Good News

BULLETIN 21 August

Good afternoon, here is your Good News:

# Retail giant, Checkers, has unveiled a new smart trolley that allows shoppers to scan and pay for groceries directly from the cart, bypassing ques in traditional tills. The innovation, currently on trial, aims to cut waiting times and enhance convenience in stores. Customers can pay using cards or digital wallets through the trolley’s built-in system. Checkers says the move reflects its commitment to embracing technology and reshaping the shopping experience for South African consumers.

# Government has congratulated renowned radio and TV executive producer, Mpho Lakaje, who was named the South African winner in the Radio category at the Southern African Development Community’s Media Awards in Madagascar. He won for his entry titled: Should drought-stricken African countries resort to wildlife for food?. The entry highlighted the worsening drought situation in the Sadec region. Government spokesperson, Nomonde Mnukwa, says Lakaje’s storytelling has amplified African voices and bridged cultural divides:

# The Eskom Expo for Young Scientists’ Ekurhuleni regional science fair saw a total of 16 gold medals, 32 silver medals, and 47 bronze medals being awarded. The fair featured 130 projects showcased by 174 young scientists in Grades 4-to-12 and Technical and Vocational Education and Training students. The best innovation project went to Itumeleng Chiloane from Tuka Curious Minds STEM Club. Eskom Expo executive director, Parthy Chetty, says the fair forms a vital part of South Africa’s broader strategy to invest in skills development.

# The City of Cape Town has completed the 27-million-rand Bishop Lavis Sports Ground. The upgrade was delivered in stages over the course of three years. A new synthetic soccer pitch and family park were recently completed as part of the final stage of the upgrade. The sports ground includes an athletics track, re-grassed cricket oval and new fencing. Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis says this upgrade is a shining example of the impact of Cape Town’s SA-record infrastructure investments, 75-percent of which directly benefit lower-income households and communities.

# And finally: Kimberley’s Brad Balie and Boipelo Awuah are making history as the only African skaters invited to compete at Russia’s Grand Skate Tour. The duo will showcase their skills in the Street Skateboarding category, renowned for bold tricks and technical precision. Supported by the Kimberley Diamond Cup programme, their participation highlights South Africa’s growing skateboarding scene. The tour concludes on Sunday.

Stay tuned for more news………….