At 250 the USA Continues to Shape the World

By Kirtan Bhana and Anisha Pemjee

3 July 2026

On 4 July 2026, the United States of America marks a remarkable milestone—250 years since thirteen colonies declared their independence and embarked upon a political experiment that would fundamentally reshape the course of modern history. Few nations have exerted such profound influence on the global imagination. From democracy and constitutional governance to technological innovation, scientific discovery, popular culture and economic enterprise, the American story has become inseparable from the story of the modern world itself.

Expert: Russia offers BRICS countries realistic vision for global energy transition

On the BRICSdialogue programme, an expert discussed scenarios for the development of the global energy sector

2 July 2026

The only realistic scenario for the development of the global energy sector is a "rational technological choice", which involves retaining hydrocarbons as the primary energy source whilst simultaneously increasing the share of renewable sources. This was stated by Aleksey Kulapin, Director General of the Russian Energy Agency (REA) under the Russian Ministry of Energy, on the TV BRICS programme BRICSdialogue.

The Philippines is a Nation Forged by Freedom, Connected by Friendship, and Looking Confidently to the Future
By Kirtan Bhana - TDS

1 July 2026

There are few countries whose national story is as compelling as that of the Philippines. An archipelago of more than 7,600 islands scattered across the western Pacific, the Republic of the Philippines is a nation where geography has shaped culture, resilience has defined identity, and history has cultivated an unwavering commitment to freedom.

China, Africa and the Shared Pursuit of Modernisation 
As China and Africa deepen a partnership rooted in similar historic experiences and mutual respect, a new model of development cooperation is taking shape

By Kirtan Bhana (The Article first appeared in ChinAfrica Magazine VOL. 18 - July 2026)

1 July 2026 - 105th Anniversary of the Communist Party of China - CPC

The book Xi Jinping: The Governance of China, now in its fifth volume, is a primary record of one of the most remarkable transformations in human history and a window into the ideas that continue to shape the trajectory of China. 

A healthy environment for a prosperous South Africa

By Narend Singh

30 June 2026

South Africans often face a false choice, that we must either protect the environment or grow the economy. Our future depends on doing both.

Cyprus Celebrates EU Council Presidency Achievements at Pretoria Cultural Event

By Anisha Pemjee

29 June 2026

Cyprus assumed the rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union on 1 January 2026 for a six-month term ending 30 June 2026. Its Presidency is being held under the theme: "An Autonomous Union. Open to the World." As its Presidency draws to a close, High Commissioner of Cyprus to South Africa, Antonis Mandritis hosted a cultural event where he outlined Cyprus’ achievements.

Why South Africa Matters in China's Vision of a New Global Order

Kirtan Bhana/TDS/GCIS

29 June 2026

South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile's Working Visit to China signals far more than another diplomatic engagement. It reflects the emergence of a strategic partnership that is increasingly shaping Africa's industrial future and redefining the balance of power in an evolving multipolar world.

Russia's Regional Security, NATO, BRICS & SCO, and Emerging Multipolar Economic Architecture Dominate the 12th Primakov Readings
By Kester Kenn Klomegah

29 June 2026

Russia's former Foreign Minister, Yevgeny Primakov, advocated consistently the emerging political governance and new economic architecture, ultimately replacing the 'rules-based order' which has been traditionally perpetuated by the Western and European countries, marginalizing the Global South. Today, that complex interplay in relations between the industrialized countries in the northern hemisphere is steadily experiencing significant changes, basically headed by China and Russia, in the new political dimension, on the principles for uplight the Global South's position unto the higher stage. This was one of the prominent themes reviewed and thoroughly discussed at the 12th Primakov Readings conference, which kicked off in Moscow on June 24.

Transforming SACU into a globally competitive regional bloc

28 June 2026

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on member states of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) to transform the regional bloc from a traditional customs arrangement into a dynamic industrial hub capable of shielding the region from global economic shocks.

Bafana Bafana qualify for the World Cup knockout round

25 June 2026

Bafana Bafana boosted their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Korea in their Group A clash at the Estadio Monterrey in Guadalupe early on Thursday morning.

Mercedes-Benz Menlyn: The Flagship of Luxury Motoring in Pretoria

24 June 2026

Situated in the heart of Pretoria’s automotive hub, Mercedes-Benz Menlyn stands as a benchmark for excellence in premium vehicle retail. As part of the renowned Bidvest McCarthy Mercedes-Benz group, the dealership has firmly established itself as the flagship location within the network—delivering an elevated customer experience that reflects the prestige and heritage of the Three-Pointed Star.