South African fighter Dricus ‘Stillknocks’ du Plessis won the UFC Middleweight Championship at UFC 297 after a grueling fiveround confrontation against Sean Strickland. Du Plessis emerged victorious with a score of 4847, marking an immaculate 60 commencement to his UFC journey. His rapid ascension to the championship in just over three years is a testament to his relentless quest for glory and serves as an inspiring beacon for fighters around the world.
A man in Mpumalanga has been sentenced to life for the murder of a toddler. Vincent Phahlane stole his father’s firearm and went on a rampage in November 2020 after his exgirlfriend refused to meet him. He discharged the weapon at a school before going to his exgirlfriend’s aunt’s house, where he fatally shot the twoyearold Akanyang Maite. Phahlane was also found guilty of attempted murder, theft of a firearm, possession of an unlicensed firearm with ammunition, and discharging a firearm in a public area.
Football fans in Africa are eagerly awaiting the South Africa vs Namibia match, which represents more than just a game but the hopes and dreams of the passionate followers of both nations. As preparations for the pivotal encounter begin, the universal appeal of sports is highlighted, showcasing the shared journey of athletes globally. The power of football to foster unity and inspire is championed by the EU, with social media buzzing with excitement and families gathering around screens to watch the match.
South Africa is facing a severe water crisis with twothirds of the country’s watersupplying municipalities unable to provide clean drinking water to their inhabitants. Efforts to resolve the issue are hindered by bureaucratic red tape, leaving the Department of Water and Sanitation unable to directly address the problem. The proposed Water Services Amendment Bill aims to give the department the power to issue orders to noncompliant municipalities, but doubts remain about its potential impact. The department has filed criminal cases against polluting municipalities, but harsher punitive measures may be needed to ensure compliance.
The tranquil dawn of 19th January 2024 in the serene town of Inanda, situated in KwaZuluNatal province of South Africa, bore witness to an unexpected turn of events in an ongoing crime saga which had been tormenting the residents. It was on this fateful day that the town’s law enforcement personnel engaged in an adrenalinecharged firefight with two suspects, bringing an end to a weeklong search operation.
South Africa’s Parliament is getting ready for the State of the Nation Address (SONA), where President Cyril Ramaphosa will outline the government’s goals and commitments for the upcoming year. Accreditation for media professionals to document the event is crucial, with a digital application system open until a strict deadline. The Parliament also offers support for those seeking assistance with media accreditation, and citizens can participate in the democratic process by visiting or attending debates in the Parliament. SONA is a significant event that shapes national conversation and establishes policy agendas.
Ms. Violet Siwela was an esteemed public servant in South Africa, who passed away unexpectedly on January 18, 2024. Her career was marked by an unwavering commitment to public service, demonstrated through a variety of roles she held throughout her life. Ms. Siwela was a champion of social justice, advocating for education, healthcare, food security, and adequate housing. Her legacy of selfless service will continue to inspire and resonate with those who knew her.
Gauteng students in South Africa are embracing a new Matric Results Online System introduced by the Gauteng Department of eGovernment. This shift towards the digital space highlights the integration of technology within the education sector, providing students with greater convenience and minimizing anxiety during a significant turning point in their academic journey. Despite challenges posed by load shedding and the pandemic, students have demonstrated remarkable resilience, and the Matric Results Online System serves as a beacon, illuminating the path for the rest of the country towards a new era of technological evolution in education.
South Africa has made serious allegations against Israel at The Hague’s International Court of Justice, sparking global discussions about justice, human rights, and international law. The case, which is complex and controversial, has generated a range of emotions and opinions in the public sphere, including debates about historical instances of genocide and oppression and the effectiveness of international law. Regardless of the outcome, South Africa’s boldness to take a stand for justice inspires hope for a more equitable world and reflects the intricate nature of contemporary times.
Last week, the picturesque town of Port St. Johns was rocked by a violent incident that claimed the life of an innocent 11yearold boy caught in the crossfire of a longstanding taxi association dispute. The tragedy has prompted urgent calls for improved safety measures and potent law enforcement efforts to ensure public safety. Despite the shock and grief, the resilient spirit of the Port St. Johns community remains strong, and the hope is that the town can move towards a future where safety and tranquility coexist in harmony.
Trevor Noah’s rise to international stardom began with his role as host of The Daily Show in 2015. He is known for his unique style of comedy that blends humor with social commentary. His impact on the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards showcased his ability to entertain and provoke thought, while his success highlights South Africa’s contributions to the global entertainment industry. Noah exemplifies the power of cultural diplomacy, bridging gaps between people, places, cultures, and continents with his humor and wit.
South Africa faces an electricity crisis due to frequent power outages from coal power plant failures. The government’s proposed Integrated Resource Plan has been criticized for neglecting affordable renewable energy solutions, such as wind and solar power with increased storage capacity, and promoting gasintensive scenarios. The Lazard Levelized Costs of Energy report highlights the potential for renewable energy to drastically lower costs, but the government’s plan neglects this. Reconsideration is necessary to align proposals with environmental obligations and economic realities.
South Africa’s Select Committee on Education and Technology, Sports, Arts, and Culture has extended the submission deadline for the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill to 31st January 2024 to ensure inclusivity and comprehensive evaluation of all presented perspectives. The BELA Bill aims to fill the gaps left by previous laws in the education sector, making it more inclusive and efficient. The proposed changes reach further into the broader school setting, suggesting enhancements to school governance, potential for school amalgamations, and synchronization of home schooling with public schooling.
South Africa has taken a bold legal move against Israel for alleged war crimes, exhibiting its unwavering dedication to justice and democracy. This audacious undertaking mirrors Nelson Mandela’s principles and stands as a testament to the nation’s resilience and unwavering commitment to justice. South Africa’s case was both compelling and emotional, spotlighting the harsh reality of Gaza, where indiscriminate violence has led to the loss of thousands of civilian lives. Despite potential diplomatic repercussions, South Africa’s legacy of resisting oppression, giving voice to the voiceless, and upholding justice persists.
Former Bafana Bafana icon, Siphiwe Tshabalala, is representing South Africa in the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) and believes that they can win a second Afcon title. Despite being grouped with tough teams, Tshabalala’s faith in Bafana Bafana remains unwavering, and he recognises the worthiness of every team in the tournament. Tshabalala’s words serve as a motivational tool for his team and embody the spirit of Afcon.
South Africa’s national football team, Bafana Bafana, is preparing to take on other teams from across Africa at the Africa Cup of Nations 2023. With experienced coach Hugo Broos and talented player Percy Tau, the team has high hopes of winning the prestigious tournament. The excitement for the games can be felt throughout the country, with fans dressed in green and gold eagerly anticipating the showdown in the Ivory Coast. The team’s goal extends beyond winning the trophy, as they aim to unite a nation and inspire a continent with the power of sport.
