SASSA has released the May 2025 schedule for social grants, with payments staggered to reduce congestion. Older Persons Grant kicks off on May 6, followed by Disability on May 7, and Children’s Grants on May 8. Recipients are urged to address card or account issues early to avoid delays.
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Cyclone Chido, a tropical storm, threatens Southern Africa, affecting millions in Mozambique, Malawi, and the Comoros. With Mayotte already hit, Mozambique prepares for landfall with a red alert while Malawi braces for remnants. Intense storms and high sea waves up to 10 meters are predicted, prompting emergency response and humanitarian efforts across the region.
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Bashar al-Assad, once a promising reformer, now stands as a symbol of brutality in Syria. Rising to power after his father, he quashed the 'Damascus Spring', leading to a regime marked by force and fear. Facing protests with military might, Assad sparked a civil war that claimed hundreds of thousands of lives and saw mass displacement. His rule, criticized for oppressiveness and sham elections, now seems at a critical crossroads as rebels challenge his long-standing regime.
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Italian surfer Giulia Manfrini, revered in her field, tragically perished in a freak accident when struck by a swordfish in Indonesia. This rare and tragic incident left a deep wound in her chest, ultimately leading to her untimely death despite rescue efforts. Known for her vibrant passion for surfing, Manfrini's legacy continues to resonate globally, underscoring the unpredictable dangers of the ocean.
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North Korea has accused South Korea of deploying UAVs that allegedly dropped anti-regime leaflets in Pyongyang on multiple occasions this month, branding the actions as severe provocations. The disclosure, unusual for North Korea, is seen as a move to fuel anti-South sentiment. This incident comes amid North's constitutional amendments removing peaceful reunification clauses and highlights the regime's push for portraying South Korea as hostile.
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Each year, the annual 9/11 tribute at Ground Zero in Manhattan honors nearly 3,000 victims of the 2001 terror attacks. This solemn remembrance now features younger generations reading the victims' names, including children and young adults born after the tragedy. The event underscores the importance of passing on the legacy and stories of the victims to future generations.
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In August 2024, Russia's seaborne diesel and gasoil exports are predicted to hit the lowest levels in a year, ranging between 2.7 and 2.8 million tons. This decline stems from sanctions by the G7, EU, and Australia, along with disruptions in Russia's refining capacity due to drone strikes and seasonal maintenance. Shift in trading partners and refinery outages contribute to this trend.
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Kenya has been grappling with ongoing protests since June 18, sparked by proposed new taxes. Violent responses from the police have led to dozens of deaths, highlighting the nation's deteriorating economic situation under President William Ruto's leadership. Analysts emphasize the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to tackle economic challenges exacerbated by climate change and resource competition.
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Father Humphrey Tatah Mbuy, a leading figure within Cameroon's bishops' conference, labeled homosexuality as a deviation, igniting controversy following the President's daughter's declaration of her lesbian identity.
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Gypsy Rose Blanchard, who was released from prison after serving time for conspiring to kill her abusive mother, has announced her pregnancy in a YouTube video. The baby is due in January, slightly over a year after her release. This announcement comes amid the controversial legal battles surrounding her release.
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Colonel (Ret) Jan Breytenbach, the visionary behind South Africa's elite special forces units, has passed away at Mediclinic George on Father's Day. A revered military leader, Breytenbach founded the 1 Reconnaissance Commando and commanded the famed 32 Battalion. After his military career, he became an accomplished author. He is survived by his family.
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King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands started their U.S. tour in Atlanta, paying tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King. Their visit focuses on civil rights, economic cooperation, and historical insight into Black culture. The visit underscores the Netherlands' ongoing fight against racism and discrimination.
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