News 09:00

BULLETIN 18 January 9 am

Good morning. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# Ramaphosa stressed that the National Dialogue must be citizen-led
# The World Bank projects a modest growth for South Africa in 2026–27
# And soccer: The AFCON finale between Morocco and Senegal is a quest for continental supremacy

# President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed confidence in the 99-member National Dialogue Steering Committee, describing it as solid, credible and entrusted with a crucial responsibility. Speaking virtually during the committee’s induction, Ramaphosa said the body will set strategic priorities and coordinate the dialogue process. He stressed that the initiative must be inclusive and citizen-led, allowing all South Africans to freely participate and take ownership of shaping the country’s future:

Meanwhile deputy president Paul Mashatile says government and stakeholders are ready to roll out the National Dialogue. Speaking at the induction of the Steering Committee in Pretoria, Mashatile stressed its broad consensus despite tensions. Mashatile emphasised inclusivity, saying legacy foundations and dissenting voices must be brought on board. He added timelines will be reviewed later this year amid local government elections:

# The minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Willie Aucamp has praised SANParks for its proactive planning and swift response to flooding in the Kruger National Park. Addressing the media, Aucamp confirmed no injuries or fatalities. Heavy rainfall over recent weeks led to river overflows, road closures and precautionary evacuations in northern camps. He also confirmed that animals have already started to move to higher ground:

# The World Bank’s latest outlook indicates that South Africa’s gross domestic product is expected to grow to about 1.4-percent in 2026 and to around 1.5-percent in 2027. This is supported by continued reforms in key areas such as energy and logistics alongside rising public investment. Private consumption and private sector investment are seen as the main drivers of growth, helped by efforts to improve public expenditure efficiency and ease supply-side constraints.

# And in soccer: Nigeria’s Super Eagles have extended their extraordinary Africa Cup of Nations bronze‑medal record, beating Egypt 4‑2 on penalties. This came after a 90-minutes goalless draw in the third place play‑off in Morocco. Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali produced decisive saves from Egypt right winger Mohamed Salah and forward Omar Marmoush to secure victory. Tonight soccer fans can anticipate an entertaining yet tight final between Senegal and host Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

The showdown also marks a fight for continental bragging rights, as both teams pursue their second AFCON title. Tonight’s match has been dubbed as King’s Last Stand versus Prince of Rabat, as the Senegalese left winger Sadio Mané meets Morocco’s captain Achraf Hakimi. The stadium is anticipated to be a full crowd of predominantly Moroccan supporters.

Stay tuned for more news………….