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W Cape Anti-Gang Unit officers accused of murder denied bail

Source: Government of South Africa

W Cape Anti-Gang Unit officers accused of murder denied bail

Ten of the 11 members of the Western Cape Anti-Gang Unit accused of murder, four counts of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, four counts of kidnapping and one count of torture, have been denied bail in the Athlone Magistrate’s Court.

The 11 appeared in court on charges related to the murder of Wade Price, who had been arrested and allegedly died during interrogation.

“Only accused number 9 was granted R1 000 bail due to health challenges.

“The 10 were denied bail because they failed to demonstrate any exceptional circumstances for the court to consider granting them bail,” the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) explained in a statement.

According to the directorate, the officers allege that Price “complained of ear pain and collapsed during interrogation”.

“IPID’s investigation established that his cause of death was as a result of unnatural causes.

“The nine officers will be detained at the Brandvlei Correctional facility, while the female officer will be detained at Worcester Prison until their next court appearance on 29 January 2026,” the directorate said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB

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Offshore Expansion Drives Push for Logistics Hubs Across the Caribbean

Source: APO

The rapid expansion of offshore oil and gas activity across the Caribbean has pushed logistics infrastructure to the forefront of upstream strategy. Beyond discoveries and project sanctioning, the ability to execute offshore developments efficiently increasingly depends on onshore logistical hubs – from purpose-built shore bases to specialized ports capable of supporting complex offshore operations.

This reality will be examined in detail during the session “Building Logistical Hubs to Support Upstream Development” at Caribbean Energy Week (CEW) 2026, where industry leaders will explore the planning, investment and operational frameworks required to sustain offshore growth across the region.

Few examples illustrate this better than Guyana, now one of the world’s fastest-growing offshore oil producers. The country’s rapid production ramp-up has been underpinned by dedicated shore base infrastructure, including the $300 million Vreed-en-Hoop Shore Base, which opened earlier this year, alongside facilities operated by Guyana Shore Base. These hubs provide services ranging from pipe storage and drilling fluid management to vessel support and customs clearance, enabling operators to reduce turnaround times and maintain continuous offshore operations.

Similarly, Trinidad and Tobago’s Galeota Point has long served as a cornerstone of offshore logistics in the southern Caribbean. Strategically positioned to support offshore gas fields, Galeota functions as a supply base for drilling campaigns, production support and maintenance activities. Its integration into the country’s gas value chain highlights how logistics hubs can anchor upstream development while supporting broader energy infrastructure.

In Suriname, where major offshore discoveries are advancing toward development, logistics infrastructure is already evolving to meet upstream needs. Port facilities in Paramaribo, including the Kuldipsingh Port Facility, have secured long-term contracts to support offshore operations, while dedicated supply base developments such as ComPort NV are being positioned to serve drilling and production activities. In parallel, logistics providers including DP World Paramaribo are expanding integrated services tailored to the oil and gas sector as the country moves closer to first production.

Together, these examples highlight a central reality: offshore upstream activity cannot function efficiently without well-designed onshore support. In deepwater environments, where downtime can cost millions of dollars per day, the proximity, reliability and operational readiness of logistics hubs directly influence project economics.

The panel at CEW 2026 will examine the strategic considerations behind developing such infrastructure, including site selection, water depth, quay strength, hinterland connectivity and environmental permitting. As offshore projects grow in scale and complexity, ports must accommodate larger offshore support vessels, heavy subsea components and increasingly digitalized logistics systems. Future-proofing these facilities has become a priority for both governments and investors.

Investment models will also feature prominently in the discussion. Across the Caribbean, logistics hubs have been developed through combinations of public investment, private capital and public-private partnerships. At the same time, security and resilience remain critical. Specialized ports and shore bases play an essential role in safe offshore operations, providing controlled environments for hazardous materials, emergency response coordination and compliance with international maritime standards.

The “Building Logistical Hubs to Support Upstream Development” session at CEW 2026 will bring these issues into focus, offering practical insights from developers, port authorities, service providers and policymakers with direct experience in Caribbean markets. The discussion will highlight how targeted investment in logistics infrastructure can unlock upstream potential, reduce costs and improve project timelines – positioning Caribbean states as competitive and reliable partners in global energy supply chains.

