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The UK has pledged £850 million to the Global Fund for 2026-28, a 15% reduction from previous commitments, amid broader aid cuts. This move risks reversing progress in fighting AIDS, TB, and malaria, potentially causing hundreds of thousands of preventable deaths and weakening health systems worldwide.
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Multiple sources report ongoing violence and humanitarian crises in Gaza and Sudan, with thousands killed and widespread displacement. Cultural figures worldwide are raising awareness through concerts, films, and open letters, demanding recognition of genocide and urging action from governments. The stories highlight the role of media, activism, and artistic expression in shaping public response.
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The US is exploring ways to reduce reliance on Taiwan for semiconductor manufacturing, aiming to bring more supply chain capacity home. Discussions involve Taiwan's investment and security guarantees, amid concerns over China's threats and global chip shortages. South Africa and Africa are also in talks for trade agreements.
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The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) expired on September 30, risking job losses and economic setbacks in African countries reliant on US duty-free exports. Leaders are seeking renewal amid rising tariffs and China's expanding influence, which could reshape Africa's trade landscape.
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As of late October 2025, rugby union is navigating significant transitions: Eddie Jones reflects on his England coaching tenure and Japan role; Australia dominates England in rugby league; the Rugby Championship tightens with South Africa leading; and a breakaway league, R360, backed by Middle Eastern investors, threatens rugby's traditional global structure.
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Nathi Mthethwa, South Africa's ambassador to France, was found dead at a Paris hotel after his wife reported him missing. Investigations suggest a possible suicide, with no signs of struggle or drugs. Mthethwa previously served as police and sports minister, and his death is considered a national loss.
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The 2027 Rugby World Cup will feature 24 teams, with the draw scheduled for December 3. The tournament begins in Perth on October 1, ending in Sydney on November 13. The format includes a new knockout round, increasing opportunities for more nations to advance.
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Embeth Davidtz, known for her acting, makes her directing debut with a heartfelt film based on Alexandra Fuller’s memoir about her childhood in Zimbabwe during the late 1970s. The film explores a troubled world through a child's eyes, highlighting her passion for storytelling and her outsider perspective.
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Hamas is expected to provisionally accept Donald Trump's Gaza ceasefire proposal, contingent on key revisions. Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey are mediating, but divisions within Hamas and skepticism about Israel's compliance remain. The US and EU urge acceptance, while Israel's Netanyahu signals continued military presence. The plan aims to end the Gaza conflict.
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South Africa's women’s cricket team secured a significant win over India, with De Klerk’s powerful innings and two wickets. Meanwhile, England and Bangladesh played a tense match, with controversial umpiring decisions. Australia and New Zealand face weather disruptions in their ongoing T20 series, as teams aim for back-to-back World Cup titles.
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A bus traveling from South Africa to Zimbabwe and Malawi crashed near Louis Trichardt, Limpopo, on Sunday evening, killing 42 people including children. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with initial causes under investigation. The incident highlights ongoing road safety concerns in the region.
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South Africa will participate in its first World Cup since 2010 after winning its qualifying group. Nigeria finished second and must now go through a playoff. Meanwhile, other African nations like Ghana, Algeria, Egypt, and Tunisia have already qualified, with ongoing qualification battles involving teams like Morocco, Senegal, and Ivory Coast.
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Three personal stories highlight the impact of burnout, immigration challenges, and life changes. A London-based freelancer shares her quiet quitting journey, a Parisian romance unfolds after burnout, and a US student faces surveillance and immigration issues amid activism. These stories reveal the human toll of modern pressures.
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The Biden administration has not finalized refugee admission numbers for 2025, with reports indicating a record low. Meanwhile, the U.S. is prioritizing the relocation of white South Africans, particularly Afrikaners, under a new program initiated by the Trump administration, citing claims of persecution amid South Africa's land expropriation laws.
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Mozambique is undertaking a major conservation effort to restore wildlife in Banhine National Park, which was decimated by civil war and poaching. Nearly 400 animals, including zebras and antelopes, have been relocated to the park. The project aims to revive the reserve's biodiversity and tourism, with support from Peace Parks Foundation.
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A new rugby league, R360, backed by Mike Tindall and funded by private investors, aims to launch in 2026, challenging the sport's traditional structure. Major unions warn players that joining R360 will make them ineligible for international selection, raising concerns over the sport's unity and future.
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South Africa and Cape Verde secured their first World Cup appearances for 2026, with South Africa topping their group after CAF points deductions, and Cape Verde winning their first-ever qualification, joining other African nations in North America. Nigeria and Cameroon face playoff routes.
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South Africa qualified for the 2026 World Cup after a 3-point deduction for fielding an ineligible player, with Nigeria and Benin battling for the final African spot. Nigeria's final match was marred by an emergency landing, and the qualification race remains highly competitive.
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China advances its climate goals with a focus on resilience and renewable energy, while the US and Europe face criticism for insufficient action. Meanwhile, global efforts to address air pollution and hunger remain underfunded, highlighting disparities in climate and development priorities amid rising inequalities.
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England became the first European team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, with other teams from Africa, Asia, and Oceania also securing spots. Forty-three teams will qualify through continental tournaments, with two more in intercontinental playoffs scheduled for March. The three host nations qualify automatically.
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The US has suspended most funding for South Africa's HIV programs, impacting thousands of health workers and clinics. Despite a new bridge plan, tensions remain high amid strained diplomatic relations and ongoing political disputes. The move threatens progress in HIV prevention and treatment in the region.
