The Western Cape is still dealing with the extensive aftermath of severe storms that struck the province in May, leaving more than 230,000 residents affected.The flooding caused widespread destruction across communities, damaging nearly 23,000 homes and impacting over 230 roads.At least 11 people lost their lives, with one person still missing.Preliminary government assessments estimate total economic losses at more than R9 billion.The agricultural sector has been particularly hard hit, suffering over R5.2 billion in damages, while transport infrastructure losses are estimated at close to R2 billion.

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde has described the situation as a major disaster and confirmed that the province is seeking additional financial assistance from the national government to support ongoing recovery and rebuilding efforts.

In sports, government officials have encouraged Bafana Bafana to stay focused and confident following a 2-0 defeat to Mexico in their opening FIFA World Cup group match.Despite the setback, Deputy Government Spokesperson William Baloyi emphasised national support for the team.

Coach Hugo Broos noted that the occasion overwhelmed the players, with two red cards shown to Siphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane disrupting the team’s structure.

Both players will be suspended for the next match against the Czech Republic, though the coach remains optimistic about the squad’s ability to recover in the tournament.Separately, the Special Tribunal has ruled that a R25 million tender awarded by the Ditsobotla Local Municipality in North West is invalid.

An SIU investigation found that the contract for refurbishing the Biesiesvlei Wastewater Treatment Plant was improperly awarded to Rensh Close Corporation without a formal bid process.A municipal official allegedly contacted the company directly for a quotation.

The Tribunal ordered the company and its owner, Rashida Cader, to repay all funds and profits received, holding her personally liable for the municipality’s financial losses.