Author: newsnote correspondent
The expulsion of South Africa’s ambassador to the United States, Ebrahim Rasool, raises urgent questions regarding the future of South Africa’s eligibility under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). This act, in place for nearly 25 years, provides eligible African nations with duty-free access to the US market for select goods. With a review of South Africa’s AGOA status approaching later this year, the implications of this recent development could be dire for a nation already struggling with a health crisis after the withdrawal of crucial US funding for HIV-related programmes. International relations expert Siseko Maposa elucidates the gravity…
The atmosphere was electric at Loftus Stadium as Orlando Pirates battled fierce rivals Mamelodi Sundowns in a highly anticipated fixture of the Betway Premiership. With both teams vying for supremacy, the stakes were particularly high, drawing passionate supporters eager for a glimpse of high-octane football. Central to the burgeoning narrative of the match was Relebohile Mofokeng, the young talent who has captured the attention of both fans and critics alike. Although the exact number of goals he scored against Sundowns remains unconfirmed, his recent performances have firmly established him as a player to watch. Notably, his standout goal against Magesi…
United States President Donald Trump authorised large-scale strikes against the Iran-aligned Houthi group in Yemen on Saturday, citing the need to protect Red Sea shipping from continued assaults by the rebels. The initial wave of strikes reportedly resulted in the deaths of 31 individuals, with many more injured, thus initiating a military campaign expected to extend over several days. Trump’s call to action came amidst a backdrop of rising tensions with Iran, the Houthis’ primary supporter, as the U.S. ramps up sanctions aimed at curbing Tehran’s influence and nuclear ambitions. In a stark warning directed at Iran, Trump stated, “If…
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has lodged a formal complaint with the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) concerning Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner. This complaint arises from allegations that Mkhwanazi interfered in the arrest of a senior correctional services official implicated in serious drug charges. The allegations against Mkhwanazi, who has garnered public support for his relentless crackdowns on crime across the province, cast a shadow over his longstanding commitment to ensuring justice is served. Known for his progressive policing strategies, which have been met with both praise and scrutiny, Mkhwanazi now finds himself on the defensive as these…
European Union (EU) and South Africa have committed to deepening their partnership at a summit held this week. The gathering takes on added urgency as both entities navigate rising challenges stemming from the new U.S. administration under President Donald Trump, marked by a retreat from multilateralism and increasing economic nationalism. “This is a time for partners who share the same values to collaborate, particularly when multilateralism is under attack,” said South African President Cyril Ramaphosa during the summit’s opening remarks in Cape Town. He articulated concerns over the “huge global shake-up” that has occurred since Trump took office, expressing a…
In a move that has sent shockwaves through South Africa’s energy sector, six individuals, including key officials from the embattled Kusile Power Station, have been arrested as part of a sprawling investigation into corruption and graft within Eskom, the country’s state-owned electricity supplier. The arrests, confirmed by local law enforcement, are believed to stem from allegations that these officials were involved in fraudulent activities that cost the beleaguered power utility millions of rands. As Eskom grapples with ongoing power supply challenges and financial instability, the revelations of graft and mismanagement have raised serious concerns about governance and accountability within the…
Parts of northern Italy, particularly Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna, are grappling with significant flooding and landslides following torrential rain. As red alerts blanket cities such as Florence and Pisa, officials warn residents to remain vigilant in the face of continuing downpours predicted through Friday afternoon. With local rescue and health services on high alert, Tuscany’s president has urged citizens to exercise “the utmost attention and caution”. The impact of the relentless rain was felt acutely in Bologna, where reports of landslides and mudslides led to the swift evacuation of residents late Thursday evening. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported as the…
In a gripping turn of events at the Western Cape High Court, harrowing details have emerged that cast a dismal shadow over the trial of Racquel “Kelly” Smith, accused of kidnapping her then-6-year-old daughter, Joshlin. Key witness Lourentia “Renz” Lombaard delivered chilling testimony that suggested Smith confessed to selling her child to a traditional healer, commonly referred to as a sangoma, for an alarming sum of R20,000. As Lombaard recounted her unsettling narrative before Judge Nathan Erasmus, the atmosphere in the packed courtroom shifted significantly, punctuated by audible gasps from the public gallery. Court orderlies were compelled to restore order…
The long-awaited testimony of Lourentia Lombaard in the trial of missing Joshlin Smith was halted just minutes after it began, when the judge adjourned proceedings to allow defence lawyers to consult with their clients. The dramatic developments unfolded yesterday afternoon at the Western Cape High Court, currently convened at the White City Multipurpose Centre in Diazville. Lombaard, also known as “Renz,” took the stand as a former accused turned State witness. She was initially arrested alongside Smith’s mother, Racquel ‘Kelly’ Smith, her boyfriend Jacquen ‘Boeta’ Appollis, and friend Steveno ‘Steffie’ van Rhyn. Originally hailing from Wolseley, Lombaard, a mother of…
The spotlight shone brightly on the 2024 SA Rugby Awards, a celebration of extraordinary skill and teamwork that defines South African rugby. Leading the charge was Cheslin Kolbe, who added another prestigious accolade to his illustrious career by being named the SA Rugby Men’s Player of the Year. His exceptional contributions on the field cemented his status as one of rugby’s most influential players, a recognition that comes as no surprise to fans who have watched him light up pitches around the globe. In a year dominated by skillful performances, the Springboks, who recently triumphed in the Rugby World Cup,…