23 September 2025

1.    Afrika – United Nations General Assembly @80

Africa at the United Nations: 5 things to watch at UNGA 80

With the rolling back of foreign aid and rising global scepticism of multilateralism, many world leaders will be thinking in narrow nationalist terms as they gather for the General Assembly’s annual high-level week starting Tuesday, 23 September in New York.

2.    South Sudan - Juba

 Riek Machar presented in a cage as high-stakes treason trial unfolds

The trial of former South Sudan Vice President Riek Machar began yesterday in the capital, Juba.

Machar, alongside the co-accused, was presented in a cage inside the courtroom.

3.    Botswana – Japan 

The Botswana President has declared yet another holiday to celebrate the country's first gold medal in the World Athletics Competition.

While speaking in New York, where he is attending the United Nations' 80th General Assembly, President Duma Gideon Boko lauded his athletes mainly for their resilience, self-belief, and behind-the-scenes hard work.

4.    In our historical archives, it was on this day 23 September 1970 when South African Political activist, James Sofasonke Mpanza passed away at his home in Orlando East, Soweto. He was given a rousing civic funeral service and was buried at the Doornkop Cemetery. 

In 1937, Mpanza established the Orlando Boys’ Club to uplift the youth in his community. In 1939, this youth initiative officially became the Orlando Pirates Football Club.