News Bulletin of 9 June 2025, 6pm

A privately funded R9.78 billion energy project in Colenso, KwaZulu-Natal, is set to create 10,000 jobs across Colenso, Estcourt and Ladysmith.
The project combines solar power, hydrogen fuel, and battery storage, supporting South Africa’s Just Energy Transition.
Phase 1 includes solar and hydrogen facilities, while Phase 2 will develop a clean fuels and chemicals plant producing hydrogen, ammonia, and fertiliser.
Officials say the project will revitalise small towns affected by coal industry decline and drive skills development and infrastructure growth.
Full construction is planned to start in the third quarter of 2025.

China is taking big steps to make childbirth more comfortable and family life more appealing.
By the end of this year, all large hospitals will be required to offer epidural anaesthesia during childbirth — a move aimed at supporting women and encouraging more families to grow.
Currently, only 30% of pregnant women in China use epidurals, compared to over 70% in many developed countries.
Health authorities say this change will improve medical care and create a more welcoming environment for parents-to-be.
Some regions are even adding anaesthesia costs to insurance and extending maternity leave — all part of China’s push to build a more fertility-friendly society.

A dedicated group of Community Heroes volunteers have once again made a big impact by cleaning up President Fouché Drive, from Kelly Avenue to Boskruin Centre.
Residents of Bromhof, Boskruin, Northworld, and nearby areas came together, with local businesses supporting the effort through prizes and encouragement.
Volunteer Michéle le Roux said the clean-up was about more than just tidying up — it was about building community pride and ownership.
The team cleared curbs, trimmed overgrown shrubs, and improved safety and the look of the neighbourhood.
Le Roux encouraged more residents to get involved, saying even small contributions can make a difference.
Community Heroes plans to continue with more projects like planting initiatives and neighbourhood watch programmes to keep the area cleaner, safer, and more connected.