News 15:00

BULLETIN 1 July 3 pm

Good afternoon. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# COSATU sets high expectations for the diverse new cabinet
# Sadtu says minister Siviwe Gwarube must work with it to deliver quality public education
# And cricket: The ACDP encourages all South Africans to continue supporting the Proteas

# COSATU has welcomed the diverse representation in the new cabinet, including women and youth. COSATU’s Matthew Parks expects the government of national unity to prioritise unlocking the economy, creating jobs, reducing poverty and inequality, and ensuring inclusive growth. Parks insists the GNU follows the Constitution, respects workers’ rights, and focuses on transformation. He says the union federation vows to monitor all parties closely to ensure they deliver on their mandates:

Meanwhile, Sadtu says president Cyril Ramaphosa made his decision and was fully aware of the strained relations between the teachers’ union and the DA when appointing Siviwe Gwarube as the minister of Basic Education. Saftu’s general secretary, Mugwena Maluleke, says it is the largest union in the basic education sector. He says Gwarube cannot pretend Sadtu does not exist, but should acknowledge and work with it to deliver quality public education in an environment where labour peace is fundamental:

# The Ingoma Forum has highlighted the importance of traditional initiation schools collaborating with hospitals before admitting young boys and men. Following the graduation of 300 initiates in KwaNdebele, Mpumalanga, after a month-long initiation, concerns over deaths at some schools persist. Forum chairperson Vusi Masombuka stresses the importance of health protocols, including isolation during outbreaks. Authorities are urging responsible behaviour post-initiation, and denounce illegal schools.

# Cricket: The ACDP encourages all South Africans to continue supporting the national team in every game that takes them closer to their next big tournament. Facing a tough and determined India outfit in the final of the T20 World Cup, the Proteas battled to the end before losing by seven runs. The ACDP says they have come up against the best in the world, and have showcased their brilliant team-spirit, grit and bravery throughout the prestigious tournament.

#  The financial indicators: The dollar trades at 18-rand-9-cents and the euro at 19-rand-45-cents. One British pound costs 22-rand-93-cents and Bitcoin trades at 62-thousand-723-dollars-45-cents. Gold sells at two-thousand-334-dollars-42-cents a fine ounce and Brent crude oil is quoted at 85-dollars-52-cents a barrel.

# And finally: The World Customs Organisation has re-elected the commissioner of the South African Revenue Service, Edward Kieswetter, as its chairperson for 2024-’25, citing his effective leadership and commitment to advancing global trade. The WCO praises his dedication to promoting legitimate trade, preventing illicit goods, and ensuring safe cross-border movement. Kieswetter expressed his honour at leading the WCO again, aiming to unite customs communities for economic and social well-being. He calls for unity among customs in order to drive transformative goals that bring economic and social benefits to all member states.

Stay tuned for more news………….