News Bulletin of 17 February 2026, 9am

Headline 1
R800 raised for cancer charity
Story 1
Aqua Marine Aquatics Academy in Douglasdale has raised eight-thousand rand for Rainbows and Smiles through its Mid-Mile charity swim.
The event, held earlier this month, saw 20 swimmers each donate 400 rand and complete as many pool lengths as possible.
The academy has partnered with the children’s cancer support organisation for more than ten years.
Funds raised will help provide meals, comfort packs and bedside play for children in hospital and support for their families during treatment.
Story 1 category
Headline 2
Gugulethu and Langa visit McClean Telescope
Story 2
Learners in Gugulethu and Langa took part in interactive astronomy activities, that included a tour of the visitors' centre at the McClean Telescope and attended a science and careers exhibition.
The visit at the Cape Town Observatory plays a major role in education young learners and the public about astronomy, and the potential it holds for future generations.
The government initiative targets learners from disadvantaged areas to encourage study in astronomy, science, and technology.
Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Blade Nzimande:
*sound*
Story 2 category
Headline 3
A karate star shines at Karate 1 Youth World League
Story 3
Bohlokwa Khitsane has finished seventh at the Karate 1 Youth World League in Dubai, after winning four of his six bouts against a field of 95 competitors.
The Harrismith-born JKA Karate athlete advanced through multiple elimination rounds before two narrow defeats ended his run, placing him among the top ten in his division.
The result builds on his 2022 campaign at the Commonwealth Karate Championships in England, where he won two gold medals and one silver.
His latest performance strengthens South Africa’s record in youth karate, following the national team’s clean sweep of medals at the 2025 African Youth Games.
Story 3 category
Financial Indicators headline
Financial Indicators
Financial indicators
Your financial indicators for this hour:

The Rand is trading at 15.98 to the US Dollar, 0.00 to the British Pound, and 0.00 to the Euro.

Gold is trading at 4,977.26 dollars a fine ounce, Brent Crude Oil is at Error per barrel, and a Bitcoin will set you back 68,441.00.
Teaser / Tailpiece headline
YouTube star Markiplier's film Iron Lung a success on box office
Teaser / Tailpiece story
YouTube star Markiplier self-funded and released the film Iron Lung, turning his online following into ticket sales.
The sci-fi thriller earned about R284 million in the US domestic box office on its opening weekend, surpassing a documentary about Melania Trump.
So far, Iron Lung has made around R694 million worldwide.
Split analysis
Local: 76 words (30%), National: 83 words (32%), International: 98 words (38%)