A South African court rejected a bid by the ruling African National Congress (ANC) to stop a party backed by former President Jacob Zuma from using its name and logo. Watch in for more details!

South Africa: ANC loses court battle with Jacob Zuma over party name and logo

Vote Ubisi, who was named because he was born on April 27, 1994, the same day as millions of South Africans voted in the country's first democratic election will cast his ballot on May 29. Watch in for more details!

South Africa General Election 2024: Man named vote will cast ballot for change on May 29

South Africa’s former president Jacob Zuma will able to contest the upcoming general elections. He was earlier barred from standing in elections which are scheduled in may. Zuma had challenged the decision. Now a court has ruled the decision of the electoral commission to uphold an objection to former president Jacob Zuma has been dismissed.

South Africa: Jacob Zuma can contest in polls

South Africa: Relief for Zuma, headache for Ramaphosa

Former president Jacob Zuma of South Africa can run for office in the upcoming election, the country’s Electoral Court ruled on Tuesday (Apr 9). This comes after South Africa’s electoral officials last month upheld an objection filed against the former president barring him from doing so.&nbsp;

The decision paves the way for Zuma, 81, to run for president as a part of the opposition uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party which he joined in an attempt to relaunch his political career ahead of the general election.

<h2>What did the court say?</h2>

In its order, the Electoral Court overturned the Independent Electoral Commission’s (IEC) decision to prevent Zuma from contesting in the upcoming elections.&nbsp;

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The court has also dismissed the objection based on which electoral commission president Mosotho Moepya had announced that the former president would not be allowed to run for office.&nbsp;

The IEC’s decision “in terms of which the electoral commission upheld Dr [Maroba] Matsapola’s objection to the second applicant’s [Zuma] candidacy is set aside and substituted with the following: The objection is hereby dismissed,” the court said in its brief order, a day after it heard arguments.&nbsp;

South Africans will head to polls on May 29 in what is expected to be the most competitive vote since 1994.&nbsp;

<h2>Why was Zuma not allowed to contest?</h2>

On March 28, Moepya acknowledged that the IEC had received an objection to Zuma’s candidacy and that it had been upheld by the electoral body, without any further details.&nbsp;

The objection said that the former president should not be allowed to run for office due to his criminal record.&nbsp;

At the time, MK had said that they would appeal this decision. Zuma stepped down in 2018 following corruption allegations after being in power for nearly a decade.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-former-president-jacob-zuma-barred-from-running-in-may-election-705357">South Africa: Former president Jacob Zuma barred from running in May election</a>

In 2021, he was handed a 15-month prison sentence for contempt of court. According to South Africa’s constitution, a person who has been convicted and sentenced to more than 12 months in prison is not allowed to hold public office.&nbsp;

Zuma is also facing charges of corruption over a multi-billion dollar arms deal from the 1990s when he served as the vice president.

The former president’s recent backing was also viewed as a threat to the governing African National Congress (ANC). In January, the ANC suspended Zuma from the party.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Former president Jacob Zuma of South Africa can run for office in the upcoming election, the country’s Electoral Court ruled on Tuesday (Apr 9). This comes after South Africa’s electoral officials last month upheld an objection filed against the former president barring him from doing so.

Former president Jacob Zuma of South Africa can run for office in the upcoming election, the country’s Electoral Court ruled on Tuesday (Apr 9). This comes after South Africa’s electoral officials last month upheld an objection filed against the former president barring him from doing so. The decision paves the way for Zuma, 81, to run for president as a part of the opposition uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party which he joined in an attempt to relaunch his political career ahead of the general election. What did the court say? In its order, the Electoral Court overturned the Independent Electoral Commission’s (IEC) decision to prevent Zuma from contesting in the upcoming elections. Also Read | Israel to buy 40,000 tents for evacuating Palestinians from Rafah before launching ground offensive: Report The court has also dismissed the objection based on which electoral commission president Mosotho Moepya had announced that the former president would not be allowed to run for office. The IEC’s decision “in terms of which the electoral commission upheld Dr [Maroba] Matsapola’s objection to the second applicant’s [Zuma] candidacy is set aside and substituted with the following: The objection is hereby dismissed,” the court said in its brief order, a day after it heard arguments. South Africans will head to polls on May 29 in what is expected to be the most competitive vote since 1994. Why was Zuma not allowed to contest? On March 28, Moepya acknowledged that the IEC had received an objection to Zuma’s candidacy and that it had been upheld by the electoral body, without any further details. The objection said that the former president should not be allowed to run for office due to his criminal record. At the time, MK had said that they would appeal this decision. Zuma stepped down in 2018 following corruption allegations after being in power for nearly a decade. Also Read | South Africa: Former president Jacob Zuma barred from running in May election In 2021, he was handed a 15-month prison sentence for contempt of court. According to South Africa’s constitution, a person who has been convicted and sentenced to more than 12 months in prison is not allowed to hold public office. Zuma is also facing charges of corruption over a multi-billion dollar arms deal from the 1990s when he served as the vice president. The former president’s recent backing was also viewed as a threat to the governing African National Congress (ANC). In January, the ANC suspended Zuma from the party. (With inputs from agencies)

South Africa: Former president Jacob Zuma can run for May election, court rules

Jacob Zuma can now contest in elections | Relief for Zuma, headache for Ramaphosa

South Africa's new medical tourism plan worries wildlife conservationists as it proposes allowing tourists to use rhino horn powder within the country's borders. It is part of a wider strategy to extract more economic value from the country’s rich wildlife and benefit black communities. Conservation experts are worried about such a plan as poaching and hunting has already made the African rhino an endangered species.

