News Bulletin of 5 July 2026, 1pm

South African football supporters have been ranked among the world's most colourful fans at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.The World Cup Reputation Index surveyed 5,200 adults across the 16 United States host cities to examine how visiting supporters shape perceptions of their countries during the tournament.South African fans placed fifth out of 45 non-host supporter groups.The study also found that 73% of respondents said the behaviour of visiting fans influences how they view a country.The findings suggest football fans play an important role in shaping a country's global image. South African supporters stand out for their colour, rhythm and vibrant atmosphere.
It celebrates South African supporters for creating a positive international impression and showcasing the country's vibrant spirit on the global stage.

Researchers from the University of the Witwatersrand, the University of Cape Town and partner institutions in the United States have published the results of a successful drug trial to treat TB bacteria in the New England Journal of Medicine, one of the world's leading medical journals.The findings could help improve treatment for TB, a disease that continues to claim about 50,000 lives in South Africa each year and remains a major global health challenge.
The research could lead to better treatment for tuberculosis, offering hope of saving lives and improving healthcare for people affected by the disease.

South African dancer Candice Desilets has become the first South African to graduate from the prestigious Vaganova Ballet Academy in St. Petersburg, Russia.Candice began her ballet training in South Africa before pursuing her dream overseas. She completed her final examination despite performing with two fractures in her leg, earning a place in the academy's history. Thousands of hopefuls apply each year, only around 70 are accepted, and just a handful actually make it all the way through to graduation.