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SA begins countdown for 2026 Hollywoodbets Durban July

AFRICA (NPA) — March 23, 2026 — The countdown to Africa’s most prestigious horse racing and lifestyle event has begun, with preparations gaining momentum following the reveal of the theme for the 2026 Hollywoodbets Durban July.

The glamorous affair will take place on 4 July at the Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse in KwaZulu-Natal.

Unveiled at The Parade Ring, the 2026 theme, “Country Allure,” invites designers, fashion enthusiasts, and racegoers to draw inspiration from rural landscapes blended with racing elegance. The theme sets the stage for another standout edition of Durban’s flagship event, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a premier destination.

Chairperson of the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee, Thembo Ntuli, welcomed the announcement and reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to delivering a world-class experience. “We look forward to welcoming thousands of punters, fashion enthusiasts and visitors to Durban, boosting tourism and hospitality. The event remains key in driving economic growth, supporting jobs and the fashion industry, and contributing to the City’s GDP. Preparations will now begin to ensure a safe, seamless and memorable Durban July experience,” Ntuli said.

The Hollywoodbets Durban July continues to be a major economic driver for eThekwini. The 2025 edition attracted over 40,000 attendees and contributed about R840 million to Durban’s GDP. It supported 4,500 jobs, generated R50 million in tax revenue, and achieved hotel occupancy rates of 80% during race week. Organisers expect an even greater impact in 2026.

Designer Mzwandile Mathonsi, founder of ZWANDYY fashion brand, said the theme offers creative and commercial potential. “The ‘Country Allure’ theme is rich with storytelling, allowing us to explore heritage and sophistication in bold ways. The Durban July is a platform to grow, reach new audiences and showcase African creativity. As a product of the City’s Fashion Development Programme, I am proud to be part of this journey,” he said.

Stephen Marshall of Race Coast added that the theme celebrates the heritage and authenticity of horse racing while inspiring creativity in fashion and design.

Hollywoodbets spokesperson Devin Heffer described the event as a timeless celebration of sport, fashion, and entertainment, noting that preparations are well underway to deliver another memorable edition. – SAnews.gov.za.

March 23, 2026
Bobi Wine hits back at Muhoozi Kainerugaba: ‘Your intelligence is not intelligent’

AFRICA (NPA) — March 22, 2026 — Ugandan opposition leader and candidate of the National Unity Platform (NUP) in the last presidential election, Bobi Wine, has fired back at General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, son of President Yoweri Museveni and Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF). This came after Muhoozi mocked him in a post on X, following Wine’s escape to the United States.

Muhoozi, in a post on X, had reportedly ridiculed Wine, writing: “I saw a video of Kabobi transiting through Kigali airport. I’m sure it is an AI video, but if it’s true I hope the airport officials thoroughly disinfected him. He had just come out of a pit latrine.” He further accused Wine of abandoning his followers: “Kabobi fled the country on January 26, eleven days after the elections. He has spent two months in the United States eating Big Macs while his followers are in jail. Some leader.”

Wine, in a sharp rebuttal, called Muhoozi “daft,” pointing out contradictions in his claims. “On January 30, you told the world I was hiding in the US Embassy. Now you say I fled on January 26. Why then were roadblocks mounted until March 14 searching for me? Why did you raid Harriet Chemtai’s home on February 4, or abduct my PA’s wife on March 12, claiming I was hiding there?” He concluded: “Do you now realise that your intelligence is NOT intelligent?”

On March 12, Wine alleged brutality against his campaign team during the 2021 elections, noting that police officers attached to him were violently attacked, arrested, and interrogated about his funding and strategies. He stressed that similar harassment has continued into 2026, with campaign officers again being detained.

“These officers are targeted simply for doing their job with professionalism and patriotism. May we all stand in solidarity with them and work for their freedom,” Wine urged.

March 22, 2026
WHO donates Sh10 million health kits to Kenya

AFRICA (Agency Report/Michael Omondi) — March 21, 2026 —The Ministry of Health has received emergency health kits from the World Health Organization (WHO) valued at approximately Sh 10 million to support Kenya’s response to the ongoing March–April–May (MAM) long rains and flooding, affecting several parts of the country.

