Municipal Funding Clash: The Alternative Information and Development Centre (AIDC) says National Treasury’s move to withhold July 2026 equitable share payments from 69 municipalities is a “false solution” that punishes poor households while dodging deeper fixes to local government finances. World Bank Boost: South Africa secured a $1.5bn Development Policy Loan to push reforms in electricity, freight and logistics, and water and sanitation—aiming to unlock jobs and inclusive growth. Anti-Migrant Violence Fallout: AFP tallies say more than 160,000 foreign nationals left South Africa in two months amid violent hostility toward undocumented migrants, with Zimbabwe and Malawi among the biggest returnees. Xenophobia Pressure on Regional Bodies: Nigeria’s lawmakers have begun investigating losses suffered by Nigerians in xenophobic attacks in South Africa, seeking compensation and stronger protection. AARTO Warning: OUTA warns that number plate cloning and slow ownership updates could leave motorists wrongly fined under AARTO’s next phase. Digital Infrastructure: Google connected a new transatlantic cable landing in Portugal, adding another US-Europe data route as demand for cloud and AI grows. Local Culture: Amapiano fans celebrated a standout dance performance at a 60th birthday party, with online viewers stunned by the routine.