News 11:00

BULLETIN 12 April 11 am

Good morning. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# John Steenhuisen blames the broken systems on corruption and cadre deployment
# The SACP calls for an alliance reconfiguration not a break-up
# And, ActionSA welcomes the foot-and-mouth vaccination scheme, urges effective implementation

# Outgoing DA leader John Steenhuisen says South Africa’s broken government systems stem from weakened institutions caused by cadre deployment and corruption. Speaking at the party’s congress in Midrand, Gauteng, Steenhuisen cited former president Jacob Zuma’s era as a turning point leading to the decline of the economy. He says rebuilding systems remains challenging but progress is being made, with modest economic growth and declining unemployment indicating early signs of recovery:

The minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, the DA’s Solly Malatsi, speaking at the congress, said he is hoping to retain his position as deputy federation chairperson against Basic Education minister Siviwe Gwarube and Tshwane caucus leader Cilliers Brink. He added the party is at a breakthrough moment as it seeks to grow into the country’s largest party by 2029. He says strong, experienced leadership and government performance remain key factors:

# South African Communist Party deputy national chairperson, Thulas Nxesi, says the party is not seeking to weaken its alliance with the ANC, but to reconfigure it. This comes as the ANC national executive council meet this weekend to find a way forward with the alliance ahead of the local government elections. Nxesi said differences within the alliance must be handled with maturity, especially after the SACP’s decision to contest elections independently. He called for discipline and unity while advancing working-class interests.

# ActionSA has welcomed the publication of the Routine Vaccination Scheme for Foot-and-Mouth Disease by Agriculture minister John Steenhuisen, calling it a long-overdue step to improve disease control. The party says the framework allows private veterinarians and livestock owners greater involvement in vaccinations, shifting away from a centralised approach. However, ActionSA warns that success will depend on proper implementation, vaccine availability, and coordination between authorities. It says it will monitor progress closely to ensure the scheme delivers real results for farmers.

# BetterBond has revealed that South Africa’s residential property market is showing signs of recovery, supported by lower interest rates and easing deposit requirements. The April BetterBond Home Loan Index has risen 21.8-percent since late 2023, reflecting stronger home-buying activity. Experts say improving bank performance, modest economic growth and rising real incomes are boosting confidence. However, geopolitical tensions and fuel price pressures remain a risk to further rate cuts. First-time buyer deposits have fallen significantly, helping improve access to home ownership.

# Rugby: The Stormers are mourning the death of long-serving team manager Chippie Solomon yesterday after suffering a heart attack. The 66-year-old served the Cape franchise since 2004, overseeing more than 350 matches over two decades. A former hooker and loose forward represented Western Province Schools under the banner of the SA Rugby Union and served as the Life President of Kuilsriver Rugby Club. The Western Cape rugby community has described him as a  respected leader with boundless energy, and a mentor. 

Stay tuned for more news………….