South Africa is preparing to deploy soldiers to several crime-affected provinces for a year-long mission aimed at supporting police efforts against organised crime and illegal mining. The deployment plan was presented to parliamentary policing committees on Wednesday and outlines a military operation scheduled to run until 31 March 2027. President Cyril Ramaphosa first announced the…
South Africa accounts for the largest share of deepfake-related identity fraud in Southern Africa, according to a new report highlighting the growing role of artificial intelligence in digital scams. The findings were published in the 2026 Digital Identity Fraud Report by Smile ID, which examined biometric verification trends and identity fraud patterns across the region….
The South African government has urged its citizens living or travelling in parts of the Middle East to consider leaving the region as tensions escalate and further military attacks are expected in the coming days. The warning was issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), which said the deteriorating security situation could…
A slice of Cape heritage with 300 years of history seeks new owner A piece of South African history—steeped in colonial heritage, fine wine, and liberation politics—is set to change hands. Bloemendal Wine Estate, a 238-hectare property in the heart of the Cape Winelands, will go to auction on 25 March with a reserve price…
The 14th National People’s Congress (NPC), China’s national legislature, opened its fourth session at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Thursday. President Xi Jinping and other Chinese leaders attended the opening meeting. Source: CGTN
Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivered the government work report on behalf of the State Council at the opening meeting of the fourth session of the 14th National People’s Congress on Thursday. Here are some highlights. Major development targets in 2026 China has set an economic growth target of 4.5% to 5% for this year, and…
Thousands of Strikes Reported as Tehran and Tel Aviv Exchange Fire The conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran has entered its fifth day, with all sides reporting intensified military operations and widening regional repercussions. According to US military officials, American forces have carried out more than1700 strikes on targets inside Iran since February28….
The United Kingdom has unveiled emergency visa restrictions targeting Afghanistan, Cameroon, Myanmar and Sudan following a sharp increase in asylum applications from nationals of those countries. Under measures set to take effect on March26, sponsored student visas from the four nations will be suspended. In addition, skilled worker visas for Afghan citizens will no longer…
Relations between the United States and Spain have come under renewed strain after US President Donald Trump threatened to terminate trade ties with Madrid, citing a dispute over access to a jointly operated military base. According to Politico, Trump instructed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to halt all economic dealings with Spain following Madrid’s decision to…
South Africa’s aviation sector began 2026 on a steady footing, with airport arrivals rising 7.9% year-on-year in January, according to figures released by Airports Company South Africa (ACSA). The increase slightly exceeded the overall 7.8% growth recorded for 2025, indicating continued momentum in passenger demand. While overall growth moderated marginally from December’s 8.1% expansion, the…
