Municipal Accountability: National Treasury has defended withholding R13.5bn in July equitable-share transfers to 69 non-compliant municipalities, including big metros like Johannesburg, saying it’s meant to force compliance with the MFMA and won’t derail service delivery. Xenophobia & Diplomacy: A fresh flare-up continues to strain ties with Ghana and Nigeria as officials warn of escalating backlash over attacks on foreign nationals, while Ghana delays Ramaphosa’s visit amid migrant-safety concerns. Public Protector & Cape Town Services: The Public Protector says Cape Town failed residents in Langa and Khayelitsha, finding maladministration and pushing for fixes to basic services. Ebola Preparedness: Health authorities say they’ve earmarked hospitals and set up committees to respond if Ebola reaches South Africa, with border screening ramped up. Food & Cost of Living: Residents report bread and other staples rising at spaza shops taken over by South Africans, as prices jump after foreign owners leave. Energy & Industry: Wind jobs could grow by 300%–400% by 2042, but only if policy certainty returns; meanwhile, tax cuts for special economic zones are being considered to revive manufacturing. Business & Trade: Astral Aviation resumes a China–Africa freighter link to Johannesburg, and ADNOC Distribution eyes further deals after its Shell downstream acquisition. Health & Safety Culture: A campaign urges South Africans to avoid harmful “well-meaning” comments to rape survivors, warning words can deepen trauma.