The National Treasury of South Africa is not disclosing a report by German consultancy VGBE Energy, which assesses the operational challenges of all Eskom coal-fired power stations. The report is described as 'politically sensitive,' and its concealment has led to speculation about its contents.

South Africa's just energy transition program has been significantly supported by a $1 billion loan guarantee facility approved by the African Development Bank in partnership with the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, as confirmed by the National Treasury on December 9.

Preparatory work has commenced on a R105bn hydrogen/ammonia project by Hive Energy UK at the Coega special economic zone near Gqeberha, South Africa. Set to be commissioned in 2028, the project will contribute 14,400MW to the national grid and create 20,000 jobs, alongside fostering downstream industries such as solar-panel manufacturing.

The Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber in the Eastern Cape has criticized Transnet's new truck booking system, attributing it to significant delays at the Port of Port Elizabeth and Ngqura. The system has caused long queues of trucks, delaying exports and imports, particularly car components, and resulting in economic losses due to reduced foreign currency earnings.

Biopsies are crucial for diagnosing and personalizing treatment plans for cancer patients. They involve taking tissue samples to detect infections, cancer cells, or other conditions. Different biopsy methods include curettage, punch, blade, and larger specimen biopsies, each suited for specific diagnostic needs. The choice of biopsy method depends on the urgency and type of tissue involved. Biopsies help confirm cancer diagnoses and guide personalized treatment plans by analyzing tissue at the molecular level, leading to better patient outcomes.

Eskom faces criticism for redacting vital safety information in its report to the National Nuclear Regulator (NNR) regarding the extension of the Koeberg nuclear plant's lifespan by 20 years. Activists and anti-nuclear groups argue that the redactions hinder public participation and transparency. Eskom defends its actions, citing legal provisions for redacting personal, financial, and third-party information. Save Bantamsklip and other groups are considering legal action to obtain the unredacted report. The NNR has yet to decide on the lifespan extension, while maintenance work at Koeberg continues.

The Nelson Mandela Bay metro is determined to prevent reaching Day Zero despite facing a severe water shortage. The local government is actively working to manage the crisis and ensure water availability.

Eight people were killed at a birthday party in South Africa when gunmen opened fire. The motive remains unknown, and the victims have not been named. The incident highlights the country's high murder rate, driven by gang violence and illegal firearms. Authorities, including Police Minister Bheki Cele and provincial police chief Nomthetheleli Mene, condemned the attack and promised a thorough investigation. South Africa has seen a surge in violent crime, with over 7,000 killings recorded between July and September.

Police in South Africa have launched a manhunt after gunmen killed eight people at a birthday party in Gqeberha. The attack, which also left three people wounded, occurred in a township of the city. The motive remains unknown, and the victims have not been named. The incident highlights the high murder rates and prevalence of gun violence in South Africa. Authorities, including Police Minister Bheki Cele and provincial police chief Nomthetheleli Mene, have condemned the killings and promised swift action. The country has seen a surge in violent crime, with over 7,000 killings recorded between July and September.

The largest union at Transnet may accept a 6% offer recommended by the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation & Arbitration to end a week-long strike that has severely impacted rail and ports, costing the economy up to R8bn daily. The strike has also caused delays in vital medical supplies and raised concerns about potential shortages of petrol and basic goods, with Eskom warning of possible effects on diesel storage.

Mabuyane of the ANC acknowledges the changing political landscape in South Africa, emphasizing the need for the party to be truthful and prepare for a coalition government in 2024. He calls for the nomination of true cadres with integrity at the December conference and urges the party to face reality rather than being in denial.

The Eastern Cape cooperative governance department has announced the replacement of the Nelson Mandela Bay mayoral executive committee system with a collective executive and ward participatory system, transferring mayoral powers to a 10-member executive committee. This move is seen as an attempt by the ANC to maintain control over the metro council.

Desai Luphondo, co-accused with Czech fugitive Radovan Krejcír, seeks to overturn his conviction and sentence, alleging police framing. He plans to present new evidence to the Supreme Court of Appeal. Luphondo is currently serving a 35-year sentence for drug dealing, kidnapping, and attempted murder.

In the Eastern Cape, Premier Oscar Mabuyane, former provincial spokesperson Mlibo Qoboshiyane, and Public Works MEC Lubabalo Madikizela are vying for the position of provincial chairperson. The upcoming regional and provincial conferences are seen as proxy battles between supporters of Cyril Ramaphosa's second term as ANC president and those advocating for his replacement.

Residents of Nelson Mandela Bay in the Eastern Cape are facing a water quality crisis, with authorities advising them to bleach water for drinking or cooking due to poor maintenance and lack of purification. The water's discoloration was initially blamed on drought, but tests revealed it was unsafe for consumption. The Democratic Alliance forced the release of these results. The Eastern Cape Health Department reported 96 children under five treated for diarrhoea and dehydration. The NMB Mayor acknowledged the severity of the situation, which is exacerbated by decaying infrastructure and political instability. Residents have resorted to buying bottled water and using Dettol for bathing. The municipality is working to improve the situation, with some residents expressing dissatisfaction with the response.

The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has declared its potable water unsafe for consumption due to microbiological contamination, advising residents to boil water before use. The deterioration in water quality is attributed to low dam levels and fluctuating reservoir levels caused by drought. The announcement follows the Democratic Alliance's PAIA applications. Authorities are urgently working on a turnaround plan. Some residents have reported health issues, including stomach cramps and diarrhoea, believed to be linked to the water quality.

The grounding of critical aeromedical services in the Eastern Cape due to a bungled tender process is causing delays in medical care and costing lives. The Democratic Alliance has criticized the provincial health department, alleging corruption and inefficiency. The health department is working to resolve the contractual issues, but the delay continues to affect emergency medical services, particularly in hard-to-reach areas. The department has requested additional funding, but only a fraction has been approved, leaving suppliers waiting for the new budget allocation.

South Africa may need to revise its target of vaccinating 70 percent of the population by the end of the year, as stated by Deputy President David Mabuza during the Vooma vaccination weekend launch in the Eastern Cape. The country aims to vaccinate 40 million people, but with only 23.5 million having received at least one dose and the pace of vaccination slowing down, the target seems increasingly unattainable. Mabuza attributes the slowdown to conspiracy theories on social media. Mlamli Ndlondlo, a sportsman, highlights the lack of information about the vaccines themselves as a significant issue deterring people from getting vaccinated.

Singer Kelly Khumalo claims she was unexpectedly asked to replace media personality Somizi Mhlongo at the grand re-opening of Garwe Restaurant in Harare after Mhlongo was barred from entering Zimbabwe due to his sexual orientation. The restaurant is embroiled in controversy following a church-led campaign against Mhlongo's participation.

In Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, tensions between black South Africans and Somali nationals are high following a violent incident. A road rage altercation between a taxi operator and a Somali businessperson led to eight minibus taxis, a car, and four shops being destroyed by fire. The community harbors resentment, and there is a risk of further conflict.

The usually bustling Durban Road in Korsten township, Gqeberha, turned into a ghost town after violent clashes between Somali nationals and taxi drivers. The conflict, sparked by a road rage incident, resulted in the burning of eight taxis, one vehicle, and several shops. The violence spread to nearby townships, leading to the destruction of more Somali-owned businesses. Police have opened a case of public violence and are maintaining a high alert in the area, although no arrests have been made yet.

The ANC and the SA Communist Party in the Eastern Cape have differing views on Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane’s findings regarding Premier Oscar Mabuyane's involvement in the misuse of funds intended for Winnie Madikizela-Mandela's memorial service. Mkhwebane's report indicates that Mabuyane and Public Works MEC Babalo Madikizela fraudulently benefited from a R1.1 million tender linked to the memorial service.

The Eastern Cape has reached a milestone with over 1 million people fully vaccinated against COVID-19, aiming for population immunity by inoculating 4.5 million by March 2022. Health MEC Nomakhosazana Meth praised the province's efforts, including community-based programs and the Transnet vaccine train, Transvaco. Residents of Gqeberha expressed positive views on the vaccine, with some initially skeptical individuals now advocating for its uptake. The province has over 8,000 active cases and has seen more than 14,000 deaths since the pandemic began.

The South African National Department of Health is investigating the accuracy of its COVID-19 data capturing system after receiving complaints about people not receiving SMS confirmations post-vaccination. Acting director-general Dr Nicholas Crisp acknowledged the challenges in data capturing, given the massive exercise of compiling data from across the country. Despite claims of underreporting during the pandemic's second wave, the government has denied such allegations. Approximately 15.4 million vaccine doses have been administered, with 19% of the population vaccinated. The Eastern Cape has faced challenges with its vaccination program, particularly with the strain on healthcare workers due to pop-up vaccination sites operating on weekends without additional staff. The Eastern Cape Health Department, led by superintendent-general Dr Rolene Wagner, is working with partners like the Aurum Institute and Right to Care to alleviate the burden on healthcare workers.

The Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality has alerted residents to a rabies outbreak following the death of a nine-year-old boy from a dog bite. The boy died at Dora Nginza Hospital, and the municipality, along with the Department of Agrarian Reform, has been vaccinating pets to prevent further transmission. A significant increase in rabies cases was noted in August and September, with 61 positive tests. The virus, originating from wild animals, is fatal in humans once symptoms appear. Over 5,000 dogs and 400 cats have been vaccinated, and a community education program is in place. Zola Mfetyana, a survivor of a rabid dog bite, emphasized the importance of seeking prompt medical attention for strange symptoms.

Cosatu, representing millions of workers, opposes mandatory vaccination enforcement by employers while encouraging vaccination. Discovery Health mandates vaccination for employees with some exceptions, supported by Business Unity South Africa. The Eastern Cape health department emphasizes ethical responsibility in healthcare, countering suggestions to reject unvaccinated patients. Key figures include Matthew Parks, Mike Shingange, Dr Ryan Noach, Dr Rolene Wagner, and Dr Siva Pillay.

Sivosethu Ndubela, a 21-year-old from Gqeberha, South Africa, survived two open-heart surgeries and has shared her story in an award-winning book. Despite a severe heart condition that led doctors to believe she had only a month to live, Ndubela recovered remarkably. She is now a motivational speaker and traditional and modern dance teacher, using her experiences to inspire others. Her book was a finalist in the American Book Awards Festival in 2019, and she continues to support patients facing high-risk surgeries.

Youth in South Africa are eager to get vaccinated against COVID-19 despite the prevalence of conspiracy theories. Debby Raselemane and Lindiwe Mokwena advocate for vaccination, emphasizing the importance of protecting health and following global examples. In contrast, Motlogela Jacobs expresses distrust in the vaccine, citing DNA alteration fears and media manipulation. Department of Health spokesperson Mondli Mvambi urges young people to ignore misinformation and trust SAPRAH-approved vaccines. President Cyril Ramaphosa highlights the country's efforts to increase vaccination rates and capacity, encouraging eligible age groups to get vaccinated.

Doctors and experts agree that breast milk is the best source of nutrition for infants and builds their immune system. Despite fears brought by COVID-19, research shows that the virus is not transmitted through breast milk. The World Health Organisation and other health bodies recommend continuing breastfeeding with proper hygiene practices. Mothers share their personal experiences and concerns about breastfeeding during the pandemic, highlighting the challenges and safety measures they adopt to protect their babies.

Mkhuseli 'Khusta' Jack, a former anti-apartheid activist, has launched the Abantu Integrity Movement (AIM) in Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa, to address mismanagement and corruption in the metro. AIM aims to improve service delivery and governance through a 10-point plan and by electing competent public representatives. Jack criticizes the ANC for failing to uphold Nelson Mandela's values and emphasizes that AIM is a residents' pressure group, not a political party. The movement has attracted former senior ANC members and plans to contest the upcoming local government elections in Nelson Mandela Bay.

Doctor Mamisa Chabula-Nxiweni, at 72, continues her decades-long fight against the deadly traditional circumcision rituals in South Africa, which have resulted in numerous deaths and lifelong suffering for many young men. Despite facing professional isolation and societal backlash, she treats boys with botched circumcisions, advocating for safer practices. The article highlights the cultural sensitivity surrounding the practice, the resistance from traditional leaders, and the government's stance on preventable deaths. The World Health Organization supports medical circumcision as a measure against HIV, contrasting sharply with the unsafe traditional methods.

South Africa is facing a challenge in preventing the spread of COVID-19 in prisons, with over 55 inmates and 29 workers at an East London correctional facility testing positive. The country, which has the highest number of coronavirus cases in Africa, is taking measures such as disinfecting facilities, reducing cell numbers, and isolating infected inmates. Justice Minister Ronald Lamola expressed confidence in the measures, while family visits have been restricted and testing increased. Despite these efforts, concerns remain about the virus's potential to spread rapidly due to overcrowding and the movement of prison officials.

Mamisa Chabula-Nxiweni, a 72-year-old doctor, has been advocating against unsafe traditional circumcisions in South Africa for over 30 years. Despite facing criticism and threats, she continues her work to prevent the deaths and severe injuries caused by these practices. The article highlights the cultural clash between traditional leaders who defend these rituals and health advocates like Chabula-Nxiweni. The South African government has been criticized for not taking sufficient action to prevent these avoidable deaths, which are often due to poor hygiene and dehydration during the ceremonies. The piece also touches on the broader issue of medical circumcisions as a preventive measure against HIV.