Gravitas: South Africa's new tourism plan has conservationists worried | Rhino horn for tourists?

South Africa is considering to sell powdered rhino horn to "health tourists" from Asia in a bid to guard biodiversity, create jobs and boost economic growth as well as give a financial dividend to the historically white-dominated wildlife and conservation sectors.

South African strategy also includes plans to market zebra, crocodile and other ­exotic meats for export, boost local consumption of game and expand trophy hunting on communal lands, The Times newspaper reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/major-breakthrough-worlds-first-successful-ivf-could-help-save-nearly-extinct-rhino-species-683311">Major breakthrough: World’s first successful IVF could help save nearly extinct rhino species</a>

The policy is out for public consultation and will be implemented after that process is over.

But the criticism of the policy is more about the monetisation and consequent exploitation of wildlife, and the way "a farming ethic" is purportedly being applied to the wild animals.

<h2>'Like Rembrandts lying in the attic'</h2>

South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa, while defending the plan said that natural treasures in poor rural areas were "like Rembrandts lying in the attic". He added: "Those need to be brought to life. That is the residual capital that we have that needs to be utilised."

<h2>Demand for rhino horn</h2>

Demand for rhino horn remains high in Asia, particularly in China.&nbsp;

The Times report attributes the demand for rhino horn to a "new generation of millionaires". These individuals, the report adds, have&nbsp;driven the black market price of "grey gold" to £55,000 ($69,488) a ­kilogramme, higher than heroin.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;African rhinos number rise for the first time in a decade

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In traditional Chinese medicine, rhino horn is claimed to cure ailments including cancer and erectile dysfunction.

The government originally gave the public until March 22 to respond to the document, which was released on March 8. The deadline has been extended to April 12.

(With inputs from agencies)

South Africa is considering to sell powdered rhino horn to "health tourists" from Asia in a bid to guard biodiversity, create jobs and boost economic growth as well as give a financial dividend to the historically white-dominated wildlife and conservation sectors.

South Africa is considering to sell powdered rhino horn to "health tourists" from Asia in a bid to guard biodiversity, create jobs and boost economic growth as well as give a financial dividend to the historically white-dominated wildlife and conservation sectors. South African strategy also includes plans to market zebra, crocodile and other exotic meats for export, boost local consumption of game and expand trophy hunting on communal lands, The Times newspaper reported. Also read | Major breakthrough: World’s first successful IVF could help save nearly extinct rhino species The policy is out for public consultation and will be implemented after that process is over. But the criticism of the policy is more about the monetisation and consequent exploitation of wildlife, and the way "a farming ethic" is purportedly being applied to the wild animals. 'Like Rembrandts lying in the attic' South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa, while defending the plan said that natural treasures in poor rural areas were "like Rembrandts lying in the attic". He added: "Those need to be brought to life. That is the residual capital that we have that needs to be utilised." Demand for rhino horn Demand for rhino horn remains high in Asia, particularly in China. The Times report attributes the demand for rhino horn to a "new generation of millionaires". These individuals, the report adds, have driven the black market price of "grey gold" to £55,000 ($69,488) a kilogramme, higher than heroin. Also watch | African rhinos number rise for the first time in a decade × In traditional Chinese medicine, rhino horn is claimed to cure ailments including cancer and erectile dysfunction. The government originally gave the public until March 22 to respond to the document, which was released on March 8. The deadline has been extended to April 12. (With inputs from agencies)

South Africa considers selling Rhino horn to Asian tourists amid ecological concerns

Mass hunger nutrition and water scarcity have gripped southern Africa. Zimbabwe has joined the list of countries continuosly reeling under extreme climate crisis.

Southern Africa hit by climate change, Zimbabwe declares drought a natural disaster?

South Africa’s parliament speaker resigned on Wednesday and relinquished her seat in the legislature over allegations of corruption, a day after she lost a bid in court that would block her arrest.

BREAKING: South Africa's parliament speaker resigns amid corruption allegations

Former South Africa junior international Luke Fleurs, who played for the country’s most popular club Kaizer Chiefs, has been killed in an attempted hijacking in Johannesburg, police officials confirmed on Thursday (Apr 4).

The 24-year-old was shot in the chest at a petrol station on Wednesday night and the assailants drove off in his vehicle.

"While waiting to be served by the petrol attendant, he was confronted by two armed males," police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo told reporters, adding no arrests had yet been made.

Centre-back Fleurs played every minute for South Africa at the Tokyo Olympic Games in 2021, and that same year was called up to the senior team for World Cup qualifiers against Ethiopia, though he did not make it off the bench and was uncapped.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-mysterious-deaths-of-3-kansas-city-chiefs-fans-found-frozen-outside-friends-home-683287">Also read | Explained: Mysterious deaths of three football fans found ‘frozen’ in friend’s backyard</a>

"We woke up to the heartbreaking and devastating news of the passing of this young life. This is such a huge loss for his family, friends, his teammates and football in general. We are all grieving this young man’s passing," South African Football Association president Danny Jordaan said in a statement.

South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts &amp; Culture, Zizi Kodwa said he was "saddened that yet another life has been cut short due to violent crime".

Fleurs joined Chiefs from SuperSport United in October, having come through the Ubuntu Football Academy in Cape Town. 
&nbsp;

Former South Africa junior international Luke Fleurs, who played for the country’s most popular club Kaizer Chiefs, has been killed in an attempted hijacking in Johannesburg, police officials confirmed on Thursday (Apr 4).

