News 07:00

BULLETIN 26 October 7 am

Good morning. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# Mkhwebane says the MK Party’s commitment to understanding black persecution influenced her decision to join
# The Border Management Authority confirms the Lebombo operations are unaffected by protests in Mozambique
# And, rugby: Wolhuter is back for the Lions’ clash with Leinster

# Former public protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane says her decision to join the MK Party was influenced by its commitment to understanding the persecution of black South Africans. Last week Mkhwebane expressed her intention to focus on her family after resigning from the EFF. Her entry into the party comes as some members protested against the quick addition of new members in Sandton. Mkhwebane aims to advocate for the rights and empowerment of black citizens: 

# The Lebombo border post in Mpumalanga remains open and operational despite reported tensions in Mozambique following the announcement of election results. The Border Management Authority has confirmed while there have been sporadic protests, the border is facilitating normal movement of people and goods. The authority’s acting commissioner Jane Thupana says concerns among travellers have led to hesitations at the crossing, potentially causing longer queues:  

# Trade, Industry, and Competition deputy minister Andrew Whitfield has expressed confidence in South Africa becoming a hub for battery technology manufacturing. Speaking at the opening of Balancell’s 150-million-rand Gigafactory in Cape Town, Whitfield highlighted the government’s collaboration with the private sector, and emphasised South Africa’s potential in clean technology. He also noted the importance of building a strong base of skilled South Africans in leading universities and research institutions to enhance local research and development.

# The Limpopo Education Department has suspended food sales around schools following the death of a 13-year-old learner on Wednesday. Three more learners were admitted to Donald Fraser Hospital and remain in a stable condition. The department says this precautionary measure comes during the exam period, with National School Nutrition Programme meals continuing. An inter-ministerial task force will investigate food safety and provide long-term solutions. Limpopo premier Phophi Ramathuba has urged communities to avoid unregulated food sources.

# And, rugby: The Lions will play the territory game against Leinster in Dublin in the clash of the top two teams on the United Rugby Championship log tonight. Flyhalf Kade Wolhuter is back in the starting team with his educated boot. Attacking flyhalf Sanele Nohamba starts on the bench again. Up front the Lions will be bolstered by the return of tight head prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye. Rynhardt Jonker and Henco van Wyk team up in midfield with Marius Louw, dropping to the bench. Kick-off is at 6:15 pm.

Stay tuned for more news………….