Languages

There are 11 Official Languages in South Africa, with the majority (roughly 40%) of the population speaking isiZulu or isiXhosa. However, you can expect to find South Africans who speak or understand English in all walks of life and in all corners of the city.

English is the main language for commerce,  banking, and government. Road signs and official documents are in English. Afrikaans is also widely spoken in Ekurhuleni. Born from the Dutch spoken by early settlers, northern Europeans usually find Afrikaans fairly easy to understand. Ekhurhuleni is also home to vibrant Portuguese, Greek and Italian
communities, although these are not “Official Languages”.

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Currency

Just as in the rest of South Africa, the currency used in Ekurhuleni is the South African Rand (ZAR). Visitors with foreign currency can exchange their notes at the many Bureau de Change found in most shopping malls, banks, and sometimes in hotels.

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Banking

The banking sector is well established in South Africa and forms a vital component of economic life in the country. On a more practical level, all major South African banks are well represented in Ekurhuleni. These banks provide ATM and credit card facilities, internet, telephone and cell phone banking, and, often, foreign exchange services.

Banking hours are:
Mon – Fri. 09h00 – 15h00
Sat. 08h00 – 11h00
Closed on Sundays

Some banks remain open later on Wednesdays, but of course ATMs are “open” 24/7.

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Media

South Africa enjoys a robust free press, not afraid to speak its mind on matters affecting society. A wide variety of local and international magazines and newspapers is available covering topics of interest to virtually everyone. Three state-run television channels, one free-to-air terrestial television station and a pay satellite service provide a broad mix of documantaries, entertainment, news, sports and special interest programming. Internet connections are provided via dial-up, ADSL, ISDN and wireless broadband. Wherever you are in Ekurhuleni you will always be able to keep in touch with the latest happenings in world affairs.

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