Top Stories

BusinessTech

Agbiz Chief Economist Wandile Sihlobo predicts a short-lived avocado shortage in South Africa, with supplies expected to improve by February. The country’s avocado season runs from February to September, and high global demand in 2024 led to tight domestic supplies. Sihlobo expects prices to moderate as production increases, with over 120,000 tonnes of avocados produced annually for domestic and export markets.

Read More from source

EWN

Mzwandile Masina, chair of the National Assembly’s trade committee, will meet with major banks next month to discuss lending practices. The meeting aims to review credit laws and ensure fair treatment for South Africans seeking credit. Masina emphasizes the need to protect individuals applying for credit out of desperation.

Read More from source

BBC News

TikTok goes offline in the US ahead of a new ban, with a message stating users can’t access the app. President-elect Trump plans a 90-day reprieve once in office. The app is removed from US app stores and website. Trump aims to work on a solution with TikTok.

Read More from source

EWN

Five mutilated bodies of men aged 19 to 26 were found in Inanda, KZN. The victims were allegedly kidnapped from their homes in Bambayi and discovered with multiple injuries. One victim had an arm chopped off. Police are conducting a manhunt for the perpetrators, urging anyone with information to come forward. Motive for the killings remains unknown.

Read More from source

The mail& Guardian

Eastern Cape judge president Selby Mbenenge faces sexual harassment allegations from colleague Andiswa Mengo, who testified about inappropriate WhatsApp exchanges. Mbenenge denies sending explicit messages but admits to flirtatious communication. The tribunal is ongoing, with Mbenenge being the first South African judge facing impeachment for sexual misconduct. Hearings to continue until 24 January.

Read More from source

AP News

Dozens of emaciated men rescued from an abandoned gold mine in Stilfontein, South Africa, were found in small caves, some unable to stand. The miners suffered from lack of food and poor living conditions, with bodies of the deceased nearby. Police crackdown on illegal mining disrupted supply deliveries. Rescuers faced challenging conditions in the damp, foul-smelling environment.

Read More from source

BusinessTech

President Cyril Ramaphosa met with government ministers and business leaders to reaffirm their commitment to growing the economy. The focus for 2025 is on reforms in energy, transport, crime, and youth employment. Organized business previously supported the government in key areas, leading to reduced load shedding and improved security. Phase 2 aims to implement interventions to boost GDP growth.

Read More from source

EWN

Gauteng police arrest a 35-year-old man in Midrand for possession and distribution of 10 million child pornography images and videos. Police spokesperson Amanda van Wyk confirms the suspect’s arrest and ongoing raid at his estate.

Read More from source

The mail& Guardian

South African delegation optimistic about economic growth message at World Economic Forum. Minister Parks Tau notes positive mood and collaboration focus at Davos meeting. Country aims for inclusive innovation and global leadership under G20 presidency. Business leaders express confidence in overcoming challenges for growth and job creation. Economists predict improved growth for 2024 and beyond, despite current economic struggles.

Read More from source

The mail& Guardian

Djibouti’s foreign minister, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, criticizes African leaders for inaction on conflicts in Sudan and the Sahel, vying for African Union Commission chair in February against Raila Odinga and Richard Randriamandrato. Youssouf aims to prioritize conflict resolution and expand the African passport for visa-free travel. He also supports African countries having permanent seats on the UN Security Council.

Read More from source