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BULLETIN 14 September 9 am

Good morning. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# President Ramaphosa declares a Special Official Funeral for Pravin Gordhan
# Women affected by Mining United in Action uncovers systemic gender-based violence in mining communities
# And, cricket: Bavuma reacts to concern about ODI series against Afghanistan

# President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced that struggle stalwart and former cabinet minister Pravin Gordhan will receive a Special Official Funeral Category 2 on Thursday. The 75-year-old, served as minister of Finance and Public Enterprises. Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya says the president has praised Gordhan for his dedication to liberating South Africa from apartheid:

And Eskom has joined the global community in mourning Gordhan’s passing. The power utility’s board chairperson Mteto Nyati extended heartfelt condolences, acknowledging Gordhan’s pivotal contributions and unwavering support during his tenure. Eskom spokesperson Daphne Mokwena says the former minister played a crucial role in Eskom’s transformation, driving reforms that led to the legal separation of the utility into generation, transmission, and distribution entities:

# Women Affected by Mining United in Action has uncovered systemic gender-based violence in mining communities. Their report, set for release on 20 September, exposes alarming levels of abuse in Gauteng, North West, Limpopo, and Northern Cape. The findings highlight severe issues, including high rates of domestic violence, and sexual harassment. Spokesperson Magnificent Mndebele urges immediate action to tackle these entrenched issues and support affected women:

# Cricket: Temba Bavuma says he supports the stance taken by the South African Cricketers Association regarding the Proteas’ controversial series against Afghanistan. He does, however, feel the decision rests with the administrative authorities. The first ODI series between the two countries starts next week, but there have been calls for Cricket SA to review the decision, given the human rights abuses against Afghan women since the Taliban returned to power.

# And finally, China will raise the statutory retirement age starting 1 January 2025, marking the first change since the 1950s. The retirement age for men will rise from 60 to 63, while women’s age will increase from 50 to 55. The change addresses China’s aging workforce and declining birth rates, with further adjustments to pension eligibility planned by 2030. The announcement has since sparked widespread public debate.

Stay tuned for more news………….