Category BreakingNews

83% of USAID programs to be scrapped: Rubio


eNCA


Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the cancellation of 83% of programs at USAID to align with the “America First” agenda. The move, part of Trump administration’s spending cuts, affects humanitarian aid in 120 countries. Remaining programs will be managed by the State Department, leading to layoffs at USAID. Elon Musk’s efficiency drive also supported the decision.



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Helen Joseph Hospital ombud report — staff shortages, leadership ‘breakdown’


Daily Maverick


Health Ombud investigated allegations of poor management at Helen Joseph Hospital following a viral video by radio personality Tom London. Two allegations were substantiated: Holmes waited in the emergency department for three days due to bed unavailability, and the hospital had poor infrastructure. Five other allegations were found unsubstantiated.



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Tuesday’s weather: Severe weather alerts issued for some parts of SA


News24


The South African Weather Service warns of disruptive rain and severe thunderstorms in Free State, North West, and parts of Gauteng. Yellow Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms with heavy downpours, flooding, strong winds, lightning, and hail. Disruptive rain expected along the coast from Port Alfred to Port Edward. Isolated showers and thunderstorms forecasted for central and eastern regions.



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More bank branches where you can get your passport and Smart ID coming


BusinessTech


South Africans will soon have access to an expanded network of bank branches for Smart ID card and passport services, thanks to a nearing Public Private Partnership agreement between the Department of Home Affairs and the Banking Association of South Africa. The successful eHome Affairs pilot program introduced a digital alternative in 2015, streamlining the application process.



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Who is Mark Carney, the crisis-handling former central bank governor turned Canada’s next leader? | CNN Business


CNN


Mark Carney, a finance veteran, elected as Canada’s Liberal Party leader, set to succeed Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Despite lack of political experience, he aims to navigate economic challenges, including US trade tensions. Transition expected to be swift. Carney advised on Covid-19 recovery, joins politics after Trudeau’s resignation. Unconventional path to premiership without parliamentary seat.



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Africa in focus: US ‘open to minerals partnerships with DRC’


Daily Maverick


Officials from DRC’s ex-president Kabila’s party summoned by military prosecutor amid tensions over Rwanda-backed rebels. US open to minerals partnerships with DRC, rich in cobalt, lithium, uranium. State Department considering minerals-for-security deal, aligning with America First Agenda. Discussions ongoing, seeking responsible and transparent mining partnerships.



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Good news for load shedding in South Africa


BusinessTech


Eskom successfully restores Koeberg Unit 2 after steam leak, gradually increasing output to full capacity of 930MW. Unit’s return to service alleviates strain on national grid, following Stage 3 load shedding. Eskom emphasizes adherence to safety protocols and global standards at Koeberg Nuclear Power Station, a key player in South Africa’s energy generation mix. Unit 1 also granted license extension for another 20 years.



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