Feroz Khan, deputy head of Crime Intelligence, is embroiled in a disciplinary battle with his superior, Dumisani Khumalo, amidst allegations of misconduct and corruption within the South African Police Service (SAPS). The conflict highlights deep-seated issues of factionalism and inefficiency in SAPS, exacerbated by historical corruption under former leaders like Jackie Selebi. Khan's case, set for a labor court hearing, underscores the broader institutional malaise affecting South Africa's law enforcement, with significant implications for public trust and safety.

The 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, brings together leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, with new members like Iran and the UAE, to discuss multilateralism and local currency use in trade. Amidst geopolitical tensions, the summit aims to reform global governance structures. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Russian President Vladimir Putin discuss mutual interests, while the absence of Brazilian President Lula due to health issues is noted. The summit emphasizes reducing reliance on the U.S. dollar, though challenges like currency imbalances persist. Iran's inclusion adds geopolitical complexity, highlighting BRICS' role as a counterbalance to Western influence. The bloc focuses on outreach rather than expansion, aiming to foster partnerships globally while maintaining internal cohesion.

Professors Salim and Quarraisha Abdool Karim have been awarded the 2024 Lasker-Bloomberg Public Service Award for their transformative work in HIV prevention. Their research, which began in apartheid-era South Africa, has focused on addressing health disparities and social factors influencing HIV transmission. Their development of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) has become a gold standard in HIV prevention, particularly benefiting women. The couple's approach integrates social justice with scientific research, emphasizing the importance of addressing inequality. Their experience with HIV research also enabled them to quickly adapt to the Covid-19 pandemic, providing leadership and guidance to global health organizations.

Professors Salim and Quarraisha Abdool Karim have been awarded the 2024 Lasker-Bloomberg Public Service Award for their transformative contributions to HIV/AIDS research and leadership during Covid-19. Their work, deeply rooted in social justice, has led to significant advancements in HIV prevention, particularly through the development of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP). The Karims emphasize the importance of addressing social factors in public health and have been pivotal in guiding institutions like the WHO and Africa CDC during the Covid-19 pandemic. Their journey underscores the value of passion, excellence, and perseverance in scientific research.

The Phoenix Settlement, founded by Mahatma Gandhi in 1904 in South Africa, was a pioneering community embodying his principles of non-violence, truth, and self-reliance. It played a crucial role in shaping Gandhi's philosophy of Satyagraha, which later influenced India's independence movement and global justice efforts. Uma Dhupelia-Mesthrie's book, 'Gandhi’s African Legacy: Phoenix Settlement 1904 to 2024,' explores the settlement's history through family letters, highlighting its struggles and contributions. Despite damage during the 1985 Inanda Riots, the settlement has been restored and continues to serve as a hub for education and activism. The 120th-anniversary celebration underscores Gandhi's enduring legacy and its relevance to contemporary challenges like climate change and social inequality.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's state visit to China highlights a deepening of bilateral relations, with a focus on trade, political alignment, and strategic financial cooperation. China pledges $51 billion in funding for Africa, emphasizing infrastructure and clean energy projects. The visit aims to address trade imbalances and enhance South Africa's export profile, particularly in manufactured goods. Both nations propose upgrading their partnership to an All-Round Strategic Cooperative Partnership, reaffirming political alignment and mutual support. The collaboration extends to governance, green technologies, and digital transformation, aligning with South Africa's modernization goals.

South Africa's Department of Justice plans to reapply for the extradition of the Gupta brothers from the UAE, considering additional charges of money laundering and fraud. The initial request was rejected on a technicality. The Gupta brothers, linked to former President Jacob Zuma, are accused of state capture and corruption, which they deny. The National Prosecuting Authority faces challenges, including access to crucial evidence from the Zondo Commission. The extradition outcome is seen as a test of South Africa's legal resolve against corruption.

Floyd Shivambu, Deputy President of South Africa's Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has resigned to join the uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party, marking a significant leadership change within the EFF. This move may lead to further resignations from the EFF, as Shivambu's loyalists, including Mzwanele Manyi, follow suit. The MK party, formed by former President Jacob Zuma, has gained substantial support, capturing 14.58% of the national vote. The political landscape in South Africa is shifting, with the ruling African National Congress (ANC) forming a Government of National Unity with other parties, including the Democratic Alliance. Shivambu's departure could alter the dynamics among opposition parties, impacting governance and stability in the country.

Africa CDC has declared Mpox a public health emergency as cases exceed 17,000 across 13 African countries, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo being the most affected. The outbreak has seen a 160% increase in cases over the past year, with significant challenges in contact tracing and surveillance. In response, Africa CDC is collaborating with international partners, including the European Commission and Bavarian Nordic, to secure 215,000 doses of the MVA-BN® vaccine. The vaccine distribution will prioritize the most-affected regions to curb the virus's spread and protect vulnerable populations. The declaration highlights the urgent need for collective action and international cooperation to address the crisis.

The Constitutional Court's decision not to hear a challenge to the Electoral Amendment Act has led to the withdrawal of the Change Starts Now (CSN) party from the 2024 South African elections. Despite this setback, CSN, led by Jardine, remains committed to influencing the political climate by supporting other parties that share their values. The party's leadership, including Mark Heywood and Nicole Fritz, aims to unite South Africans behind a shared vision. The withdrawal highlights the difficulties new parties face in South African politics, as the country approaches a highly-contested election.