News Bulletin of 17 December 2025, 1pm

Tour operator Gilda Swanepoel organised a community clean-up in Kliptown, a historic suburb of Soweto in Gauteng, this Christmas, inviting children to help care for their surroundings before receiving gifts.
The initiative encouraged participation and responsibility, with children working together enthusiastically and showing pride in their efforts.
Local youth groups helped manage the activity, guiding the children and acting as role models.
For many in Kliptown, an area with limited recreational spaces, the clean-up offered a meaningful way to contribute to their community.
Gilda continues to support projects in Kliptown that promote self-respect, participation, and long-term benefits beyond the festive season.

Table Mountain has welcomed one million visitors so far this year, marking a strong period for tourism in Cape Town.
The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway also celebrated its thirty third millionth visitor since operations began, with a local tourist from Limpopo reaching the summit on Monday.
Earlier this year, the attraction recorded its thirty second millionth visitor, pointing to steady growth in visitor numbers.
The company says increased arrivals through major airports, more direct flights to Cape Town and the start of the cruise season have contributed to the positive trend.
The milestone reflects continued momentum in domestic and international tourism, reinforcing Table Mountain’s place as one of South Africa’s leading attractions.

Iraq has taken a positive step in rebuilding its aviation links with the arrival of the first European airline flight to Baghdad in 35 years.
Greece’s Aegean Airlines operated the flight, restoring a direct air connection between Iraq and Europe.
European airlines had not flown directly to Baghdad since the early 1990s because of security challenges.
The resumption of services reflects improved stability in the country and efforts to strengthen international ties and attract investment.
The Baghdad to Athens route will operate twice a week, with scope to add more flights as demand grows, supporting Iraq’s wider economic recovery.