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During a meeting between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy, tensions escalated as Trump shouted at the Ukrainian president, leading to a heated and acrimonious exchange. Trump accused Zelenskyy of not fulfilling promises, causing the meeting to end on a sour note.
Pope Francis, battling pneumonia, experienced a breathing crisis in the hospital, leading to vomiting and worsened respiratory condition. Doctors are monitoring for any setbacks or damage. The 88-year-old is receiving gas through a face mask for breathing assistance. Vatican sources report the Pope is alert and in good spirits.
Dana Brown, deputy chief of mission at the US embassy in South Africa, is retiring in March to spend time with family after a career in international diplomacy. David Greene will replace her. Brown’s decision comes amid her mother’s illness and the Trump administration’s plans to overhaul the foreign service. She joined the foreign service in 2000 and took up the South Africa posting in 2024.
US funding cuts for HIV projects in Africa lead to termination notices for organisations, risking 500,000 deaths in South Africa over 10 years. USAid contracts slashed by over 90%, $60bn in aid spending cut. Elizabeth Glaser Paediatric Aids Foundation faces termination for projects aiding 350,000+ people. Dr. Mofenson calls it a “death sentence for mothers and children.”
South Africa’s health minister warns of potential deaths as US cuts HIV programme funding, impacting 900,000 patients. Chaos ensues as organisations scramble for alternatives. US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (Pepfar) faces cuts in wider cost-saving measures. Program, launched in 2003, credited with saving over 25 million lives globally. Trump’s foreign aid freeze adds to aid system disruption.
South Africa’s PIC eyes private credit in Africa for growth, diversification. The money manager has invested R8 billion in African markets in 2 years, plans to increase. Avoids listed equities due to small, illiquid markets. Private equity not viable, but sees potential in private debt for African investments. Chief Investment Officer emphasizes the importance of private markets in Africa.
A ship named Léon Thévenin with over 50 engineers sails around Africa to repair damaged internet cables, preventing internet blackouts. Last year, the ship fixed multiple cable failures, ensuring connectivity for millions. The crew, including cable jointer Shuru Arendse, plays a crucial role in keeping countries connected. The BBC recently spent a week on board off the coast of Ghana to witness their work.
President Cyril Ramaphosa aims to establish a “meaningful deal” with the United States amid strained relations over misinformation and BRICS ties. He emphasizes the importance of fostering good relations with all countries, including the US, while maintaining a neutral foreign policy. Ramaphosa seeks to address trade, diplomatic, and political issues with the US, despite tensions and aid cancellations.
Cape Town secures R2.8 billion funding from German Development Bank for electricity grid upgrades. The investment is part of a larger R40 billion infrastructure plan to strengthen the grid and support renewable energy sources. Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis emphasizes the importance of reliable infrastructure to prevent power outages.
Derivco, a Durban-based iGaming software developer, appoints Andrew Slabbert as new leader following Quraish Behari’s departure after 20 years. Slabbert, with 16 years of experience at Derivco, aims to focus on core platforms and customer partnerships for technological advancements and market competitiveness. Founded in 1996, Derivco is Durban’s largest tech company with global offices.