Former South Africa junior international Luke Fleurs, who played for the country’s most popular club Kaizer Chiefs, has been killed in an attempted hijacking in Johannesburg, police officials confirmed on Thursday (Apr 4). The 24-year-old was shot in the chest at a petrol station on Wednesday night and the assailants drove off in his vehicle. "While waiting to be served by the petrol attendant, he was confronted by two armed males," police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo told reporters, adding no arrests had yet been made. Centre-back Fleurs played every minute for South Africa at the Tokyo Olympic Games in 2021, and that same year was called up to the senior team for World Cup qualifiers against Ethiopia, though he did not make it off the bench and was uncapped. Also read | Explained: Mysterious deaths of three football fans found ‘frozen’ in friend’s backyard "We woke up to the heartbreaking and devastating news of the passing of this young life. This is such a huge loss for his family, friends, his teammates and football in general. We are all grieving this young man’s passing," South African Football Association president Danny Jordaan said in a statement. South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts & Culture, Zizi Kodwa said he was "saddened that yet another life has been cut short due to violent crime". Fleurs joined Chiefs from SuperSport United in October, having come through the Ubuntu Football Academy in Cape Town.

South African footballer Luke Fleurs shot dead in car hijacking

South Africa on Wednesday laid out plans to phase out the captive breeding of lions for hunting purposes as the country moves to ban the controversial business. Watch in for more details!

South Africa to end captive lion breeding for hunting

Here we bring to you WION's climate tracker that showcases climate stories from across the globe: Climate change is having an impact on grape output, composition, and wine quality. As a result, the wine producing landscape is shifting. An extreme drought that has enveloped large parts of Southern Africa since late last year. It's now reached crisis level, Zambia and Malawi have declared drought as national disasters. Watch to know more.

South Africa faces extreme drought | How will climate change affect wine?

Former president Jacob Zuma of South Africa has been barred from running in the country’s upcoming general elections scheduled for May, said the country’s electoral officials on Thursday.

South Africa: Zuma gets barred from polls | Zuma's party to challenge ban

South Africa: Electoral panel disqualifies former President Jacob Zuma from polls

In South Africa, just days before Easter, a bus crash on Thursday (Mar 28) claimed the lives of 45 pilgrims travelling to an Easter service. The bus carrying 46 people was travelling from Botswana's capital, Gaborone, to an Easter service in the town of Moria in the north of South Africa.

As per reports, an eight-year-old child is the sole survivor of the tragedy.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened?</h2>

As per a statement by the nation's transport ministry, the bus driver is believed to have lost control of the vehicle. It said this caused the bus to go over the bridge and hit the ground, catching fire.

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"It is alleged that the driver lost control, colliding with barriers on the bridge causing the bus to go over the bridge and hitting the ground, where it caught fire," it said.

The tragic accident happened near Mmamatlakala in Limpopo province, about 190 miles (305&nbsp;km) north of Johannesburg, where the bus fell from a bridge linking two hillsides.

<h2>Lone Survivor</h2>

An eight-year-old child, the only passenger to survive the bus crash, was in a seriously injured condition. In a statement, Limpopo's Department of Transport revealed that the child whose identity is yet to be revealed was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

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The provincial department, as reported by Reuters, said that the bodies of some passengers were burnt beyond recognition in the accident, while others were trapped by the debris or scattered over the crash scene.

While the bus had Botswana number plates, the nationality of the passengers was still being checked.

<h2>Condolences&nbsp;</h2>

Sindisiwe Chikunga, the transport minister, visited the site of the crash. As per BBC, Chikunga said that the South African government would help repatriate the bodies and also conduct a full inquiry into the crash.

Extending her "heartfelt condolences to the families affected by the tragic bus crash," she said, "Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time."

"We continue to urge responsible driving at all times with heightened alertness as more people are on our roads this Easter weekend," she added.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, as per his office, has also sent his condolences to Botswana and has pledged support to the country.

While South Africa has one of Africa's most developed road networks, its safety record is among one of the worst.

(With inputs from agencies)

In South Africa, just days before Easter, a bus crash on Thursday (Mar 28) claimed the lives of 45 pilgrims travelling to an Easter service. The bus carrying 46 people was travelling from Botswana's capital, Gaborone, to an Easter service in the town of Moria in the north of South Africa.

In South Africa, just days before Easter, a bus crash on Thursday (Mar 28) claimed the lives of 45 pilgrims travelling to an Easter service. The bus carrying 46 people was travelling from Botswana's capital, Gaborone, to an Easter service in the town of Moria in the north of South Africa. As per reports, an eight-year-old child is the sole survivor of the tragedy. What happened? As per a statement by the nation's transport ministry, the bus driver is believed to have lost control of the vehicle. It said this caused the bus to go over the bridge and hit the ground, catching fire. Also read | Sam Bankman-Fried jailed for 25 years for $8bn theft from FTX customers "It is alleged that the driver lost control, colliding with barriers on the bridge causing the bus to go over the bridge and hitting the ground, where it caught fire," it said. The tragic accident happened near Mmamatlakala in Limpopo province, about 190 miles (305 km) north of Johannesburg, where the bus fell from a bridge linking two hillsides. Lone Survivor An eight-year-old child, the only passenger to survive the bus crash, was in a seriously injured condition. In a statement, Limpopo's Department of Transport revealed that the child whose identity is yet to be revealed was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Also read | Moscow concert hall attack: Two suspects reportedly appeal pre-trial detention The provincial department, as reported by Reuters, said that the bodies of some passengers were burnt beyond recognition in the accident, while others were trapped by the debris or scattered over the crash scene. While the bus had Botswana number plates, the nationality of the passengers was still being checked. Condolences Sindisiwe Chikunga, the transport minister, visited the site of the crash. As per BBC, Chikunga said that the South African government would help repatriate the bodies and also conduct a full inquiry into the crash. Extending her "heartfelt condolences to the families affected by the tragic bus crash," she said, "Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time." "We continue to urge responsible driving at all times with heightened alertness as more people are on our roads this Easter weekend," she added. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, as per his office, has also sent his condolences to Botswana and has pledged support to the country. While South Africa has one of Africa's most developed road networks, its safety record is among one of the worst. (With inputs from agencies)

