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South African political parties mention climate risks in their manifestos ahead of the 2026 local government elections, but experts say climate change debate remains sidelined on the campaign trail despite municipalities bearing the brunt of floods, fires, water shortages and disaster response.
CLIMATE CHANGE

Climate change debate missing from 2026 municipal election campaigns

Despite the growing threat of extreme weather events, environmental concerns are largely absent from parties' local government elections campaigns.

  • Rapula Moatshe
7 min read
Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola led South Africa's delegation to the 81st UN General Assembly, where he pushed for Africa's permanent representation on the Security Council.
RONALD LAMOLA

UN Security Council reform: SA pushes for permanent African seats

SA has revived calls for Africa to receive at least two permanent seats on the United Nations Security Council.

  • Rapula Moatshe
6 min read
Families caring for adults with intellectual disabilities say they face an uncertain future as South Africa lacks enough supported-living, respite-care and community-based options.
DISABILITY AWARENESS

SA's disability care dilemma: 'Who looks after my child when I die?'

Families caring for adults with intellectual disabilities face deep uncertainty about who will provide support when parents and other caregivers can no longer do so.

  • Dr Callista Kahonde
6 min read