Today Africa

Google expands AI tools to support Afrikaans, isiZulu and other African languages

Google has expanded the language capabilities of its artificial intelligence tools, adding support for several widely spoken African languages, including four commonly used in South Africa. The technology company confirmed that its AI-powered search features — AI Overviews and AI Mode — can now respond in Afrikaans, isiZulu, Sesotho and Setswana, in addition to English….

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Strange “rotten egg” smell reported across Johannesburg as air pollution fears resurface

Residents raise concerns over air quality Residents in several areas of Johannesburg have reported an unpleasant smell lingering in the air since the weekend, sparking renewed concern about air pollution in the city. Numerous people took to social media to complain about the persistent odour, with many describing it as similar to rotten eggs —…

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South Africa reiterates support for Iran and calls for diplomacy amid Middle East tensions

Pretoria stresses rules-based international order South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation has reaffirmed the country’s support for Iran while urging lawmakers to promote a rules-based international order during diplomatic engagements. The comments were made during a parliamentary portfolio committee meeting on international relations and cooperation on Wednesday. Although the session was initially convened…

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South Africa summons US ambassador after criticism of government

Pretoria summons envoy after criticism of domestic policies South Africa has issued a formal diplomatic protest to the United States ambassador in Pretoria following a series of public remarks criticising the country’s domestic policies, signalling a further deterioration in relations between the two governments. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation summoned US ambassador Leo…

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South Africa fires over 50 immigration officials over corruption

South Africa’s Border Management Authority has dismissed more than 50 immigration officials implicated in corruption at key border posts. Officials stationed at major ports of entry The officials were based at Beitbridge, Lebombo, Oshoek, Maseru Bridge and OR Tambo International Airport. More investigations underway Authorities confirmed that another 38 immigration officials are currently under investigation…

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Hidden electricity price increases hit South African households

South Africa’s energy regulator has approved Eskom’s tariff increases for the 2026/27 financial year, but the changes could push household electricity bills higher than the headline figures suggest. Tariffs rising in 2026 Eskom direct customers will face an average increase of 8.76% from April 2026, while municipal customers will see a 9.01% increase starting in…

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SARS starts sending WhatsApp messages to taxpayers as South Africa’s tax debt hits R646 billion

South Africa’s tax authority has expanded its communication strategy and is now contacting taxpayers directly through WhatsApp as part of efforts to recover outstanding tax debt. Digital communication replaces traditional methods In the past, SARS primarily communicated with taxpayers through letters and email. However, the revenue authority is now using instant messaging platforms to ensure…

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