News 07:00

BULLETIN 14 June 7 am

Good morning. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# The first defence force troops are back from the DRC
# President Ramaphosa says the public should not build in flood-prone areas
# And rugby: The Bulls face a strong Leinster team

# The government has welcomed back 249 South African National Defence Force troops at Waterkloof Air Force Base in Pretoria after their deployment to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Defence minister Angie Motshekga and SANDF officials received the soldiers, who arrived last night following several delays due to logistical and technical issues. Motshekga praised their dedication to peace and regional stability. She described the emotional moment as troops kissed the ground upon return:

The South African National Defence Force Joint Operations Chief, Siphiwe Sangweni, says meanwhile, nine aircraft trips will return troops from the DRC to South Africa by the end of June if no further technical delays occur. Sangweni says if bigger aircraft replace smaller crafts, this will reduce the number of flights:

# President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged South Africans to avoid building homes in flood-prone areas. During his visit to Mthatha in the Eastern Cape, where floods have claimed at least 78 lives, Ramaphosa said building in dangerous areas puts families at greater risk. The president also called for stronger measures to protect communities from future disasters. He says the government will assess the damage and support affected communities:

Meanwhile, Gift of the Givers founder, Imtiaz Sooliman is working with the Eastern Cape Health Department to curb a diarrhea outbreak in Butterworth. Sooliman raised concerns as most affected areas lack water and electricity. Sooliman says the organisation has deployed water tankers, hot meals, blankets, and a powerful generator to affected hospitals. In addition, meal distribution will now increase to three-thousand daily. He also confirmed that they’re assisting forensic teams:

# Iraq has filed a complaint with the United Nations Security Council over Israel’s alleged violation of Iraqi airspace in a major attack on Iran. Iraq’s Foreign Ministry says these practices constitute a flagrant violation of Iraq’s sovereignty and has called on the Security Council to assume its responsibilities and act to prevent the recurrence of such violations. The Iraqi government has denounced the military aggression launched by Israel against Iran, describing it as a blatant violation of the fundamental principles of international law.

 # And rugby: Few give the Bulls a chance when they take on a Leinster team under the guidance of former Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber in today’s United Rugby Championship final in Dublin. Bulls’ coach Jake White said earlier the hosts consist of Irish internationals, All Black Jordie Barrett at centre, and double World Cup winner RG Snyman and French international Rabah Slimani on the bench. Current Bok coach Rassie Erasmus reminded players they could force their way into Bok recognition if they do well today. Kick-off is at 6pm.

Stay tuned for more news………….