A Liberian-flagged ship, MV Chrysanthi, caused an oil spill off the coast of Port Elizabeth, South Africa, affecting the world's largest breeding colony of endangered African penguins on St Croix Island. Conservationists and tourism operators are concerned about the environmental impact of offshore refuelling, known as 'bunkering', which started in Ngqura port in 2016. The spill, described as a 'tier-one incident', has prompted aerial surveillance by the South African Marine Safety Authority, while rangers have rescued about 20 oil-covered penguins. The incident raises questions about the balance between economic benefits and environmental risks.

Rangers are rescuing oil-covered penguins around St Croix Island following a refuelling spill by a Liberian-flagged ship off the South African coast. The spill has raised concerns among conservationists about the risks of offshore bunkering, which began in Algoa Bay in 2016. The African penguin population, already endangered, faces further threats from such incidents. The government has classified the spill as a minor incident, while the South African Marine Safety Authority is conducting aerial surveillance to assess the damage.

Rangers in South Africa are rescuing penguins trapped in an oil spill caused by the refueling of a Liberian-flagged ship, MV Chrysanthi, off the coast of Port Elizabeth. The spill has partially contaminated Algoa Bay, home to the world's largest penguin colony. Environmentalists and tourism professionals express concerns over the risks of marine fuel bunkering, highlighting the potential threat to endangered penguin species. Despite the limited immediate damage, the incident underscores ongoing environmental risks, with calls for stricter regulations and scrutiny of the economic benefits versus ecological costs.

Rangers are rescuing oil-tarred penguins around St Croix Island, South Africa, following a refuelling spill from the MV Chrysanthi vessel. The spill, which released 200-400 litres of oil, has raised concerns among conservationists about the risks of offshore bunkering. The African penguin population, already endangered, faces further threats from such incidents. The spill has sparked debate over the economic benefits of bunkering versus environmental risks, with local tourism operators and conservationists voicing strong opposition. The South African Marine Safety Authority is conducting aerial surveillance to assess the spill's impact.

The R11-billion BaicSA plant at Coega experienced a work stoppage due to insufficient funding from the Chinese and South African governments, affecting major contractors like Scribante, Ivor Smith Electrical, and WBHO. BaicSA and the Industrial Development Corporation denied funding issues, attributing delays to payment procedures. The Business Support Committee expressed concern over the impact on contractors and workers, with some facing repossession of business vehicles. Communication issues due to language barriers were also highlighted.

Major contractors at the R11 billion Baic motor plant in Coega, Eastern Cape, have halted work due to non-payment. The Industrial Development Corporation, holding a 35% stake, confirmed the stoppage, citing an impasse between the main contractor, Beijing Industrial Designing and Research Institute (BIDR), and subcontractors. Baic SA is working to resolve the issue. Contractors like Scribante and Ivor Smith Electrical are owed significant amounts, with BIDR's budget overshoot being a key issue.

The Eastern Cape government is advancing the economic potential of its rural regions through initiatives like a special economic zone in Mthatha and the Small Towns Revitalisation Programme. These efforts aim to transform underdeveloped areas into industrial hubs, address high unemployment and poverty, and capitalize on tourism and agroprocessing potential. Infrastructure projects such as the N2 Wild Coast toll highway and the Umzimvubu Dam project are underway, creating jobs and improving access. The community has also benefited from equity shares in a new hotel and job creation in forestry and agroprocessing enterprises. Economists and analysts emphasize the need for economic diversification beyond the automotive industry, suggesting a focus on agriculture and tourism.

The South African Department of Health faces criticism for lax food safety regulations following a deadly listeriosis outbreak. FairPlay, supported by several food industry stakeholders, argues that the department has been slow to update legislation, compromising consumer safety. The government recently amended parts of the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act, but the health department denies that these changes were solely due to the outbreak. The South African Meat Producers Association is collaborating with the government to implement global best practices in food safety legislation.

Stateline Pressed Metal, a components supplier in the Eastern Cape, is closing down, resulting in over 150 job losses after Volkswagen SA terminated its contract due to Stateline's financial difficulties. The National Union of Metalworkers of SA confirmed the issuance of section 189 notices to employees. VWSA's spokesperson stated that Stateline is effectively bankrupt, and no long-term assistance is available. Numsa accused VWSA of planning to procure from a Pretoria-based German manufacturer, which VWSA denied. The closure follows General Motors' exit from South Africa, which previously led to significant job losses in the auto industry.