Join us in shaping the future of Caribbean energy. To participate in this landmark event, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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African Energy Chamber, ccCASH Partner to Bring Climate Finance Directly to African Households

Source: APO

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org/) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with (B)energy, developer of the ccCASH initiative, to establish a continent-wide mechanism for clean cooking finance. The collaboration marks a major step toward making households active participants in Africa’s energy transition.

Africa faces a critical energy challenge: over 200 million households still rely on polluting fuels such as firewood, charcoal and kerosene. Despite progress in clean cookstove programs, adoption has been constrained by weak incentives, limited access to climate finance and fragmented investment structures.

Under the MOU, the AEC and (B)energy will position ccCASH as a continent-wide clean cooking currency, rewarding households directly for verified climate, health and social outcomes from clean cooking technologies. By moving beyond project-based carbon certification, this model channels finance straight to users, creating tangible, immediate impact at household level.

The ccCASH platform provides a shared digital infrastructure for monitoring, reporting and verifying emissions reductions and social co-benefits across diverse technologies, including biogas, LPG, ethanol and electric cooking solutions. Its technology-neutral design ensures scale, inclusion and equitable access for households, small technology providers and service companies often excluded from traditional carbon markets.

Through this partnership, the AEC will champion ccCASH as a flagship initiative across its pan-African network, driving high-level advocacy, visibility and alignment with national energy transition, climate and clean cooking strategies. ccCASH will lead platform development, technical implementation and engagement with governments, development partners and the private sector.

“Clean cooking is not just a technology challenge – it is an income, incentives and financing challenge,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. “ccCASH delivers a scalable, African-driven pathway to mobilize climate finance while generating measurable social, economic and climate benefits. This partnership demonstrates our commitment to practical, high-impact solutions that improve livelihoods across the continent.”

“Partnering with the African Energy Chamber is a defining moment for ccCASH,” said Katrin Puetz, CEO of (B)energy. “It gives us the platform to scale a new mindset in the clean cooking sector while bringing together energy and mining companies, governments and development partners.”

By aggregating verified household-level impact, ccCASH supports government climate commitments, including Nationally Determined Contributions, while unlocking new opportunities for private sector investment, ESG participation and high-integrity Article 6-aligned climate finance. The MOU represents a shared vision to establish ccCASH as a long-term, continent-wide mechanism, accelerating clean cooking adoption, strengthening service ecosystems and delivering inclusive economic and environmental benefits across Africa.

In early 2026, the AEC and (B)energy will convene a high-level webinar inviting corporates, investors, development partners and governments to actively engage with ccCASH. The session will outline concrete pathways to participate in pilots, co-investment and national rollouts, positioning ccCASH as a practical entry point for CSR, ESG and high-integrity climate finance linked directly to household impact across Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Africa24 – Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 In Morocco : An Exceptional Editorial Deployment

Source: APO

On the occasion of the 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, taking place from Sunday 21 December 2025 to Sunday 18 January 2026, the AFRICA24 Group (https://Africa24TV.com/) is implementing an unprecedented, immersive and multi-platform editorial deployment to offer viewers across the continent and around the world a unique and engaging experience at the heart of Africa’s greatest sporting competition.

AFRICA24 is mobilizing its teams and special correspondents to deliver 360° coverage—TV, digital platforms and social media—providing an exclusive perspective on Morocco, its infrastructures, its host cities and the vibrant atmosphere of its citizens.

Full CAN Morocco 2025 coverage: https://apo-opa.co/4qrFeco

COMPREHENSIVE, EXCLUSIVE AND INNOVATIVE COVERAGE

The Group offers an exceptional daily programming lineup, in French and English, through a unique TV and digital system that includes:

MAROC : AFRICA – A Journey Through the Continent’s Showcase 

At the heart of Morocco’s Royal Vision for Africa, AFRICA24 presents an unparalleled journey into the development of this flagship nation: from industry to craftsmanship, from finance to diplomacy, from geopolitical influence to major international events—the Kingdom of Morocco shines for Africa.

JT CAN – THE DAILY AFCON NEWS JOURNAL

All match summaries, results, reactions, analyses and behind-the-scenes moments, with full immersion alongside each team and their supporters.

Africa 24 Football Club :26-MINUTE ANALYSIS MAGAZINE

Every day, AFRICA24 delivers expert analysis on matches, tactical issues, team performances, portraits of players and coaches, inspiring stories and the journeys of former African internationals.

