A helicopter conducting an aerial survey in South Africa crashed due to an unsecured penguin in a cardboard box. The box, placed on a passenger’s lap, slid off during takeoff, striking the controls and causing a loss of control. The resulting crash, approximately 15 meters from takeoff, caused substantial damage to the helicopter but resulted in no injuries to the pilot, passenger, or penguin. The South African Civil Aviation Authority cited failure to follow established safety protocols and proper risk assessment as the primary causes.
Read More
Following his expulsion from the U.S. and declaration as persona non grata by the Trump administration, former South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool returned home to a hero’s welcome. Rasool’s expulsion stemmed from comments he made about the MAGA movement and demographic shifts in the U.S., which he maintains were an academic analysis of political phenomena, not an attack on the nation. Despite the Trump administration’s cutting of all funding to South Africa and accusations of anti-Americanism, Rasool emphasized the importance of repairing the relationship between the two countries. He also affirmed South Africa’s commitment to its case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, rejecting pressure to drop the case.
Read More
Elon Musk alleges that Starlink’s inability to obtain an operating license in South Africa stems from his race, claiming it’s due to him not being black. He cites this alongside accusations of a South African political party promoting “white genocide” and a recent law allowing for the seizure of white-owned property. However, South African officials have refuted Musk’s claims, attributing the licensing issue to Starlink’s non-compliance with local Black Economic Empowerment regulations requiring 30% equity ownership by marginalized groups. ICASA, the telecommunications regulator, further stated that it has not received any application from Starlink or SpaceX.
Read More
Following President Trump’s executive order offering refuge to Afrikaners, the U.S. Embassy in South Africa received a list of nearly 67,000 individuals from the South African Chamber of Commerce expressing interest in the program. This list, compiled due to an influx of inquiries, does not represent formal applications. Trump’s order, citing alleged racial discrimination against Afrikaners and criticizing South Africa’s foreign policy, has been met with pushback from the South African government who claim the allegations are inaccurate and based on misinformation. The U.S. Embassy awaits further guidance on processing the expressed interest.
Read More
The US declaring South Africa’s ambassador persona non grata is a dramatic escalation, sparking a whirlwind of speculation and outrage. The timing and abruptness of the decision suggest something more profound than a simple diplomatic spat is at play. The incident has fueled various conspiracy theories, some pointing to the influence of ultra-wealthy individuals with ties to South Africa, notably Elon Musk, and his purported sway over US foreign policy decisions.
This alleged influence raises questions about the transparency and motivations behind US foreign policy. The suggestion that the decision is a direct result of a personal feud between President Trump and the ambassador, or even Musk and the ambassador, undermines the legitimacy and seriousness of international relations.… Continue reading
Following a phone conversation, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended a state visit invitation to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This invitation follows ongoing discussions between the two leaders regarding a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, with Zelensky emphasizing the principle of “nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine.” The visit is significant, given South Africa’s existing relationship with Russia and its attempts to mediate the conflict. The invitation also comes at a time of strained relations between South Africa and the United States, highlighting South Africa’s independent foreign policy approach.
Read More
The South African court’s recent dismissal of Elon Musk’s “white genocide” claims as imaginary is a significant development, highlighting the complexities surrounding the issue and the dangers of inflammatory rhetoric. The court’s ruling directly contradicts Musk’s assertions, emphasizing that such claims are often used to fuel white nationalism within the country. This isn’t to say the South African government is without fault; there are undeniable issues such as widespread crime, unresolved murders, and a land expropriation bill that is causing concern, especially for white farmers.
However, characterizing these issues as a systematic attempt at “genocide” is an overstatement and, according to the court, a fabrication.… Continue reading
Negotiations for SpaceX’s Starlink license in South Africa have stalled due to strained US-South Africa relations, stemming from Elon Musk’s criticism of South African ownership laws. SpaceX’s request for “equity equivalents” instead of a mandatory 30% stake in its South African operations, aimed at circumventing black economic empowerment regulations, has further complicated matters. This follows SpaceX’s withdrawal from public hearings and President Ramaphosa’s spokesperson stating that South Africa won’t pursue Starlink’s investment at any cost. SpaceX argues that the current regulations exclude many foreign satellite operators, hindering foreign investment and competition.
Read More
The Shopping Trends team operates separately from CTV News journalists. This team may receive commission from purchases made via affiliate links. Transparency regarding potential financial incentives is prioritized. Further information about the Shopping Trends team is available.
Read More
President Trump’s Executive Order on South Africa does not halt PEPFAR; a limited waiver allows the resumption of certain activities. This waiver covers life-saving HIV care, prevention of mother-to-child transmission, and essential administrative costs. PEPFAR implementing agencies are currently reviewing which programs fall under this waiver and preparing to resume operations accordingly. The National Department of Health and local partners have been informed of these developments.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood