BRICS, representing 36% of global GDP and 47% of the world population, announced the inclusion of Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE as full members starting January 2024. This expansion, supported by India, aims to modernize and unify the bloc, reflecting a shift in global institutions. The decision followed applications from 22 countries, with the Johannesburg Declaration 2 promoting inclusive economic policies for BRICS nations.

Over the weekend, 21 teenagers tragically died at the Eyobeni tavern in Scenery Park, East London. The victims, including eight girls and 13 boys, were believed to be celebrating the end of their high school exams. Officials found no visible wounds on the bodies, and autopsies are pending to determine the cause of death, with poisoning being a possibility. Police Minister Bheki Cele and other senior officials visited the scene, expressing deep sorrow. The tavern, located in a residential area, is under scrutiny for not enforcing safety regulations and drinking-age laws. President Cyril Ramaphosa sent condolences and raised concerns about underage access to such venues. The regional liquor licensing agency is considering revoking the tavern's license and possibly pressing criminal charges against the owner for selling alcohol to minors. The incident has sparked a debate on the regulation of liquor licenses in the area.

In South Africa, ex-offenders struggle to find employment due to their criminal records, despite acquiring skills such as artisanry. Criminologist Africa Monyai suggests that the government should incentivize companies to hire ex-offenders by offering tax breaks, similar to the model in the US. Former inmate Robert Molefe, who found employment after release, highlights the difficulty of waiting ten years to clear one's criminal record. Professor Victor Chikadzi's study indicates a high reoffending rate of 80% to 94% among released prisoners, partly due to job market ostracization.

Kenya is leveraging its rich cultural diversity and traditional cuisines to boost tourism, with a focus on gastronomic experiences. Key traditional dishes like Ugali and Nyama Choma are being promoted, and collaborations with institutions like Utalii College aim to highlight the country's culinary heritage. The tourism sector saw significant growth in 2022, driven by an increased interest in traditional culinary experiences. However, challenges such as food safety and quality need to be addressed to fully develop the sector. The Kenya Tourism 2030 Blueprint outlines the potential and necessary steps for advancing gastronomic tourism in the country.

Durban, a coastal city in South Africa, is capitalizing on the growing global cruise tourism market, projected to be worth $17.4 billion by 2032. The city has invested in a new international terminal to accommodate an influx of tourists, with plans for a $5 billion port expansion announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa. This development aims to boost economic and tourism activities, with expectations of luxury hotels and museums enhancing the waterfront. Local tourism officials emphasize the importance of this growth for the regional economy, particularly in strengthening the local currency.

Durban, a city in South Africa, is aiming to attract more tourists through its new international terminal and a $5 billion port expansion plan announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa. The expansion, which includes the development of Durban Bay waterfront with luxury hotels and other attractions, is expected to boost the local economy and strengthen the South African rand. Durban Tourism and KwaZulu Natal’s tourism department anticipate an increase in tourist arrivals, with 1.2 million visitors expected in April and three cruises bringing over 2,000 visitors each. The region saw significant economic benefits from tourism in December 2022, and the new infrastructure is hoped to further capitalize on the growing global cruise tourism market.

Africa's travel market is experiencing significant growth, with a 35% increase in exhibitors at the World Travel Market Africa in Cape Town. Key stakeholders like Reed Exhibition Africa, Seychelles Tourism, and Zimbabwe Tourism Authority are optimistic about future prospects, with Zimbabwe projecting a $5 billion tourism economy by 2025. The UN's World Tourism Organization reported over 900 million international tourists in 2022, indicating a robust recovery post-Covid-19.

South Africa's funeral parlour industry is under strain from the country's electricity blackouts, with mortuaries incurring additional costs to maintain cold room temperatures. The South African Chamber of Undertakers reports that parlours are spending about $40 per day on generator power, and the chairman, Nhlanhla Bembe, suggests government subsidies are needed for diesel costs. Leon Matshiza, founder of Ndoda Funeral Services in Johannesburg, notes increased spending on embalming services to prevent decomposition during long blackouts. Citizens express concerns over decaying remains and suggest shortening the burial process. The industry standard of keeping remains below minus five degrees Celsius is becoming unattainable for parlours lacking generators.

Ernest Mongezi Majenge, also known as the wheelchair doctor, is an entrepreneur in South Africa who has developed an innovative wheelchair that is stair-friendly and suitable for off-road use. By refurbishing old wheelchairs and modifying the wheels, Majenge has created a mobility product that can switch between star wheels for stairs and normal wheels for flat surfaces. His invention has gained international attention, with orders already coming in from France. Majenge's company, 911 The Wheelchair Doctor, aims to manufacture 10,000 wheelchairs within a year. Despite the progress, the cost of wheelchairs remains a concern for both manufacturers and consumers, as expressed by Ari Seirlis of the QuadPara Association. Majenge believes there is a significant market for affordable, high-quality wheelchairs.

Globally, 65 million people live with limb amputations, with prosthetics often being unaffordable in South Africa. Sibongile Mongadi founded Ukuhamba Prosthetics to create low-cost prosthetic limbs using 3D technology and recycled materials. Despite challenges like South Africa's energy crisis, there is optimism for the future of prosthetics with high-tech features. A McKinsey report suggests that prosthetic innovation will significantly improve global health by 2040.

South Africa's escalating gun violence is linked to the smuggling of high-caliber firearms like AK-47s. The Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime estimates 3.8 million illegal firearms circulate in South Africa, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. These weapons fuel gang violence, mass shootings, and wildlife crime. Gareth Newham from the Institute for Security Studies notes the difficulty in acquiring such weapons, which are often smuggled or stolen. Following a recent mass shooting in Soweto, Police Minister Bheki Cele announced intensified efforts to seize illegal firearms. Advocacy group Gun Free South Africa calls for comprehensive solutions to the gun violence crisis.

In East London, South Africa, 21 teenagers died under mysterious circumstances at Enyobeni Tavern, with officials ruling out a stampede. The victims, some as young as 13, showed no visible signs of injury, leading to speculation of possible poisoning through ingestion or inhalation. Survivors reported a suffocating smell and difficulty breathing. Autopsies and forensic analysis are underway, and special investigators from Pretoria have been dispatched. Safety regulations and drinking-age laws are often unenforced in township taverns. President Cyril Ramaphosa and others have expressed concern, and a prayer service was held for the victims.

South African police are investigating a tavern in East London township after 21 teenagers, some as young as 13, died under mysterious circumstances. The victims, thought to be students celebrating their high-school exams, showed no visible signs of injury, leading to speculation of poisoning. Survivor Sinovuyo Monyane described a suffocating smell and difficulty escaping the crowded venue. Autopsies and forensic tests are underway, with President Cyril Ramaphosa and African Union Commission chief Moussa Faki Mahamat expressing concern and condolences.

South Africa faces an unprecedented tragedy with the mysterious deaths of 21 youths at a bar in East London. The causes remain unknown pending autopsy and toxicology results. The incident has sparked criticism over minors' access to alcohol, with authorities investigating potential causes such as alcohol overconsumption or inhalation of toxic substances. Survivors describe a chaotic scene with a strong odor resembling pepper spray. The tragedy has led to emotional reactions from officials and calls for stricter enforcement of alcohol laws in informal bars.

At least 21 teenagers died at the Eyobeni tavern in Scenery Park, East London, with 17 found dead at the scene and the rest dying in hospital. The victims, mostly high school students, showed no visible wounds, and autopsies are being conducted to determine if poisoning was involved. Police Minister Bheki Cele and other officials expressed deep sorrow, while President Cyril Ramaphosa, attending the G7 summit, sent condolences and raised concerns about the circumstances. The incident has prompted discussions on revising liquor licensing regulations, with the tavern's owner facing potential criminal charges for violating laws prohibiting alcohol sales to minors.

In South Africa, a tragic incident occurred where 21 young people, some as young as 13, died in a bar in East London. The cause of death remains unclear, with possibilities including alcohol overconsumption, intoxication, or inhalation of a harmful substance. The incident has sparked outrage over minors' access to alcohol, with authorities and public figures expressing their grief and calling for stricter enforcement of alcohol laws. Investigations are ongoing, and no arrests have been made yet.

South African police are investigating the mysterious deaths of 21 teenagers at a packed bar in East London. Survivors described a suffocating smell and a struggle to escape the overcrowded venue. Officials ruled out a stampede and suspect poisoning through ingestion or inhalation. Autopsies and forensic analyses are underway. The incident has raised concerns about underage drinking and safety regulations in township taverns. President Cyril Ramaphosa and other officials have expressed concern over the tragedy.

Twenty-one teenagers died at Enyobeni Tavern in Scenery Park, Eastern Cape, South Africa, after a night out, with officials fearing underage drinking as a possible cause. The victims, including eight girls and 13 boys, were thought to be celebrating the end of high-school exams. No visible wounds were found, and autopsies are pending to determine if poisoning occurred. Police Minister Bheki Cele and other officials responded to the scene, while President Cyril Ramaphosa sent condolences from the G7 summit. The tavern's owner, Siyakhangela Ndevu, described the event as unexpected, and the regional liquor licensing agency is considering revoking the tavern's license for selling alcohol to minors.

At least 20 young people died at Enyobeni Tavern, a pub in East London, South Africa, with the cause of death still unclear. Provincial government officials, including Weziwe Tikana-Gxothiwe and Oscar Mabuyane, have responded to the scene. Safety regulations in such township pubs are rarely enforced. The victims were aged between 18 and 20, with some possibly as young as 15. A stampede has been ruled out, and forensic investigators are testing for possible poisoning. The pub was overcrowded, and many victims were students celebrating after exams. Parents and onlookers gathered outside, seeking information about their children.

