South Africa’s top police chief faces corruption charges over a $21M contract, highlighting ongoing political and legal turmoil in the country.
A regional study and global reports show climate risks—extreme heat, health impacts, and security pressures—are intensifying across southern Africa and beyond. Researchers warn heat acts as an integrator hazard, worsening health outcomes, food systems, and governance, with urgent adaptation and inclusive policy needed.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has ordered the deployment of 550 soldiers across five provinces to combat organized crime, gang violence, and illegal mining. The move follows rising homicide rates and public concern, marking a significant escalation in efforts to restore law and order in South Africa. The deployment is set to last until March 2027.
Amid ongoing geopolitical crises, the push for renewable energy and climate cooperation continues to grow. Countries are investing heavily in clean energy, with Africa emerging as a key player. Experts emphasize the importance of multilateral efforts to build resilient economies and address climate challenges.
The 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled for March in Morocco, has been postponed to July due to unforeseen circumstances. Despite reports of Morocco's withdrawal, CAF confirmed Morocco remains the host. The delay affects 24 nations, including Kenya, which was preparing for the tournament.
RNID has encouraged people to take a free online hearing check after a survey of 1,810 adults finds many would struggle to hear day-to-day sounds, with advocates stressing early action can improve communication and quality of life.
Tensions in the Middle East and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz threaten Africa's energy supply, raising fuel costs, inflation, and economic vulnerability. Countries heavily reliant on imported petroleum face supply shocks, with potential impacts on trade, household costs, and regional stability.
U.S. Ambassador Leo Bozell's controversial remarks about South Africa's courts and policies have led to his summoning by South African officials. The incident underscores worsening diplomatic relations amid disputes over racial policies, judicial independence, and perceived interference, with ongoing tensions over the country's stance on Iran and domestic laws.
The International Court of Justice is examining whether Israel's military actions in Gaza amount to genocide under post-WWII treaties. The US denies the allegations, claiming they are part of a broader campaign against Israel. Several countries have intervened, with ongoing legal and humanitarian debates.
South Africa secured the series title after winning the New York Sevens final, defeating Fiji 10-7 in a close match. The victory was highlighted by strong defensive effort and key try assists from Tristan Leyds. Meanwhile, New Zealand's women’s team claimed their fifth consecutive tournament win, edging Australia 24-17. The season continues with upcoming semifinals and ongoing rugby competitions.
Since May, at least three flights carrying Gaza residents have landed in Indonesia and South Africa. An Israeli organization, Ad Kan, supported by a founder who backed Trump’s Palestinian resettlement plan, organized the evacuations. Critics question whether these were humanitarian or politically motivated efforts to remove Palestinians from Gaza.
The US is investigating whether countries use forced labor in goods imports, amid rising tensions involving Iran's new leadership and US sanctions. President Trump comments on Iran's football team, while South Africa seeks clarity on US ambassador's controversial remarks. The US-Mexico-Canada trade pact faces renewal challenges.
Countries across Africa are advancing efforts to improve healthcare access through new diagnostics, training, and infrastructure. Namibia is expanding TB detection, Uganda is exploring AI diagnostics, and South Africa trials portable tests. Meanwhile, Africa faces a critical surgical workforce shortage, impacting treatment for conditions like cleft lip and palate.
On March 25, 2026, the UN General Assembly adopted a non-binding resolution supporting reparations for the transatlantic slave trade. The resolution, supported by 123 countries, calls for acknowledgment, apologies, return of cultural artifacts, and measures to address systemic racism. The US, Israel, and Argentina opposed; 52 abstained. The move aims to promote justice and healing for victims.
Zimbabwean authorities are working to repatriate 66 citizens deceived by fraudulent recruitment schemes promising jobs abroad. Instead, they were coerced into fighting in Russia's Ukraine conflict, with some killed and others still in captivity. Similar cases are reported across Africa, highlighting regional trafficking issues.
The US is negotiating health aid deals with African nations that include demands for access to critical minerals and data sharing, causing pushback from countries like Zimbabwe and Zambia. The secrecy and conditions raise concerns about exploitation and sovereignty, with some nations walking away from negotiations.
African countries are experiencing rising fuel prices due to global energy shocks linked to conflicts in the Middle East and supply disruptions. Governments are implementing measures to mitigate impacts, but dependence on imported refined petroleum exposes the continent to external risks, affecting economies and daily life.
The Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed due to Iran-backed attacks, causing a sharp rise in energy prices and prompting countries like Egypt to implement energy-saving measures. Shipping reroutes around South Africa are increasing, risking further economic impacts.
African governments are taking steps to address fuel shortages and rising prices amid global tensions. Madagascar has declared a state of emergency, South Africa has cut fuel levies, Ethiopia has introduced rationing, and Senegal has restricted foreign travel for ministers. These actions respond to recent global disruptions affecting oil supplies.
Scientists have identified fossilized eggs of a 250-million-year-old therapsid, showing these ancestors of mammals laid eggs. Using advanced imaging, they revealed the embryo inside a soft eggshell, shedding light on early reproductive strategies and survival tactics of prehistoric animals. This discovery confirms therapsids' oviparity and enhances understanding of mammalian evolution.
A bus has lost control and veered off the N1 highway near Musina, Zimbabwe, resulting in multiple fatalities. Emergency services are responding, and authorities are urging caution on the dangerous road section. The crash highlights ongoing road safety issues in the country, where deadly accidents are frequent.