The donation was received on behalf of the Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Health, Aden Duale, by Secretary Administration Mr Adan Halakhe from the Ministry and WHO Acting Representative to Kenya Dr Neema Rusibamayila Kimambo during a handover ceremony held at Afya House, Nairobi.

Secretary, Administration in the Ministry of Health, Mr Adan Halakhe, delivers the remarks of the Cabinet Secretary for Health, Aden Duale, when he received the emergency health kits from the World Health Organisation to support Kenya’s response to the ongoing March–April–May (MAM) long rains and flooding affecting several parts of the country at Afya House, Nairobi, on 18th March, 2026. Looking on is the World Health Organization (WHO) Acting Representative to Kenya, Dr Neema Rusibamayila Kimambo.

In his remarks, CS Duale expressed appreciation to WHO for the timely support, noting that the contribution will strengthen Kenya’s capacity to respond to public health risks associated with flooding.

The CS reported that the emergency kits, which contain essential medicines, medical supplies and life-saving equipment, will support frontline health workers in providing critical care, managing disease outbreaks and maintaining essential health services in affected areas.

Further, he noted that the ongoing long rains have led to flooding in several counties, resulting in displacement of families, disruption of services and increased risk of disease outbreaks.

Equally, the CS reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to protecting the health and wellbeing of Kenyans, noting that the Ministry, working closely with county governments and partners, has activated emergency preparedness and response mechanisms to ensure communities at risk receive timely health services.

“These efforts include strengthening disease surveillance, supporting rapid response teams, ensuring the availability of essential medicines and enhancing public awareness on preventive measures during the rainy season,” Duale highlighted.

He urged members of the public to remain vigilant by maintaining proper hygiene, using safe water, sleeping under treated mosquito nets and seeking early medical care when experiencing symptoms of illness.

Speaking during the handover, WHO Kenya Acting Representative, Dr Neema Rusibamayila Kimambo, expressed condolences to families affected by the floods and reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s response efforts.

She observed that flooding across several counties has disrupted access to safe water, sanitation and essential health services, increasing the risk of diseases such as cholera and malaria.

Meanwhile, the emergency supplies handed over include cholera case management kits, rapid diagnostic and investigation kits, water treatment supplies and trauma kits expected to support health services for approximately 5,000 people in the most affected areas.

The event was attended by Director of Public Health, Dr Stephen Muleshe; WHO officials; and senior Ministry of Health officials.

March 21, 2026
South Africa Government and industry reassure public of fuel supply

AFRICA (Agency Report) — March 21, 2026 —The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources and the Fuels Industry Association has moved to assure South Africans of a stable fuel supply, with no need for consumers to panic buy.

“The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) has noted with concern the circulation of statements and messages by certain organisations and individuals encouraging members of the public to rush to filling stations due to a perceived fuel shortage and anticipated fuel price increases.

The Department and Fuels Industry Association wish to firmly reiterate that South Africa’s fuel supply remains stable in the immediate term, and there is no basis for panic-buying,” the department and the Fuels Industry Association of South Africa said in a joint statement on Friday.

The department said that while there may be isolated localised logistical challenges affecting the movement or availability of fuel in certain areas, these are operational in nature and do not constitute a national supply shortage. These issues are being actively managed through established industry and regulatory channels.

“It is therefore incorrect and misleading to link such isolated domestic logistical matters to broader geopolitical developments. Such claims risk creating unnecessary alarm and confusion among the public,” the department and association said.

the department and association said that calls for the public to rush to the pumps are irresponsible and that such calls place undue pressure on supply systems, congestion at service stations, and anxiety among consumers.

“The department calls all organisations, public representatives, commentators and social media users to act responsibly and to refrain from spreading unverified or speculative claims regarding fuel supply and fuel price developments.”

In addition, the public has been encouraged to continue purchasing fuel in the normal course and to rely on official government communication for accurate and verified information.

Consumers who experience fuel-related challenges or wish to lodge complaints are encouraged to report these to fuel.complaints@dmpr.gov.za, enabling the department’s inspectors to respond and intervene where necessary.

“The department and the Fuels Industry Association will continue to monitor the situation closely and will communicate any confirmed developments through official channels.” – SAnews.gov.za.

March 21, 2026
WTO warns Middle East conflict could slow global trade in latest report

INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — March 20, 2026 — The World Trade Organization (WTO) says global trade growth will slow in 2026, after stronger‑than‑expected gains last year driven by booming demand for AI‑related products.