At least 21 teenagers died at a tavern in Scenery Park, South Africa, with the cause of death still unclear. Officials suspect under-age drinking may be involved. The provincial government reported that 17 died at the scene and the rest in hospital. Police Minister Bheki Cele and President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed their grief and concern. The authorities are considering revising liquor licensing regulations. The tavern's owner, Siyakhangela Ndevu, mentioned overcrowding issues, while safety officials ruled out a stampede. The regional liquor licensing agency is contemplating revoking the tavern's license and pressing charges.

In East London, South Africa, 21 young people died under mysterious circumstances at an informal bar in a township. The victims, aged between 13 and 17, were found without apparent injuries. The incident has prompted an investigation by local police and raised concerns about the enforcement of alcohol regulations. High-ranking officials, including Police Minister Bheki Cele and President Cyril Ramaphosa, have expressed their condolences and concern. The cause of death remains unknown, and authorities are considering revising alcohol licensing regulations.

In East London, South Africa, 21 young people died under mysterious circumstances at a bar, with 17 found dead at the scene and four more dying in the hospital. The incident has prompted a police investigation, with no apparent injuries found on the bodies. The tragedy has raised concerns about underage access to alcohol, with South African authorities considering revising alcohol licensing regulations. High-profile figures, including Police Minister Bheki Cele and President Cyril Ramaphosa, have expressed their condolences and concerns over the incident.

South Africa's automotive industry is grappling with an influx of counterfeit auto parts, primarily from China, posing significant economic and safety risks. The South African police recently seized fake vehicle bearings worth nearly 200 million USD. Experts warn that these bogus parts can be life-threatening. Fixxr, a mobile mechanic repair start-up, aims to guide consumers towards accredited parts suppliers. The Tyre Equipment and Parts Association is working on a whistle-blower hotline to report illicit activities. Despite efforts, the counterfeit market persists due to economic challenges and consumer affordability issues.

Seychelles is shifting its tourism strategy to emphasize cultural experiences alongside its renowned beaches. David Germain, Seychelles Tourism Regional Director, highlights the government's aim to diversify the industry. Travel agent Amy Michel supports this, noting the unique cultural aspects of the islands. The Seychelles National Institute for Culture, Heritage and the Arts received UNESCO funding to explore a culture-based economy. Minister Louis Sylvestre Radegonde is committed to enhancing tourism quality and competitiveness.

South Africa's tourism sector, severely impacted by COVID-19, is exploring the introduction of a digital nomad visa to attract international remote workers and revive the industry. Industry leaders believe this could boost tourism, similar to successes seen in Dubai, Greece, and the Maldives. However, challenges such as high crime rates and a shortage of skilled workers persist. The government is considering safety measures and leveraging digital technology to support the sector. If approved, South Africa would be the first mainland African country to offer a long-term remote visa.

Seychelles is shifting its tourism strategy to emphasize cultural experiences alongside its renowned beaches. David Germain, Seychelles Tourism Regional Director, highlights the new focus on indigenous culture to diversify the tourism industry. The Seychelles National Institute for Culture, Heritage and the Arts received UNESCO funding to research the viability of a culture-based economy. Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Louis Sylvestre Radegonde, is committed to supporting tourism recovery with a focus on quality and value. The initiative aims to attract international travelers and support the local economy.

The African tourism sector, significantly impacted by Covid-19, is focusing on digital technology and market diversification for recovery. South Africa, particularly Durban, is highlighted for its efforts in promoting tourism and supporting local businesses. Key challenges include high taxes, crime, and visa bureaucracy, with industry leaders advocating for easing these obstacles and improving regional connectivity through private sector partnerships.

South Africa has secured over $20bn in pledges at the South Africa Investment Conference, nearing its $100bn target over five years. President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of positioning South Africa as a global investment hub. Key sectors attracting investment include energy, with G7 nations committing $8.5bn to reduce coal dependence, and mining, particularly platinum. The African Development Bank and French companies have also made significant investments. South Africa aims to become a pharmaceutical hub, with Aspen investing heavily in vaccine research. The conference seeks to revitalize the economy after years of stagnation.

South Africa's high cost of mobile services, including data and voice calls, is among the highest in the world, indicating a distorted and uncompetitive market. The country has four major players in the mobile telecommunications industry. Onica Nonhlanhla Makwakwa of the Alliance for Affordable Internet advocates for affordable internet as a basic human right. Despite the 'data must fall' campaign and the Competition Commission's ruling to slash data prices by up to 50%, South Africans still find internet access expensive and rely on Wifi hotspots, such as those provided by local schools. The World Bank estimates that Africa will need an investment of 100 billion US dollars to provide internet access to every citizen by 2030.

South Africa's high cost of mobile services, including data and voice calls, is among the highest in the world, indicating a distorted and uncompetitive market. The country has four major players in the mobile telecommunications industry. Onica Nonhlanhla Makwakwa of the Alliance for Affordable Internet advocates for affordable internet as a basic human right. Despite the 'data must fall' campaign and the Competition Commission's ruling to slash data prices by up to 50%, South Africans still find internet access expensive and rely on Wifi hotspots, such as those provided by local schools. The World Bank estimates that Africa will need an investment of 100 billion US dollars to provide internet access to every citizen by 2030.