News 16:00

BULLETIN 5 January 4 pm

Good afternoon. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# The inquest into the deaths of the Cradock Four has been re-opened
# Consumers are warned to prepare for more food price hikes this year
# And, rugby: Sharks make five changes for their URC game against the Lions

# Justice and Correctional Services minister Ronald Lamola has approved the re-opening of the Cradock Four inquest, acting on the National Prosecuting Authority’s recommendation. The inquest into the deaths of anti-apartheid activists Matthew Goniwe, Sparrow Mkonto, Fort Calata, and Sicelo Mhlauli is set to be reinvestigated after inconsistencies in previous inquiries. New evidence, including amnesty applications from security police officers, will now be considered. The move aims to bring closure to the families and restore confidence in the justice system.

# The Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice and Dignity Group has cautioned consumers to prepare for further food price hikes in the early months of this year. The group’s coordinator, Mervyn Abrahams, reveals that food price increases have reached a 14-year high, with food inflation surging by nine percent year-on-year. Abrahams told Newzroom Afrika that food inflation is a primary contributor to overall inflation in South Africa. He warns that the price of staple food including rice, maize meal, eggs and potatoes continue to increase:

# N3 Toll Concession says peak traffic conditions are expected to continue on the N3 Toll Route between KwaZulu-Natal, Free State and Gauteng this weekend as more holiday makers return home. Busy traffic conditions were experienced this week with highs of between one-thousand and one-thousand-900 vehicles per hour traveling northbound, towards Gauteng. N3 Toll Concession operations manager, Thania Dhoogra says road users should especially be prepared for high northbound traffic volumes, including possible congestion and delays, on Sunday between 9am and 6pm:

# Rugby: The Sharks host the Lions in their opening match of the year when they meet in round eight of the United Rugby Championship tomorrow. Sharks head coach John Plumtree has selected Fez Mbatha at hooker with Kerron van Vuuren shifting to the bench, while Hanro Jacobs replaces Coenie Oosthuizen at prop. Eben Etzebeth is back from a stomach bug and his partner in the second row will be Gerbrandt Grobler, who returns from injury. The only change to the backline is Grant Williams and Jaden Hendrikse swapping scrumhalf duties.

# And to end with: South Africa has been recognised as one of the 24 must-visit destinations for travelers seeking to reconnect with nature in 2024 by EnjoyTravel-dot-com. Despite being renowned for its drinking culture and wine industry, the country has also been listed as a booze-free break destination. The selection was made through a comprehensive evaluation of data-driven travel trends, audience opinions, and insights from the editorial team. Travellers voted for South Africa as an ideal location to detox and experience adventure activities, including safaris, and its pristine landscape.

Stay tuned for more news………….