South Africa as the leading African Country of the Future, citing its economic potential, labor environment, cost-effectiveness, infrastructure, business-friendly climate, and FDI strategy.
2013: Coldest Temperature Recorded in Mainland South Africa
Buffelsfontein, located in the Eastern Cape, experienced the coldest temperature ever recorded on mainland South Africa in 2013, reaching -20.1 °C (-4.2 °F).
2013: Recovery of Human Development Index
South Africa's Human Development Index recovered to its 1995 peak in 2013, reflecting progress in addressing some of the socioeconomic challenges faced in the post-apartheid era.
2014: High Number of Reported Rapes
In 2014-2015, South Africa reported 43,195 cases of rape, indicating a significant problem of sexual violence, with an unknown number of assaults going unreported.
2014: Record Number of Rhino Deaths from Poaching
The Department of Environmental Affairs reported a record 1,215 rhino deaths due to poaching in 2014.
2014: Delayed Completion of Power Stations
The Kusile and Medupi power stations were initially scheduled for completion in 2014; however, they faced significant delays and cost overruns.
2015: The Endless River at Venice Film Festival
In 2015, Oliver Hermanus's film The Endless River became the first South African film to be selected for the Venice Film Festival.
2015: United Nations' Estimate of South Africa's Population
The United Nations' World Population Prospects estimated that South Africa's total population was 55.3 million in 2015.
2015: High Income Inequality in South Africa
In 2015, South Africa's income inequality was starkly evident, with the wealthiest 10% of the population holding 71% of the nation's net wealth. Conversely, 60% of the population held a mere 7% of the net wealth, resulting in a Gini coefficient of 0.63, indicating a high level of inequality.
2015: UNAIDS Report on HIV
A UNAIDS medical report in 2015 estimated that South Africa had seven million people living with HIV, the highest number globally.
2015: Financial Challenges of State-Owned Enterprises
By 2015, several South African state-owned enterprises (SOEs), including South African Airways (SAA), faced financial difficulties, with SAA requiring billions of Rands in government bailouts.
2015: Progress in HIV/AIDS Treatment
By 2015, South Africa had made significant strides in HIV/AIDS treatment, with the widespread availability of antiretroviral drugs contributing to an increase in life expectancy from 52.1 years to 62.5 years.
2015: Financial Aid for Higher Education
By 2015, a financial aid scheme launched in 1999 had provided support to 1.4 million students pursuing higher education in South Africa.
2016: Wayde van Niekerk Sets World Record
In 2016, Wayde van Niekerk set a world record in the 400 metres event, solidifying his place among the world's top athletes.
2016: South Africa Publishes Second National Climate Change Report
South Africa published its second national report on climate change in 2016.
March 2017: High Murder Rate in South Africa
In the year ending in March 2017, South Africa recorded 20,336 murders, resulting in a murder rate of 35.9 per 100,000 people. This figure was over five times higher than the global average of 6.2 per 100,000, underscoring the severity of the issue.
April 2017: Start of Period with High Murder Rate
From April 2017 to March 2018, South Africa experienced an alarmingly high murder rate, with an average of 57 murders occurring every day.
2017: South Africa Signs Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons
In 2017, South Africa demonstrated its commitment to nuclear disarmament by signing the UN treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.
2017: Freight Volume on Rail Network
South Africa's extensive rail network transported close to 230 million tons of freight in 2017.
February 2018: Resignation of Jacob Zuma
Under mounting pressure, Jacob Zuma resigned as President of South Africa in February 2018, marking a turning point in the country's political landscape.
March 2018: End of Period with High Murder Rate
The period from April 2017 to March 2018 marked a period of exceptionally high murder rates in South Africa, with an average of 57 murders per day.
March 2018: Announcement of Prosecution Against Zuma
Shortly after Zuma's resignation, National Director of Public Prosecutions Shaun Abrahams announced in March 2018 that Zuma would face 16 criminal charges, including fraud, corruption, racketeering, and money laundering, reigniting the controversy surrounding his presidency.
2018: End of Period with Xenophobic Attacks
By 2018, South Africa had witnessed over 500 xenophobic attacks since 1994, underscoring the persistent issue of violence and discrimination against foreigners.
2018: Establishment of Zondo Commission
In 2018, the Zondo Commission was established to investigate widespread allegations of corruption and state capture within the South African government, marking a significant step in addressing systemic corruption.
2018: HIV Prevalence and AIDS-related Deaths
In 2018, the HIV prevalence rate among adults (15-49 years) in South Africa stood at 20.4%, and 71,000 people died from AIDS-related illnesses.
2018: Cape Town Water Crisis
In 2018, Cape Town faced a severe water crisis, with predictions that the city's water supply would run dry before the end of June. Citizens were required to use less than 50 litres of water per day. Cape Town also declined an offer from Israel to assist in building desalination plants.
