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Kaytranada headlines first Milk and Cookies Festival in South Africa


The mail& Guardian


Grammy award-winning artist Kaytranada headlines the Milk and Cookies Festival in South Africa, thrilling festival-goers with a dance frenzy in Cape Town. The festival founders discuss the event’s origins and the cultural connection to South Africa. The lineup features diverse artists, with a focus on positive music and bridging cultural gaps. The festival aims to showcase music that resonates with black communities and promote international and local talent.



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In maps: Thousands of acres on fire in LA


BBC News


Wildfires are devastating Los Angeles, fueled by high winds and dry conditions. Firefighters struggle to contain the blazes, with over 5,300 buildings destroyed. The largest fire in Pacific Palisades is the most destructive in LA’s history, affecting celebrity homes. The situation is rapidly evolving, with five fires still burning. Maps and images show the fires’ spread and impact.



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Mandelas, Kennedys, Marcoses – political dynasties all have their rogues


Daily Maverick


Mbuso Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela, was arrested at the neglected Houghton home with four others. The Mandela dynasty, with 17 grandchildren, has faced tragedies and scandals. Mbuso, 33, has a history of legal troubles, including a rape charge in 2015 and possession of an unlicensed firearm in 2022. He has been involved in family scandals, drug abuse, rehab stints, and failure to pay maintenance.



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Tides of controversy: Coastal water quality a battleground in Cape Town


Daily Maverick


The City of Cape Town disputes an environmental group’s findings of sewage contamination in Cape Peninsula beaches. Project Blue report by RethinkTheStink challenges the city’s water quality claims, revealing contamination at popular sites. City alleges labs used were not accredited, demanding a public apology. Evidence shows labs were accredited. Conflict continues between city and environmentalists.



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Orcas push great white sharks to Eastern Cape in unusual behaviour


SABC


Great white sharks in South Africa are relocating from the Western Cape to the Eastern Cape due to orca attacks targeting their livers. Concerns about the conservation of this iconic species have been raised, with data showing a tenfold increase in shark catches in Algoa Bay. Scientists emphasize the vital role of great white sharks in maintaining ecological balance. Ongoing research will further explore the implications of this behavior.



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A thriving agricultural sector requires stability in Southern Africa


The mail& Guardian


South Africa exported $13.2 billion of agricultural products in 2023, with 40% going to Africa, mainly in Southern Africa. Economist Ndaba Gaolathe highlights the need for collaboration in the region to address trade issues and poverty. Botswana and Namibia have faced trade friction with South Africa but are gradually removing restrictions. Gaolathe emphasizes the importance of affordable food prices and domestic agricultural development.



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