BRICS, representing 36% of global GDP and 47% of the world population, announced the inclusion of Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE as full members starting January 2024. This expansion, supported by India, aims to modernize and unify the bloc, reflecting a shift in global institutions. The decision followed applications from 22 countries, with the Johannesburg Declaration 2 promoting inclusive economic policies for BRICS nations.

Over the weekend, 21 teenagers tragically died at the Eyobeni tavern in Scenery Park, East London. The victims, including eight girls and 13 boys, were believed to be celebrating the end of their high school exams. Officials found no visible wounds on the bodies, and autopsies are pending to determine the cause of death, with poisoning being a possibility. Police Minister Bheki Cele and other senior officials visited the scene, expressing deep sorrow. The tavern, located in a residential area, is under scrutiny for not enforcing safety regulations and drinking-age laws. President Cyril Ramaphosa sent condolences and raised concerns about underage access to such venues. The regional liquor licensing agency is considering revoking the tavern's license and possibly pressing criminal charges against the owner for selling alcohol to minors. The incident has sparked a debate on the regulation of liquor licenses in the area.

In South Africa, ex-offenders struggle to find employment due to their criminal records, despite acquiring skills such as artisanry. Criminologist Africa Monyai suggests that the government should incentivize companies to hire ex-offenders by offering tax breaks, similar to the model in the US. Former inmate Robert Molefe, who found employment after release, highlights the difficulty of waiting ten years to clear one's criminal record. Professor Victor Chikadzi's study indicates a high reoffending rate of 80% to 94% among released prisoners, partly due to job market ostracization.

Kenya is leveraging its rich cultural diversity and traditional cuisines to boost tourism, with a focus on gastronomic experiences. Key traditional dishes like Ugali and Nyama Choma are being promoted, and collaborations with institutions like Utalii College aim to highlight the country's culinary heritage. The tourism sector saw significant growth in 2022, driven by an increased interest in traditional culinary experiences. However, challenges such as food safety and quality need to be addressed to fully develop the sector. The Kenya Tourism 2030 Blueprint outlines the potential and necessary steps for advancing gastronomic tourism in the country.

Durban, a coastal city in South Africa, is capitalizing on the growing global cruise tourism market, projected to be worth $17.4 billion by 2032. The city has invested in a new international terminal to accommodate an influx of tourists, with plans for a $5 billion port expansion announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa. This development aims to boost economic and tourism activities, with expectations of luxury hotels and museums enhancing the waterfront. Local tourism officials emphasize the importance of this growth for the regional economy, particularly in strengthening the local currency.

Durban, a city in South Africa, is aiming to attract more tourists through its new international terminal and a $5 billion port expansion plan announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa. The expansion, which includes the development of Durban Bay waterfront with luxury hotels and other attractions, is expected to boost the local economy and strengthen the South African rand. Durban Tourism and KwaZulu Natal’s tourism department anticipate an increase in tourist arrivals, with 1.2 million visitors expected in April and three cruises bringing over 2,000 visitors each. The region saw significant economic benefits from tourism in December 2022, and the new infrastructure is hoped to further capitalize on the growing global cruise tourism market.

Africa's travel market is experiencing significant growth, with a 35% increase in exhibitors at the World Travel Market Africa in Cape Town. Key stakeholders like Reed Exhibition Africa, Seychelles Tourism, and Zimbabwe Tourism Authority are optimistic about future prospects, with Zimbabwe projecting a $5 billion tourism economy by 2025. The UN's World Tourism Organization reported over 900 million international tourists in 2022, indicating a robust recovery post-Covid-19.