ZAOwnership & classification
Founded: 1999
Ownership
IOL (Independent Online) is the news website of Independent Media, South Africa's second-largest newspaper group. Since 2013 it has been controlled by Sekunjalo Investment Holdings and its chairman Dr Iqbal Survé, held via the subsidiary Sagarmathra/Sekunjalo Independent Media. The 2013 buy-out of Independent News & Media SA was financed mainly by a loan from the state-owned Public Investment Corporation (which took 25%), with two Chinese state-owned entities holding a further 20%.
Funding
It is funded by advertising and digital revenue, but the underlying group has been heavily dependent on the PIC (Government Employees Pension Fund) loan and Chinese state-linked investors, and on cross-subsidy within the Sekunjalo group.
Affiliation & stance
Although nominally a commercial outlet, IOL is classified DEPENDENT because it is controlled by Iqbal Survé's Sekunjalo group and propped up by state-pension and Chinese state-linked financing; its coverage is widely seen as aligned to Survé's business and political interests, and it has been criticised for partisan, pro-owner content.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Center
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 532
86/100
Factual
82/100
Objective
1133
Articles
1133
reports
Top stories
Most covered right now
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Recent coverage
MADLANGA COMMISSION: Feroz Khan — Centrifugal force in SAPS tender dealings with tobacco bosses, inquiry hears
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry is examining the alleged connections between Major-General Feroz Khan, a high-ranking South African Police Service (SAPS) official, and business figures including Carnilinx Tobacco Company founder Mohammed 'Mo' Sayed and director Adriano Mazzotti. Khan, who was illegally appointed as acting national head of Crime Intelligence, is currently hospitalized and unable to testify. Evidence presented includes communications from confiscated iPhones, revealing ties to procurement deals involving PPE and other tenders, as well as links to former President Jacob Zuma's political circle. Mazzotti, who has supported Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema, attempted to block the commission from considering past legal issues involving his company. The inquiry also explores potential collusion between Khan and Malema to undermine former Inspector-General of Intelligence Dr Selumanthuro Dintwe.
How upgrading from gravel to tar roads is skyrocketing South African property values
Upgrading gravel roads to tar roads in South Africa is significantly increasing nearby property values, according to the Gap Infrastructure Corporation (GIC). This improvement in infrastructure enhances accessibility, reduces transportation costs, and boosts confidence in areas for future growth. The GIC emphasizes that well-planned infrastructure creates economic opportunities rather than merely following growth. Dianne Davies, an independent advisor, highlights the transformation of South Africa's construction industry over the past five decades, noting its resilience despite challenges like reduced public spending and market shifts. She stresses the importance of sound project execution, transparency, and collaboration between government and private sectors for future growth. Meanwhile, Andile Magiba of Redefine Properties suggests that water infrastructure could become the next major asset class, similar to how oil shaped the previous century.
When mothers become perpetrators: confronting a hidden form of child sexual exploitation
The article discusses the issue of maternal child sexual exploitation, highlighting how some mothers become perpetrators or facilitators of sexual abuse against their own children. Written by Shaheda Omar, a child protection practitioner with over three decades of experience, the piece emphasizes the societal reluctance to acknowledge this form of abuse due to ingrained beliefs about mothers as protectors. It outlines two main categories of cases: direct sexual abuse by mothers and indirect exploitation through facilitating abuse by others. The author stresses that while socioeconomic factors like poverty or trauma may contribute to such situations, they do not justify the abuse. The article calls attention to the need for greater awareness and systemic changes to address this hidden form of child exploitation.
'Not Suitable for Work' is the comforting new workplace comedy for anyone who misses 'New Girl'
The article discusses Mindy Kaling's new workplace comedy series 'Not Suitable for Work,' which is part of her unofficial 'young adulthood trilogy.' The show follows a group of twenty-somethings navigating their careers in Manhattan, drawing from Kaling's personal experiences in her early 20s. It highlights characters like AJ Pascarell, Abby Chilukuri, Davis Barrett, Josh Teitelbaum, and Kel Washington, each representing different approaches to work and life in the city. While some critics have noted the show's predictable plot, the article emphasizes its exploration of various career paths and the dynamics of friendships in a competitive urban environment.
Skip the Swiss Alps and head straight to Lesotho for an affordable snow escape
The article promotes Lesotho as an affordable alternative to the European Alps for winter sports enthusiasts, highlighting its snow-covered landscapes, the Afriski Mountain Resort, and unique cultural aspects. It emphasizes the country's elevation and climate, which contribute to its status as the highest and coldest nation in Africa. The piece offers practical travel tips for visitors during winter, including advice on packing appropriate clothing, navigating mountain roads, and respecting local customs. While the focus is on tourism and travel experiences, the article does not delve into political issues or controversies.
How to beat the cold and rain with these fun indoor activities this winter
The article provides suggestions for fun indoor activities to enjoy during the winter months, focusing on ways to stay entertained despite cold and rainy weather. It highlights various options such as indoor go-karting, trampoline parks, escape rooms, and budget-friendly alternatives like puzzle solving, indoor painting, and movie marathons. The piece emphasizes the benefits of these activities, including their accessibility, affordability, and ability to provide enjoyment regardless of outdoor conditions.
