News 08:00

BULLETIN 21 March 8 am

Good morning. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# The government says there is no basis for the panic-buying of fuel
# Donald Trump says the US considers winding down the war in Iran
# And rugby: The Springbok Women say they are ready for the South American Sevens challenge

# The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources says there is no basis for panic-buying of fuel in South Africa as the country’s fuel supply remains stable. The department’s spokesperson Lerato Ntsoko says this is in response to certain organisations and individuals encouraging the public to rush to filling stations due to a perceived fuel shortage and anticipated fuel price increases. She says calls like these are irresponsible:

Meanwhile, union federation Cosatu says government must act urgently to protect citizens from massive fuel price hikes starting next month, with petrol set to rise by five-rand-41-cents per litre and diesel by eight-rand-84-cents per litre. Cosatu’s Matthew Parks warns these increases, caused by the Middle East conflict, will hurt workers, double transport costs, and cost jobs. Parks calls for fuel tax relief, support for electricity, public transport, social grants, and a halt to retrenchments:

# The South African National Civic Organisation in Tshwane says the ANC is marginalising community voices and sidelining civic organisations in governance. In response, the organisation has suspended its election mobilisation ahead of the local government elections. The decision could have major implications for the ANC’s grassroots support and election prospects in the city. SANCO’s Fire Mashao demands fair representation in local governance:

# President Donald Trump says America is considering winding down the war in Iran, but that nations that use the Strait of Hormuz will have to guard the shipping lane. Brittain earlier approved the use of its bases for the US to launch strikes on Iranian sites that target the passage of ships through Hormuz. Iran’s foreign minister accused prime minister Keir Starmer of putting British lives in danger and warned Iran will exercise its right to self-defence. Earlier, Trump called Nato allies cowards for being reluctant to help the US open Hormuz.

# Rugby: Captain Nadine Roos says the Springbok Women are ready for their five clashes in Uruguay this weekend and are determined to get the job done of qualifying for the Sevens World Championship sooner rather than later. They will face Spain, China, and Brazil today, with matches against Kenya and Argentina on Sunday. South Africa was second in the opening tournament in Kenya last month and are in a strong position to be one of the four teams to qualify for the World Championships. Roos said the team’s goal is to walk away winners in Montevideo.

# And finally: The Western Cape Government says protecting the environment is key to upholding human rights. Marking Human Rights Day, the MEC for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell, says clean air, safe water, and healthy ecosystems are essential for dignity, equality, and sustainable development. Bredell added that the province is focusing on environmental protection, waste management, and climate resilience, urging communities, businesses, and government to work together to safeguard the environment for future generations.

Stay tuned for more news………….