Bus crash kills 45 Easter pilgrims in South Africa; 8-year-old child lone survivor

Tragic bus crash kills 45 easter pilgrims in South Africa, 8-year-old child the lone survivor

Former president Jacob Zuma of South Africa has been barred from running in the country’s upcoming general elections scheduled for May, said the country’s electoral officials&nbsp;on Thursday (Mar 28).&nbsp;

<h2>Election Commission upholds objection</h2>

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) said that it upheld an objection filed against the former president without giving details.&nbsp;

“In the case of former president Zuma, yes, we did receive an objection, which has been upheld,” electoral commission president Mosotho Moepya told reporters.&nbsp;

He added, “The party that has nominated him has been informed.”&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-court-orders-partial-freeze-on-zumas-accounts-702402">South Africa court orders partial freeze on ex-president Jacob Zuma's accounts</a>

Zuma, 81, has been campaigning for the opposition uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party in an attempt to relaunch his political career ahead of the general election.

The former president has until April 2 to appeal against the decision.&nbsp;

MK spokesman Nhlamulo Ndlhela told AFP the party was “looking at the merit of that objection but we will of course appeal it”.&nbsp;

South Africans will head to polls on May 29 in what is expected to be the most competitive vote since 1994.&nbsp;

<h2>Why is Zuma being barred?</h2>

The former president stepped down in 2018 following corruption allegations after being in power for nearly a decade.&nbsp;

In 2021, he was handed a 15-month prison sentence for contempt of court. According to South Africa’s constitution, a person who has been convicted and sentenced to more than 12 months in prison is not allowed to hold public office.&nbsp;

Zuma is also facing charges of corruption over a multi-billion dollar arms deal from the 1990s when he served as the vice president. The former president’s recent backing was also viewed as a threat to the governing African National Congress (ANC).&nbsp;

The request to deregister MK, which is named after ANC’s former military wing, was rejected by South Africa’s electoral body, on Tuesday (Mar 26).&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africas-anc-suspends-former-president-jacob-zuma-684888">South Africa’s ANC suspends former president Jacob Zuma</a>

In January, the ANC suspended the former president from the party.&nbsp;

However, the governing party is also not faring well in the polls ahead of the upcoming elections. The ANC is on the brink of dropping below 50 per cent of the vote for the first time since it came to power at the end of apartheid, reported AFP.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, MK had&nbsp;previously threatened violence&nbsp;if Zuma was barred from contesting the elections.&nbsp;

The former president’s brief imprisonment had sparked riots which claimed more than 350 lives, in the country’s worst violence since the advent of democracy.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Former president Jacob Zuma of South Africa has been barred from running in the country’s upcoming general elections scheduled for May, said the country’s electoral officials on Thursday (Mar 28).

Former president Jacob Zuma of South Africa has been barred from running in the country’s upcoming general elections scheduled for May, said the country’s electoral officials on Thursday (Mar 28). Election Commission upholds objection The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) said that it upheld an objection filed against the former president without giving details. “In the case of former president Zuma, yes, we did receive an objection, which has been upheld,” electoral commission president Mosotho Moepya told reporters. He added, “The party that has nominated him has been informed.” Also Read | South Africa court orders partial freeze on ex-president Jacob Zuma's accounts Zuma, 81, has been campaigning for the opposition uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party in an attempt to relaunch his political career ahead of the general election. The former president has until April 2 to appeal against the decision. MK spokesman Nhlamulo Ndlhela told AFP the party was “looking at the merit of that objection but we will of course appeal it”. South Africans will head to polls on May 29 in what is expected to be the most competitive vote since 1994. Why is Zuma being barred? The former president stepped down in 2018 following corruption allegations after being in power for nearly a decade. In 2021, he was handed a 15-month prison sentence for contempt of court. According to South Africa’s constitution, a person who has been convicted and sentenced to more than 12 months in prison is not allowed to hold public office. Zuma is also facing charges of corruption over a multi-billion dollar arms deal from the 1990s when he served as the vice president. The former president’s recent backing was also viewed as a threat to the governing African National Congress (ANC). The request to deregister MK, which is named after ANC’s former military wing, was rejected by South Africa’s electoral body, on Tuesday (Mar 26). Also Read | South Africa’s ANC suspends former president Jacob Zuma In January, the ANC suspended the former president from the party. However, the governing party is also not faring well in the polls ahead of the upcoming elections. The ANC is on the brink of dropping below 50 per cent of the vote for the first time since it came to power at the end of apartheid, reported AFP. Meanwhile, MK had previously threatened violence if Zuma was barred from contesting the elections. The former president’s brief imprisonment had sparked riots which claimed more than 350 lives, in the country’s worst violence since the advent of democracy. (With inputs from agencies)

South Africa: Former president Jacob Zuma barred from running in May election

South Africa: Former President Jacob Zuma barred from contesting in polls

South Africa: Jacob Zuma barred from contesting in polls

At least 45 people have died after bus plunged into a Ravine and caught fire according to the authorities in Limpopo, South Africa. Watch in for more details!

