News 11:00

BULLETIN 18 April 11 am

Good morning. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# Mashatile hosts Chinese business leader to boost SA-China ties
# The death toll in a collision on the M4 in Mpumalanga rises to six
# And rugby: Eben Etzebeth returns to captain the Sharks for Edinburgh clash

# Deputy president Paul Mashatile welcomed vice-chairman of China’s top political advisory body, Gao Yunlong, at O.R. Tambo Residence in Pretoria. Their meeting focused on strengthening cooperation in health, energy, and the automotive sectors. Mashatile emphasised diversifying trade and reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to ongoing high-level engagement with China. They also discussed the upcoming G20 Summit in November, reinforcing the importance of strategic partnerships between the two nations for mutual economic growth.

Aware.org has called for increased road vigilance as South Africans travel over the Easter weekend. Speaking to Newzroom Afrika, the CEO of Aware.org, Mokebe Thulo, highlighted that most holiday accidents are preventable, often caused by speeding, fatigue, and drunk driving. She urged motorists to make responsible choices, avoid drinking and driving, and shift harmful alcohol consumption habits to ensure safer roads for all:

Meanwhile, the Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety has confirmed that six people have now died following yesterday’s head-on collision on the M4 toll road. The latest fatality was a crash victim who succumbed to injuries in hospital. The accident, involving an SUV and a bakkie, caused hours-long road closures, leaving motorists stranded. Authorities are urging drivers to obey road rules and exercise caution amid poor weather conditions.

# Walter Sisulu University registrar Lulamile Ntonzima has welcomed the arrest of a 54-year-old suspect linked to the fatal shooting of student Sisonke Mbolekwa. The suspect, believed to be a residence manager, surrendered to police yesterday and faces charges of murder and attempted murder. The shooting occurred during a student protest over residence conditions. Ntonzima says justice must take its course:

# The Promoting Regenerative Agriculture for Sustainable Livelihoods has been launched in Mozambique to support four-thousand smallholder farmers. The 32-million-rand project will focus especially on women and youth through climate-resilient farming. Running until 2027, the project will enhance soil health, restore ecosystems, and provide access to digital tools and financial inclusion. The initiative aims to empower farmers for long-term sustainability and resilience.

# Rugby: Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth will lead the Sharks in his first game back from a long injury layoff, when they take on Edinburgh in the United Rugby Championship tonight. Etzebeth had been out since he suffered a concussion against Exeter Chiefs in the Champions Cup on 7 December. Lukhanyo Am and Aphelele Fassi also return to the starting line-up, while Grant Williams plays from the bench. Tomorrow the Lions will host Benetton at Ellis Park, and Stormers will take on Connacht at the Cape Town Stadium. The Bulls face the Irish team Munster at their homeground.

Stay tuned for more news………….