News Bulletin of 8 December 2025, 2pm

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Njabulo Nzuza and Mogale City Executive Mayor Lucky Sele handed out Smart ID cards to elderly residents at the Burgershoop Community Centre in Mogale City, Gauteng, on Thursday, December 4.
The initiative is part of a national campaign to replace old green ID books with modern, secure identification, helping seniors access pensions, healthcare, banking, and social grants with ease.
Mobile service trucks were deployed to assist residents with applications for Smart IDs, birth certificates, and passports, reducing travel costs and long queues.
Officials say the programme is a successful example of government working together to bring essential services closer to those who need them most.

Time Square at Menlyn Main in Pretoria East switched on its annual Christmas lights on Friday, bringing festive cheer to visitors until 4 January 2026.
The lights were officially switched on by Miss South Africa First Princess Luyanda Zuma and Time Square food and beverages manager Preshan Pillay.
Visitors can wander through a stunning festive light garden and capture memories at specially designed photo spots.
The celebrations feature enchanting decorations and festive music throughout the period with a highlight concert, the Christmas Spectacular featuring a full orchestra, South African artists and the Magaliesberg Children’s Choir, taking place on 16 December.

Bethlehem in the West Bank lit up its Christmas tree for the first time since the Gaza war began over two years ago, marking a hopeful return to festive traditions. The tree, adorned with red and gold baubles and a bright red star, stood near the Church of the Nativity as thousands gathered to enjoy the celebrations.
People from across the Palestinian territories and Israel, including Christians and Muslims, attended the event filled with music, laughter, and community spirit.
Organisers say the return of Christmas festivities is a sign of recovery for the city, which relies heavily on tourism, and a positive step towards welcoming pilgrims and visitors in the years ahead.