South Africa has appointed Ralph Meyer as its new US ambassador, following a vacancy since 2025 and the expulsion of Ebrahim Rasool. Meyer, a key figure in ending apartheid, is expected to improve diplomatic relations with Washington amid recent tensions, including the US refugee program for white South Africans and diplomatic expulsions.
Temperatures are rising across multiple regions, driven by ongoing climate patterns. Spain, Brazil, and North America are experiencing above-average heat, with forecasts indicating these trends will continue. A potential super-strength El Niño is contributing to global warming, impacting weather patterns worldwide. This story is current as of Mon, 20 Apr 2026.
South Africa has appointed Roelf Meyer as its new ambassador to the US, replacing Ebrahim Rasool. Meyer, a former apartheid-era minister and key negotiator for the end of apartheid, is expected to help stabilize strained US-South Africa relations amid ongoing diplomatic tensions and US criticisms of South Africa's policies.
Daniel Duggan, accused of training Chinese pilots, has lost his appeal against extradition to the US. The Federal Court has dismissed his challenge, and Duggan remains in custody in Australia. His legal team is considering further appeals amid ongoing diplomatic and legal debates.
Women in Sudan continue to suffer sexual violence amid ongoing conflict. A young inventor has developed a protective device for women, while reports detail widespread atrocities by paramilitary forces. The conflict has displaced millions and worsened humanitarian conditions, with no immediate end in sight.
Seba, a Beninese activist known for anti-French and pro-Russian views, has been arrested in Pretoria with his son. He is wanted in Benin for incitement to rebellion and crimes against the state. Authorities plan to extradite him to Benin, where he has supported recent coups and expressed opposition to France.
Julius Malema, leader of South Africa's Economic Freedom Fighters, has been sentenced to five years in prison for firing a rifle at a 2018 rally. He has been released on bail pending appeal. If upheld, the sentence will disqualify him from Parliament, dealing a major blow to his party.
Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe has been fined and ordered to leave South Africa after pleading guilty to pointing a toy gun and illegal entry. His cousin Tobias Matonhodze has pleaded guilty to attempted murder and related charges; he faces three years in prison and will be deported after serving. The case centers on a February shooting at a Hyde Park residence and ongoing questions over a missing firearm.
Recent attacks on Chernobyl's containment structure highlight ongoing risks linked to the Ukraine conflict. A drone strike in February damaged the New Safe Confinement shell, raising concerns about nuclear safety and the potential impact on long-term containment. The incident underscores the evolving security threats to nuclear sites amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Recent articles highlight that new graduates are encountering a difficult job market driven by AI and shifting employer expectations. While job opportunities are still available, searches are longer, and employers value practical skills, adaptability, and responsiveness. Education systems are urged to include more real-world training to meet these needs. Today's landscape demands new strategies for success.
South Africa's police commissioner Fannie Masemola has been placed on precautionary suspension following charges of violating the Public Finance Management Act related to a R360 million tender. Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane is acting police commissioner as Masemola faces court proceedings. The suspension follows ongoing corruption allegations within the police force, impacting public trust and political stability.
Anti-immigrant groups have organised protests in Johannesburg, Pretoria and Durban, urging stricter immigration enforcement and denouncing undocumented migrants. Demonstrations have disrupted commerce, drawn in political parties, and prompted police to monitor for violence and vigilantism.
Zambia's government has taken custody of former President Edgar Lungu's remains after a South African court ordered their release. The dispute involves conflicting court rulings and Lungu's family wishes, with the government aiming for a state funeral in Zambia. The legal battle highlights ongoing political tensions between Lungu and current President Hichilema.
England’s cricket and rugby leadership are consolidating new structures after recent reviews. The ECB has formed a county feedback panel to inform selection, while rugby appoints Brian McDermott as head coach for the World Cup, aiming to lift performance after a heavy defeat in the Ashes. Changes signal a push for clearer pathways and accountability across sports.
The Biden administration is discussing plans to raise the refugee admissions cap by 10,000, focusing on Afrikaners facing race-based persecution in South Africa. This follows a shift in US refugee policy under Trump, which has prioritized white South Africans, amid claims of persecution and ongoing political debates.
Global fertiliser trade remains under pressure as the Strait of Hormuz disruption continues to affect urea, ammonia and sulphur shipments. With several regions facing rising costs and tighter supplies, farmers face higher input prices and potential yield impacts in the coming seasons.
A field trial of the malaria vaccine R21 has reduced infections in Mwavi village, Tanzania, with boosters extending gains. Despite aid cuts, local uptake shows how vaccination can reshape malaria’s impact in high-risk rural communities. WHO approved use in 2023; 2024–25 data indicate sustained declines, even as broader funding risks persist.
China’s zero-tariff treatment has been extended to 20 additional African countries, bringing the scheme to 53 of Africa’s 54 nations. Eswatini remains excluded due to its diplomatic ties with Taiwan. Analysts say gains are limited, but the move signals Beijing’s openness push and aims to boost Africa‑China trade.
The UK government argues that a decentralised grid of wind, solar and storage strengthens national security by reducing reliance on large fossil fuel plants and vulnerable interconnectors, while stressing resilience against cyber and physical threats. Ministers point to Ukraine lessons and ongoing undersea-cable protections as proof of progress.
An outbreak on the MV Hondius has claimed three lives and left several others ill. WHO and national health ministries confirm confirmed and suspected cases as the ship travels from Argentina to Cape Verde, with evacuations under discussion and ongoing laboratory work.