Shoprite has revolutionized the retail industry with the launch of OK Urban, a concept store that offers a modern and innovative approach to urban convenience shopping. This move caters to the highend market, providing an upscale alternative to the traditional corner store. OK Urban challenges conventional retail and provides a glimpse into the future of the Shoprite brand.

The highly anticipated BRICS Summit is set to take place in Sandton from August 22nd to 24th, 2023. Leaders and delegates from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa will convene to discuss and collaborate on various issues that concern their nations. As the event draws near, the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) is working tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of all attendees.

The global workforce has been heavily impacted by the COVID19 pandemic. Many employees have lost their jobs or experienced reduced working hours. In South Africa, the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) has played a crucial role in providing financial relief to workers, particularly in KwaZuluNatal.

The Gauteng Provincial Government has launched an initiative called Tshepo 1Million to empower young job seekers and entrepreneurs. The project aims to provide access to free resources, support, and opportunities to help young people build their careers. The government has collaborated with Harambe, a wellknown organization that drives youth employment initiatives, to improve the prospects for young job seekers and entrepreneurs in the province.

South Africa is a nation with abundant mineral resources, and yet the issue of illegal mining continues to pose a significant problem. In response, the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) has decided to organize a webinar that will address the impact and implications of illegal mining in the country. This article highlights the key issues that illegal mining presents and explores how the GCIS webinar aims to offer solutions by engaging different stakeholders.

The Specialised Commercial Crimes Court in Kimberley has made a significant stride in combating corruption with the recent sentencing of Dr. Dion Theys, the former Head of the Department of Health in the Northern Cape. ## Dr. Theys Found Guilty of Contravening PFMA Processes

South African Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, has lauded the Kouga Local Municipality and Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality for their successful utilization of innovative water solutions. Their efforts have resulted in the lifting of the Section 63 intervention, which was put in place last year to prevent Day Zero caused by severe drought.

The recent violent protests in Swellendam, where 106 individuals, including 19 minors, were arrested, have been denounced by Anton Bredell, Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs, and Development Planning. The protestors engaged in destructive behavior that resulted in the destruction of Swellendam Municipal offices and looting of nearby shops.

Cape Town, a bustling metropolis, is investing in major bulk sewer upgrades to secure its future. The city aims to enhance the Cape Flats, Philippi, Milnerton, and Gordon’s Bay lines with a total investment of R1.4 billion over the next three years. This remarkable undertaking highlights the city’s commitment to meeting the needs of its expanding population while prioritizing environmental preservation.