2019: Johannesburg Riots Target Foreigners
The 2019 Johannesburg riots, marked by violence and looting, shared similarities with the 2008 xenophobic riots in the city, both stemming from underlying tensions and animosity towards foreigners.
2019: Tourism's Contribution to GDP
In 2019, the tourism sector in South Africa contributed 2.34% to the country's GDP.
2019: Previous Ranking in the Global Innovation Index
In the 2019 Global Innovation Index, South Africa held the 63rd position.
2019: End of Period with High Murder Numbers
By 2019, the cumulative number of murders in South Africa since 1994 had surpassed 526,000, highlighting a deeply concerning trend of violence in the country.
2019: South Africa's Forest Landscape Integrity Index Score
In 2019, South Africa received a mean score of 4.94 out of 10 on the Forest Landscape Integrity Index, placing it 112th out of 172 countries globally.
2019: South Africa Wins 2019 Rugby World Cup
In 2019, South Africa clinched their third Rugby World Cup title, continuing their legacy in rugby.
2019: SANDF Personnel Numbers and Peacekeeping Role
By 2019, the SANDF had approximately 75,000 professional soldiers. It had become a significant contributor to peacekeeping efforts in Africa, participating in missions in countries including Lesotho, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Burundi. The SANDF has also been part of multinational UN Peacekeeping forces, such as the UN Force Intervention Brigade.
February 2020: Warrant Issued for Zuma's Arrest
After failing to appear in court, a warrant for Jacob Zuma's arrest was issued in February 2020, escalating the legal battle against the former president.
March 2020: Large-Scale SANDF Deployment During COVID-19 Lockdown
In March 2020, South Africa witnessed its most extensive deployment of troops since the end of apartheid. 70,000 troops were deployed to enforce strict lockdown measures implemented to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.
2020: South Africa as a Major Arms Exporter
As of 2020, South Africa ranked as the world's 24th largest arms exporter, holding the position of the sole representative from Africa in this category.
2020: Start of Target Period for South Africa's Emissions Peak
As part of international commitments, South Africa has set a target to reach its peak level of carbon emissions between 2020 and 2025.
2020: South Africa in the Financial Secrecy Index
In 2020, the Financial Secrecy Index ranked South Africa 58th globally in terms of tax haven secrecy.
2020: Growing Concerns of State Collapse in South Africa
Since 2020, South Africa has been grappling with a severe political and economic crisis, marked by high unemployment, low economic growth, soaring crime rates, political corruption, and concerns about the country's potential collapse.
2020: Impact of COVID-19 on Tourism
The tourism industry in South Africa experienced a sharp decline in 2020, with its GDP contribution dropping to 0.81%, attributed to the severe travel restrictions imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
2021: South Africa's Leading Airport Infrastructure
As of 2021, South Africa boasted 407 airports, securing its position as the African nation with the highest number of airports and ranking 20th globally in this regard.
2021: Decline in Freight Volume
By 2021, the volume of freight transported on South Africa's rail network had declined to 179 million tons, prompting efforts to revitalize the transportation sector through collaborations with the private sector.
2021: Socioeconomic Challenges Persist Despite Progress
Despite advancements in governance and living standards since apartheid, by 2021 South Africa continued to grapple with high unemployment rates around 40%. A significant proportion of the population, about 60%, lived below the poverty line, highlighting enduring socioeconomic disparities.
2021: Conviction and Sentencing of Zuma
In a significant legal development, Jacob Zuma was found guilty of contempt of court in 2021 and sentenced to 15 months in prison, sparking protests and riots among his supporters, leading to widespread violence and fatalities.
2021: SANDF Deployment During the 2021 South African Unrest
The 2021 South African unrest, the most severe violence since the end of apartheid, led to the deployment of 25,000 SANDF troops. This deployment, one of the largest since 1994, included over a dozen military helicopters and heavily armed vehicles. Troops were sent to the KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng provinces to assist the South African Police Service in suppressing riots and looting.
2022: Latest Census Conducted in South Africa
South Africa's most recent census took place in 2022.
2022: Findings of Zondo Commission
The Zondo Commission, tasked with investigating state capture in South Africa, released its findings in 2022, exposing rampant corruption across all levels of government, including state-owned enterprises, law enforcement, intelligence agencies, and the civil service.
2022: Racial Demographics of South Africa Based on 2022 Census
The 2022 census in South Africa revealed the following racial demographics: Black African 81%, Coloured 8.2%, White 7.3%, Indian or Asian 2.7%, and Other/Unspecified 0.5%.
2022: Top Three Most Spoken Home Languages in South Africa
The 2022 census identified the three most commonly spoken home languages in South Africa as Zulu (24.4%), Xhosa (16.6%), and Afrikaans (10.6%).
2022: South Africa's Neutrality in Ukraine War
South Africa maintained a neutral stance regarding Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and the subsequent ongoing war.