South Africa: 45 killed, 1 injured after bus plunges into ravine in Limpopo province

South Africa's second most popular party the Democratic Alliance (DA) would consider a deal with the ruling African National Congress should the ANC fail to get the majority it needs to retain power in May elections, its leader said on Monday.

South Africa's main opposition party may consider deal with ANC

During a recent safari expedition in South Africa's Pilanesberg Game Reserve, the safari guide&nbsp;found himself in a harrowing confrontation with an enraged elephant. The incident took place at the Rathlogo Bird Hide within the reserve, where tourists are allowed to get off&nbsp;their vehicles and explore the area under specific guidelines.

<h2>Unpredictable wildlife encounter</h2>

As the guests were taking a break, the safari guide&nbsp;noticed an&nbsp;elephant bull approaching their location. One of the tourists&nbsp;captured footage of the encounter, which later spread on social media.

While elephants generally avoid confrontations with humans or vehicles when given adequate space, their behaviour can become unpredictable, particularly when they&nbsp;enter a heightened hormonal state known as musth, marked by increased aggression.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-court-bars-adoption-of-asian-elephants-from-wild-activists-hail-move-693984">Also read |&nbsp;Bangladesh court bars adoption of Asian elephants from wild, activists hail move</a>

Recognising the signs of the elephant's aggressive state, the safari guide sprang into action. He swiftly ushered some of the group members back onto the safari vehicle for safety. However, many guests remained in the bird hide and parking area. In an attempt to deter the approaching elephant, he&nbsp;revved the vehicle's engine and advanced towards the elephant, accompanied by loud shouts and door slams.

Initially, it seemed that the guide's&nbsp;aggressive response had succeeded in warding off the elephant, as it retreated momentarily. But&nbsp;the respite was short-lived as&nbsp;it resumed its advance, ultimately ramming its tusks into the vehicle's bulbar and lifting the front end off the ground. After several forceful lifts, the elephant eventually abandoned its assault and moved away.&nbsp;

Watch the video here:

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An elephant attacks a tourist truck in South Africa 🇿🇦 <a href="https://t.co/BX8typkcUq">pic.twitter.com/BX8typkcUq</a>
— Africa In Focus (@AfricaInFocus_) <a href="https://twitter.com/AfricaInFocus_/status/1770059486369079560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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A similar episode occurred at Sri Lanka's Yala National Park in 2023 when a wild elephant shattered the glass window of a van. Driven by its hunger, the elephant then rummaged through the driver's seat. In a desperate attempt to pacify the elephant, one of the tourists offered a packet of chips. Surprisingly, the elephant, momentarily appeased, retreated into the dense jungle.

(With inputs from agencies)

During a recent safari expedition in South Africa's Pilanesberg Game Reserve, the safari guide found himself in a harrowing confrontation with an enraged elephant.

During a recent safari expedition in South Africa's Pilanesberg Game Reserve, the safari guide found himself in a harrowing confrontation with an enraged elephant. The incident took place at the Rathlogo Bird Hide within the reserve, where tourists are allowed to get off their vehicles and explore the area under specific guidelines. Unpredictable wildlife encounter As the guests were taking a break, the safari guide noticed an elephant bull approaching their location. One of the tourists captured footage of the encounter, which later spread on social media. While elephants generally avoid confrontations with humans or vehicles when given adequate space, their behaviour can become unpredictable, particularly when they enter a heightened hormonal state known as musth, marked by increased aggression. Also read | Bangladesh court bars adoption of Asian elephants from wild, activists hail move Recognising the signs of the elephant's aggressive state, the safari guide sprang into action. He swiftly ushered some of the group members back onto the safari vehicle for safety. However, many guests remained in the bird hide and parking area. In an attempt to deter the approaching elephant, he revved the vehicle's engine and advanced towards the elephant, accompanied by loud shouts and door slams. Initially, it seemed that the guide's aggressive response had succeeded in warding off the elephant, as it retreated momentarily. But the respite was short-lived as it resumed its advance, ultimately ramming its tusks into the vehicle's bulbar and lifting the front end off the ground. After several forceful lifts, the elephant eventually abandoned its assault and moved away. Watch the video here: An elephant attacks a tourist truck in South Africa 🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/BX8typkcUq — Africa In Focus (@AfricaInFocus_) March 19, 2024 × A similar episode occurred at Sri Lanka's Yala National Park in 2023 when a wild elephant shattered the glass window of a van. Driven by its hunger, the elephant then rummaged through the driver's seat. In a desperate attempt to pacify the elephant, one of the tourists offered a packet of chips. Surprisingly, the elephant, momentarily appeased, retreated into the dense jungle. (With inputs from agencies)

Elephant charges at safari truck, lifting it off the ground: WATCH

A South African bank on Wednesday (March 20) announced a partial freeze on accounts of ex-president Jacob Zuma, two months ahead of a general election in which he is hoping to relaunch his political career.

