Mining & power risk: A tailings dam wall collapse at Samancor Dikwena near Brits spilled sludge toward Northam Platinum’s Eland Mine, damaging Eskom infrastructure and triggering power interruptions, renewing fears about contamination and tailings safety. Water infrastructure: In Mpumalanga’s Nkangala, municipalities are stuck in a tanker “emergency” system that has become a long-term substitute for failing piped supply, despite tens of millions in spending and residents reporting empty tanks and long dry spells. Trade & agriculture: The US Senate backs an AGOA extension for two years, keeping a key market open for South African farmers and agribusiness in value chains like citrus, grapes, nuts and wine. SADC industrial push: SADC ministers urge faster creation of a regional development fund to finance industrialisation, while South Africa takes the chair as leaders meet in Durban under a theme linking infrastructure, agriculture and critical minerals. Skills & jobs: South Africa’s auto sector warns of a growing technician shortage as vehicles become more electronics- and high-voltage dependent, pushing companies to expand apprenticeships and scholarships. Women & health: Women’s Month coverage highlights both progress and gaps, from women’s missing presence in research to ongoing medicine access problems like menopause treatment shortages. Logistics & animals: Airlink flew a hermit crab from Johannesburg to Cape Town after it was found far from home, underscoring the growing role of regulated live-animal transport. Security: Police launched a manhunt after a Johannesburg shooting in Newclare left three dead and two injured.