17 December - 1 pm news

We find out whether presidential task forces are effective as experts weigh in, while South Africa faces a surge in illegal firearms, with half of the guns reportedly unlicensed. Meanwhile, Australia is set to toughen hate speech laws after the Bondi Beach attack, and financial experts advise consumers to budget…

Youth and women are leading Environmental Investment Fund projects targeting climate adaptation, while Namibia’s non-banking financial sector grows to N$528.2 billion despite rising consumer complaints. Meanwhile, South Africa’s Madlanga Commission resumes hearings next year as President Ramaphosa reviews the interim report, and Venezuela continues oil exports despite U.S. sanctions.

# Government Offers Exit Amnesty to Undocumented Migrants.... # Lion Oilfield Services is Building Local Expertise in Oil and Gas.... # Namibia Securities Exchange Wins Regional Innovation Award..... # M23 Rebels Begin Uvira Withdrawal Amid U.S. Peace Push ......PLUS # In the U.S, President Trump backs his chief of staff…

# Lion Oilfield Services Invests in Local Skills.... # NSX Honoured for Innovation in Southern Africa.... # One-Off Amnesty Announced for Undocumented Foreign Nationals ..... # Dangote Questions Nigeria Fuel Regulator Over ₦250 Billion Bridging Claims ......PLUS #Trump orders “total and complete blockade” of sanctioned oil tankers near Venezuela

Health authorities step up Mpox and Crimean-Congo preparedness with German support, as transport operators are warned against festive fare hikes. Meanwhile, South Africa mourns DJ Warras following a fatal shooting, and the U.S. tightens pressure on Venezuela with a blockade of sanctioned oil tankers.