News 07:00

BULLETIN 7 March 7 am

Good morning. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# South Africa expresses deep concern over the escalating crisis in the Gulf
# An economist warns the Middle East crisis could drive fuel prices to record levels
# And rugby: The Blitzboks are determined to keep their excellent form in  Vancouver

# South Africa has expressed deep concern over the escalating war crisis in the Gulf. International Relations and Cooperation Department’s spokesperson, Chrispin Phiri, says while Iran has the right to defend itself against those states that engaged in armed attacks against it, the actions against the group of six Arab states, known as the Gulf Cooperation Council, is a violation of the UN Charter. He added it heightens the risk of a broader regional conflagration:

Meanwhile, Everest Wealth Economist Thys van Zyl says the Middle East conflict is creating new risks for South Africa’s economy. Rising oil prices and disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz may drive up fuel, transport, and food costs, while rand volatility could increase. Van Zyl warns that prolonged unrest could heighten inflationary pressure and limit the South African Reserve Bank’s ability to cut interest rates. He urges policy certainty and diplomacy as global tensions threaten South Africa’s growth and stability.

# Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen will today lead a mass vaccination campaign against foot and mouth disease in Gauteng. The rollout, alongside MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, aims to protect livestock, support farmers, and safeguard food security. Steenhuisen highlighted government and private sector collaboration to curb the highly contagious disease and reduce losses in the agricultural sector:

# The Hawks and the National Prosecuting Authority have arrested a senior police officer in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape for the alleged misappropriation of 60-thousand-720-rand in state funds from the police academy. Lieutenant Colonel Bidla appeared briefly in the Mthatha Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on Thursday and was released on five-thousand-rand bail. The matter has been postponed to 24 March for legal representation, as investigations continue into the theft.

# Rugby: Springbok Sevens head coach Philip Snyman says there is a firm belief in the camp they can maintain their good form and stay on the right side of each result at the Vancouver International Sevens Tournament this weekend. He says he has a strong, experienced squad in Canada and prepared well, hoping for a good weekend. South Africa is in Pool A with New Zealand, Spain, and Great Britain, and their first encounter is tonight against the Brits, with kick-off at 10 pm, South African time.

# And finally: Cape Town has been named Best LGBTQ+ city destination at this year’s Spartacus Travel Awards in Berlin, Germany. The award recognises cities that promote equality, diversity, and inclusive travel experiences. Cape Town Tourism’s Chief Marketing Officer, Briony Brookes, says the win highlights the city’s welcoming spaces, vibrant queer community, and commitment to making all visitors feel safe and celebrated:

Stay tuned for more news………….