News Bulletin of 17 December 2025, 4pm

Free Wi-Fi is now available in minibus taxis at the Randburg Taxi Rank, giving commuters better access to the internet during daily travel.
The initiative, part of a national rollout by Sebenza in partnership with SANTACO, aims to connect 50,000 taxis over the next two years.
The service helps passengers with work, studies, and small businesses, especially as data costs remain high. Minister of Communications Solly Malatsi said digital inclusion allows people to participate in the economy wherever they are.
Sebenza reports that in-taxi Wi-Fi usage grew from 5.3 million users in 2024 to 7 million in 2025, with commuters spending 10 to 15 minutes online per trip.

South Africa’s wine industry is entering the 2026 harvest season with cautious optimism as early production signals point to a stable and potentially slightly larger crop than last year.
For the second consecutive season, vineyards have largely avoided major weather disruptions such as frost and flooding, allowing the positive momentum of 2025 to continue.
The Western Cape remains the heart of production, with smaller areas in the Northern Cape contributing to overall output.
Producers are confident in the quality of this year’s harvest.

Quilen Blackwell has been named CNN Hero of the Year, bringing recognition and a $100,000( about R1,686,000) prize to support his work transforming Chicago’s South Side.

Together with his wife Hannah Bonham, Blackwell runs Southside Blooms and Chicago Eco House, turning vacant lots into eco-friendly flower farms and providing jobs and skills for at-risk youth.

Young people grow, harvest, and sell flowers, gaining practical experience while helping the community and reducing reliance on imported flowers.

The initiative currently employs 25 local youth and plans to open a second location on the city’s west side, continuing to create opportunities and build pride through meaningful work.