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Daily Maverick

The UK government is considering reducing the Pension Protection Fund levy to free up funds for investment, following proposals to boost private investment and economic growth. The move aims to support pension schemes and employers, with the PPF in a strong financial position. The changes could unlock millions of pounds for investment, according to pensions minister Torsten Bell.

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BBC News

Black boxes recovered from DC plane crash as officials probe staffing shortage. Only one air traffic controller was on duty during the incident, raising concerns about safety protocols. NTSB to issue preliminary report in 30 days. FAA facing challenges in filling key positions. Recovery efforts ongoing at crash site.

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CNN

First responders at Reagan National Airport received a distress call leading to a plane crash in the water. DC Fire Fighters Association members found victims still strapped in their seats. Rescuers are working to remove people from the plane and scanning the area for more victims.

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CNN

Midair collision between passenger jet and Army helicopter near Washington, DC leaves no survivors. Recovery efforts ongoing with 28 bodies found. President Trump blames Democratic policies without evidence. Investigation underway by National Transportation Safety Board. Athletes from figure skating community among victims.

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Daily Maverick

Southern African leaders plan to withdraw military force from eastern DRC after battling M23 rebels. SADC seeks orderly withdrawal with ceasefire and peace talks. Concerns raised over haphazard withdrawal damaging SADC’s credibility. Extraordinary summit in Harare to address security situation chaired by Zimbabwean President Mnangagwa. DRC requests SADC reinforcement against M23/Rwanda.

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Daily Maverick

Rwandan President Kagame accuses South African President Ramaphosa of lying and distortion, denies threat of military aggression. Kagame claims Ramaphosa asked for support, not warned of attack. Kagame criticizes South African claims of Rwandan support for M23 rebels and disputes characterization of SAMIDRC as a peacekeeping force.

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The Mail & Guardian

Rwandan President Kagame accuses South Africa of distorting facts about conflict in DRC. Warns of confrontation if necessary. Tensions rise following death of 13 South African soldiers in DRC. South Africa blames M23 rebel group and Rwandan Defence Force for violence. Seeking ceasefire through international bodies.

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BusinessTech

The South African Reserve Bank cuts interest rates by 25 basis points to 7.50%, in line with lower inflation. MPC vote split with four members in favor of the cut and two for unchanged rates. December inflation at 3.0%, below SARB’s 4.5% target. Bank expects inflation to stay below 4%.

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BusinessTech

South Africa braces for potential unrest as Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla faces terrorism charges. Service disconnections in Johannesburg add to frustration. Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of former President Jacob Zuma, accused of incitement to commit terrorism through tweets during 2021 unrest. Authorities on high alert, fearing flare-ups. Zuma-Sambudla previously blamed for encouraging riots.

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