insert_link South Africa SA’s President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa will not be silenced about global human rights abuses SA's President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa may be a small nation on the international front, but it will not be silenced about global human rights abuses. In his first-ever address to the Cape Town Press Club on Thursday, Ramaphosa referred to unfolding conflicts in Russia and Ukraine and between Hamas and Israel. He also addressed several pressing issues in the country. Journalists peppered the president with questions, and concerns […] todayFebruary 16, 2024 8
insert_link World France and Ukraine to sign bilateral security deal Friday French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelensky are due to sign a bilateral security agreement on Friday. The deal comes amid ammunition shortages in Ukraine…as its war with Russia is about to enter its third year. Toni Waterman has more from Paris. todayFebruary 16, 2024 12
insert_link South Africa Recusal Decision Reserved in “Kill the Boer” Appeal Case: AfriForum Awaits Verdict The Supreme Court of Appeal in South Africa has deferred judgment on AfriForum's plea to have acting judge of appeal, Raylene Keightley, recused from the "Kill the Boer" appeal case. AfriForum filed the recusal request in 2023, citing Keightley's strong opinions against the organization in a previous case. Kallie Kriel, AfriForum's spokesperson, highlights the importance of an impartial judiciary in cases involving controversial statements by Julius Malema and the EFF. […] todayFebruary 16, 2024 18
insert_link World Indian farmers continue to pressure government for higher crop prices A third round of talks between Indian farmers and government officials last night was inconclusive, as farmers demand higher prices for their crops. A union is organising a nationwide strike, which follows protests this week as farmers continue to put pressure on prime minister Narendra Modi's government ahead of a general election this month. Rebecca Bundhun reports from Mumbai . todayFebruary 16, 2024 18
insert_link Business / Economics U.S Retail sales slump in January Retail sales declined by a more than expected 0.8 percent in the U.S. last month. That marks the biggest dip since last March and has fueled fears that consumer spending may be on the wane. Williams Denselow reports from New York. todayFebruary 16, 2024 5
insert_link South Africa South African Government Extends Special Relief of Distress Grant to March 2025, Cosatu Welcomes Move The Congress of South African Trade Unions applauds the government's decision to extend the Special Relief of Distress grant for an additional year until March 2025. This extension brings relief to 8 million unemployed individuals dependent on this crucial poverty alleviation support. Matthew Parks, Cosatu's acting spokesperson, acknowledges the grant's limitations but highlights its invaluable role in providing relief to millions without income, signaling a potential step towards the anticipated […] todayFebruary 16, 2024 6
insert_link Namibia Diplomatic Corps Briefed on Burial Arrangements for Late Namibian President Hage Geingob Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has provided members of the diplomatic corps with details on the burial arrangements for the late President Hage Geingob. Geingob's memorial service is scheduled for February 24 at 14:00 at Independence Stadium in Windhoek, followed by the burial service on February 25, 2024, at 10:00 at Heroes' Acre. Diplomats intending to attend the funeral are requested to confirm their delegations by February 20 to facilitate government […] todayFebruary 16, 2024 7
insert_link South Africa EFF Threatens March to American Embassy in South Africa Over Ongoing Palestinian Bombardment Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters, issues a threat to march to the American embassy if the bombardment and alleged genocide of Palestinians continue. Speaking at a media briefing in Johannesburg, Malema condemns recent attacks on Palestine, accusing Israel and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of defying the International Court of Justice's order to cease hostilities. The EFF leader declares the party's intention to hold the American embassy accountable […] todayFebruary 16, 2024 4
insert_link South Africa SA President Ramaphosa Highlights Progress in Tackling South Africa’s Long-Standing Electricity Crisis South African President Cyril Ramaphosa asserts that the government is achieving tangible advancements in resolving the 15-year-long electricity crisis. He points to enhanced maintenance at Eskom plants, resulting in damaged units returning to service ahead of schedule. In response to the state of the nation address in Parliament, Ramaphosa notes a significant uptick in rooftop solar installations by businesses and households, supported by government incentives. todayFebruary 16, 2024 4
