A recent explosion in Johannesburg has left many questioning the cause of the tragic incident. The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) has confirmed that there are no old mines in the area where the explosion occurred, prompting an investigation by relevant authorities to determine its actual cause.

Cape Town, a city renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, has recently achieved an impressive milestone. Mayor Geordin HillLewis announced that the city has broken its alltime record for municipal infrastructure spending in the 2022/23 financial year, with a total expenditure of R6.94 billion.

In a significant development for South Africa’s digital infrastructure, President Cyril Ramaphosa officially launched the Huawei Innovation Centre. This stateoftheart facility aims to foster collaboration between Huawei’s business units, local partners, app developers, and ICTfocused Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs). The Innovation Centre’s launch demonstrates Huawei’s confidence in South Africa’s economy and its potential to become a leading digital hub.

On 27 July 2023, the North West Provincial Legislature Speaker Basetsana R.S. Dantjie, members of the legislature, and staff commemorated Mandela Day. The team visited various centers across the four districts, bringing hope and empowerment to communities in need. The theme of this year’s Mandela Day was “The Legacy Lives on Through You,” emphasizing the ongoing influence of Mandela’s values.

The BRICS Urbanisation Forum, held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre, had the theme of “Advancing Urban Resilience for Sustainable Cities and Towns for Future Generations.” Urban growth in African countries poses significant challenges, especially in small and mediumsized towns, where people move to cities for better economic opportunities.

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has been actively working with various South African student unions and university management teams to address issues related to defunded students and direct payments. The organization has engaged in discussions with the South African Students Congress (SASCO) and the South African Union of Students (SAUS) with the goal of providing clarity on its policies and receiving feedback.

In July 2023, tragedy struck the community of Site B, Khayelitsha, as a security guard lost his life, and another was injured in a violent shooting while escorting Water and Sanitation inspectors. The officials were ensuring that janitorial services for taps and toilets in the informal settlements were meeting cleanliness, repair, and maintenance standards. This incident highlights the persistent challenge of providing clean water and dignified sanitation in vulnerable communities and the dangers faced by officials in their pursuit of service delivery.

At the recent BRICS Urbanisation Forum in Durban, South Africa, Minister Thembi Nkadimeng discussed the importance of building urban resilience in BRICS cities. As urbanization continues to accelerate, cities face numerous challenges related to infrastructure, resources, and communities. To address these challenges, effective governance, policy frameworks, and collaborative efforts are essential.

Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) MEC Nonkqubela Pieters recently handed over a shearing shed and dipping tank worth R1.4 million to the Upper Mkapusi Wool Growers Association in the Emalahleni Local Municipality. The initiative is part of DRDAR’s commitment to commercialize communal and emerging farmers, provide infrastructure, and create jobs to improve business enterprises income.

The 12th session of the DRCSouth Africa Business Forum was a significant moment for the partnership between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and South Africa. President Cyril Ramaphosa led the meeting, which highlighted the countries’ vast potential for industrial and economic growth. Mutual investment was emphasized as a crucial factor in strengthening their respective economies.

On July 21, 2023, South Africa witnessed a significant step forward with the Ministerial Launch of the National Tracer Study of Doctoral Graduates. The study, the first of its kind in the nation, aims to understand the role and impact of doctoral graduates in South African society and the economy. Esteemed dignitaries, including the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr. Blade Nzimande, and representatives from Science Councils and National Research Institutions, graced the occasion.

On July 11, 2023, Minister of Human Settlements, Mmamoloko Kubayi, will convene a stakeholder engagement with property practitioners and real estate companies in Sandton. The aim of the meeting, taking place at the Hilton Hotel on Rivonia Road, is to establish collaboration within the sector, discuss the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority’s role, and explore ways to enhance the provision of sustainable human settlements.

Recently, Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Mr. Gwede Mantashe, addressed the MPRDA Review Summit held at Indaba Hotel in Fourways. The summit brought together government officials, industry leaders, and various stakeholders to discuss the future of South Africa’s mining industry.