Top Stories

The Mail & Guardian

Opposition parties criticize Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s State of the Province address, calling it lacking substance and full of empty promises. Democratic Alliance and Economic Freedom Fighters leaders accuse Lesufi of failing to provide clear plans to address crime, services, and other issues in Gauteng. Lesufi highlighted 13 key issues needing urgent attention but faces criticism for unfulfilled commitments.

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TimesLIVE

Thousands of spaza shop registration applications in eThekwini are pending due to unverified owners. Mayor Cyril Xaba reported only 1,402 out of 5,500 applications approved. Challenges include unreachable phone numbers and mismatched addresses. The deadline for compliance with food safety regulations is Friday, urging owners to register promptly.

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The South African

A Spotted Eagle Owl was brutally killed on the Sea Point Promenade by a homeless man with a stick, witnessed by horrified onlookers. The violent act was captured on video, leading to the perpetrator’s apprehension. Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse swiftly gathered evidence, including witness affidavits and video footage. The owl’s remains were sent for a post-mortem, revealing the severity of the attack.

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Business Insider Africa

Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote’s wealth skyrockets to $23.9 billion, making him Africa’s richest person and 86th globally. His fortune nearly doubled in a year, driven by his stake in Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals.

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The Citizen

ActionSA accuses former Human Settlements Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi of overspending R16 million on international trips and vague ‘official engagements’. Kubayi denies the claims, calling them ‘misleading’. The party claims the money could have built 60 homes. The Justice Ministry refutes the allegations, stating the figures are incorrect. Kubayi has since moved to the role of Justice Minister.

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EWN

Gauteng government to invest R120 billion in expanding Gautrain to new areas like Soweto, Mamelodi, Atteridgeville, Lanseria, and Springs. The high-speed train network currently has ten stations and aims to create jobs. Premier Panyaza Lesufi announced the expansion during the State of the Province Address.

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Zimbabwe News

Chinese nationals Lin Wang and Fuxi Wang arrested in Zimbabwe for attempting to smuggle rhino horns worth $480,000. The contraband was hidden inside sculptures, including a plastic owl, intercepted at Harare airport. Lin Wang arrived with owl sculpture for export to China, which was scanned and revealed rhino horns. Authorities from ZIMRA, CID, and AGS held the item for further inspection, leading to the discovery.

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BusinessTech

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana warns South Africa of empty coffers and limited options in the revised 2025 Budget, excluding a VAT hike to 17%. Government unity is strained as deep spending cuts are proposed instead. Experts caution against excessive debt, emphasizing the need to attract investors and maintain credit ratings in the fragile economy.

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BusinessTech

The Democratic Alliance proposes budget cuts to fund government spending, opposing VAT hike. Finance minister’s Budget Speech postponed due to tax proposals. DA’s support crucial for passing budget in Government of National Unity.

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Sky Sports

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta remains defiant after a setback in the Premier League title race, vowing to keep fighting despite Liverpool’s lead. Despite challenges like injuries and red cards, Arteta praises his team’s resilience and ambition. Arsenal lost to West Ham, allowing Liverpool to extend their lead. Arteta is proud of his team’s efforts and remains determined to compete.

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