World

News Bulletin of 21 April 2025, 12pm

Headline 1
Annual Easter egg hunt returns to the Ponte Tower in Johannesburg
Story 1
The annual Easter Egg Hunt at the Ponte Tower in Johannesburg was a fun-filled activity for local kids this long weekend.

Organised by non-profit organisation Dlala Nje, the event has been running for over a decade, at one of Joburg's iconic landmarks.

The egg hunt presents the opportunity to give back to underprivileged children, in support of the Kids programme.

Headline 2
President Ramaphosa meets with Eastern Cape Provincial Executive Council to strengthen collaboration
Story 2
President Ramaphosa met with the Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane and the Provincial Executive Council at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium last week, to discuss ways to strengthen collaboration and opportunities in the province.

The President reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthen intergovernmental relations.

The engagement marked the fifth formal meeting between the national and provincial executives since November last year.

Headline 3
G20 Finance Ministers will convene in the USA this week
Story 3
G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors will convene for a two-day meeting from the 23rd to the 24th of April, in Washington DC, in the United States.

The meeting will gather finance ministers and central bank governors of G20 member countries, as well as international organizations to discuss financial stability, and policies aimed at fostering economic growth.

News Bulletin of 21 April 2025, 11am

Headline 1
SA's biggest family entertainment showcase returns to the Johannesburg Expo Centre
Story 1
South Africa’s biggest family entertainment showcase has returned to the Johannesburg Expo Centre in Nasrec, this long weekend.

With a legacy spanning more than 130 years, the Rand Show stands as the country's biggest and most iconic event, offering families a safe and fun-filled Easter weekend experience.

Thousands of people attended the five-day event, which draws large crowds to the south of Johannesburg's city center, with highlights including a dedicated kids’ zone, bustling shopping halls, food trucks, and live entertainment.

Headline 2
The 33rd Splash Festival kicks off in Qgeberha
Story 2
The 33rd edition of the Splash Festival kicked off in Qgeberha on Friday.
Mayoral Committee Member for Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Sinebhongo Kwatsha, says the event includes a variety of attractions that promote local economic activity and community engagement.

The festival attracts hundreds of thousands of locals and visitors to the Friendly City each year.

Headline 3
China holds the world's first humanoid half-marathon
Story 3
Dozens of humanoid robots took to the streets of Beijing on Saturday, joining thousands of runners in a world-first, half marathon.

The 21-kilometre event, which was held in the Chinese capital's E-Town, was billed as a groundbreaking effort to test the limits of bipedal robots in real-world conditions.



20 teams from across China participated in the competition, with robots ranging from 75 to 180 centimetres tall and weighing up to 88 kilograms.

China says the marathon is a showcase of the country’s drive to lead the global race in cutting-edge technology.

News Bulletin of 21 April 2025, 9am

Headline 1
The iconic Rand Show concludes at Nasrec's Johannesburg Expo Centre today
Story 1
The iconic Rand Show is back at Nasrec's Johannesburg Expo Centre - continuing its 130-year legacy as the country's ultimate family destination during the Easter holiday period.

The annual Show draws large crowds to the south of Johannesburg's city center, with highlights including a dedicated kids’ zone, bustling shopping halls, food trucks, and live entertainment.

The Rand Show attracts more than 80 000 visitors each year.
Headline 2
The BMA expects a peak in traffic of the return leg of travelers from the Easter holidays
Story 2
The Border Management Authority, says it expects a peak in traffic during the influx of the return leg of travelers from the Easter long weekend.

The BMA says it will continue to intensify operations and
says it has deployed advanced technology, including drones and body-worn cameras,
for additional support.

Authorities have also extended their working hours to ensure the smooth processing of travellers and cargo trucks.
Headline 3
South African entrepreneur Jamie Thurston Wyngaard receives prestigious Global Forty Under 40 Award
Story 3
South African entrepreneur and innovation leader, Jamie Thurston Wyngaard, has been named a recipient of the prestigious Global Forty Under 40 Award, which was held in Dubai recently.

Wyngaard's company Loop, has grown to a valuation of over R187 million in just two years, delivering cutting-edge payment technologies such as Chat-to-Pay, Tap-to-Pay, and the recently launched Pay with Palm system.

Loop has facilitated the distribution of more than 50-million rand into the informal market, advancing economic participation and financial inclusion.

The 40 under 40 Awards aims to recognize and celebrate a select group of the most influential and accomplished young business leaders under the age of forty.

News Bulletin of 21 April 2025, 8am

Headline 1
Pikitup has continued operations during the Easter holiday period
Story 1
The City of Johannesburg's waste management company Pikitup, has continued with operations during the Easter holiday period.

Residents whose waste is scheduled for collection on the 21st of April, are advised to place their bins outside their properties for collection.