According to the WTO’s latest Global Trade Outlook published on March 19, merchandise trade is forecast to grow by 1.9% in 2026, down from 4.6% in 2025, before picking up slightly to 2.6% in 2027. Services trade is also expected to ease, rising 4.8% in 2026 compared with 5.3% in 2025. Together, goods and services trade will expand by 2.7% in 2026, compared with 4.7% last year.

The slowdown is linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict, which has disrupted transport routes and raised energy prices. If oil and gas prices stay high, WTO economists warn global GDP growth could fall by 0.3 percentage points, while trade growth could drop by 0.5 points — with energy‑importing regions like Asia and Europe hit hardest.

The conflict has already blocked traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping lane. This has disrupted fertilizer exports critical for farming and raised food security concerns in countries such as India, Thailand, and Brazil. Gulf states, heavily dependent on food imports, also face rising costs. Transport disruptions have cancelled tens of thousands of flights and increased insurance premiums, adding further strain on businesses and consumers worldwide.

Despite these risks, WTO Director‑General Ngozi Okonjo‑Iweala stressed that trade remains resilient, supported by high‑tech goods and digital services. She urged governments to keep trade policies predictable and strengthen supply chains to cushion the impact.

There is some upside: if the conflict ends quickly and AI‑related spending continues, trade growth could rise to 2.4% in 2026 and 2.7% in 2027. But if energy prices remain high, the outlook will stay fragile.

In 2025, AI‑enabling goods such as semiconductors and data equipment grew by nearly 22%, accounting for almost half of global trade growth. WTO economists say this sector could continue to offset some of the negative effects of tariffs and geopolitical tensions, offering hope that technology will remain a bright spot in otherwise uncertain times.

March 20, 2026
Tinubu Urges UK to boost investment, security, and energy cooperation as King Charles III bids farewell

ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 19, 2026 — At Windsor Castle this morning, His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla bid farewell to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, marking the conclusion of Tinubu’s landmark state visit to England.

During the State Banquet held in his honour, King Charles described the friendship between England and Nigeria as a “partnership of equals” that has strengthened shared security, boosted prosperity, and inspired hope for the future. He emphasised the deep cultural and spiritual ties between both nations, praising the contributions of Nigerians in Britain and stressing the importance of moving forward together with respect, trust, and shared purpose.

On his part, President Tinubu called for stronger economic cooperation, greater investment in Nigeria’s energy, infrastructure, and technology sectors, and deeper collaboration on security. He urged enhanced defence and intelligence partnerships to combat terrorism, stressed the need for balanced migration policies, and sought UK support in skills development and renewable energy projects to drive Nigeria’s transition to sustainable power.

Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the UK–Nigeria Strategic Partnership framework, emphasising shared humanity, cultural ties, and the importance of unity. He positioned Nigeria as a key partner for the UK in Africa, underlining that stronger bilateral ties would contribute to regional stability and prosperity. He also urged Nigerians abroad to be ambassadors of peace and progress, reminding them that their conduct reflects the nation’s values on the global stage.

March 19, 2026
Three jailed for illegally possessing rhino horn

AFRICA (Agency Report) — March 19, 2026 — Three suspects have been jailed by a Homa Bay court for 12 years for being found with a rhino horn worth Sh2.9 million.

One of the three accused is a Kenya Defence Force (KDF) officer identified as Benard Omondi Osunga; his two accomplices are George Oloo and Argwings Watta. They were accused of possessing the horn weighing 2.9kg.

The three were arrested when they were found with the rhino horn in Rodi Kopany Township, Homa Bay County.

They were accused of dealing in a trophy of a specified endangered wildlife species contrary to Section 105 of the Kenya Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, CAP 376 Laws of Kenya.

The court heard that the three were jointly found dealing in a wildlife trophy, namely one piece of rhino horn, using a motor vehicle at Tausi Hotel in Rodi Kopany Township without a permit

In a second count, they were accused of possessing a trophy of a specified endangered wildlife species contrary to Section 92(4) as read with Section 105 of the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, CAP 376 Laws of Kenya. The court heard that the three possessed one piece of rhino horn without a permit.

In their mitigation, the accused persons pleaded for leniency on grounds that they were first offenders. They added that they were family men with dependants and some of their children were going to school and would suffer if they were given custodial sentences.

