Road Accident Fund RAF South Africa Key News and Updates July 2026

The Road Accident Fund (RAF) continues to dominate South African headlines in July 2026. Here is a roundup of the most important RAF news.

1. R21.7 Billion in Finalised Claims Still Unpaid

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy disclosed that the RAF has 37,622 unpaid claims worth R21.76 billion as at 28 June 2026. Delays are caused by compliance checks (R11 billion), verification delays (R9.1 billion), and missing documents (R1.7 billion). Many claims date back to 2007.

2. Scopa Inquiry: Incompetence Dwarfs Corruption

Scopa chair Songezo Zibi stated on 27 July 2026 that incompetence is costing the RAF billions per year. Criminal charges against former CEO Collins Letsoalo are in motion. Proper management could save R5 billion per year. The RAF risks bankrupting the country if reforms are not implemented urgently.

3. Supreme Court of Appeal Rules on RAF 1 Form

A SCA judgement on 30 April 2026 directed the RAF to revert to the 2008 RAF 1 Form. Previously rejected claims from 6 May 2022 onwards will be re-processed. Rejected claims will not prescribe until 30 September 2026. Contact the RAF at 087 820 1 111 or contactcentre@raf.co.za.

4. New Funding Model Under Review

A possible mandatory vehicle licence fee may supplement the fuel levy. The RAF carries an estimated R500 billion in debt. Scopa may also recommend capping damages claims.

5. Over 310,000 Claimants Paid R79.33 Billion

Between October 2024 and May 2026, the RAF paid out R79.33 billion benefiting over 310,000 claimants. The RAF urges claimants to protect settlement payments from fraud.

6. Court Rejects R2.8 Million RAF Claim

On 28 July 2026, the North West High Court dismissed a R2.8 million loss-of-earnings claim because the claimant failed to prove his job dismissal was caused by accident injuries. RAF claims must be supported by robust, medically verified evidence.

7. RAF Community Outreach

The RAF hosted a Settlement Drive at Ngwelezane Hospital and visited the Majakathata Taxi Rank in July 2026 to assist claimants.

Contact the Road Accident Fund

• Phone: 087 820 1 111 (Mon-Fri, 07:45-16:00)
• WhatsApp: 071 605 4707
• SMS: 44930
• Email: contactcentre@raf.co.za
• Website: www.raf.co.za

Check back daily for the latest Road Accident Fund news and updates.