News 08:00

BULLETIN 6 April 8 am

Good morning. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# Nersa approves guidelines for load-shedding up to Stage 16
# The DA warns of an ANC-EFF doomsday coalition after the 2024 elections
# And, rugby: The Blitzboks keep the Hong Kong Sevens momentum going with a solid win over Samoa

# Nersa has approved the guidelines allowing for load-shedding up to Stage 16. Developed by a panel of experts appointed by the National Rationalised Specifications Association of South Africa, the code of practice aims to avert national blackout scenarios or grid collapses. The association’s management committee chairperson, Vally Padayachee, emphasised its importance in maintaining grid stability.  Padayachee highlighted that compliance with the code is mandatory for both Eskom and municipalities. He adds while higher stages of load-shedding are authorised, they do not automatically imply an impending blackout. 

# The DA urges voters to heed a grave warning about the potential emergence of a doomsday coalition involving the ANC, Economic Freedom Fighters, and uMkhonto we Sizwe party. They expressed concern after EFF leader Julius Malema, indicated willingness to support the ANC on the condition that its deputy leader, Floyd Shivambu, becomes minister of Finance. DA leader John Steenhuisen reaffirmed the party’s commitment to counter this threat through initiatives like the moonshot pact, urging voters to halt radical influences in South Africa:

The ANC has meanwhile underscored its commitment to global peace and development, stating its ongoing involvement in conflict resolution across Africa and beyond. This reaffirmation aligns with priority six of its manifesto, focusing on building a better Africa and world, particularly amid the Israel-Hamas war. International Relations minister Naledi Pandor highlights the importance of strengthening trade and investment links, while advocating for international bodies’ reform despite economic challenges:

# The fire in the KTC informal settlement in Nyanga, Cape Town, has been put out, with an estimated 50 structures destroyed. According to the Fire and Rescue Services, the number of affected individuals is still unknown, and investigations into the cause are ongoing. Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries or fatalities.

# And, rugby: The Blitzboks kept their momentum at the Hong Kong Sevens going with a strong 26-7 win against Samoa earlier this morning. They also had an impressive opening day yesterday, beating Ireland 22-17 and Spain 24-10. Their win over Samoa this morning further confirmed their place in the quarter-finals, although the first two wins already paved the way to the last eight. Interim head coach Philip Snyman says he is satisfied with the team’s level of play so far.

Meanwhile, the South African women could not get their campaign off the ground with their third pool defeat by the Australians, who beat them 28-0.

Stay tuned for more news………….