A magazine crafted to the rhythm of a historic Morocco 2025 AFCON.

AFRICA24 GROUP – 360° COVERAGE

Global broadcasting reaching 120 million households

With Africa24, Together, let’s transform Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of AFRICA24 Group.

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Brits Water Treatment Works to be completed in March 2026

Source: Government of South Africa

Brits Water Treatment Works to be completed in March 2026

By More Matshediso 
Refurbishment of the Brits Water Treatment Works in the North West is expected to be complete by March 2026. 

This is a commitment made by Magalies Water, the contractor responsible for mechanical and electrical works at the water plant, and the Madibeng Local Municipality. 

The objective of the project is to provide additional water to 75 373 households in the Mdibeng Local Municipality.  

The commitment was made during an oversight visit to the Brits Water Treatment Works by Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo and Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, on Monday.

READ | Deputy Ministers visit Brits water treatment works

This as Mahlobo raised concerns that there has been delays on completion of the project for some time. 
“We are very pleased with the progress made, but we are unhappy that once again we have missed the deadline,” he said. 

However, both Deputy Ministers acknowledged that good work has been done and that this is not taken for granted. 

He called on those responsible to complete the project, including Magalies Water, the municipality and the contractors to rebuild their reputation of delivering on their promises and completing their work. 

“We need the actual records of this plant… and we also need a maintenance plan for the plant,” he said. 
Deputy Minister Moroleng said the residents of Madibeng must be provided with additional water. 

“While you have made several commitments regarding the completion date of the project, you are found wanting and it is a cause of concern. When we leave here, we will not keep this report with us, but we will share it with the President so that we keep him abreast of the latest developments,” he said to parties involved in the project.

Deputy Minister Morolong further expressed discouragement with the inability of those involved to deal with pressing issues that he saw during the visit, and that he is worried about the completion date. 

He called on the municipality to be more present and hands-on on the project so that it can be handed over to the residents by March 2026. 

“We have no intentions of returning in March to be briefed about challenges. We want to officially hand over the project in March,” he said. 

Background

Phase 1 of the project was completed in July 2014. However, due to poor maintenance, some components needed refurbishment at an estimated cost of R28 million (2020) costs. Phase 2 was completed in 2020. 

Phase 3 of the project includes civil works and is practically complete, electrical works are at 85% and mechanical works at 92%. Phase 4 includes upgrading of final water pipelines and the distribution pipeline to the command reservoirs.

The contractors indicated that only 10% of the work is outstanding and should be completed by March 2026. The remaining work includes mechanical installations such as filters and a blower room, as well as electrical connections including ring feed and backup generator. 

The Brits Water Treatment Works is a critical infrastructure project of the Department of Water and Sanitation aimed at strengthening water provision for the Madibeng Local Municipality and surrounding areas.

The project is part of government efforts to “support Water Services Authorities in meeting their constitutional obligation to provide safe and reliable water”.

Once fully operational, the upgraded plant will increase its treatment capacity from 60 to 80 megalitres per day, improving the treatment of raw water, strengthening pumping and pipeline systems and enhancing the distribution network up to bulk reservoirs. –SAnews.gov.za 

 

 

Neo

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G20 declared SA word of the year

Source: Government of South Africa

G20 declared SA word of the year

“G20” has been announced as the 2025 South African Word of the Year, the Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB) said on Tuesday.

“On 23 December 2025, the Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB), in partnership with media research company Focal Points, announced the 2025 South African Word of the Year. After carefully considering a range of words, terms, and expressions, “G20” was selected as the winner, prevailing over other notable contenders such as Government of National Unity, Tariffs, Femicide, and the Madlanga Commission.

“The 2025 SA Word of the Year for Social Media was awarded to “Valid,” chosen from a shortlist that included Hao Khonahale, Nonchalant, Clock it, Nodolozana, and Ama1k, among others,” said the language board in a statement on Tuesday.

PanSALB conducted the selection process by shortlisting candidates based on authentic language usage. Focal Points analysed frequency data from 1 January to December 2025, monitoring keywords used extensively in reputable print, broadcast, and online media.

