Stories from South Africa

The new Grand Reservoir and Water Tower in Brixton, Johannesburg, has been officially opened. Residents have experienced prolonged water shortages in the area. The project is intended to improve water supply stability for thousands of residents and address persistent infrastructure disruptions. Facilities including Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital and Helen Joseph Hospital are expected to benefit from the improved water security. The minister stated the project's importance will be felt widely. The opening follows protests earlier this year by residents of Westbury and surrounding areas regarding persistent water disruptions. The project aims to ensure healthcare services are delivered without water security disruptions. Executive Mayor Dada Moreiro discussed the project as a development for the city. The project is intended to change water availability considerably in the region.

Business owners in Sandton report closing shops due to fears of civil unrest. The source noted that many small businesses intended to support the South African community have been forced to shut down.

Parliament's portfolio committee on social development has requested Social Development Minister CCC D'Olaa Shea to appear before it. The request follows allegations of misconduct against the minister. Garabo Mohale of the committee made the request.

The CVC organization is scheduled to march in the Johannesburg Central Business District this morning. Traffic authorities and the South African Police Service (SAPS) are on standby for potential disruptions.

Dr. Mugwena Malulege has formally stepped down from his position as a board member and interim chairperson of the Higher Education and Training department. Malulege cited personal and academic commitments as the reason for his departure.

Two members of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) board have resigned. The Higher Education and Training Department stated that Minister Manamela has initiated formal engagements with the remaining board members. A spokesperson for Manamela confirmed that Dr. Maluleke has formally stepped down. This departure follows previous resignations that have significantly reduced the number of remaining voting members. The reduction in board members has raised concerns regarding the board's ability to fulfill its statutory and fiduciary responsibilities. Board member Karabo Mohale also resigned from the organization. The resignations follow reported organizational challenges flagged by Mohale. The resignations contribute to ongoing leadership instability at the agency. The board cited study commitments and personal circumstances as reasons for the departures.

Basic Education Minister Sevewe Guachube flagged a textbook tender for grades one to three in Soshanguwe. A News24 investigation reported the tender was worth more than 200 million rand.

By-elections will take place in the Western Cape today in two locations. In Uniondale's Ward 25, the ANC, DA, EFF, and PA will contest the election following the resignation of ward councillor Jacques Issaou from the ANC to join the DA.

Markudu Sifara, Chairperson of the South African National Editors' Forum (SANEF), has decided to step aside. The decision follows an investigation into allegations regarding the misappropriation of lottery funds.

At least four oil tankers arrived in Cape Town this month to discharge approximately 105,000 tons of refined products. The cargo includes diesel, gasoline, and other related petroleum products.