Mohair SA is intensifying its investigation into animal abuse during goat shearing, leading to the suspension of two Karoo farms. The mohair industry, which generates significant foreign currency, faces backlash as major brands like Inditex, Gap, H&M, and Arcadia Group halt mohair product sales following Peta's exposé on animal cruelty. Peta's report and video reveal severe mistreatment of goats, prompting brands to enforce stricter animal welfare policies. Mohair SA acknowledges the allegations and continues its investigation, emphasizing the industry's economic importance.

The Magwa and Majola tea estates in Eastern Cape, South Africa, have transformed from near liquidation to being ranked among the world's top tea producers. This turnaround is attributed to the intervention of the Eastern Cape Rural Development and Agrarian Reform department, which opted for business rescue over liquidation. The estates now employ about 1,400 workers and produce high-quality tea exported globally. The success is credited to the professional management by the Eastern Cape Rural Development Agency and the support of the Eastern Cape Development Corporation. The project is also exploring agro-tourism to further enhance its sustainability.

Nomkhita Mona, the new CEO of the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber, aims to boost investment and development in the region. She emphasizes the importance of female leadership and the need for more women in executive roles. The chamber is working on initiatives to support small businesses and foster economic growth, including exporter and enterprise development programs. Mona is committed to transforming the business landscape in Nelson Mandela Bay and collaborating with various stakeholders to create a more inclusive and prosperous environment.

The ongoing drought in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, has severely impacted citrus and livestock farming, with significant financial and social repercussions. The Sundays River Citrus Company, the largest citrus exporter in the region, has experienced a 33% reduction in exports and substantial revenue losses. Local agricultural organizations and government departments highlight the dire situation, emphasizing the need for widespread rain and national intervention to prevent future crises. The drought has affected employment, with reductions in the workforce, and has led to calls for government assistance to support struggling farmers.

Chinese car maker Beijing Automotive Industry Corporation (Baic) is expediting the construction of its R11bn plant at the Coega industrial development zone near Port Elizabeth, working day and night to meet the June deadline. The project has faced delays due to site disruptions from local small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) demanding work. Baic SA has revised its project plan and committed additional resources to compensate for lost time. Despite ongoing disruptions, the site remains operational, and new construction packages for SMMEs are expected to be announced soon. The African Chamber of Business remains skeptical about the project's benefits for local SMMEs. The Department of Labour is urged to assist with worker registration to ensure compensation for on-site injuries.

The Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality faces a severe drought, threatening the operations of local businesses and potentially leading to significant job losses. The region's water supply is critically low, prompting discussions of water restrictions. A survey by the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber reveals widespread concern among businesses, with many advocating for desalination plants. The Coega Development Corporation plans to build a desalination plant, while companies like Coca-Cola Beverages SA and Volkswagen SA have implemented water-saving measures. Local business owners express distress over the impact of water shortages on their livelihoods.

The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) seeks a strategic equity partner to revive a R500 million wind energy project at the Coega special economic zone near Port Elizabeth, which failed due to halted power purchase agreements by the government and Eskom. The DCD Wind Towers plant, a joint venture between the DCD Group and IDC, closed in 2016, resulting in significant job losses. IDC is exploring alternative uses for the plant, while delays in the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme have stalled substantial investments and job creation. Stakeholders criticize the misalignment between government entities and the renewable energy industry, highlighting the economic damage caused by these delays.

Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Company (Baic) is planning to establish a R2 billion components supplier park in the Coega industrial development zone near Port Elizabeth, South Africa. This is in addition to its R11 billion plant currently under construction. Baic SA has signed memorandums of understanding with six South African component suppliers. The project has faced delays and work stoppages due to disputes with local small business enterprises (SMMEs), but Baic remains confident it will be operational by 2022. The investment is a joint venture with the Industrial Development Corporation. The National African Federated Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Nafcoc) has expressed concerns about the project's inclusivity for local businesses.

Ikusasa Green, a small enterprise, has launched a new cooler-box manufacturing plant in Stutterheim, a town in the Eastern Cape. The R4-million facility is set to change the dynamics of the town by creating initial employment for over 20 individuals, with plans to add another 15 jobs in the future. This development marks a significant economic boost for the usually quiet town.