News 09:00

BULLETIN 1 May 9 am

Good morning. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# The load-shedding hiatus contributes to a drop in food price inflation in South Africa
# OUTA advocates for market-oriented pricing in the Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill
# And tennis, Rafael Nadal falls to Jiří Lehečka in the final Madrid Open match

# Lower levels of load-shedding have led to a drop in food prices In South Africa, offering relief to consumers. The Chief economist at the  Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa,  Wandile Sihlobo, says there is a significant decline in food inflation, now at 4.9-percent, the lowest since September 2020. Despite drought concerns, farmers are able to irrigate their crops consistently. Meat prices are stabilising, but challenges persist in maize production. However, global supplies mitigate risks. Sihlobo remains cautiously optimistic, expecting moderation in prices, particularly for vegetables, fruit, and meat.

The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse meanwhile says despite its support of the Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill, a shift towards market-oriented pricing for greater competition and efficiency is needed. Outa deems the ERA Bill vital for restructuring electricity supply but suggests refining terminology and limiting discretionary powers of ministers and regulators. They urge the Select Committee on Land Reform, Environment, Mineral Resources, and Energy to carefully review designated roles and powers in the bill.

# According to the DA, the Department of Home Affairs visa backlog has surged by nearly 20-thousand in six months. The backlog has risen from 74-thousand in August last year to 92-thousand as of February this year. Despite claims of prioritising visitor visas, the backlog for spouses married to South Africans is at over 41-thousand the highest among visa categories. The DA’s Angel Khanyile criticises the department for failing to address these issues, leading to increased litigation and corruption opportunities:

# The Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crime Court has postponed proceedings against ex-police commissioner Khomotso Phahlane and five co-accused to 3 July. National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson, Henry Mamothame, says the accused face fraud and corruption charges related to contracts worth 54-million-rand. Allegations stem from procurement irregularities during the #FeesMustFall protests, involving unauthorised software purchases. Mamothame says the accusations include cover quoting and improper procurement processes. All defendants are currently out on bail:

# And finally tennis, the former world number one, Rafael Nadal says it has been a very emotional week after he made his last-ever appearance at the Madrid Open. A five time champion in the Spanish capital, he waved an emotional farewell to the tournament after losing 7-5, 6-4 to Jiří Lehečka. The 37-year-old has indicated he plans to retire after the 2024 season. Meanwhile, Nadal, will take confidence from his three victories in Madrid that he can compete at the French Open for a final time. He missed the tournament for the first time in 19 years through injury in 2023.

Stay tuned for more news………….