March 2025 brought a mix of political debates, social drama, and exciting sports moments across Africa. If you’re following major changes and controversies, this roundup has you covered.
Julius Malema didn’t hold back when it came to the proposed VAT hike by the ANC. He flat-out denied that his party, the EFF, is negotiating any deal about increasing VAT rates. Malema argued this tax would hit poor families hardest and pushed for targeting corporations and the wealthy instead. This stirred the political pot even more as South Africa waits for a revised budget amid tough economic times. So, if you're wondering who’s really challenging the ANC’s plans, Malema and the EFF are not backing down.
In Nigeria, NYSC corps member Ushie Rita Uguamaye found herself in hot water over a TikTok clip where she said Lagos "smells" and critiqued President Tinubu’s economic policies. After backlash and a summons from NYSC, she apologized, clarifying her video was about highlighting economic struggles, not insulting anyone. Her situation drew support from human rights groups defending free expression, showing how social media can suddenly turn local views into national controversies.
Sports fans had their own news to catch up on. Manchester United traveled to Bucharest for a Europa League match against FCSB, aiming to secure a crucial win. Historically strong against Romanian teams, United faced a determined home team in what promised to be a thrilling showdown.
Meanwhile, over in Scotland, Rangers’ manager Philippe Clement was feeling the heat. After a series of disappointing results including losing in the Scottish Cup, Clement openly apologized to fans. Despite some good moments, failing to close in on the rival Celtic team and growing fan dissatisfaction put his future on shaky ground.
All in all, March showed how political decisions, social media, and sports dramas connect daily life across Africa. Keeping up with these will help you understand the bigger picture of what’s shaping the continent today.
Julius Malema, head of the EFF, firmly denied his party's involvement in VAT increase talks with the ANC. He criticized the proposed tax hike for its impact on low-income groups and advocated for corporate and wealth taxes instead. Meanwhile, coalition tensions rise as the revised budget is awaited amid economic challenges.
Ushie Rita Uguamaye, an NYSC member, apologizes for a TikTok video where she referred to Lagos as 'smelling' and criticized President Tinubu's economic policies. Faced with threats and NYSC summons, Uguamaye clarifies her remarks aimed at highlighting Nigeria's economic challenges, not to insult Lagosians. Human rights groups defend her expression rights amid calls for her expulsion.
Manchester United heads to Bucharest to face FCSB in a decisive Europa League match. With both teams striving for a win to boost their standings, fans can expect an intense game. United has a successful track record against Romanian teams but faces a resilient FCSB at home.
Philippe Clement's tenure as Rangers manager is under intense scrutiny after a string of disappointing results. In a heartfelt apology to fans, Clement acknowledged key failures, including a Scottish Cup loss. Despite some successes, his failure to close the gap with Celtic and increasing fan discontent have put his position in jeopardy.