Pikitup's multi-purpose waste management facilities has also remained open to help prevent illegal dumping.
Headline 2
Authorities are urging drivers to stay alert and to adhere to the rules of the road
Story 2
With increased traffic and more people traveling on South African roads this long weekend, authorities are urging drivers to stay alert and to adhere to the rules of the road.

The Automobile Association of South Africa's Spokesperson, Eleanor Mavimbela, says both drivers and pedestrians can contribute to safer roads during the busy travel period.
Headline 3
China holds the world's first humanoid half-marathon
Story 3
Dozens of humanoid robots took to the streets of Beijing on Saturday, joining thousands of runners in a world-first, half marathon.

The 21-kilometre event, which was held in the Chinese capital's E-Town, was billed as a groundbreaking effort to test the limits of bipedal robots in real-world conditions.

20 teams from across China participated in the competition, with robots ranging from 75 to 180 centimetres tall and weighing up to 88 kilograms.

China says the marathon is a showcase of the country’s drive to lead the global race in cutting-edge technology.

News Bulletin of 21 April 2025, 7am

Headline 1
High volumes of vehicles recorded across Gauteng toll gates
Story 1
Toll gates across Gauteng have seen high volumes of vehicles across the province as thousands of South Africans traveled to various destinations for religious observances and family gatherings during the Easter long weekend.

Gauteng Traffic Police, together with the SAPS, have been conducting roadblocks on major routes, to ensure road safety.
Headline 2
The Free State records 15 births on Good Friday
Story 2
The Free State marked a heartwarming start to the Easter weekend with the birth of 15 babies on Good Friday.

Provincial Health MEC Monyatso Mahlatsi, has congratulated the mothers of the newborn babies,
and urged them to adhere to postnatal care guidelines to support the health and development of their children.

Health department spokesperson Mondli Mvambi said that the safe delivery of the babies highlighted the dedication of healthcare workers and the importance of continued investment in maternal and neonatal care.
Headline 3
G20 Finance Ministers meeting to be held in the USA this week
Story 3
G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors will gather for a two-day meeting scheduled to take place in the United States later this month.

The meeting is part of the Finance Track under South Africa’s G20 presidency, which will gather finance ministers and central bank governors of G20 member countries, and international organisations to discuss financial stability, and policies aimed at fostering economic growth.

The Finance Track is co-chaired by Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana, and South African Reserve Bank Governor, Lesetja Kganyago.

News Bulletin of 20 April 2025, 11am

Headline 1
Sterkfontein Caves reopens under Wits University
Story 1
The Wits Sterkfontein Caves, part of the Cradle of Humankind near Johannesburg, have reopened under Wits University’s full management. Renowned for key hominin fossil discoveries like “Mrs Ples” and “Little Foot,” the site now offers immersive educational experiences, live research engagement, and enhanced guided tours. This reimagined visitor experience bridges cutting-edge science with public understanding, inspiring future generations. Professor Dominic Straftford said the caves remain a vital window into human evolution
Headline 2
New E-commerce marketplace launches to promote authentic African products across globe
Story 2
The African Pro E-commerce Platform is launching a marketplace to promote authentic African products across the continent and globally. Director Dudu Khadea says the platform aims to support local vendors—especially those in areas like Soweto—who struggle with sales and marketing reach. By connecting small businesses to wider African and international markets, African Pro will enable Africa-to-Africa trade and global exposure.
Headline 3
Caster Semenya delivers keynote at Harvard
Story 3
South African Olympic champion Caster Semenya recently delivered a powerful keynote at Harvard’s Women in Power Conference. Speaking on resilience, identity, and purpose, Semenya shared her journey of breaking barriers in sport and beyond. Describing the experience as a dream come true, she reminded audiences that “failures don’t define your destination.” Her presence at the prestigious event highlighted the importance of inclusivity and leadership, inspiring others to pursue their dreams with courage and determination.

News Bulletin of 18 April 2025, 1pm

Headline 1
Renowned music producer Lebo M honoured by the Gauteng Premier and the City of Johannesburg
Story 1
Renowned music producer Lebo M has been honoured by the Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi.
The Premier says the producer's legacy will live beyond his years.

Lesufi was speaking at the I’m from Soweto event,
Which was held in Rosebank last week in honour of the Legendry producer, ahead of his first ever live performance in South Africa today.

The Oscar nominee and Grammy award winner, has been recognized globally for his role in bringing African music to the world – as a composer, producer and performer.
Headline 2
Sports, Arts and Culture Minister announces multi-million rand boost for professional boxing
Story 2
Sport minister Gayton McKenzie has Sport minister Gayton McKenzie has announced a multi-million rand boost for professional boxing in the country.

