In Mozambique, police stations and schools have been burnt down, toll gates destroyed, and other public infrastructure damaged, while the main road to the airport in Maputo was barricaded under the latest nationwide protests dubbed "Turbo V8".

Protests have broken out in Syria over the burning of a Christmas tree, prompting calls for the new Islamist authorities to take steps to protect minorities.

SA Gov call for talks in Mozambique

The South African Medical Association (SAMA) has expressed concern over anticipated emergency incidents due to increased alcohol consumption during the festive season.

The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (Popcru), is urgently calling for the nationalisation of traffic police officers under the Department of Transport, following the release of a mid-festive season safety report which showed a 3% increase in road fatalities since December 1.

Alarmed by the high rate of initiate injuries and deaths in the Eastern Cape, two members of the Congress of Traditional Leaders of SA (Contralesa) leadership have made a call for traditional male initiation to be halted for two years to address the crisis.

AFRICA UPDATE WITH SIPHO MANTULA 

Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the Joburg Festival of Lights, where dazzling illuminations, captivating performances, and a host of family-friendly activities come together to create the ultimate festive atmosphere.

SERVICE providers for KwaZulu-Natal's National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) are raising alarm again over delayed payments. They have also alleged mismanagement by the provincial Department of Education.

The South African Depression and Anxiety Group has now said as South Africans approach the festive season, which for many is a time to unwind and celebrate, it is also a period that brings undue financial stress and family issues to the surface, leading to an increase in anxiety, depression, loneliness, and domestic violence fuelled by alcohol.