News Bulletin of 17 October 2025, 4pm

Johannesburg’s 37km Braamfontein Spruit, which stretches from Northcliff to Sandton, now has separate paths for cyclists, walkers, and dogs, improving safety and enjoyment for everyone.
The non-profit Jozi Trails, working with Johannesburg City Parks, led the upgrades to make the popular urban green corridor more accessible for residents.
Volunteers and security partners help keep the trail safe, while fundraising and memberships support ongoing maintenance.
The Spruit continues to serve as a vital space for recreation, connecting communities across the city.

Two Eastern Cape farmers have rowed an impressive 330.6 kilometres in 24 hours, raising over R100 000 for PinkDrive. Their goal is to promote early cancer detection and support South Africans affected by the disease.
Tienie du Plessis and Roché Cronje took on the challenge at Lynnwood Bridge Retail Centre, coming just four kilometres short of a world record.
Both men were inspired by their wives’ battles with breast cancer.
Their effort highlights the power of determination and community spirit in turning personal experiences into hope and awareness for others.

The US government has approved a $115 million President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) Bridge Plan to strengthen HIV service delivery in South Africa.
The six-month initiative, which began on 1 October 2025, aims to maintain uninterrupted HIV care and prioritise country-specific needs to save lives.
Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni highlighted that the plan supports ongoing efforts, including the rollout of Lenacapavir, a long-acting HIV prevention drug set for early 2026 that provides six months of protection with just two annual doses.
The funding and drug rollout are key steps towards South Africa’s goal of reducing new HIV infections to below 0.1% by 2032