The First National Bank (FNB) said a court ordered the measure over a dispute related to money spent by the 81-year-old to renovate his home and install a swimming pool when he was president.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-elections-zuma-vs-ramaphosa-jacob-zumas-mk-party-gains-support-700134" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-elections-zuma-vs-ramaphosa-jacob-zumas-mk-party-gains-support-700134&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjK3P2Eo4OFAxVs8zgGHe3wC6oQFnoECAMQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3MkfijPZ9yzJ9F9P_Dzuq8&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-elections-zuma-vs-ramaphosa-jacob-zumas-mk-party-gains-support-700134" target="_blank">Zuma&nbsp;vs Ramaphosa? Jacob&nbsp;Zuma's&nbsp;MK party gains support&nbsp;</a>

"FNB was instructed by the High Court to place a hold on outgoing payments from former President Zuma's FNB accounts. The accounts are not closed as incoming payments are unaffected," the lender told AFP.

The partial account freeze is likely to further taint the reputation of graft-accused Zuma, who has joined an opposition group seeking to cut into the vote share of his old home, the African National Congress (ANC).

Zuma's new party, uMkhonto We Sizwe (MK) or Spear of the Nation, reacted angrily, saying the measure was politically motivated.

"It's clear that the ANC is behind all of this," MK spokesman Nhlamulo Ndhlela told AFP, adding the ruling party was trying "to humiliate" its former boss.

FNB said the court order, issued at the end of February, was the result of legal action taken by the liquidators of another bank, which is owed money by Zuma.

"This instruction from the court results from the process currently being managed by the VBS Bank liquidators, and FNB was legally required to comply. Former President Zuma's recourse now lies with the courts and VBS liquidators," it said.

The dispute relates to a decade-old scandal over the improper use of public funds to refurbish Zuma's massive Nkandla homestead in his home province of KwaZulu-Natal.

In 2016, a top court found that the then-president had acted against the constitution by using millions of dollars of taxpayers' money for "security upgrades", which included a chicken coop, a swimming pool and an amphitheatre.

Ordered to pay back part of the sum, Zuma took out a 7.8-million-rand ($413,000) loan from VBS.

The bank was later placed under curatorship and its liquidators have gone to court to force Zuma to pay back the outstanding part of the loan.

The fourth president of democratic South Africa from 2009 to 2018, Zuma has long been bitter about the way he was forced out of office under the cloud of corruption allegations.

In December, he declared that he would be campaigning for MK, a party named after the ANC's former armed wing during the anti-apartheid struggle.

It was a blow for the ANC, which is struggling in the polls and risks losing its parliamentary majority for the first time since the advent of democracy in 1994 amid accusations of mismanagement and corruption, and high rates of crime, poverty and unemployment.

A survey of over 1,500 registered voters by the Brenthurst Foundation and the SABI Strategy Group published earlier this month, put the ruling party at 39 percent with MK trailing in third place on 13 percent.

A South African bank on Wednesday (March 20) announced a partial freeze on accounts of ex-president Jacob Zuma, two months ahead of a general election in which he is hoping to relaunch his political career.

A South African bank on Wednesday (March 20) announced a partial freeze on accounts of ex-president Jacob Zuma, two months ahead of a general election in which he is hoping to relaunch his political career. The First National Bank (FNB) said a court ordered the measure over a dispute related to money spent by the 81-year-old to renovate his home and install a swimming pool when he was president. Also read: Zuma vs Ramaphosa? Jacob Zuma's MK party gains support "FNB was instructed by the High Court to place a hold on outgoing payments from former President Zuma's FNB accounts. The accounts are not closed as incoming payments are unaffected," the lender told AFP. The partial account freeze is likely to further taint the reputation of graft-accused Zuma, who has joined an opposition group seeking to cut into the vote share of his old home, the African National Congress (ANC). Zuma's new party, uMkhonto We Sizwe (MK) or Spear of the Nation, reacted angrily, saying the measure was politically motivated. "It's clear that the ANC is behind all of this," MK spokesman Nhlamulo Ndhlela told AFP, adding the ruling party was trying "to humiliate" its former boss. FNB said the court order, issued at the end of February, was the result of legal action taken by the liquidators of another bank, which is owed money by Zuma. "This instruction from the court results from the process currently being managed by the VBS Bank liquidators, and FNB was legally required to comply. Former President Zuma's recourse now lies with the courts and VBS liquidators," it said. The dispute relates to a decade-old scandal over the improper use of public funds to refurbish Zuma's massive Nkandla homestead in his home province of KwaZulu-Natal. In 2016, a top court found that the then-president had acted against the constitution by using millions of dollars of taxpayers' money for "security upgrades", which included a chicken coop, a swimming pool and an amphitheatre. Ordered to pay back part of the sum, Zuma took out a 7.8-million-rand ($413,000) loan from VBS. The bank was later placed under curatorship and its liquidators have gone to court to force Zuma to pay back the outstanding part of the loan. The fourth president of democratic South Africa from 2009 to 2018, Zuma has long been bitter about the way he was forced out of office under the cloud of corruption allegations. In December, he declared that he would be campaigning for MK, a party named after the ANC's former armed wing during the anti-apartheid struggle. It was a blow for the ANC, which is struggling in the polls and risks losing its parliamentary majority for the first time since the advent of democracy in 1994 amid accusations of mismanagement and corruption, and high rates of crime, poverty and unemployment. A survey of over 1,500 registered voters by the Brenthurst Foundation and the SABI Strategy Group published earlier this month, put the ruling party at 39 percent with MK trailing in third place on 13 percent.

South Africa court orders partial freeze on ex-president Jacob Zuma's accounts

Supporters of former South African President Jacob Zuma carried out a series of rallies and motorcades in the northern part of Durban. The rallies in support come just days after the ruling party the African National Congress suspended Zuma for extending his support to a new political party ahead of the 2024 national elections.