2022: Airport Rankings and Recognition
In the 2022 Skytrax World Airport Awards, Cape Town International Airport earned the title of best airport in Africa for the seventh consecutive year. Durban's King Shaka International Airport secured the second position, while Johannesburg's O.R. Tambo International Airport ranked third.
2022: South Africa Wins Women's Africa Cup of Nations
In 2022, the South African women's national football team won the Women's Africa Cup of Nations by defeating Morocco 2–1 in the final.
2022: Ibrahim Index of African Governance Ranking
In 2022, South Africa ranked sixth out of 48 sub-Saharan African countries on the Ibrahim Index of African Governance, performing well in categories such as Rule of Law, Transparency, Corruption, Participation, and Human Rights, but scoring low in Safety and Security.
2022: South Africa's Military Expenditure
In 2022, South Africa allocated US$3.069 billion to its armed forces, representing about 0.86% of the nation's GDP. Defense spending has been reduced in recent years due to the absence of major external military threats to the country.
February 2023: South Africa's High Crime Rate
As of February 2023, South Africa recorded the sixth highest crime rate globally, highlighting the significant security challenges faced by the nation.
December 2023: South Africa's Case Against Israel at the ICJ
On December 29, 2023, South Africa formally submitted a case to the International Court of Justice against Israel's actions in the Gaza Strip, alleging genocide against Palestinians during the Israel-Hamas war.
2023: South Africa's Ranking in the Global Innovation Index
South Africa's commitment to innovation earned it the 59th position in the 2023 Global Innovation Index.
2023: South African Sign Language Recognized as Official Language
South Africa added South African Sign Language as an official language in 2023.
2023: SAPS Special Task Force Excels in International SWAT Competition
In February 2023, the South African Police Service (SAPS) Special Task Force showcased their skills on a global stage, securing 9th place in an international SWAT competition. This achievement positioned them as the top-performing team from Africa among 55 participating law enforcement units from around the world.
2023: Women's Team Reaches Last 16 in FIFA Women's World Cup
In 2023, the South African women's football team reached the last 16 at the FIFA Women's World Cup, securing a win against Italy and a tie with Argentina in the group stage.
2023: Military Deployment to Protect Power Stations
In 2023, the South African Military was deployed to safeguard Eskom's power stations against acts of sabotage and theft.
2023: South Africa Wins 2023 Rugby World Cup
In 2023, South Africa won the Rugby World Cup for the fourth time, achieving the most wins of any country in the tournament's history.
2023: South Africa Hosts 2023 ICC Women's T20 World Cup
In 2023, South Africa hosted the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, where the national women's team won silver.
2023: South Africa's Global Democratic Standing
As of 2023, the V-Dem Democracy Indices ranked South Africa 51st globally in electoral democracy, reflecting the progress made since the end of apartheid. It also highlights its standing as the third-highest ranking in Africa for democratic practices.
2023: South Africa's Economic Standing and Challenges
As of 2023, South Africa possesses the largest economy in Africa and is considered the continent's economic powerhouse. With a GDP per capita of US$16,080 (purchasing power parity), it ranks 95th globally. However, South Africa continues to grapple with high levels of poverty, unemployment, and income inequality, ranking among the top ten countries globally for income inequality based on the Gini coefficient.
May 2024: 2024 South African General Election
The African National Congress (ANC) lost its majority for the first time since the end of Apartheid in the May 2024 general election, securing only 40% of the vote and 159 seats. The Democratic Alliance (DA) won 22% and 87 seats, the uMkhonto weSizwe party won 14.6% and 58 seats, and the Economic Freedom Fighters won 9.5% and 39 seats. The ANC subsequently formed a Government of National Unity with the DA and several smaller parties.
2024: South Africa Wins Silver at 2024 ICC T20 World Cup
In 2024, the South African men's cricket team won silver at the ICC T20 World Cup, adding another achievement to their record.
2024: Formation of National Unity Government
The 2024 general elections in South Africa saw the ANC's vote share dip below 50% for the first time since the end of apartheid, leading to the formation of a national unity government, the first since Nelson Mandela's cabinet.
2024: Projected Completion of Medupi Power Station
The Medupi power station is now projected to be fully operational by 2024.
2025: End of Target Period for South Africa's Emissions Peak
South Africa aims to achieve its highest level of carbon emissions within the period from 2020 to 2025, as part of its commitments to reduce emissions.
2026: Projected Completion of Kusile Power Station
The Kusile power station is expected to reach full completion in 2026.
2050: Climate Change Projections for Southern Africa
Computer models developed by the South African National Biodiversity Institute predict that by 2050, parts of southern Africa will experience a temperature increase. This increase is estimated to be around 1 degree Celsius along the coast and up to 4 degrees Celsius in hotter inland areas like the Northern Cape during late spring and summer.