News 13:00

BULLETIN 8 February 1 pm

Good afternoon. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# Government reacts to the USA’s executive order
# The SADC emphasises the regional impact of the DRC conflict
# And president Ramaphosa mourns the passing of Namibia’s former president Sam Nujoma

# The government of South Africa has reacted to the latest executive order issued by American president Donald Trump. The spokesperson for the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation, Chrispin Phiri, says it is of great concern that the foundational premise of this order lacks factual accuracy and fails to recognise South Africa’s profound and painful history of colonialism and apartheid:

# SADC chairperson and Zimbabwean president, Emmerson Mnangagwa, has emphasises the regional impact of the Democratic Republic of Congo conflict, calling for a lasting solution. The SADC and East African Community convened in Tanzania, with President Cyril Ramaphosa in attendance. Mnangagwa urged unity, stressing the need to prioritise Congolese interests and confront challenges hindering peace and stability in the region.

# The families of South African engineers Frik Potgieter and Peter Huxham have reiterated their plea to the South African and UK governments to intensify diplomatic efforts to free the men from Equitorial Guinea. Today marks two years since their arrest. The duo remain imprisoned despite international rulings deeming their detention unlawful. Spokesperson, Shaun Murphy, calls on Equatorial Guinea’s president to grant clemency:

# Netball: The Proteas secured a 58-55 win over Malawi in the Vitality Nations Cup semifinal yesterday, extending their unbeaten streak. Coach Jenny van Dyk showcased the squad’s depth with strategic substitutions, with Nichole Breedt awarded the Player of the Match, for her goal attack. Proteas captain, Khanyisa Chawane, says South Africa now prepares for a thrilling final against hosts England tonight, aiming to maintain their dominance and clinch the title:

# And president Cyril Ramaphosa has extended heartfelt condolences to Namibia following the death of founding president Sam Nujoma, aged 95. Ramaphosa has praised Nujoma as an extraordinary freedom fighter and a key figure in both Namibia’s independence and South Africa’s liberation. Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya says Ramaphosa expressed solidarity with the Namibian people and leadership, honouring Nujoma’s enduring legacy and dedication to his country.

Stay tuned for more news………….