US ambassador Brent Bozell engages with Afrikaner leaders amid Pretoria-Washington rift
US Ambassador Brent Bozell met with Afrikaner leaders in Pretoria, including representatives from various organizations like AfriForum and Freedom Front Plus, during heightened tensions between South Africa and the United States. The meeting occurred amid a significant diplomatic rift, exacerbated by former U.S. President Donald Trump's allegations of violence against white farmers in South Africa, which were denied by both the South African government and some Afrikaner groups. The U.S. has imposed economic measures, including a 30% tariff on South African exports, though this was later reduced to 10% after a Supreme Court ruling. Bozell, a Trump ally, faced criticism for controversial comments upon his arrival in South Africa, leading to an apology. He reportedly outlined five demands to improve U.S.-South Africa relations, including distancing from Iran and addressing land expropriation policies.
An American gets the maximum amount of recovery time at Wimbledon.
The article discusses the scheduling of the first-round doubles match at Wimbledon involving American tennis player Serena Williams and her sister Venus Williams against the Argentine-Colombian pair Solana Sierra and Camila Osorio. The match was initially scheduled for Thursday and Friday but has been postponed due to Serena's injury during her singles match. Tournament organizer Andy Murray (likely a misstatement, as Andy Murray is a British player, and the correct name might be someone like Ashley Barker or another official) stated they are giving Serena as much time as possible to recover. They ruled out postponing the match to later dates unless necessary for safety or tournament flow. The match is expected to take place on a larger court to accommodate the large crowd attracted by Serena and Venus, who are major stars. Serena returned to professional tennis after four years, but she lost her first singles match and injured her knee. She did not attend a press conference afterward due to health reasons and expressed her commitment to participating in the doubles event. Serena and Venus have won six doubles titles together, including a title in 2016.
Essential rules for keeping your child safe online this holiday
This article discusses the importance of online safety for children during the holiday season as schools close and more time is spent on digital devices. It highlights risks such as cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and encounters with online predators. The piece offers practical advice for parents, including conducting a 'Holiday Privacy Audit,' setting boundaries on device usage, using parental control tools, and encouraging open communication with children about online behavior. The recommendations emphasize balancing digital freedom with protection, without resorting to extreme measures like restricting access to devices entirely.
Chery formally inaugurates new SA assembly plant in Rosslyn - but what will they build?
Chery Auto has officially taken over the former Nissan South Africa assembly plant in Rosslyn, Gauteng, marking a shift in local automotive manufacturing. The plant, which previously produced Nissan Navara trucks, will undergo refurbishment before starting local production from mid-2027. While specific models have not been disclosed, several Chery-branded vehicles, including the Jaecoo J5, Lepas L4, Chery Tiggo Cross, and potentially the Jetour T-Series SUV and KP31 bakkie, are expected to be manufactured locally. Chery aims to produce 50,000 units annually by 2028 and has committed to retaining most of the former Nissan workforce. The project has received regulatory approval and is projected to create thousands of jobs both directly and indirectly. Chery's CEO emphasized reliance on imported components initially, with plans to gradually develop a local supplier network.
Cape Town gynae loses SCA appeal to restore hospital admission after suspension
Dr Ganes Anil Ramdhin, a specialist obstetrician and gynaecologist, lost his appeal before the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) to have his hospital admission privileges restored at Rondebosch Medical Centre (RMC). His privileges were terminated automatically due to a three-year suspension by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), stemming from charges of unprofessional conduct in 2020. During his suspension, RMC implemented new policies requiring peer reviews and proof of active HPCSA registration. Despite being allowed to resume supervised practice in June 2024, RMC denied reinstatement, citing reputational risks and lack of need for another gynaecologist. Dr Ramdhin filed a legal challenge, which was ultimately rejected by the SCA.
Africa's richest horse race ready for another memorable chapter
The Hollywoodbets Durban July, South Africa's most prestigious horse race with a R10 million prize purse, is set to take place at Greyville Racecourse. Recent last-minute changes to the field have increased intrigue, with notable entries including Curious Girl, the SA Derby winner, and Wish List, ridden by 59-year-old jockey Andrew Fortune, who aims to become the oldest modern-era winner. French jockey Mickaëlle Michel and Australian jockey Zac Lloyd also highlight the event, adding unique storylines. Champion trainer Justin Snaith, with five previous wins, will saddle multiple contenders, while Mike de Kock seeks his first victory alongside his son Mathew. The race continues its legacy of producing iconic champions and remains a significant milestone in South African racing.
Dis-Chem's strategic investments position it for future growth in South Africa
Dis-Chem, a South African healthcare retailer, is positioning itself for future growth despite recent declines in its stock price. Chairman Larry Nestadt noted that the company remains well-positioned to capitalize on increasing demand for accessible healthcare and wellness products, although the broader economic environment remains challenging. The company's shares have dropped over 16% since its May annual results, prompting CEO Luis Morais to acknowledge shareholder concerns regarding disappointing earnings. Dis-Chem is investing in digital transformation initiatives such as the Better Rewards program, a new mobile app, and omnichannel capabilities, alongside strategic investments in health-tech ventures like X, Bigly Labs. These efforts aim to enhance customer engagement, expand market share, and strengthen its integrated healthcare ecosystem. While these investments have temporarily impacted profitability, management emphasizes their long-term value and commitment to transparent communication with stakeholders.
Overlooked
Under-reported & one-sided
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Looming carnage: On the dangerous anti-migrant mobilisation in South Africa
SAPS in crisis — SA needs better way of appointing senior police officers
Revealing the truth: Ethical misconduct in South African psychology
US, Iran reach preliminary agreement to end war, signing set for Friday
