Eskom emissions break boundaries
South Africa’s energy utility Eskom came in way over its target for 2025/26, and significantly above the level for the preceding year. This is according to its new sustainability report. Its relative particulate emissions rose from 0.64 kgs per megawatt hour sent out (kg/MWh) in 2024/25 to 0.98 kg/MWh in 2025/26 – an increase of 53%. They were also close to three times the target of 0.35 kg/MWh it had set for the year.
“Glitch” prevents ANC nominations to IEC
The ANC has failed to submit lists of candidates for a number of Eastern Cape municipalities, citing “technical issues” on the Electoral Commission’s candidate capture system. The ANC indicated that it would engage with the IEC on the matter, but a statement from the commission noted that it had “not allowed any party, nor does it intend to allow any party or independent candidate, an additional capturing opportunity”. There have been additional allegations that lists submitted have been tampered with and certain names removed.
More Madlanga medical drama
Khan’s appearance before the Madlanga Commission has been delayed until September 28 after he was hospitalised again. His legal team sought the postponement and resisted the proposed use of an independent medical examiner. Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga consented to the delay but set conditions for any further exemption. Khan would need to undergo an independent assessment by September 8, with the report submitted by September 15 confirming whether he is fit to testify. If no specialist can be agreed on, one will be appointed independently. The commission emphasised that his subpoena remains enforceable.
Germany accuses Russia of attempted drone attack
Germany has accused Russia of orchestrating a failed drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport, citing forensic evidence and intelligence assessments. The airport handles military supplies, and a drone carrying explosives was found near to Ukrainian cargo planes on 4 August. It appears to have malfunctioned, and there are reports of other drones having been identified. Germany has responded by summoning Russia’s ambassador, closing Russia’s consulate in Bonn, terminating the lease for the Russian House in Berlin (a venue for promoting friendship between the two countries), tightening entry restrictions on Russian citizens and targeting Russia’s sanctions-busting tanker fleet. Russia has denied responsibility and threatened reciprocal action. The accusations come amid growing European concern about Russian hybrid operations. Germany is also investigating a separate sabotage incident involving explosive devices at a Brandenburg electricity facility.
R120 billion needed for school infrastructure: Gwarube
Basic education minister Siviwe Gwarube has said that supplying classrooms and infrastructure required for the growing learner population requires R120 bn. This challenge necessitated the involvement of the private sector. She also said that opportunities and learning quality should not be limited by where children are born or schooled. She was speaking at the launch of Leap 9 Maths and Science School in Kariega, Eastern Cape.
Sources: News24, IOL, BBC, Business Day