“ ‘G20’ emerged as the most prominent keyword, largely due to South Africa hosting the G20 summit in 2025. This was followed by “Government of National Unity (GNU)” and “Tariffs.” These terms capture the major events and issues that shaped South Africa in 2025, including politics, international affairs, and social challenges,” it said.

Earlier this month, Cabinet joined President Cyril Ramaphosa in extending its appreciation to all South Africans for their role in ensuring the successful G20 Presidency which culminated in the recently hosted G20 Leaders’ Summit in November 2025.

President Cyril Ramaphosa hailed South Africa’s historic G20 Presidency as a resounding success both as a diplomatic achievement and a celebration of national unity.

Meanwhile, the word “Valid” emerged as the winner within the Social Media category. “Valid” is Gen Z slang that refers to something that is considered acceptable, legitimate, or worthy of approval.

It is often used to validate someone’s feelings, opinions, or experiences, signifying agreement or support. This is followed by “Clock it” (to notice or call out something), which reflects youth and digital culture. Other words nominated in this category included “Hao khonahale” which is a Sipitori term for “it’s not possible” or “impossible” made popular by Dj Maphorisa.

The South African Sign Language Sign of the Year is the SASL Sign for “I Love You”, which was up against signs for ‘so lekker’, ‘magnificent’ and sign for ‘Constitution’.

The SA Word of the Year reflects the preoccupations of South Africans for a given period and serves as an essential indicator of the nation’s cultural and social landscape.

The PanSALB is a constitutional body mandated to create conditions for the recognition, implementation and furtherance of multilingualism in the Republic of South Africa, and the development of previously marginalised languages. –SAnews.gov.za

 

Neo

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Alexa News Nigeria Rebrands to Alexa News Network, Sets Sights on Global Digital Reach

Source: APO


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In a bold move reflecting its vision for international prominence, Alexa News Nigeria (www.Alexa.ng) has officially rebranded as Alexa News Network (www.Alexa.ng), signaling a strategic shift from a predominantly Nigerian digital news platform to a global digital news network. The rebranding is designed to expand the platform’s reach, enhance its international news coverage, and position Alexa News Network as a credible voice in the global media landscape. All contents and links are still working. The domain name was not changed but only branding name was changed.

The Alexa News Network announcement was made during a press briefing held at the company’s headquarters in Abuja, where the leadership team outlined their ambitious plans to transform Alexa News Network into a world-class digital news network. The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Alexa News Network, Jokpeme Joseph Omode, emphasized that the rebrand is more than a change of name—it is a declaration of the company’s commitment to delivering timely, accurate, and comprehensive news to audiences beyond Nigeria.

“Alexa News Nigeria has grown to become one of the most respected digital news platforms in the country,” the CEO said. “But as the world becomes more interconnected, we realized that our audience is not limited to Nigeria alone. Today, we step into a new era as Alexa News Network, with a renewed focus on global digital reach, international reporting, and multimedia storytelling that resonates worldwide.”

The rebrand comes at a time when digital news consumption is surging globally. With millions of people turning to online platforms for instant news updates, Alexa News Network aims to leverage technology to provide real-time news coverage across borders. The network plans to offer content through its website, mobile apps, social media chAlexa News Networkels, podcasts, and live streaming services, ensuring that audiences worldwide can access news conveniently and efficiently.

One of the key components of Alexa News Network’s global strategy is the expansion of international reporting. The network plans to establish bureaus in strategic locations across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas, employing correspondents and stringers to cover major political, economic, social, and cultural developments. By doing so, Alexa News Network aims to provide firsthand reporting on issues of global importance, rather than relying solely on syndicated content from other agencies.

“Our goal is to become a trusted global news source that offers authentic and insightful reporting from every corner of the world,” said Jokpeme Joseph Omode. Partnerships form a critical aspect of Alexa News Network’s global vision. The network has Alexa News Networkounced plans to collaborate with leading international media agencies, think tanks, non-governmental organizations, and global news platforms, creating a network of partnerships that will facilitate the exchange of content, data, and insights. These collaborations are expected to enhance Alexa News Network’s reporting capabilities and credibility on the international stage.

From a technological perspective, Alexa News Network is investing in state-of-the-art digital infrastructure. This includes developing a robust website, intuitive mobile applications, and scalable content management systems capable of supporting multimedia content and high traffic from global audiences. Alexa News Network will also implement advanced search engine optimization (SEO) strategies and leverage social media algorithms to ensure its stories reach readers efficiently across continents.

