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Discover the story of our nation, one fact at a time.
South Africa is home to Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in Soweto, one of the largest hospitals in the world. It has approximately 3,200 beds and serves a massive population in Gauteng and surrounding areas.
The annual Sardine Run along the east coast of South Africa is one of the greatest marine spectacles on Earth. Billions of sardines migrate northwards, attracting huge numbers of sharks, dolphins, seals, and seabirds in a massive feeding frenzy.
The Real Yellowwood (Podocarpus latifolius) is South Africa's national tree. This slow-growing evergreen is found in forests across the country and can live for hundreds of years. It is protected by law.
Sasol, a South African company, pioneered the commercial production of liquid fuels from coal. The process, based on Fischer-Tropsch technology, was developed to overcome fuel shortages and remains an important part of the country's energy sector.
The Karoo region of South Africa is one of the world's richest areas for fossils from the Permian and Triassic periods. Many early mammal-like reptiles and dinosaurs have been discovered there, helping scientists understand the evolution of life on Earth.
South Africa has a dual legal system that recognises both Roman-Dutch common law and African customary law. Traditional leaders and customary courts continue to play an important role alongside the modern court system.
The first public railway line in Africa was opened in South Africa in 1860. It ran a short distance between Durban and the Point in what is now KwaZulu-Natal, marking the beginning of the continent's railway network.
Rooibos tea is a unique South African herbal tea made from the Aspalathus linearis plant, which grows only in the Cederberg region of the Western Cape. It is caffeine-free and has become popular worldwide for its health benefits and distinctive flavour.
South Africa is the only African country that is a member of the G20. It joined the group of the world's major economies in 1999 and continues to represent African interests on the global stage.
The Cango Caves near Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape are among the most impressive show caves in the world. Formed over millions of years, the caves feature vast chambers, stalactites, and stalagmites, and have been a popular tourist attraction for more than 200 years.