Author: newsnote correspondent

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has declared that he will not participate in the G20 summit scheduled to take place in Johannesburg later this year. His announcement not only signals his absence from the main summit but also from the crucial preparatory meeting of G20 foreign ministers on 20 and 21 February. This decision has led to speculation regarding whether President Donald Trump will also choose to skip the gathering in November. Rubio took to social media platform X on Wednesday night, sharing his strong sentiments regarding the South African government’s actions. He stated, “I will NOT attend the…

The M23 rebels have announced a ceasefire effective from Tuesday, a declaration that aims to halt the ongoing violence in the eastern city of Goma, which has recently seen devastating clashes resulting in the deaths of at least 900 people. This news comes on the heels of a grim report from the UN health agency, highlighting the toll of last week’s brutal fighting between M23 forces and Congolese government troops. While the situation in Goma—home to over a million residents—has reportedly calmed, concerns linger as M23 forces shift their focus to the neighbouring province of South Kivu, raising alarms about…

In a groundbreaking collaboration aimed at addressing the pressing need for sustainable energy solutions, South Africa’s leading companies, Sasol and Anglo American, have joined forces to develop home-grown green diesel. This partnership is set to not only bolster the nation’s energy landscape but also contribute significantly to the global shift towards more environmentally friendly fuel alternatives. The joint venture is poised to leverage Sasol’s extensive expertise in chemical engineering and fuel production alongside Anglo American’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. The initiative reflects an industry-wide transition as South Africa, like many countries, grapples with the impacts of climate change and…

Today, as the world comes together to observe World Cancer Day, South Africa’s Deputy Health Minister Dr. Joe Phahla and Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko will commemorate this significant day in Soweto. The event, aimed at raising awareness about cancer, underscores the crucial importance of regular screening for early detection and effective treatment. This year’s celebration takes on added significance with the official opening of a new Breast Health Clinic at the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Hospital. This state-of-the-art facility is set to enhance the effectiveness of breast cancer detection, treatment, and research initiatives in Gauteng, a province that has long…

Gaza City: Against a tumultuous backdrop of conflict, ranks of Hamas fighters stood resolutely in formation as the highly anticipated handover of Keith Siegel, an Israeli-American hostage, unfolded. The scene encapsulated the complexity of the region’s hostilities, combining elements of celebration, tension, and stark reality at a stage set against the crashing waves of the Mediterranean. As Palestinian and green Hamas flags danced vigorously in the sea breeze at the bustling fisherman’s wharf, the atmosphere turned electric with mixed emotions. Earlier that same day, in the city of Khan Yunis, two other hostages—Israeli Yarden Bibas and Franco-Israeli Ofer Kalderon—had been…

Residents across Gauteng are buzzing with complaints as an alarming spike in fly populations has taken over their homes. Pest control experts attribute this increasing infestation to a combination of hot and humid weather conditions, creating an environment that is remarkably favourable for these pesky insects. Mario Pluke, a technical manager at a local pest control company, shared insights on the unnerving situation. “Flies are always around us. Everywhere you go, you will probably find flies. But I think the weather patterns that we’ve been having, I think that’s probably one of the key reasons why we seem to have…

The rebel leader whose fighters have captured Goma, the biggest city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has vowed to continue their offensive all the way to the capital, Kinshasa.Corneille Nangaa, who heads an alliance of rebel groups that includes the M23, said their ultimate aim was to topple President Félix Tshisekedi’s government. Unconfirmed reports say the Rwanda-backed rebels are currently advancing towards Bukavu, the second-biggest city in the mineral-rich east, despite international calls for a ceasefire.In a televised address after the fall of Goma, Tshisekedi said a “vigorous and coordinated response” was under way to recapture territory from…

The latest Labour Force Report by the Namibia Statistics Agency reveals a stark rise in unemployment rates within the country, escalating to a concerning 36.9% from 33.4% in 2018. Approximately 320,000 Namibians are now grappling with joblessness, underscoring the ongoing challenges in the nation’s employment landscape. This troubling rise in unemployment reflects not just economic difficulties but also highlights the overarching need for policy reform and initiatives aimed at revitalising the job market. The figures suggest a robust examination of the current strategies in place for economic development and job creation is necessary to address the escalating crisis. On a…

The state has announced plans to charge Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of former President Jacob Zuma, under the country’s controversial Terrorism Act. This move follows a series of unrest in the nation that rocked the democratic foundations and raised alarms about security and public safety. The charges against Zuma-Sambudla are part of a broader investigation into a wave of violence that erupted in July 2021, which was believed to have been incited by Zuma’s imprisonment for contempt of court. During that tumultuous period, the country witnessed widespread looting, arson, and civil unrest, with numerous businesses and communities left devastated in the…

A cascade of alarm has swept through global health corridors following the Trump administration’s recent decision to halt the supply of lifesaving drugs for HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis, as well as critical medical supplies for newborns in nations supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Health experts warn that this abrupt action could undo years of progress in fighting these epidemics, ultimately impacting millions of lives. USAID-funded programs have been instrumental in assisting populations worldwide—offering not only treatment for HIV/AIDS but also contributions towards clean water access, healthcare infrastructure, and bolstering children’s health. However, in a drastic…