IN THE NEWS TODAY | 30 January 2026 | 18:00PM SAST

SOUTH AFRICA | KEY DEVELOPMENTS

Senteeko Dam Declared Structurally Stable After Emergency Works
Authorities in Mpumalanga confirmed that the Senteeko Dam has been stabilised following intensive overnight reinforcement, allowing evacuation orders for downstream communities to be fully lifted. Controlled water releases and temporary spillway expansions reduced pressure on the dam wall. The Department of Water and Sanitation cautioned that permanent structural repairs, estimated to cost several hundred million rand, remain urgent before the next rainy season. Infrastructure specialists warned that the crisis highlights systemic risks across South Africa’s ageing dam network amid intensifying climate-driven rainfall.
SABC News: https://www.sabcnews.com
Lowvelder: https://www.lowvelder.co.za

Mpumalanga Flood Response Enters Reconstruction Phase
Premier Mandla Ndlovu toured flood-affected communities around Middelburg and eMalahleni, pledging provincial and national support for rebuilding homes, roads, and schools. While residents praised the speed of emergency intervention, concerns persist over the slow rollout of long-term climate adaptation funding and infrastructure resilience planning.
eNCA: https://www.enca.com
Eyewitness News: https://ewn.co.za

JSE Ends Week Higher as Commodities and Rand Strength Support Markets
The JSE All-Share Index closed up 1.8%, buoyed by mining shares amid firmer global commodity prices. The rand strengthened to around R18.60 to the dollar, easing pressure on import costs. Analysts remain cautious, citing persistent electricity supply uncertainty and fragile global trade dynamics as downside risks.
News24: https://www.news24.com
Bloomberg: https://www.bloomberg.com

FSCA Launches Crackdown on Unlicensed Crypto Providers
The Financial Sector Conduct Authority froze accounts linked to several crypto asset platforms accused of operating without registration. The move follows a surge in retail investor complaints and signals tighter enforcement as South Africa aligns its digital asset regime with international standards.
FSCA: https://www.fsca.co.za
News24: https://www.news24.com

Ramaphosa Reaffirms Reform Agenda in Business Address
Speaking to business leaders in Cape Town, President Cyril Ramaphosa reiterated government’s commitment to structural reforms under Operation Vulindlela. He acknowledged public frustration over service delivery but cited progress in reducing load-shedding and stabilising state-owned enterprises ahead of key fiscal announcements.
eNCA: https://www.enca.com
Eyewitness News: https://ewn.co.za

Proteas Seal Test Series Victory Over Sri Lanka
South Africa secured a 142-run victory in the second Test at Kingsmead, clinching the series 2–0. Captain Temba Bavuma credited disciplined bowling for the result, which strengthens South Africa’s position in the World Test Championship standings.
SuperSport: https://supersport.com

AFRICA | KEY DEVELOPMENTS

Mozambique Flood Death Toll Rises as International Aid Expands
Flooding in southern Mozambique has killed more than 80 people and displaced thousands. SANDF helicopters and aid convoys arrived to support rescue operations. The United Nations has appealed for $150 million to address food shortages, waterborne disease risks, and shelter needs in displacement camps.
BBC Africa: https://www.bbc.com/news/world/africa
Al Jazeera: https://www.aljazeera.com

Kenya Political Talks Ease Post-Election Tensions
Kenya’s government and opposition reached a tentative agreement on electoral reforms after weeks of unrest. Former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua described the dialogue as a step toward national stabilisation, though analysts caution that implementation will be politically sensitive.
BBC News: https://www.bbc.com/news

WORLD | KEY DEVELOPMENTS

EU Advances Landmark AI Regulation
The European Union approved the final implementation phase of the AI Act, imposing strict oversight on high-risk artificial intelligence systems. Major technology firms, including OpenAI and Google, confirmed compliance plans while lobbying for regulatory clarity during rollout.
Reuters: https://www.reuters.com
Bloomberg: https://www.bloomberg.com

Wall Street Rallies on Potential 2026 Rate-Cut Signals
U.S. equity markets closed higher after Federal Reserve officials suggested interest rate cuts could be considered later in 2026 if inflation continues to cool. The remarks lifted global investor sentiment.
Reuters: https://www.reuters.com

US–Iran Talks in Oman Signal Cautious De-Escalation
Reports of indirect discussions between U.S. and Iranian officials in Oman raised tentative hopes of reducing nuclear-related tensions. Regional actors welcomed the talks, though no formal agreements have been announced.
Reuters: https://www.reuters.com
Al Jazeera: https://www.aljazeera.com

BOTTOM LINE