News 13:00

BULLETIN 23 March 1 pm

Good afternoon. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# Icasa proposes lower call termination rates
# An education expert condemns Malema for allegedly encouraging teenage pregnancy
# And, motorsport: Verstappen is on pole in Australia

# The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa has released draft amendments to Call Termination Regulations. This seeks to lower rates for wholesale voice outbound calls or to the party receiving a call, substantially. Mobile outbound calls or to the party receiving a call will decrease to nine-cents from 1 July 2024, and to four-cents from 1 July 2025. Icasa’s council committee chairperson, Nompucuko Nontombana, says the proposed changes will pave the way for a more consumer-centric telecommunications market. Stakeholders can provide input until 10 May.

# The Freedom in South Africa kingdoms have expressed their feeling of neglect by the government, leading to a political alliance with the Congress of the People in the upcoming elections. FISA president king Nthai Monnye Malatji states that over 30 tribes are interested in joining Cope, seeing it as a chance to gain visibility. The king alleges the government sidelines traditional leaders, leaving them marginalised:

# Education activist Hendrick Makaneta has criticised EFF leader Julius Malema’s recent statement urging party supporters to have children and promising increased child support grants. Makaneta warns such rhetoric, targeting the youth and teenagers, could promote reckless behaviour and exacerbate teenage pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. He calls on Malema to use his influence positively and to be mindful of the type of messages he conveys to society, and to encourage young people to be more innovative:

# Motorsport: F1 World champion Max Verstappen has done it again. He will start the Australian Grand Prix in pole position tomorrow. The Dutchman in his Red Bull was second fastest in the final practice session, but was flying in qualifying to take his third pole position in as many races this season. Carlos Sainz in his Ferrari will be next to Verstappen after ending second, and Verstappen’s team mate, Sergio Pérez was third. Lewis Hamilton in his Mercedes could not make it to the final qualifying session and will start in 11th place on the grid.

# And finally: The African National Congress’ Women’s League is launching the Winnie Mandela Volunteers Programme in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, today. This initiative honours the legacy of the late Madikizela-Mandela, highlighting her commitment to justice, equality and women’s empowerment. In a statement, the league says, the launch underscores its dedication to advancing Madikizela-Mandela’s ideals nationwide, recognising the role of women in South Africa’s ongoing struggle for equality and social justice.

Stay tuned for more news………….