News Bulletin of 17 July 2025, 8am

Headline 1
Research Institute Boosts Manufacturing with Cybersecurity, Automation And Smart Tech
Story 1
CSIR's Dr. Jabu Mtsweni says the organisation is working on research, development, and innovation building blocks to enhance the manufacturing industry focusing on areas like cybersecurity, automation, and smart tech.
Mtsweni's remarks come at the back of the recently held Manufacturing Indaba which focused on boosting localized production in Africa.
The CSIR aims to improve the competitiveness of high-impact industries, support South Africa's re-industrialization, and contribute to socioeconomic prosperity.
CSIR's Dr Luyolo Mabali speaks on the work of the institution in relation to how they are helping businesses to get ahead:
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Story 1 category
Headline 2
South Africans Called To Join 2025 Clear Rivers Campaign
Story 2
The Department of Water and Sanitation is calling on all South Africans to join the 2025 Clear Rivers Campaign by cleaning up polluted rivers.
The annual campaign, taking place in July, aims to promote community involvement in protecting and restoring water ecosystems.
The initiative encourages people to take ownership of their local rivers, streams, and wetlands.
It coincides with Nelson Mandela Month, promoting environmental responsibility across the country.
Story 2 category
Headline 3
China's Economy Beats Expectations With 5.2% Growth
Story 3
China's economy grew 5.2% in the second quarter surpassing expectations despite an ongoing trade war with the US.
The growth was driven by diversification efforts to non-US markets, which boosted exports.
The National Bureau of Statistics reported the growth rate, which was higher than the 5.1% predicted by economists.
Although the growth slowed from 5.4% in the first quarter, China's economy still achieved 5.3% growth in the first half of the year.
Story 3 category
Financial Indicators headline
Financial Indicators
Financial indicators
Your financial indicators for this hour:

The Rand is trading at 17.80 to the US Dollar, 23.89 to the British Pound, and 20.71 to the Euro.

Gold is trading at 3,334.75 dollars a fine ounce, Brent Crude Oil is at 68.78 per barrel, and a Bitcoin will set you back 118,704.00.
Teaser / Tailpiece headline
Win R2500
Teaser / Tailpiece story
919 FM is calling on listeners to share their creative solutions to improve the City of Johannesburg.
The station is partnering with Sandton-based businesses to reward the best idea with a R2500 prize.
Listeners are encouraged to submit their ideas on various challenges facing the city, including safeguarding substations against vandalism and preventing illegal dumping.
To participate, simply WhatsApp your voice notes to 084 22-12-919.
The best ideas will be featured live on air and the winner will be announced at the end of the month.
Split analysis
Local: 0 words (0%), National: 159 words (70%), International: 68 words (30%)