It’s Thursday, 26 February 2026, and this is News Bite, your fast, reliable update on South Africa and the world, with Marcelle Gordon.
In Brixton, families say years of inconsistent supply are now disrupting the daily ablutions and routines that sit at the heart of religious practice during the holy month.
Meanwhile, the City of Cape Town has issued an early drought caution, urging residents to change water behaviour now to avoid restrictions later.
Officials say the city is not in crisis yet, but the risk is growing, and leaks linked to infrastructure damage and vandalism remain part of the pressure.
Forensic investigator Paul O’Sullivan’s last day before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee saw heated exchanges inside and outside the venue, including sharp questioning about his past and a tense moment over leaving proceedings early.
Police in Atlantis in Cape Town are investigating a deadly shooting at a local secondary school, believed to be linked to a dispute over taxi routes.
Public servants are standing firm against the latest Government Employees Medical Scheme increase, arguing it outpaces inflation and wage growth and puts additional strain on households.
COSATU has also raised allegations of mismanagement, claiming millions of rands are being wasted.
A record 129 journalists and media workers were killed last year, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists, with Gaza accounting for most of the deaths. The organisation says smear campaigns are also being used to obscure accountability in some cases.
IN OTHER NEWS
· Police are urging the public to report corruption after allegations of extortion at Joburg’s Park Station, following a video that appears to show officers targeting detainees.
· The DA’s Joburg mayoral candidate Helen Zille says she is aware of an opportunity to be elected as a PR councillor in Johannesburg, but says she is currently very busy as Federal Council chair and will be stepping down from that role in April.
· Ghana is pleading for the release of its citizens being held in Ukraine after being captured while allegedly fighting for Russia. Ghana says the men were lured under false pretences.
SPORT
· The Proteas face a crunch T20 World Cup playoff after allowing the West Indies back into contention, with the Windies recovering to post 176 after being 71 for six. Sri Lanka are out after a heavy loss to New Zealand. The Proteas Women wrapped up their ODI series against Pakistan with a game to spare, and attention turns to Friday’s Champions League round of 16 draw.
That’s your News Bite for 26 February 2026.
For developments on these stories and more, visit enca.com or watch eNCA on DStv Channel 403.