Jacob Zuma's MK party gains support in parts of South Africa

South Africa elections: Zuma vs Ramaphosa? Jacob Zuma's MK party gains support

International Women's Day 2024: For South African women, April of 2024 will mark 30 years since apartheid was abolished. In a system of legalised racial segregation in which all races except Whites were partly or completely denied their political and civil rights, South African women of colour were "deprived of their human rights as individuals", scholar Judith Nolde <a href="https://scholar.valpo.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1074&amp;context=twls">noted</a> in October 1991.&nbsp;

In April 1994, South Africa held its first free and fair elections when anyone over 18 years old could vote regardless of race. Nelson Mandela's African National Congress was elected to power with over 62 per cent vote share.&nbsp;

"We have, at last, achieved our political emancipation," Nelson Mandela <a href="https://www.africa.upenn.edu/Articles_Gen/Inaugural_Speech_17984.html">announced</a> during his inaugural speech on May 10, 1994, in Pretoria, culminating one of the most remarkable journeys in the history of modern nations.<img alt="South African's President Nelson Mandela (right) with Deputy President and his reformist predecessor F.W. de Klerk in Pretoria on May 10, 1994 | Reuters" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="05086441-7965-4454-9fa0-10338476b6c2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/SouthAfrica%20%281%29.png" />

South Africa's President Nelson Mandela (right) with Deputy President and his reformist predecessor F.W. de Klerk in Pretoria on May 10, 1994 | Reuters

"We pledge ourselves to liberate all our people from the continuing bondage of poverty, deprivation, suffering, gender and other discrimination," the 1993 Nobel Peace Laureate said.&nbsp;

But while Mandela's inaugural speech came to symbolise the watershed moment for gender parity in post-apartheid South Africa, it took many more years for real change on the ground.&nbsp;<img alt="Neliswa Nkani, Hub Head, Middle East, India and South East Asia, South African Tourism" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="810710f4-47c2-47f2-ac1c-27d7b4415896" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/SouthAfrica%20%285%29.png" />

Neliswa Nkani, Hub Head, Middle East, India and South East Asia, South African Tourism

As a woman of colour, navigating through the era of apartheid and its aftermath, Neliswa Nkani encountered the need to exert twice the effort to affirm her worth, abilities and capabilities.

"It's crucial to acknowledge that the industry in South Africa underwent transformation only after 2000," Nkani, South African Tourism's Hub Head for Middle East, India and South East Asia, told WION.&nbsp;

In 2002, she became one of the first black professionals to be assigned outside South Africa, defying the expectations of an industry that doubted the competence of women of colour.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas | International Women's Day: Pay gap, gender bias continue to haunt | WION

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"Being a woman presents its challenges and being a woman of colour who is strong, educated and vocal compounds those challenges," Nkani added.&nbsp;

Asked for one piece of advice for young girls who are trying to break the glass ceiling while pursuing their dreams or are simply working hard to provide for their families, Nkani said: "My advice to young girls would be that if you give to life, it will reciprocate and give back to you. Similarly, if you take from life, it will too withdraw from you. Strive to be the best version of yourself in everything you do."

International Women's Day 2024: For South African women, April of 2024 will mark 30 years since apartheid was abolished. In a system of legalised racial segregation in which all races except Whites were partly or completely denied their political and civil rights, South African women of colour were "deprived of their human rights as individuals", scholar Judith Nolde noted in October 1991.

International Women's Day 2024: For South African women, April of 2024 will mark 30 years since apartheid was abolished. In a system of legalised racial segregation in which all races except Whites were partly or completely denied their political and civil rights, South African women of colour were "deprived of their human rights as individuals", scholar Judith Nolde noted in October 1991. In April 1994, South Africa held its first free and fair elections when anyone over 18 years old could vote regardless of race. Nelson Mandela's African National Congress was elected to power with over 62 per cent vote share. "We have, at last, achieved our political emancipation," Nelson Mandela announced during his inaugural speech on May 10, 1994, in Pretoria, culminating one of the most remarkable journeys in the history of modern nations. South Africa's President Nelson Mandela (right) with Deputy President and his reformist predecessor F.W. de Klerk in Pretoria on May 10, 1994 | Reuters "We pledge ourselves to liberate all our people from the continuing bondage of poverty, deprivation, suffering, gender and other discrimination," the 1993 Nobel Peace Laureate said. But while Mandela's inaugural speech came to symbolise the watershed moment for gender parity in post-apartheid South Africa, it took many more years for real change on the ground. Neliswa Nkani, Hub Head, Middle East, India and South East Asia, South African Tourism As a woman of colour, navigating through the era of apartheid and its aftermath, Neliswa Nkani encountered the need to exert twice the effort to affirm her worth, abilities and capabilities. "It's crucial to acknowledge that the industry in South Africa underwent transformation only after 2000," Nkani, South African Tourism's Hub Head for Middle East, India and South East Asia, told WION. In 2002, she became one of the first black professionals to be assigned outside South Africa, defying the expectations of an industry that doubted the competence of women of colour. Also watch | Gravitas | International Women's Day: Pay gap, gender bias continue to haunt | WION × "Being a woman presents its challenges and being a woman of colour who is strong, educated and vocal compounds those challenges," Nkani added. Asked for one piece of advice for young girls who are trying to break the glass ceiling while pursuing their dreams or are simply working hard to provide for their families, Nkani said: "My advice to young girls would be that if you give to life, it will reciprocate and give back to you. Similarly, if you take from life, it will too withdraw from you. Strive to be the best version of yourself in everything you do."

