The mining industry in South Africa, traditionally male-dominated, is seeing efforts to increase female participation through a mentorship program by Women in Mining South Africa. This initiative aims to support young women entering the field, addressing gender disparities and promoting equality. The report highlights the positive impact of these mentorship efforts in Johannesburg.

South Africa's currency is declining amid an energy crisis and rising national prices, a situation exacerbated by a U.S. official's accusation that President Cyril Ramaphosa's administration is assisting Russia in its conflict with Ukraine. Reporter Zaheer Cassim from Johannesburg has spoken to officials, experts, and citizens about the impact of the rand's depreciation on their lives.

Ashley Ness, an inspector with Highveld Horse Care, discovered a large cache of donkey hides in South Africa, revealing a grim aspect of the illegal wildlife trade driven by Chinese demand for ejiao, a traditional medicine. The Donkey Sanctuary report estimates a global trade of 1.8 million hides annually, with the potential for donkey extinction within five years if the current demand continues. South Africa's NSPCA has reported on the inhumane slaughter methods in the illegal hide trade. Efforts to counteract this include promoting alternative donkey products and considering humane, regulated trade. Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Pakistan have banned donkey trade, while South Africa is exploring regulated trade opportunities to meet Chinese demand without decimating donkey populations.

South Africa's severe power cuts are threatening small businesses like Soweto Creamery, which President Cyril Ramaphosa once praised. The energy crisis, caused by state power company Eskom's load shedding, risks pushing the country into recession and exacerbating unemployment. Despite government promises to resolve the issue, experts like Matthew Cruise from Hohm Energy predict worsening conditions. The crisis has led to protests in Johannesburg, with the opposition Democratic Alliance criticizing the ruling ANC for the recent electricity price hike and ongoing power blackouts.

South Africa is experiencing a high unemployment rate of 34%, one of the highest globally, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and civil unrest in July. Black women are disproportionately affected, with an unemployment rate of 41%.

The University of Johannesburg is utilizing virtual reality to enable students to replicate laboratory experiences, a need that has arisen due to COVID-19 restrictions preventing physical attendance. Linda Givetash reports on this development, with contributions from Zaheer Cassim and Marcus Harton.

Women in Mining South Africa has initiated a mentorship program to support young women like geologist Baile Sebetlele in the male-dominated mining industry. Despite making up less than 15% of the workforce, women like Sebetlele are breaking barriers and advancing in their careers. The program, which has received positive feedback, aims to address challenges such as inadequate physical infrastructure and unsuitable personal protective equipment. The Minerals Council South Africa's survey highlighted these issues, and companies are adapting to ensure women's safety and comfort. The organization also provides career booklets to schools to showcase the diversity of mining jobs. With the success of the program, Women in Mining is considering expanding to assist mid-career women.

South Africa's extensive antiretroviral therapy program treats over 4 million people, but the complex nature and side effects of the treatment have led to a significant issue: many patients are reluctant to continue taking the drugs.

The World Cup captivates billions globally, with significant viewership in Africa. As top footballers compete for the championship, Africans are setting aside differences to support all teams from the continent, highlighting a sense of unity.

A South African tech company is testing the Pharmacy Dispensing Unit in Johannesburg, which could revolutionize prescription refills by making them as easy as withdrawing money from an ATM. Health experts believe this innovation could significantly enhance the fight against HIV/AIDS in South Africa and potentially the broader region.

Cape Town is facing a severe water crisis, with the city potentially running out of water by June. Residents are adapting to strict water usage limits, with affluent areas feeling the impact more than low-income townships. The crisis is affecting livelihoods, particularly in the film industry, and prompting some residents to consider relocating. City officials are implementing measures to reduce water consumption, and the recent delay of 'Day Zero' has given residents a glimmer of hope. The situation underscores the importance of water conservation and highlights socio-economic disparities in the city's response to the drought.

South Africa's ruling African National Congress (ANC) has decided to press President Jacob Zuma to resign amid ongoing corruption scandals. Despite Zuma's refusal to step down, the ANC's national executive committee has officially informed him of their decision. Zuma, who has faced numerous no-confidence votes and corruption charges, is seen as a political liability. The ANC is looking to remove him ahead of the 2019 national elections, with Cyril Ramaphosa poised as his potential successor. Zuma's legacy as a freedom fighter and his long-standing ties to the ANC add complexity to the situation.

Cape Town is facing a severe drought, with dam levels critically low and the city on the brink of running out of water. Residents are limited to 13 gallons of water per day, and the city will impose a higher levy on those who exceed this limit. Mayor Patricia de Lille has criticized the lack of conservation efforts by residents. The city is preparing for 'Day Zero,' when water levels drop below 13.5%, estimated to be April 21. Measures include designated collection points for daily water rations. The University of Cape Town's Future Water Institute is exploring alternative water sources such as aquifers. The city's water utility is facing a significant budget deficit, and there is public criticism for the lack of contingency plans for drought in a historically water-scarce region.

Cape Town faces a severe water crisis due to prolonged drought, with reservoirs nearing depletion. Residents are restricted to 13 gallons of water per day, and the city has set up collection points for water distribution. Mayor Patricia de Lille criticized residents for excessive water use, while experts like Kevin Winter from the University of Cape Town work on alternative water sources. The city's water utility faces a significant budget deficit, and there are public calls for better drought contingency planning.

Cape Town faces a severe water crisis with less than 90 days of water left in its reservoirs, potentially becoming the first major city to run out of water. Residents are restricted to 13 gallons of water per day, and the city has set up collection points for water distribution. Mayor Patricia de Lille has criticized residents for not conserving water, while experts like Kevin Winter from the University of Cape Town are exploring alternative water sources. The city's water utility faces a significant budget deficit, and there are public calls for better drought contingency plans.

Cape Town is facing a severe water crisis due to a prolonged drought, with the city potentially becoming the first major city to run out of water. Residents are limited to 13 gallons of water per day, and the city has set up collection points for water distribution. Despite conservation efforts, the situation remains critical, with 'Day Zero' projected to occur when reservoir levels drop below 13.5%. The city is exploring alternative water sources, but financial and logistical challenges persist.

A South African judge convicted Oscar Pistorius of culpable homicide in the death of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, which carries a maximum 15-year prison sentence. Pistorius was cleared of murder charges but found negligent in his actions. Public reactions were mixed, with some criticizing the verdict as insufficient for justice. Pistorius was also convicted of unlawfully firing a gun in a public place but acquitted of other firearm charges. The case may see further legal actions, with potential appeals from state prosecutors.

Oscar Pistorius, charged with premeditated murder in the death of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp, was granted bail by Magistrate Desmond Nair, who ruled Pistorius is not a flight risk and does not pose a threat to the community. Bail was set at 1 million rand, and Pistorius must adhere to strict conditions, including surrendering his passport and avoiding contact with prosecution witnesses. The case has seen significant developments, including the removal of lead investigator Hilton Botha due to mishandling evidence and facing his own charges. Public opinion in South Africa remains divided, with many expressing skepticism about Pistorius' account of the events.