But Homa Bay Senior Resident Magistrate Christine Auka gave a seven-year jail sentence to each of them for count one.

In count two, each of them was fined Sh3 million or a five-year jail term in case of failure to raise the fine, with the sentences to run consecutively.

Auka said that rhinos are a protected wildlife species and they are drivers of tourism and other economic benefits to Kenya.

The accused persons have 14 days to appeal the court judgement. Auka also ordered the owner of the motor vehicle used in ferrying the rhino horn to appear in court on Wednesday this week to show cause why the vehicle should not be forfeited to the State.

The rhino horn was forfeited to the Kenya Wildlife Service.

March 19, 2026
Ruto and Museveni to launch Naivasha–Malaba railway extension project

AFRICA (Chris Mahandara/Agency Report) — March 19, 2026 — President William Ruto and Ugandan counterpart Yoweri Museveni will be in Kisumu on Saturday to preside over the groundbreaking of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) extension from Naivasha to Malaba.

The ceremony, a major milestone in regional infrastructure, is expected to draw over 20,000 people, including residents, leaders, and stakeholders. It marks the next phase of Kenya’s railway expansion aimed at boosting trade and transport links across East Africa.

Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir toured the Kibos SGR site on Monday to assess preparations. He assured that logistical, security, and organizational arrangements were firmly in place. “This is a big day we will celebrate with our President and President Museveni when they come to launch this very significant project,” he said.

The proposed line will stretch about 369 kilometres, forming a critical segment of the regional corridor linking Mombasa to western Kenya and onward to neighbouring countries. Chirchir noted it will transform cargo and passenger movement by offering a more efficient alternative to road transport along the busy Northern Corridor.

He emphasized that the project will enhance regional integration by connecting Kenya’s railway network with Uganda and the wider East African system. Once completed, it is expected to lower transport costs, improve efficiency, and spur economic growth in western Kenya by opening new opportunities for investment and commerce.

March 19, 2026
DRC and Brazil in first-ever multisectoral talks to tackle domestic and international challenges

AFRICA (NPA) — March 18, 2026 — The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Brazil held their first-ever multisectoral consultations on Tuesday, March 17, in Brasília, marking a significant step toward strengthening ties between the East African nation and its South American counterpart.

The DRC delegation was led by Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Ms Noëlla Ayeganagato Nakwipone, who co-chaired the meeting alongside Ambassador Carlos Sergio Sobral Duarte, Brazil’s Secretary for Africa and the Middle East.

According to a statement from Kinshasa’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the consultations are expected to usher in a new phase of cooperation in agriculture, energy, mining, trade, and training. Discussions also touched on major multilateral issues such as climate change, global governance, and collaboration within ZOPACAS (Zone of Peace and Cooperation of the South Atlantic). Officials described the talks as a reflection of a strengthened dynamic aimed at building a strategic partnership between the two countries.

The meeting comes at a time when Congo is increasingly looking outward to address multidimensional challenges at home. Beyond economic development, the country continues to grapple with insecurity in the Kivu region, where M23 rebels backed by Rwanda have kept government forces under pressure. By deepening ties with Brazil, Congolese officials hope to diversify partnerships and bolster resilience against both domestic and international challenges.

March 18, 2026
Senegal rejects CAF ruling, heads to CAS over AFCON 2025 dispute

SPORTS (NPA) — March 18, 2026 — The Senegalese Football Federation has rejected yesterday’s ruling by the CAF Appeals Board (DC23316) declaring Morocco the winner of AFCON 2025. Senegal described the decision as unfair, unprecedented, and unacceptable, saying it discredits African football.

In a statement signed by its Secretary General on March 17, the Federation announced plans to appeal before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne.

The statement noted that the CAF Appeals Board upheld Morocco’s protest, set aside the CAF Disciplinary Board’s earlier decision, and ruled that Senegal’s conduct fell under Articles 82 and 84 of the AFCON Regulations. As a result, Senegal was deemed to have forfeited the final, with the match recorded as 3–0 in favour of Morocco.

Senegal denounced the ruling, pledging to defend its rights and the interests of Senegalese football at CAS. The Federation reaffirmed its commitment to integrity and sporting justice, promising to keep the public informed of developments.

March 18, 2026