The rebrand to Alexa News Network reflects a larger ambition to compete with established global news brands while maintaining a unique African perspective. Unlike many international outlets, Alexa News Network intends to provide a nuanced view of African stories and global events, highlighting connections and implications that are often overlooked by mainstream media. This approach is expected to attract audiences seeking diverse and insightful perspectives.

Financial sustainability is also central to Alexa News Network’s global strategy. The network plans to diversify its revenue streams through a combination of subscriptions, memberships, advertising, sponsored content, and partnerships with international organizations. By doing so, Alexa News Network aims to maintain editorial independence while expanding its operations on a global scale.

The leadership of Alexa News Network believes that the rebranding will not only elevate the platform’s international profile but also create opportunities for Nigerian journalists and media professionals. By integrating local expertise with global reporting standards, Alexa News Network aims to nurture talent capable of delivering world-class journalism.

Jokpeme Joseph Omode noted, “This is a strategic and timely move. The transition from Alexa News Nigeria to Alexa News Network demonstrates ambition and vision. With the right execution, Alexa News Network has the potential to become a major player in the global digital news industry, offering unique insights from Africa while engaging audiences worldwide.”

The official launch of Alexa News Network comes with a refreshed logo, website design, and digital platforms, reflecting a modern, professional, and globally-oriented brand identity. The leadership team has assured readers and partners that while the platform is going global, it will continue to uphold journalistic integrity, transparency, and commitment to truth, which have been hallmarks of its success in Nigeria.

As Alexa News Network charts its path toward becoming a global digital news network, the initiative represents more than a business expansion—it is a statement of confidence in the ability of African media to shape narratives on a global stage. The rebrand signals a transformative era where Alexa News Network seeks to deliver news that informs, inspires, and influences audiences around the world.

With this bold step, Alexa News Network joins the ranks of international news organizations seeking to bridge local perspectives with global coverage, positioning itself as a credible, reliable, and accessible source of news for audiences worldwide. The world now has a new platform committed to delivering quality journalism from Africa to the globe, heralding a new chapter in digital media excellence.

In an era where digital media is reshaping how stories are told and consumed worldwide, the Alexa News Network is embarking on an ambitious journey to establish itself as a premier global digital news network rooted in African perspectives. This initiative goes far beyond mere business growth or market expansion; it embodies a profound declaration of faith in the power and potential of African journalism to influence, educate, and redefine global narratives. By charting this path, the Alexa News Network is not just entering the international arena—it is actively claiming a seat at the table, ensuring that voices from the continent are heard loudly and clearly amid the cacophony of worldwide media.

Historically, global news has often been dominated by Western outlets, with African stories frequently filtered through external lenses that emphasize conflict, poverty, or exoticism rather than innovation, resilience, and progress. The emergence of the Alexa News Network signals a pivotal shift, marking the dawn of a transformative period in media where African-led platforms take center stage. This network aims to deliver news that not only informs audiences about current events but also inspires them with tales of achievement and cultural richness, while influencing public opinion on critical issues ranging from climate change and economic development to politics and social justice.

What sets the Alexa News Network apart is its commitment to bridging the gap between local African insights and global coverage. In a world increasingly interconnected through digital platforms, this network positions itself alongside established giants like CNN, BBC, and Al Jazeera, yet with a unique focus on authenticity and accessibility. It seeks to provide credible, reliable reporting that draws from on-the-ground experiences across Africa’s diverse nations— from the bustling markets of Lagos to the innovative tech hubs in Nairobi, and from the vibrant cultural scenes in Cape Town to the political dynamics in Addis Ababa.

This bold move comes at a time when digital media consumption is exploding globally, particularly on mobile devices and social platforms prevalent in Africa. With smartphone penetration rising rapidly across the continent, the Alexa News Network is poised to capitalize on this trend by offering multilingual content, real-time updates, and interactive features tailored to diverse audiences. The network’s vision includes high-quality journalism that adheres to ethical standards, fact-checking rigor, and balanced reporting, countering misinformation while amplifying underrepresented stories.

