South Africa

South Africa reported 3 478 new positive cases of COVID-19 on Thursday, bringing the total to 83 890 cases, said Health Minister, Dr Zweli Mkhize.

Eskom will implement load reduction in Gauteng in order to avoid network overloading from 5pm until 10pm on Thursday.

President Cyril Ramaphosa says government has started a process of implementing an economic recovery plan, which is coupled with preserving the livelihoods of South Africans and saving lives.

The effects of COVID-19 on the South African economy are expected to produce the worst economic downturn in a century, says SA Reserve Bank (SARB) Governor Lesetja Kganyago.

The North West province has recorded 1 402 COVID-19 cases, with 175 recoveries and five deaths.

Transnet SOC Ltd has instituted a process of lifestyle audits for its employees, as part of efforts to ensure high standards of ethics and integrity.

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) says it has been receiving many grievances about the declined R350 grant applications, which did not meet the approval requirements.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) have called on eligible Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) to apply for funding to manufacture fabric face masks.

Application for financial assistance to study for the victims of apartheid, their qualifying relatives and dependents are now open.

The Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries has welcomed a R3.6 million fine handed to a major steel producing company after it admitted to contravening sections of the Air Quality Act by exceeding the minimum hydrogen sulphide emissions standards.

The Department of Home Affairs head office in Pretoria was on Wednesday vacated after a general worker tested positive for COVID-19.

The Public Investment Corporation (PIC) has welcomed the arrest of seven suspects allegedly involved in the collapse of VBS mutual bank.

Several labour offices will remain shut for a few weeks after employees tested positive for COVID-19.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday respond to questions for oral reply in the National Assembly.

North West Premier Job Mokgoro on Wednesday thanked the police for arresting two suspects linked to school burglaries in the province.