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A series of recent fatal accidents include a motorcycle collision in Brazil killing a footballer, a bus crash in Uganda causing dozens of deaths, and a home crash in Nashville after a car driven by an impaired teen. Authorities urge caution amid ongoing investigations.
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Recent reductions in UK and US aid threaten progress against HIV, malaria, and TB in Africa. Funding cuts could lead to hundreds of thousands of preventable deaths, with international summits and political decisions shaping future support. The global fight against these diseases faces significant financial and political challenges.
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Pakistan’s top cricketers have been cleared to participate in the Big Bash League (BBL) after weeks of uncertainty. The approval follows a resolution by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Cricket Australia. Notably, Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin will play the full season, marking a potential shift in international T20 league participation.
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On October 30, 2025, the Trump administration set the US refugee admissions ceiling at 7,500 for fiscal year 2026, a historic low compared to Biden's 125,000. Priority is given to white Afrikaners from South Africa, citing humanitarian concerns. The move has drawn criticism from South Africa's government and refugee advocates, who reject claims of 'white genocide' and warn of humanitarian consequences.
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Babar Azam surpassed Rohit Sharma to become the top scorer in men's T20 Internationals during Pakistan's win over South Africa on October 31, 2025. The milestone marks a significant achievement after a period of recent struggles, with Azam now leading the world with 4,234 runs in 123 innings.
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Cory Kapahulehua, 44, was sentenced to 187 years in prison after being convicted of abusing two students he taught at a Mesa school. The abuse began in 2021 and continued until his arrest in 2023. He was convicted of 17 child sex abuse and rape charges.
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President Biden's administration has capped refugee admissions at 7,500, the lowest since 1980, sharply reducing numbers and marking a shift from previous bipartisan support. The policy notably prioritizes white South Africans, including Afrikaners, amid ongoing debates over immigration and refugee priorities.
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India's women's cricket team won their first-ever World Cup on Sunday, defeating South Africa by 52 runs in Navi Mumbai. The victory is seen as a historic moment that could boost gender equality in Indian sports, with increased investment and visibility for women’s cricket. The win has inspired young girls and signaled potential long-term change.
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As global wealth inequality worsens, South Africa's G20 presidency highlights the need for international measures. A report shows the richest 1% captured 41% of new wealth since 2000, prompting calls for a permanent inequality monitoring body. Leaders are urged to address this pressing issue today.
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On November 6, 2025, Somali pirates attacked and seized the Malta-flagged tanker Hellas Aphrodite in the Indian Ocean, over 1,000 km off Somalia’s coast. The 24 crew members locked themselves safely in the ship’s citadel. The pirates, armed with machine guns and RPGs, reportedly operate from a hijacked Iranian fishing boat. EU naval forces are responding amid rising piracy linked to regional instability.
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As of November 2025, over 1,400 Africans from 36 countries, including Kenya and South Africa, have been recruited by Russia to fight in Ukraine under false pretenses. Many are deceived with promises of jobs, coerced into signing military contracts, and sent to deadly frontline assaults. South Africa is investigating 17 citizens trapped in Ukraine, while Ukraine urges recruits to desert and seek prisoner-of-war status.
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African startups face exit challenges due to limited liquidity and rare IPOs, leading to reliance on trade sales. Experts call for reforms like growth IPO lanes and secondary markets to improve investor confidence and foster local wealth creation. Recent listings, including Optasia in South Africa, highlight progress.
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Despite low unemployment rates, many Americans face prolonged joblessness, with over a quarter unemployed for more than six months. Experts highlight emotional and economic tolls, as companies hesitate to hire amid economic uncertainty and layoffs increase. The situation signals a bifurcated labor market with lasting impacts.
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As of November 15, 2025, the US has officially boycotted the G20 summit in South Africa, citing unsubstantiated claims of human rights abuses against white Afrikaners and land confiscation. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned the boycott, emphasizing the summit will proceed without the US. The dispute highlights deepening tensions over misinformation, refugee policies, and South Africa's genocide case against Israel.
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African nations are making strides in vaccine development and manufacturing. South Africa begins clinical trials for a locally produced cholera vaccine, aiming for approval by 2028. Meanwhile, Nigeria progresses with a Lassa fever vaccine, addressing regional health needs and reducing dependency on imports.
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The UN climate talks in Belém, Brazil, are focusing on climate finance and fossil fuel phase-out. Recent reports confirm renewables will grow faster than any other energy source, making the transition away from fossil fuels inevitable despite political setbacks. The talks highlight the economic and geopolitical implications of this shift.
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Recent reports highlight rising e-waste and food waste globally, with Australia producing 580,000 tonnes of e-waste annually. Innovations like recycling programs and waste tracking aim to reduce environmental impact. Meanwhile, African nations focus on trade, resilient supply chains, and sustainable farming to improve food security amid global challenges. Sun, 16 Nov 2025 00:02:25 +0000
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Leading economists and former officials have called for a new international body to address rising inequality and its impact on democracy. The appeal comes ahead of the G20 summit in South Africa, where a report highlights a surge in wealth concentration and food insecurity worldwide.
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On November 14, 2025, 153 Palestinians fleeing Gaza arrived in Johannesburg on a chartered flight via Kenya. Initially denied entry due to missing Israeli exit stamps and unclear travel plans, 130 were later admitted after the NGO Gift of the Givers offered accommodation. The journey was reportedly facilitated by Israel through a shadowy group, sparking concerns over forced displacement amid Gaza's ongoing conflict.