By becoming a global player, the Alexa News Network joins a select group of international news organizations that recognize the importance of diverse viewpoints in fostering understanding and dialogue. It stands as a beacon for other African media entities, demonstrating that homegrown platforms can achieve worldwide reach without compromising their cultural integrity. This is particularly significant in an age where global challenges—such as pandemics, migration, and environmental crises—demand inclusive narratives that reflect the experiences of all regions, including Africa’s 1.4 billion people.

The implications of this expansion are profound. For audiences worldwide, it means access to fresh, nuanced perspectives on international affairs. Imagine reading in-depth analyses of how African economies are driving sustainable development goals, or firsthand accounts of technological breakthroughs emerging from the continent’s startups. For African journalists and contributors, it opens doors to greater visibility, professional opportunities, and the chance to shape discourses that have long been dominated elsewhere.

Moreover, the Alexa News Network’s approach emphasizes accessibility, ensuring that its content is available across various digital channels, from websites and apps to social media and podcasts. This inclusivity aligns with the democratic ethos of modern journalism, making quality news reachable to urban elites, rural communities, and diaspora populations alike. In doing so, it heralds a new chapter in digital media excellence, where excellence is measured not just by reach but by relevance and impact.

This initiative also reflects growing confidence in Africa’s media landscape. Over the past decade, the continent has seen a surge in independent outlets, investigative reporting, and digital innovations. Platforms like this are building on that foundation, leveraging technology to overcome traditional barriers such as distribution challenges and funding constraints. By going global, the Alexa News Network inspires a wave of similar ventures, potentially fostering a renaissance in African storytelling that resonates far beyond continental borders.

In essence, the world now welcomes a new platform dedicated to delivering unparalleled quality journalism from Africa to every corner of the globe. The Alexa News Network’s ascent represents hope for a more equitable media ecosystem—one where African narratives are not peripheral but central. As it delivers news that informs minds, inspires hearts, and influences decisions, this network ushers in an exciting era of digital media where diversity drives excellence.

This transformative step underscores a broader movement: African media rising to claim its rightful place on the global stage. With unwavering commitment to truth, innovation, and inclusivity, the Alexa News Network is not just reporting the news—it’s making history by redefining how the world sees and understands Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Alexa News Nigeria.

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Bafana Bafana congratulated for AFCON opening victory

Source: Government of South Africa

Bafana Bafana congratulated for AFCON opening victory

Government has congratulated Bafana Bafana for their win over Angola in the national football team’s opening game of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.

The tournament is being held in Morocco this month with the final expected to be held on 18 January.

“The thrilling performance sets a positive tone for South Africa’s AFCON campaign and reflects the resilience, discipline and fighting spirit that define our national team,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said in a statement on Tuesday.

Bafana Bafana’s charge to victory on Monday night in the tournament is being led by coach Hugo Broos supported by South African football legend, Helman Mkhalele, as assistant coach.

“Government commends the technical team and players for their preparation and professionalism, as well as the South African supporters at home and abroad whose unwavering support continues to inspire the team. The match showcased the growing competitiveness of African football and highlighted Bafana Bafana’s determination to compete with confidence and purpose.

“Government wishes Bafana Bafana continued success in their remaining Group B fixtures and throughout the tournament and calls on all South Africans to rally behind the team as they pursue further victories at AFCON 2025,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB

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Ntshavheni urges commitment to ceasefire in DRC

Source: Government of South Africa

Ntshavheni urges commitment to ceasefire in DRC

Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, has issued an appeal for an immediate end to hostilities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – urging conflicting parties to honour their pledges for peace. 

The Minister was delivering remarks at the Ad Hoc Summit of the Regional Oversight Mechanism of the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the DRC and region.

“South Africa appeals to the conflicting parties in the DRC to demonstrate political will and selfless leadership that this occasion requires. The parties must fulfil their previous commitments to establish a permanent, effective and verifiable ceasefire; they must engage in inclusive dialogue that will lead to peace and reconciliation; and they must put the interest of the people of the DRC first. 

“Peace will endure when the people of the DRC unite for the purpose of building one Congolese nation and redirect their collective efforts towards the economic development of the DRC and the region,” the Minister said.

Ntshavheni noted that conflict in the area continues despite the presence of a number of external peace efforts all “aimed primarily to deal with the scourge of armed conflicts and their impact on the people of the eastern DRC and its immediate region”.

