Stories from South Africa

Stormers rugby director John Dobson is reportedly leading efforts to secure veteran Argentina lock Thomas Lavanini. The 33-year-old player is currently with the Highlanders in Super Rugby Pacific.

European and US markets are trading higher. The FTSE 100 in London rose 1.6 percent. South African markets saw the all-share index rise 1.1 percent, with resource stocks increasing 2.6 percent. Gold prices rose to approximately $4,600 per ounce.

Former Kaizer Chiefs player Dr. Kumalu was conferred with an honorary Doctor of Philosophy and Science. The honor was awarded by the University of Technology. The ceremony took place this afternoon.

The Comrades Marathon Association confirmed the 2026 uprun distance will be 85.7 kilometres. The race is scheduled for 14 June 2026. Organisers stated this is the shortest uprun distance in recent years. The reduced distance includes adjustments along key sections of the course.

The N14 highway is closed south of Freiburg towards Curriman due to bad flooding. Multiple other routes in the Northern Cape are also reported to be badly flooded. Motorists are advised to check conditions before traveling this weekend.

The Pan-African Parliament has elected new leadership in Midrand, South Africa. Algeria's Fateh Abi Boadad assumed the presidency. In his inaugural address, Abi Boadad said the strategic role of North Africa as a bridge to the rest of the continent and the global community. The election took place in Midrand, north of Johannesburg.

A South African court has postponed the bail hearing for Emese Baa until May 11. Baa is accused of planning terrorist attacks in Europe. The court denied a request for release on bail.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) announced it is operationally prepared for upcoming local government elections. The party confirmed dozens of mayoral candidates have been selected following a federal Congress that introduced new leadership.

A court directive ordered the removal of former President Jüngertz's mortal remains from two mountains to a state facility in South Africa. The remains will be kept at Afbob in Pretoria East. The Zambian government is expected to bear the costs associated with the transfer.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has launched a manhunt for suspects who ambushed two crime intelligence police officers in KwaZulu-Natal. Municipal managers are expected to continue administrative duties to ensure stability while elected officials campaign.