“Western Cape Premier Alan Winde is calling for Enhanced Readiness for Extreme Weather Events Following Infrastructure Damage from Recent Storms”
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde has highlighted the importance of improving the province’s readiness for extreme weather after recent storms wreaked havoc on infrastructure. Winde emphasized the need for long-term strategies to enhance water management and ensure energy security for the province.
Police say that “Operation Shanela has seen Over 500 Arrests in the Northern Cape as they Crackdown on Crime,
In the Northern Cape, over 500 suspects have been arrested since last week as part of Operation Shanela, targeting various crimes including murder, burglary, possession of stolen goods, and undocumented immigration. The police conducted multiple actions like vehicle checkpoints, stop-and-search operations, and compliance inspections.
”A study has found that “South Africa Leads Global Screen Time, Spending Over Half of Waking Hours on Screens”
A global study by Electronics Hub found that South Africa leads in daily screen time, spending an average of 58.21% of waking hours on screens, while Japan spends the least at 22.76%. The study, which analyzed data from DataReportal’s Digital 2024: Global Overview Report and sleep cycle patterns, revealed that people worldwide spend around six hours and 43 minutes per day on screens, with South Africa ranking highest in screen time among 45 countries surveyed.
“UK Banks Raise Mortgage Rates Amid Uncertainty Over Bank of England’s Interest Rate Cuts”
Some major UK banks, are increasing mortgage rates due to shifting expectations about when the Bank of England might lower interest rates. This follows recent data showing inflation not falling as quickly as anticipated, delaying predictions of rate cuts. The rises, albeit small, could significantly impact borrowers with larger loans, prompting concerns among homeowners and brokers alike.
“Global Scientists Convene in the UK to Safeguard Planets During Space Exploration”
Scientists worldwide are gathering in the UK for the International Planetary Protection Week to discuss safeguarding Earth and other celestial bodies from contamination during space exploration. Led by experts like Prof Karen Olsson-Francis from the Open University, the event focuses on sharing techniques and protocols to ensure responsible exploration of other worlds and prevent harmful contamination. With representatives from NASA, ESA, and other agencies, discussions revolve around sterilization methods, cleanroom practices, and the importance of planetary protection in preserving the integrity of scientific inquiry and promoting sustainable space exploration.