Women's Day 2024: The woman breaking the glass ceiling in post-apartheid South Africa

South Africa asked the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to initiate more emergency measures against Israel amid the war in Gaza. In its application, President Cyril Ramaphosa-led nation said that Palestinians in Gaza are facing starvation and therefore, the court must order all parties to cease hostilities and release all hostages.&nbsp;

<h2>Israel-Hamas war: South Africa puts focus on Genocide Convention</h2>

The South African presidency warned on Wednesday (March 6) that the people of Gaza face "imminent tragedy" of famine.

"The threat of all-out famine has now materialised. The court needs to act now to stop the imminent tragedy by immediately and effectively ensuring that the rights it has found are threatened under the Genocide Convention are protected," it added while referring to&nbsp;an instrument of international law that codifies the crime of genocide.&nbsp;

The Convention establishes upon state parties the obligation to take measures to prevent and to punish the crime of genocide, including by enacting relevant legislation and punishing perpetrators, "whether they are constitutionally responsible rulers, public officials or private individuals".

South Africa's warning against the famine tragedy in Gaza coincided with Palestinian authorities stating that at least 20 people have died from malnutrition and starvation in Gaza since Israel launched its assault on Gaza.

The Palestinian death toll due to Israel's retaliatory offensive in the Gaza Strip after Hamas militants stormed into southern Israel to massacre around 1,200 people, has jumped to 30,631, according to the Hamas-run health ministry in the blockaded Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;

The ongoing onslaughts have also injured 72,043 Palestinians, the health ministry further added.

According to the United Nations, about 85 per cent of people in Gaza have been displaced by the deadly state of war. Less than half of aid trucks are entering Gaza than before October 7. Hundreds of thousands of people are living without shelter.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Britain to warn Israel's Benny Gantz over famine in Gaza

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Israel already stands accused of genocide at the International Court of Justice, a claim PM Netanyahu-led government has vehemently denied as 'baseless'. The ICJ, in an interim ruling in January, ordered Prime Minister Netanyahu's administration to stop genocidal acts. The ICJ also told Israel to ensure humanitarian assistance for civilians in Gaza.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-at-least-15-children-die-due-to-starvation-amid-calls-to-restore-food-medical-supplies-696748">Gaza war: At least 15 children have died due to ‘starvation’ amid calls to restore food, medical supplies</a>

Besides, on March 5, South Africa also asked&nbsp;ICJ to order that Israel take "immediate and effective measures to enable the provision of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance to address famine and starvation" in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies)

South Africa asked the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to initiate more emergency measures against Israel amid the war in Gaza. In its application, President Cyril Ramaphosa-led nation said that Palestinians in Gaza are facing starvation and therefore, the court must order all parties to cease hostilities and release all hostages.

South Africa asked the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to initiate more emergency measures against Israel amid the war in Gaza. In its application, President Cyril Ramaphosa-led nation said that Palestinians in Gaza are facing starvation and therefore, the court must order all parties to cease hostilities and release all hostages. Israel-Hamas war: South Africa puts focus on Genocide Convention The South African presidency warned on Wednesday (March 6) that the people of Gaza face "imminent tragedy" of famine. "The threat of all-out famine has now materialised. The court needs to act now to stop the imminent tragedy by immediately and effectively ensuring that the rights it has found are threatened under the Genocide Convention are protected," it added while referring to an instrument of international law that codifies the crime of genocide. The Convention establishes upon state parties the obligation to take measures to prevent and to punish the crime of genocide, including by enacting relevant legislation and punishing perpetrators, "whether they are constitutionally responsible rulers, public officials or private individuals". South Africa's warning against the famine tragedy in Gaza coincided with Palestinian authorities stating that at least 20 people have died from malnutrition and starvation in Gaza since Israel launched its assault on Gaza. The Palestinian death toll due to Israel's retaliatory offensive in the Gaza Strip after Hamas militants stormed into southern Israel to massacre around 1,200 people, has jumped to 30,631, according to the Hamas-run health ministry in the blockaded Palestinian enclave. The ongoing onslaughts have also injured 72,043 Palestinians, the health ministry further added. According to the United Nations, about 85 per cent of people in Gaza have been displaced by the deadly state of war. Less than half of aid trucks are entering Gaza than before October 7. Hundreds of thousands of people are living without shelter. Also watch | Britain to warn Israel's Benny Gantz over famine in Gaza × Israel already stands accused of genocide at the International Court of Justice, a claim PM Netanyahu-led government has vehemently denied as 'baseless'. The ICJ, in an interim ruling in January, ordered Prime Minister Netanyahu's administration to stop genocidal acts. The ICJ also told Israel to ensure humanitarian assistance for civilians in Gaza. Also read | Gaza war: At least 15 children have died due to ‘starvation’ amid calls to restore food, medical supplies Besides, on March 5, South Africa also asked ICJ to order that Israel take "immediate and effective measures to enable the provision of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance to address famine and starvation" in Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

South Africa puts focus on Genocide Convention over 'imminent threat' of famine in Gaza

South Africa's economy narrowly avoided a technical recession in the December quarter. A decrease in rotating power interruptions helped with a recovery in energy-intensive sectors like mining. Gross domestic product rose by 0.1% in the three months through to December.

Mining boom helps South Africa avoid recession

To attract international investors, South Africa will speed up work permit issuance for foreign executives and technicians at the country's biggest companies. According to the Southern African-german chamber of commerce and industry, which represents Bayer Ag and Volkswagen ag in south africa, problems with work permits have stymied investment and put 100,000 jobs at risk.

South Africa to ease work-permit process

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