News 08:00

BULLETIN 18 January 8 am

Good morning. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# Ramaphosa urges the National Dialogue Steering Committee to lead the historic process
# Mpumalanga flood damage is estimated at R2.1-billion
# And rugby, the Stormers and the Sharks score Champions Cup victories

# President Cyril Ramaphosa has told the newly appointed members of the National Dialogue Steering Committee that they are assuming a pivotal role in one of South Africa’s most significant democratic initiatives. Speaking virtually during the committee’s induction, Ramaphosa said the dialogue comes amid deep challenges such as poverty, unemployment, crime, corruption and gender-based violence. He stressed that dialogue is part of South Africans and praised the inclusive process used to appoint the committee:

# The death toll from yesterday’s mass shooting in the Marikana Informal Settlement in Philippi East has risen to eight with a woman one of the fatalities and two others in critical condition. Western Cape Police Commissioner Thembisile Patekile says the attack occurred shortly after midnight at a shebeen in Protea Road and is believed to be linked to extortion‑related crime. A manhunt is underway for the suspects and no arrests have been made:

# Mpumalanga premier Mandla Ndlovu says preliminary assessments show flood-related infrastructure damage in the province could be around 2.1-billion-rand. Heavy rains have claimed 20 lives and affected over one-thousand-200 households. Most primary dams and rivers are at full capacity, posing ongoing flooding risks. At least five bridges require urgent repairs, with temporary measures in place. He called for assistance as government’s continues monitoring of the situation:

# South African Navy chief Monde Lobese has defended the controversial BRICS naval exercise themed Will for Peace 2026, in Cape Town, calling it vital for strengthening maritime security and cooperation. The drill, involving Russia, China and Iran, is under investigation after reports President Cyril Ramaphosa asked Iran to withdraw. Lobese says despite scrutiny, the exercise delivered valuable lessons, strengthened professional ties, and promoted regional and global maritime stability.

# Taking paracetamol while pregnant is safe and there’s no evidence it raises the risk of autism, ADHD, and developmental issues in children. Experts behind a major new review in the Lancet journal say pregnant women should be reassured by the findings, which contradict controversial claims from US President Donald Trump last year that paracetamol could be linked to autism in children, if taken during pregnancy. His views were criticised at the time by medical organisations worldwide. Experts say this latest review is rigorous and should end the debate over its safety.

# And rugby: The Stormers picked up five log points with a 39-26 win over Leicester Tigers in their final pool stage Champions Cup match at the Cape Town Stadium on Saturday. The Stormers are now second in their pool and will secure home ground advantage in their round of 16 game in April if La Rochelle beat Harlequins today. In Durban the Sharks ended off the pool phase of their campaign, beating Clermont Auvergne 50-12 in Durban on Saturday. However, they were prevented from advancing to the last 16 after Toulouse finished of Sale Sharks with a 77-7 victory.

Stay tuned for more news………….