Universal Music Group (UMG) is in a conflict with TikTok, planning to remove its music from the platform after their licensing deal expired. This move affects artists like Harry Styles and SZA and could impact other major labels. The situation arises amid TikTok's challenges, including its Chinese ownership and a Senate hearing on child safety. While some support UMG's stance, the music industry is uncertain about TikTok's promotional value. The dispute may benefit smaller labels and lead to increased competition for TikTok. A new agreement between UMG and TikTok is likely, with short-form video potentially becoming a significant revenue stream for the music industry.

Hage Geingob, who served as Namibia's third president from 2015 until his death in 2024, played a significant role in modernizing the country. His tenure was marked by efforts to promote gender equality and inclusivity, although his presidency faced challenges such as economic constraints, droughts, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite his ambitions, Geingob's governance was characterized by a gap between promises and delivery, and his administration was marred by a notable corruption scandal. His legacy as a modernizer remains, despite the contradictions and unfulfilled promises.

In Durban, South Africa, ongoing water shortages have led to clashes between police and residents in Phoenix and Verulum, KwaZulu-Natal. The crisis, exacerbated by infrastructure issues, population growth, and erratic weather, has left residents without water for over 100 days. The eThekweni Municipality and the Water and Sanitation Department face criticism for their handling of the situation. The crisis highlights South Africa's inequality, with wealthier residents able to buy water tanks while others rely on government tankers. The situation has become a focal point for political opposition ahead of national elections.

Reports of potential war with Russia have sparked widespread opposition among Britons, with many expressing their discontent on social media platforms like TikTok. High-ranking officials, including British Army Gen Sir Patrick Sanders and Defence Secretary Grant Shapps, have called for national preparedness, but the public remains largely against the idea. Social media users criticize political leaders and suggest alternative solutions, highlighting a disconnect between government actions and public sentiment.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is set to announce its decision on South Africa's request for provisional measures in Gaza, aimed at halting military action and ensuring aid delivery. South Africa argues that Israel's actions constitute genocide, while Israel contends its military operations are self-defense against Hamas. The case has drawn attention from international legal experts and United Nations officials, with significant implications for international law and humanitarian intervention.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has granted South Africa's request for provisional measures in the case of genocide against Israel in Gaza, requiring Israeli military action to halt to allow humanitarian aid. The decision, presided over by Judge Joan E. Donoghue, acknowledges a prima facie case of genocide and criticizes Israel's actions while calling for the release of hostages held by Hamas. The ruling has been praised by South African human rights lawyer Richard Spoor and is seen as a significant victory for South Africa and international law. However, the court did not order an immediate ceasefire, and the effectiveness of the ruling in changing the humanitarian situation on the ground remains uncertain.

The New Development Bank has provided a $345 million financing package to address water scarcity in Rajasthan, India's driest state. The funds will support the Rajasthan Water Sector Restructuring Project for the Desert Areas, focusing on the rehabilitation of the Indira Gandhi canal system. The project aims to improve water use efficiency and increase water availability for drinking and irrigation, with completion expected in 2025. This initiative is a collaboration between NDB and the Government of Rajasthan, aiming to enhance agricultural yields and support sustainable development in the face of climatic challenges.

China's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs announced a record grain production of over 695.41 million metric tons in 2023, marking a 1.3% annual increase and the ninth consecutive year of surpassing 650 million tons. This achievement underscores China's role in ensuring food security and is supported by well-structured grain output and ample reserves. The country has seen a significant rise in grain production since 1978 and aims to continue strengthening its agricultural sector.

The Western regions are experiencing a surge in mining activities driven by the demand for minerals essential to the energy transition and emerging technologies. This rush, fueled by the need for lithium, copper, and rare earth elements, is reshaping resource exploitation on public lands. Federal policies, such as the Inflation Reduction Act, incentivize domestic sourcing of minerals, further propelling this trend. However, the environmental and social impacts, including air and water contamination and conflicts with local communities and Indigenous rights, raise significant concerns about sustainable and equitable resource management.

Dricus du Plessis, a South African MMA fighter, is set to compete against Strickland Stevens in the UFC championship in Toronto, aiming to become the first Pretoria-born UFC champion. The article highlights du Plessis's determination and the influence of South African culture on his fighting style. It also mentions other South African achievements, including Trevor Noah's Emmy win and the country's legal team's international recognition. The narrative underscores South Africa's growing prominence in various fields.