News Bulletin of 18 July 2025, 4pm

To mark Nelson Mandela Day, the Gauteng Health Department is performing over 1 000 free surgeries across public hospitals. 
The surgical marathon is a joint effort with private partners and focuses on procedures like cataract removal, cleft palate repair and prostate treatment.
  MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko is visiting facilities to ensure smooth delivery and reopen upgraded units. 
A new Treatment Time Guarantee is also being introduced to reduce backlogs. 
It’s a hopeful step toward restoring dignity and improving lives across the province.

Six orphaned and injured elephants have been successfully released back into the wild in Sri Lanka.
 They were carefully cared for at the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, a conservation centre dedicated to helping young elephants recover and prepare for life in the wild. 
The calves, aged between five and seven, were released into the Mau Ara forest where they can now survive independently or join wild herds.
 Since the programme began in 1998, the centre has returned 187 elephants to their natural habitat. 
Officials say the focus on rewilding rather than domestication has greatly improved the elephants’ chances of survival.

Wits University has honoured two distinguished South Africans with honorary doctorates.
Kaizer Motaung, a celebrated footballer, successful businessman, and philanthropist, has made significant contributions to South African soccer and youth development.
Mavuso Walter Msimang is recognised for his lifelong activism against apartheid and his outspoken commitment to social justice and good governance.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Zeblon Vilakazi praised their leadership and lasting impact on the country.
The university also celebrated over 2 000 graduates, including 129 PhDs, during its July graduation ceremonies.