News Bulletin of 22 June 2026, 6pm

A Youth Day initiative at Willowmoore High School in Benoni encouraged young people to stay off the streets and focus on their goals through sport and education.
Organised by the Benoni CPF Youth Desk, the event brought together youth, law enforcement agencies and community members for football matches and awareness activities focused on drug abuse, gender-based violence and positive life choices.
Friendly matches between SAPS, EMPD and youth teams formed part of the programme, which was held under the theme “Say No to Drugs, Yes to Dreams”. Organisers said the event aimed to create a safe space for young people to engage with police officers and learn about issues affecting their futures.

A new Mastercard study has found that many South African small and medium enterprises remain optimistic about the year ahead, with half of those surveyed expecting positive business conditions and 43 percent anticipating revenue growth.
The research shows that local entrepreneurs are increasingly adopting digital tools and online payment systems to improve efficiency and reach more customers.
The study also found strong financial discipline among businesses, with many using dedicated banking tools and viewing technology and innovation as key drivers of future growth. It highlights a sector that continues to adapt despite economic pressures.

A five-day clean-up led by city entities has helped restore the Ferndale Arboretum Bird Sanctuary in Johannesburg after years of neglect and illegal occupation.
Residents and officials say the area had become overrun by waste and informal structures after fencing was damaged during maintenance work by Johannesburg Water, leaving the site unsafe and degraded.
City Parks and Zoo teams removed rubbish, dismantled makeshift dwellings and began repairing fencing to secure the area. Ward 104 councillor Emi Koekemoer thanked the community for supporting the clean-up effort.
Officials say the focus now shifts to ongoing monitoring and protection to prevent further illegal occupation and ensure long-term rehabilitation.