It’s Wednesday, 8 April 2026, and this is News Bite, your fast, reliable update on South Africa and the world, with Marcelle Gordon.
The United States and Iran have agreed in principle to a two-week ceasefire after Donald Trump stepped back from his threat to destroy Iranian civilisation, with Pakistan set to host delegations from both countries later this week.
Even with Israel continuing strikes on Lebanon, world leaders have welcomed the pause, while oil prices have fallen sharply, the JSE has surged, and the rand has firmed as markets respond to the de-escalation.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has also welcomed the ceasefire, saying South Africa supports a world order built on peace and friendship among nations.
He was speaking in Pretoria while accepting the credentials of ambassadors from 20 countries, including new US envoy Leo Bozell, weeks after Bozell was formally reprimanded for criticising South Africa’s Constitution.
At the Madlanga Commission, Tshwane Metro Police deputy commissioner Sean Bolhuis says he noticed the irregular allocation of R59 million to security company Gubies85, which he says was allegedly assisted in securing the tender and has links to criminal cartels. Criminologist Nirmala Gopal says the arrest of officers implicated in the inquiry is a positive step.
Illegal border crossings remain a major challenge at Beitbridge, where syndicates are profiting from dangerous routes into South Africa. More than 400 undocumented people were intercepted over Easter, with many crossing through the Limpopo River before rejoining buses on the South African side.
In KuGompo City, residents have held a mass meeting demanding that undocumented migrants leave the country after tensions escalated following the controversial coronation of a Nigerian national as King of East London.
South Africa has also received a twice-yearly HIV prevention injection, although a rollout date has not yet been set. Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi says the jab could have a life-changing impact.
IN OTHER NEWS…
- The Western Cape anti-gang unit is investigating shootings in Mitchells Plain in which four people were killed and five wounded, including a six-year-old girl and boys aged 12 and 13.
- New Euromonitor International research suggests South Africans are drinking less, with growing interest in low- and no-alcohol options as more consumers embrace sober-curious lifestyles. Industry experts say that shift could reshape opportunities for retailers and beverage producers.
IN SPORT…
- Liverpool face Paris Saint-Germain in a Champions League quarter-final rematch after last season’s elimination, with Arne Slot hoping Virgil van Dijk’s anger after the FA Cup hammering by Manchester City sparks a response in Paris.
- Barcelona host Atletico Madrid, Arsenal edged Sporting Lisbon, Bayern Munich take a one-goal advantage over Real Madrid into the second leg.
- In the Betway Premiership Orlando Pirates thrashed Golden Arrows 5-0 to stay within two points of Sundowns, who beat Durban City 1-0.
That’s your News Bite for 8 April 2026.
For developments on these stories and more, visit enca.com or watch eNCA on DStv Channel 403.