South Africa

The World Health Organization reports that the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has spread to two new health zones, raising concerns about the potential for wider transmission. Wire services including Reuters, The Hindu and South Africa's SABC are carrying the update, which health officials say underscores the difficulty of containing the virus in remote, densely connected communities. Response teams are working to trace contacts and curb further spread.

A senior Presidential Envoy has voiced support for strengthening emergency preparedness in South Sudan following Ebola outbreaks in neighbouring Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The backing, highlighted by the WHO Regional Office for Africa, signals concern that South Sudan's health system could be tested if the outbreaks spread, and puts focus on readiness measures, surveillance and cross-border coordination in the region.

Egypt will leave Mohamed Salah out of their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against South Sudan, citing concerns over the quality of the pitch. Coaches aim to protect the Liverpool forward from injury risk in what is described as a low-stakes match. The decision is drawing attention as Egypt balance squad rotation with qualification obligations.

Malawi are taking on South Sudan in an Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualification match. The fixture is drawing strong attention from football fans across the continent, with many following the game online as both sides battle for a place at the tournament in 2027.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres held a meeting with South Africa's Minister for International Relations and Co-operation. The United Nations announced the encounter through its official media channels, though no details of the discussion were released. Such meetings typically cover multilateral cooperation, global governance and South Africa's role in African and international affairs.

Egypt and Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah will sit out Egypt's World Cup qualifier against South Sudan, reportedly due to concerns over the artificial pitch at the match venue. Salah is one of Africa's biggest football stars and Egypt's captain, so his absence is a significant blow for the Pharaohs as they chase qualification. Fans and commentators are debating the risk artificial turf poses to elite players and what it means for Egypt's chances without their leading scorer.

Cricket South Africa has released the highlights of the first One Day International between the Proteas and Australia. Fans are following the series closely, with the highlights package drawing heavy attention as supporters relive the key moments from the match between the two cricketing rivals.