News Bulletin of 1 February 2026, 1pm

South Africa Tourism Hits Record High
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille says there has been an increase in tourism of 17.6% recorded in 2024 and the highest on record.She says the growth is a reason to celebrate, highlighting renewed global confidence in South Africa as a travel destination and the positive impact on jobs and the economy:
South Africa
Makubenjalo Rewards Top Matriculants
Makubenjalo Restaurant celebrated top-performing matriculants by awarding R30,000 in cash vouchers to Bo pasen atla and Immaculate Secondary Schools last week. Two learners from each school received 10,000 and 5,000 rand based on their final exam results. Owner Katlego Bogatsu said the initiative aims to motivate students to work hard and support them as they prepare for tertiary studies. Both schools are among Soweto’s best, with Bo pasen atla achieving a 100% pass rate and Immaculate 95%.
Sandton and Gauteng
Swimming for a Cause
Kelsi Naidoo and Callum Marais will take on the Midmar Mile on February 7 with a purpose beyond the finish line, swimming to raise 16 000 rand for the Sandton SPCA.The couple aims to donate R10 for every metre of the 1.6km race, turning their swim into vital support for vulnerable animals. While thousands of swimmers will chase personal goals, Naidoo and Marais say their motivation is rooted in compassion and community.

Sandton and Gauteng
Financial Indicators
Your financial indicators for this hour:

The Rand is trading at 16.13 to the US Dollar, 0.00 to the British Pound, and 0.00 to the Euro.

Gold is trading at 4,891.47 dollars a fine ounce, Brent Crude Oil is at Error per barrel, and a Bitcoin will set you back 78,440.00.
Crying Horse’ Becomes Viral Hit
A production error has turned a simple stuffed toy into China’s latest viral sensation.
The 4 dollar toy was originally designed as a smiling symbol for the Year of the Horse. However, an upside-down muzzle stitched during manufacturing gave the horse a sad expression, making its nostrils look like falling tears. Images of the mistake spread rapidly online after a customer shared photos. Factory owner Zhang Huoqing said initial sales were about 400 units a day when the toy launched in October last year. Demand surged to tens of thousands daily after it went viral, with wholesale orders coming from as far as South Africa.

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