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News24 brings you the top stories of the day, summarised into neat little packages. Read through quickly or listen to the articles via our customised text-to-speech feature.
President Cyril Ramaphosa (L) and US President Donald Trump.
Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images
US State Department claims human rights have ‘worsened’ in SA
- Dirco criticised the US State Department’s human rights report, calling it inaccurate and a misrepresentation of South Africa’s constitutional democracy, particularly regarding land reform and racial issues.
- The US report claimed there was a worsening human rights situation in South Africa, citing the Expropriation Act, alleged abuses against racial minorities, and government inaction on human rights abuses.
- Dirco highlighted UN support for South Africa’s land reforms and plans to release documents to counter the US report’s distortions, emphasising South Africa’s commitment to democratic processes and human rights protection.
South African Defence Chief General Rudzani Maphwanya visited Tehran to strengthen ties and discuss shared anti-colonial and justice-driven goals with Iran.
Anti-colonial allies: South Africa deepens ties with Iran amid strained US relations
- The SANDF chief’s visit to Tehran aimed to strengthen ties and discuss shared anti-colonial and justice-driven goals.
- General Rudzani Maphwanya emphasised deepening defence ties, mutual respect, and solidarity with oppressed people, including Palestinians.
- The visit occurred amid escalating tensions between Washington and Pretoria over South Africa’s relationships with nations the US designates as adversaries.
Ajay and Atul Gupta speak to City Press from the New Age Newspaper's offices in Midrand, Johannesburg on 4 March 2011.
Muntu Vilakazi/City Press/Gallo Images
Guptas unhappy being called ‘infamous’, tell ConCourt Nulane retrial won’t be fair
- Accused in the Gupta-linked Nulane scam are appealing the Supreme Court of Appeal’s (SCA) decision to overturn their acquittals and order a retrial, arguing it prejudices their right to a fair trial.
- The appellants claim the SCA made factual findings and improperly referenced the Zondo Commission’s findings, which they argue are not binding and inadmissible.
- The Nulane prosecutor argues the SCA only assessed errors of law and that its finding of a prima facie case doesn’t equate to a finding of guilt. The Constitutional Court has yet to decide whether to hear the appeals.
There’s snow place like home: Meet SA’s 18-year-old ski sensation going to Winter Olympics
- Lara Markthaler, an 18-year-old skier with German-South African heritage, has qualified to represent South Africa in Alpine skiing at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
- Markthaler, who has lived and trained in various countries, expresses pride in representing South Africa and enjoys standing out among traditional ski nations.
- She trains extensively, balancing on-snow practice with gym sessions, and looks forward to carrying the South African flag and inspiring other South African athletes.
Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau.
Sharon Seretlo/Gallo Images
Lotto licence saga: ANC-linked group led before Sizekhaya win, court papers show
- Minister Parks Tau revealed that Ringeta Consortium, linked to an ANC donor, initially scored highest in the bid for SA’s new lotto operator but was later surpassed by Sizekhaya Consortium due to better financial projections.
- Questions arose about Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s sister-in-law’s stake in Sizekhaya, but Tau stated that evaluators found no concerns regarding political influence within the consortium.
- Tau defended his decision to award the license to Sizekhaya, citing a reassessment process that prioritised maximising profits, and addressed concerns about political involvement in Ringeta’s bid.
In 2013, Adri Williams and Eunice Nyobole bought the failing Khayelitsha Cookie Company for R1, taking on R2 million in debt. Today the Khayelitsha Cookie Company bakes for Checkers, Clicks and Lift Airlines.
Supplied/Shoprite Holdings
How two women bought a failing cookie company for one rand... and triumphed
- In 2013, Adri Williams and Eunice Nyobole bought the failing Khayelitsha Cookie Company for R1 and transformed it into a successful women-led social enterprise.
- The company now employs 70 women, produces 80 000 cookies daily, and supports approximately 500 dependents through its workers’ incomes.
- Khayelitsha Cookies has expanded into the retail market through private label partnerships and developed a healthier cookie range inspired by the need to combat malnutrition in children.
The Stormers at Cape Town Stadium.
Stormers unveil new logo replacing iconic 26-year-old ‘lightning bolt’
- The Stormers have unveiled a new logo, replacing their 26-year-old design, to symbolise unity, progress, and a commitment to community connections.
- The rebrand reflects the team’s financial stability and new leadership, aiming for growth, player development, and inspiring their fanbase.
- The new logo incorporates elements like the Stormers jersey hoops, a subtle lightning bolt, and the shape of Cape Town Stadium, emphasising unity and heritage.
*These summaries were written with the support of Gemini Pro AI.
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