Nelson Mandela Bay hit with floods, and major South African mall robbed

Here’s what is happening in and affecting South Africa today:

• Nelson Mandela Bay downpour becomes dangerous: The Eastern Cape government has activated its disaster management teams to assist communities impacted by heavy rains in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro. Hundreds of families have been displaced due to the flooding, and unfortunately, one person has lost their life as a result. The government’s primary concern is the safety and well-being of the residents. [SABC]

• Major mall robbery: Police in Gauteng arrested seven suspects after an armed robbery at a jewellery store in Clearwater Mall, Roodepoort, on Tuesday. The gang was intercepted while trying to escape, and they opened fire on law enforcement, who returned fire. Four suspects were arrested near the mall, where two firearms were recovered. Three additional suspects were later apprehended in Dobsonville, along with two more firearms. [IOL]

• Ramaphosa supports Putin: President Cyril Ramaphosa has been working to gather support for his government of national unity from BRICS countries. During a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the BRICS summit of emerging powers in Kazan, Russia, Ramaphosa emphasised that recent executive changes were intended to unite and stabilise the country. He referred to Russia as a “valuable ally and friend,” highlighting the nation’s support for South Africa since the apartheid era. [Business Day]

• Siya Kolisi and wife, Rachel, announce divorce: Springbok captain Siya Kolisi and his wife, Rachel Kolisi, have announced the end of their marriage in a joint statement shared on their Instagram accounts on Tuesday. The couple had been together for eight years, during which Rachel supported Siya as he became one of South Africa’s most influential figures. The Kolisis, who have four children, stated that they mutually decided to end their marriage. [Daily Maverick]

• Markets: The South African rand strengthened on Tuesday, supported by global precious metals prices and its attractiveness for carry trades. On Wednesday (23 October), the rand was trading at R17.55 to the dollar, R22.80 to the pound, and R18.96 to the euro. Oil is trading at $73.95 a barrel. [Reuters]