South Africa reverses VAT tax hike that threatened coalition government

Summary of Carthaginian Demographics and Identity Research indicates that while Phoenicians traveled to Carthage, they likely represented only a small fraction of its population, as evidenced by the lack of Phoenician women for male colonists. Marriages between Carthaginian nobles and regional princes suggest local partnerships, correlating with a demographic shift around the sixth century B.C. that saw cultural changes and a new dialect emerge. The findings emphasize that Carthaginian identity was complex, intertwined with myths...

A father found guilty of almost 800 charges relating to the possession of child pornography, the rape of his own daughter, and human trafficking was sentenced to double life imprisonment in the Eastern Cape High Court in Gqeberha on Thursday. The court's decision highlights the severity of the crimes committed, reflecting a commitment to justice and the protection of vulnerable individuals. This case underscores the critical need for awareness and action against such heinous acts...

SummaryUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has cut short his inaugural visit to South Africa after a Russian missile and drone attack in Kyiv killed at least nine and injured over 80, prompting him to return home immediately post-meeting with President Cyril Ramaphosa. The geopolitical landscape has shifted since South Africa's prior neutrality, as both nations now share strained relations with Washington and seek to enhance diplomatic ties amid ongoing conflict. Zelensky's refusal to concede Crimea remains...

In April, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officers discovered over 5,000 smuggled ants in a guesthouse, intended for exotic pet markets by two Belgian teenagers who pleaded guilty to wildlife piracy. This incident highlights a growing trend in the trafficking of less conspicuous species, shifting focus from large mammals to ecologically important insects. Experts warn that the booming trade in exotic ants poses significant biodiversity risks, as their removal from ecosystems could have damaging ecological consequences...

Summary After being wrongly accused of sexual harassment during his interview for the Chief Justice position, Gauteng Judge President Dunstan Mlambo is now among four candidates selected by President Cyril Ramaphosa for the Deputy Chief Justice vacancy. This development follows the controversy surrounding Mlambo's prior interview, which raised significant concerns regarding the integrity of the selection process. His nomination reflects a critical opportunity for Mlambo to advance within the judiciary, despite the challenges he faced...

Burkina Faso's military government has reported thwarting a "major plot" to overthrow junta leader Capt Ibrahim Traoré, alleging the plotters, comprised of current and former soldiers, were based in Ivory Coast. Security Minister Mahamadou Sana stated the coup attempt aimed to attack the presidential palace and create chaos, potentially subjecting the country to international oversight. Multiple arrests occurred last week, and the junta has previously accused Ivory Coast of harboring opponents, amid a backdrop of...