Good News

BULLETIN 7 January

Good afternoon, here is your Good News:

# Breadline Africa recently celebrated the success of its longest-standing initiative, The Seaside Outing, by taking underprivileged children to the beach over the festive period. The initiative, which is made possible by community donations, provided children with beach gear, snacks, and Santa’s gift packs. Breadline Africa says the joy the day brought everyone, from kids to volunteers, was immense and a gift all on its own.

# University of Cape Town’s Department of Medicine honorary professor, Robert J Wilkinson, has been named an Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. This prestigious accolade was announced in the United Kingdom’s New Year Honours List 2025. UCT says this honour underscores the global impact of Wilkinson’s work in tackling one of the world’s most pressing health challenges: tuberculosis. Wilkinson says his colleagues must interpret this award as an endorsement of their great contribution to tackling infectious diseases in Africa.

# Medical experts from China have launched a free cataract surgery programme at Tirunesh Beijing Hospital in Addis Ababa. The China-Ethiopia Brightness Journey, aims to treat over 500 patients, with 80 surgeries completed so far. Chinese Ambassador Chen Hai emphasised the project’s role in strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations. Meanwhile, Ethiopia’s Health minister, Mekdes Daba, said this initiative brings extensive advantages to vulnerable communities:

# South African musicians Tyla, Kabza The Small and Makhadzi are among the artists nominated for the Trace Awards and Summit 2025. The ceremony, dubbed one of the most prestigious musical events on the African continent is set to take place in Zanzibar next month. Tyla’s Jump is nominated for song of the year, while Makhadzi is nominated in the best dancer category. Artists from over 30 countries in Africa, South America, the Caribbean, the Indian Ocean, and Europe are competing in 24 categories.

# And finally: Mango Groove will be celebrating 40 years in the music industry at a one-night-only show in Cape Town on Sunday, as part of the Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts. The group led by Claire Johnston, was established in 1984 and has six albums and a slew of singles to its name. Johnston says this is not just about celebrating Mango Groove; it’s about honouring South Africa’s journey and all the people who have supported and inspired the group over the decades.

Stay tuned for more news………….