News Bulletin of 2 July 2025, 8am

A groundbreaking initiative is underway in Johannesburg, driven by the Joburg Smart City Office in partnership with Wits University.
The Smart City Innovation Challenge, launched in 2020, empowers residents to become the architects of their own urban future.
The challenge invites residents, small business owners, students, and City employees to submit innovative ideas addressing pressing issues such as traffic congestion, waste management, housing, and digital inclusion.
The City is hosting a series of workshops and town hall meetings across various locations, including Soweto and Sandton to equip residents with the knowledge and skills needed to turn their ideas into tangible solutions.
The most promising ideas will be recognized and rewarded with essential funding, mentorship and the opportunity to pilot their projects in real-life city settings.

South African digital banking pioneer Tyme Bank has been recognized as one of Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential Companies for 2025.
This prestigious honor places Tyme Bank alongside global tech giants such as Apple, Open AI, and TikTok.
With over 11-million customers, the bank has become one of the fastest-growing retail banks in Africa.

Amid international crises ranging from climate change to war and poverty world leaders came together in Spain on Monday for a 4 day conference on sustainable development and how to solve the world's crises.
The Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development kicked off with the adoption of the Sevilla Commitment which is a document highlighting the leaders' will to pursue action in favour of the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.
Leaders will seek ways to close the current 4-trillion-dollar gap in funding for the Sustainable Development Goals a UN framework that outlines ways to solve key crises such as poverty, global hunger, and climate change.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres:
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