Ramaphosa and DA trade blows over B-BBEE
President Cyril Ramaphosa criticised the Democratic Alliance for what he described as its anti-B-BBEE stance, arguing that transformation policies remain essential to tackle inequality. DA leader John Steenhuisen said the party would not retreat from its position, deepening political tensions ahead of elections.
Andrew Mountbatten Windsor released after police visit
British police attended the residence of the former Prince as part of an ongoing investigation, according to reports, but he was later released without charge. The development marks a significant moment in a case that has drawn sustained public and media scrutiny, though authorities have not announced further action.
FMD declared as national disaster
A national disaster has been declared as a fast-spreading foot-and-mouth outbreak sweeps across the country, devastating livestock herds and threatening rural livelihoods, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal’s dairy heartland. Farmers say delayed vaccine roll-outs and weak biosecurity have worsened the crisis, warning that continued export bans and production losses could push many out of business despite government plans for mass vaccination and renewed domestic vaccine production.
Trump convenes Board of Peace on Gaza
Former US President Donald Trump chaired the inaugural meeting of a new “Board of Peace”, aimed at coordinating reconstruction funding for Gaza following the recent conflict. Participating countries pledged billions of dollars towards rebuilding efforts, although questions remain over how the initiative will align with existing international frameworks.
Cape Winelands airport project nears construction
A proposed R8 billion airport development in the Cape Winelands, known as FACET, has cleared most regulatory processes and now faces a final approval stage before construction can begin. Backers say the project could stimulate tourism and regional economic growth if it proceeds.
Sources: News24, Reuters, BBC, AP, Daily Maverick