News Bulletin of 3 July 2025, 3pm

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Social Media Summit for Government Boosts Citizen Engagement
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The Social Media Summit for Government, now in its third year, partnered with the University of Johannesburg to unite public sector communicators and digital leaders at JBS Park.
Held from 30 June to 1 July 2025, the event focused on “Power Shift: Understanding Technology, Connecting Citizens and Redefining Digital Engagement.”
Prof Tankiso Moloi, UJ’s Executive Dean, opened the summit stressing the importance of ethical communication in building public trust.
Lorato Tshenkeng, CEO of Decode Communications, highlighted how digital platforms shift power to citizens as advocates and amplifiers, warning against disinformation.
Tshwane Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya urged transparent, accessible communication as the foundation of democracy.
The summit featured talks on civic tech, AI, and crisis communication, aiming to reshape government-citizen interaction.
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Headline 2
Modi's Historic Visit Strengthens Ghana-India Ties
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Ghana — the first visit by an Indian leader in nearly 30 years.
His trip aims to deepen trade and cooperation with President John Mahama, with discussions expected to boost both economies.
Modi will also address Ghana’s parliament and engage with the Indian community in Accra.
India is already Ghana’s top export destination, especially for gold, and trade between the two nations has reached $3.1 billion.
This visit marks a positive step in strengthening South-South partnerships as India positions itself as a key ally for African growth.
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Headline 3
Smurf Magic Hits Mzansi Ahead of New Film Release
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Smurfette and No Name, stars of the upcoming Smurfs film, are touring South Africa ahead of the movie’s release on 11 July.
The Smurfing the Nation tour kicked off in Cape Town and will move to KwaZulu-Natal this weekend, before wrapping up in Gauteng later this month.
Fans can meet the characters at shopping malls, casinos, and entertainment venues — all free of charge.
The film features a star-studded voice cast including Rihanna, James Corden and Sandra Oh, with a soundtrack boasting local Grammy-winner Tyla.
The visit marks a colourful lead-up to what’s expected to be a major box office hit
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Financial Indicators headline
Financial Indicators
Financial indicators
Your financial indicators for this hour:

The Rand is trading at 17.52 to the US Dollar, 23.93 to the British Pound, and 20.66 to the Euro.

Gold is trading at 3,345.90 dollars a fine ounce, Brent Crude Oil is at 69.11 per barrel, and a Bitcoin will set you back 109 646,80.
Split analysis
Local: 118 words (38%), National: 101 words (32%), International: 94 words (30%)