“The actions of armed groups, particularly the M23 and FDLR [Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda], continue to undermine the PSC [Peace, Security and Cooperation] Framework and other ongoing peace processes.

“The territorial expansion of the M23 including the recent seizure of Uvira, the establishment of parallel administrations in captured and controlled areas, and the violation of human rights and the resultant humanitarian crisis, negate efforts towards peace and opportunities for regional economic development.”

The Minister told the gathering that the deadly conflict requires immediate action through genuine, inclusive dialogue among all parties.

“We must act as a collective to prevent any further regional instability. It is for this reason that South Africa strongly urges for the need to return to the basics. We need to ask and honestly answer the question of why, despite several agreements on the resolution of the eastern DRC security situation, are we failing to achieve peace and lasting security.

“Peace would only be achieved through an inclusive process that addresses holistically the root causes and drivers of the conflict in the eastern DRC and the region. In our view, the lack of implementation of the various agreements by all parties is a major challenge.

“If we are serious about achieving lasting peace, for a start, we must ensure that all parties must fulfill their commitments made as signatories to the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

NeoB

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Gauteng commends police for arrest in Saulsville shooting incident

Source: Government of South Africa

Gauteng commends police for arrest in Saulsville shooting incident

The Gauteng Provincial Government has commended the South African Police Service for tracking and arresting a suspect wanted in connection with a deadly shooting in Saulsville, Pretoria. 

“The Gauteng Provincial Government commends the South African Police Service for its coordinated and relentless enforcement effort which led to the identification, tracking, and arrest of a suspect in connection with the horrific shooting at the Saulsville Hostel in Atteridgeville. The nationwide hunt for the suspects culminated in the arrest of a 32- year-old man in Limpopo,” said the provincial government said on Tuesday.

On 6 December 2024, three suspects shot and killed 12 people and injured 13 others at an illegal shebeen operating from a hostel room in Saulsville. The investigation team has been working tirelessly to trace the perpetrators.

Earlier this month, National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola visited the hostel that is located west of Pretoria where the 25 individuals were shot. At the time of the incident, police confirmed that 11 of those shot suffered fatal injuries.

In a statement on Monday, the SAPS in Gauteng confirmed the arrest of the suspect wanted on the case of 12 counts of murder and 13 counts of attempted murder. 

“The suspect was arrested in Limpopo province on 21 December 2025.The team, comprising of various SAPS specialised units including Crime Intelligence, during investigations traced the suspect who was travelling to Botlokwa in Limpopo. They called the police in Limpopo and gave the description of the suspect and the vehicle he was travelling in. The 32-year-old suspect was intercepted by Limpopo Tracking Team on the R101 Road in Westenburg precinct,” said the police in statement.

During the arrest, the team recovered an unlicensed firearm, handgun, believed to have been used in the commission of the multiple murders.

The firearm will be taken to the Forensic Science Laboratory for ballistic analysis while the suspect was due to appear in court on Monday, 22 December on charges of the possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition. 

The man was also due to be transferred to Gauteng to face the full might of the law while the manhunt for the remaining two suspects is continuing.

The Gauteng Provincial Government said the arrest is a “critical breakthrough” in the matter that claimed the lives of 12 innocent people, including a three-year-old child.

Acting Premier Jacob Mamabolo expressed his profound appreciation for the diligent work of the police. 
“The arrest in Saulsville shows that our law enforcement agencies are diligently working hard to identify the perpetrators of these heinous acts in the province. We salute them and have full confidence in their resolve and ability to apprehend those responsible and bring them to justice,” he said.

He also expressed hope that the remaining suspects in this case will be tracked down and apprehended soon. 

Meanwhile, Mamabolo will be visiting the families of the victims of another brutal mass shooting that claimed nine lives and left 10 others injured at Tambo Section, Bekkersdal. 

He expressed the same hope that the police will make swift arrests in the Bekkersdal case. 

” We hope the police will make a breakthrough in the Bekkersdal shooting investigations soon, and we assure them of our full support in their efforts to track and arrest these dangerous criminals who have shown total disregard for human life and disdain for the law. We will spare no effort to ensure that justice is served for all the victims and their grieving families,” said the Acting Premier.

READ | Gauteng to intensify tavern crackdown following Bekkersdal shooting
–SAnews.gov.za 

 

 

Neo

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