The minister announced some major changes to the sport at the boxing indaba earlier in the year.
McKenzie has tasked Boxing SA and promoters to push the minimum purses for fighters from R4,000 to R20,000.
Speaking at a banquet to honour 36 boxing legends and former stars.
in the country.
The minister announced some major changes to the sport at the boxing indaba earlier in the year.

McKenzie has tasked Boxing SA and promoters to push the minimum purses for fighters from R4,000 to R20,000.
Speaking at a banquet to honour 36 boxing legends and former stars.
Headline 3
The BMA ready to host the G20 Summit
Story 3
South Africa’s Border Management Authority says it is ready for the responsibilities it will face when the country plays host to a G20 summit for the first time in the African continent, later this year.

Speaking at a Colloquium on Migration and Border Security earlier this month, BMA commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato, said it would be expected of the BMA to be “up to the task” to ensure border security and to secure entry into the country, for heads of state and associate dignatories.

News Bulletin of 18 April 2025, 12pm

Headline 1
The Gauteng government signs a provincial Agreement, on cross-boundary law enforcement
Story 1
The Gauteng government has signed a provincial Agreement, on cross-boundary law enforcement.

The agreement makes provision for arms of the policing service, to move across traditional boundaries, ensuring better coordination between branches of law enforcement.

The memorandum brings together Gauteng Provincial Government, the South African Police Service, municipal police departments and local and district municipalities.
Headline 2
KZN appoints over 1000 new teachers
Story 2
The KwaZulu-Natal Education Department has successfully appointed over 1000 new teachers to ensure that no classroom is left without a qualified teacher.
Education MEC Sipho Hlomuka says over 1 530 Post Level 1 teachers, were appointed between January and April this year.

The MEC highlighted that most of the vacancies were in critical subject areas, including Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences and technical subjects.
Headline 3
The Innovation Start up Exchange Programme connects South African and Chinese students
Story 3
The Innovation Start up Exchange Programme is connecting South African and Chinese students through joint learning, skills exchange, and exposure to best practices in entrepreneurship and start-up development.

A group of UJ students travelled across Beijing, Shanghai, and Nanjing, where they participated in academic sessions and engaged with industry leaders.

The programme offers hands-on learning through site visits to leading innovation hubs and industrial operations.

News Bulletin of 18 April 2025, 11am

Headline 1
City Power launches R15 million solar-powered streetlight project
Story 1
City Power has launched a R15 million solar-powered streetlight project covering areas such as Midrand, Glen Austin, and surrounding communities.
The initiative aims to improve safety, curb maintenance costs, and reduce infrastructure-related crimes.
The project forms part of City Power’s broader plan to meet growing infrastructure needs in Johannesburg’s expanding urban areas.
Headline 2
President Ramaphosa discusses ways to strengthen collaboration and opportunities in the Eastern Cape
Story 2
President Ramaphosa met with the Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane and the Provincial Executive Council at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, ealier this week, to discuss ways to strengthen collaboration and opportunities in the province.
The President reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthen intergovernmental relations.

The engagement marked the fifth formal meeting between the national and provincial executives since November last year, following similar sessions in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, and Gauteng.
Headline 3
Presidency of the G20 convenes the second Development Working Group meeting
Story 3
The South African Presidency of the Group of Twenty has convened the second Development Working Group meeting in the Western Cape.

The gathering plays a pivotal role in shaping global development priorities, while serving as a platform for in-depth discussions on key development challenges and cooperative solutions.

The meeting will brought together representatives from G20 member states, and international organisations to deliberate on policies that foster inclusive economic growth.

News Bulletin of 18 April 2025, 10am

Headline 1
Spaza shop owners urged to register for the Spaza Shop Support Fund
Story 1
The City of Johannesburg is urging all spaza shop and small business owners across South Africa to register for the Spaza Shop Support Fund, which has changed the landscape for small business owners across country.

The fund will provide support to eligible community convenience shops, to increase their participation in the township and rural areas’ retail trade sector.
The City says the funding aims to uplift local entrepreneurs and to build a stronger economy from the ground up.
Headline 2
KZN appoints over 1000 new teachers
Story 2
The KwaZulu-Natal Education Department has successfully appointed over 1000 new teachers to ensure that no classroom is left without a qualified teacher.

Education MEC Sipho Hlomuka says over 1 530 Post Level 1 teachers, were appointed between January and April this year.

The MEC highlighted that most of the vacancies were in critical subject areas, including Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences and technical subjects.
Headline 3
African Astronomical Society's Conference brings together experts, researchers, and policymakers
Story 3
The African Astronomical Society's 2025 Conference took place at the University of South Africa, bringing together experts, researchers, and policymakers from across Africa and beyond.

The hybrid event celebrates Africa's growing contributions to astronomy, featuring cutting-edge scientific advancements, impactful outreach, and exciting youth initiatives.

AFAS executive committee member, Dr. Sinenhlanhla Sikhosana.