insert_link AfricaBotswana’s settles case with Bridgette Motsepe Botswana’s government and businesswoman Bridgette Motsepe have reached a High Court–backed settlement to resolve the long-running “Butterfly” case. The agreement includes a formal apology from the state and the withdrawal of previously filed fraud, corruption, and money-laundering claims. The settlement, mediated through a court consent order, follows an investigation by Cherie Blair’s Omnia Strategy law firm, which found no evidence supporting the allegations. According to Daily Maverick, as part […] today1 July, 2025
insert_link South AfricaSouth Africa’s DA prepares no confidence motion against President Ramaphosa DA federal council chairperson Helen Zille The Democratic Alliance (DA) has revealed it is prepared to table a motion of no-confidence against President Cyril Ramaphosa after he dismisses DA deputy minister Andrew Whitfield for taking an unauthorised trip to the United States. DA federal council chairperson Helen Zille told reporters this “nuclear option” could potentially bring down the government if pursued—and if parliamentary support materialises. According to the SABC, Zille characterised Whitfield’s […] today1 July, 2025
insert_link Business / EconomicsNamibia eyes intra-Africa trade growth through increased exports Following Namibia having launched its first export consignment under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) from Walvis Bay, the nation is now officially open for intra-African trade—granting access to a market of over 1.3 billion consumers. Minister Selma Ashipala‑Musavyi handed over the trading certificate during the ceremony, marking Namibia's readiness to engage in one of Africa’s largest trade pacts. Managing Director of High Economic Intelligence, Salomo Hei, welcomed the development […] today1 July, 2025
insert_link Business / EconomicsFNB introduces affordable banking FNB Namibia has launched its 2025 annual pricing structure, introducing measures to make banking more affordable and accessible. Effective today, the bank has eliminated all fees on local card swipes—a first in the Namibian market. According to FNB Group Communication Manager Kirsty Watermeyer, the zero-fee swipe policy is part of a broader strategy to foster financial inclusion and promote digital banking. “Banking should be simple, fair, and aligned with the […] today1 July, 2025
insert_link South AfricaFormer Transnet executives granted bail Photo: Daily Maverick Four former Transnet executives have each been granted bail of R50,000 by the Palm Ridge Specialised Commercial Crimes Court in Gauteng. They face serious charges that include corruption, fraud, and money laundering in connection with a R93 million locomotive tender from 2015, part of a broader R54 billion deal tainted by ties to the Gupta family network. The accused are former Transnet CEOs Brian Molefe and Siyabonga Gama, former […] today1 July, 2025
insert_link Health / MedicalHealth Ministry welcomes private doctors to ease pressure on public health facilities Health Minister, Dr. Esperance Luvindao The Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr. Esperance Luvindao, has announced that 11 private-sector doctors have volunteered to provide pro bono evening care at Katutura Health Centre. Starting this week, the doctors will work from 17:00 to 23:00 to help reduce long patient wait times and alleviate strain on public health staff. Katutura Health Centre, one of Windhoek’s busiest facilities, has faced continuous overcrowding due to […] today1 July, 2025
AfricaSeven killed in crackdown on anti-government protests in Togo Togo protests At least seven people, including minors, were killed during anti-government protests in Togo’s capital last week, civil society groups reported. The protests, sparked by a cost-of-living crisis and demands for President Faure Gnassingbé’s resignation, escalated into violent clashes. Witnesses say security forces used tear gas and batons, with arrests, beatings, and property damage widespread. According to a coalition of 12 human rights organisations, bodies were recovered from multiple […] today1 July, 2025
insert_link AfricaIndia sends geologists to Zambia Zambian mine. Photo: India Mining website India has dispatched a team of geologists to Zambia to explore copper and cobalt deposits. The plan is to secure critical minerals essential for India's energy transition and industrial expansion. Reuters reports that under a government-to-government deal, Zambia has granted India rights to explore approximately 9,000 km² in its resource-rich Copperbelt region. The exploration drive is led by the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and […] today1 July, 2025
insert_link Business / EconomicsSouth Africa’s civil confidence index dips as business sentiment grows pessimistic Photo: Michele Spatari/AFP FNB South Africa senior economist Siphamandla Mkhwanazi has reported that the FNB/BER Civil Confidence Index dropped to 41 in Q2 2025, down from 45 in Q1, marking its third consecutive quarterly decline. Mkhwanazi said that nearly 60% of respondents are now dissatisfied with current business conditions, expressing concerns particularly about low demand, delayed project tenders, and a lack of large-scale infrastructure initiatives. Despite improved construction activity and profitability […] today1 July, 2025
