



New HIV Stigma Index highlights ongoing barriers to treatment in SA
Civil society, researchers, advocacy groups and government representatives have called for a united effort to end stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV and AIDS. The call came at the launch of the HIV Stigma Index 2.0 Report in Pretoria, South Africa (SA), this Tuesday.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT: The Water Research Commission Launches ‘A WaterWise Nation’
The WRC’s “A WaterWise Nation” campaign urges South Africans to save water this summer through smart habits, leak repairs, greywater reuse, and community action to ensure a sustainable future.

ANC NGC - Rebuilding a Capable State
The ANC’s Strategy for Restoring Public-Sector Effectiveness - The ANC aims to rebuild state capacity by stabilising institutions, improving accountability, and strengthening coordination across all government spheres to restore effective, ethical service delivery

Eskom Deal with Ferrochrome Producers Aims to Save Thousands of Jobs
Eskom and ferrochrome producers sign a deal to save thousands of jobs, pause retrenchments, and restart furnace operations while working on interim electricity tariffs.

Benin Crisis Averted: Rebel Soldiers Foiled by Loyalist Troops
Benin quells a coup attempt after rebels seize state TV. Loyalist forces, backed by Nigeria and ECOWAS, restore control. President Talon reassures the nation as arrests follow ahead of April’s elections.

NEWSMAKER: South Africa Pushes New Reforms to Curb Political Interference and Strengthen Governance.
South Africa is driving new reforms to curb political interference and strengthen governance, aiming to ensure impartial, efficient public service delivery. The shift marks a significant move toward greater accountability amid changing political dynamics. Public Service Commission Chairperson Profe…

HEALTH FEATURE: Screen Dependency
South Africans log the highest screen time globally—an average of 9.5 hours a day. This rising dependency disrupts sleep, concentration, and overall well-being, signalling a growing mental-health concern among adults. Counselling Psychologist and Wellifehub Inc. founder Nkateko Ndala-Magoro highlig…

Protecting Youth Online: Lessons from Australia’s Social Media Ban and Implications for South Africa
Australia’s ban on under-16s using social media has ignited debate over balancing child safety with access to learning, creativity, and connection. As South Africa confronts rising online risks, the policy offers key lessons on shielding young users without widening digital divides. William Bird, D…

NEWS STORY: South Africa will skip 2026 G20 meetings after the U.S. excludes it
South Africa’s planned absence from the 2026 G20 meetings — following U.S. exclusion over alleged human-rights concerns; marks a stark pause in Africa’s global representation. The move leaves the continent’s voice sidelined in high-stakes economic discussions. Senior researcher Mikatekiso Kubayi of…

NEWSMAKER - Mark Heywood is a prominent South African human-rights and social-justice activist,
South African human-rights and social-justice activist Mark Heywood is renowned for championing health rights, accountability, and constitutional justice through SECTION27, TAC, and Maverick Citizen. We spoke to him about South Africa’s pro-poor policies, challenges, and the ongoing struggle to ma…