A legal challenge has been launched against the recognition of Chief Kgafela Kgafela II as the senior traditional leader of the Bakgatla ba Kgafela tribe, which spans Botswana and South Africa. This follows the Baloyi commission of inquiry's report, which affirmed Chief Kgafela II's authority to appoint the chief in Moruleng.

The South African mining industry faces a grim year-end with a significant increase in fatalities, reaching 72 deaths compared to 60 the previous year. The Mineral Council of SA and other stakeholders express deep concern and commit to urgent interventions to improve safety. Recent accidents at Impala Platinum and Sibanye-Stillwater highlight ongoing risks. The National Union of Mineworkers demands stricter accountability from mining companies. Families of deceased workers face a sorrowful festive season, underscoring the human cost of these tragedies.

Sonke Telecommunications has expressed discontent with Icasa for delaying the Woan licensing process. Icasa had published a truncated timetable for the process on October 1. The delay has sparked criticism from stakeholders.

Convicted serial rapist Benjamin Bapela received three life terms and an additional 25-year imprisonment sentence, highlighting the justice served in South Africa.

Former Botswana President Ian Khama, currently in South Africa, expresses fear for his life, alleging that powerful individuals in Botswana plan to incarcerate him and orchestrate his mysterious death in jail. He claims the recent raids on his properties by Botswana's Directorate of Intelligence and Security are part of ongoing harassment.

Africa-specific climate issues unresolved at COP26 in Glasgow are expected to be revisited at COP27 in Egypt. Key topics include Africa's special needs, climate finance, and adaptation. South African negotiators, including Barbara Creecy and Maesela Kekana, expressed satisfaction with the outcomes, highlighting progress on the Paris Agreement work programme, carbon trading, and climate finance. The article underscores the importance of supporting developing countries and achieving a balanced approach to climate action.

The COP26 conference in Glasgow extended into Saturday due to ongoing negotiations over coal, fossil fuels, and financial commitments. Key compromises were made, including changing the wording from 'phase out' to 'phase down' coal, which some delegates felt weakened the commitment. Despite this, the Glasgow Climate Pact was adopted, aiming to keep global heating under 1.5°C by 2030. Notable outcomes include a commitment by over 100 nations to cut methane emissions by 30% by 2030 and an agreement by vehicle manufacturers, excluding Toyota and Volkswagen, to end the sale of fossil fuel cars by 2040. Developing countries expressed dissatisfaction with the financial support offered to mitigate climate crisis impacts.

Vanessa Nakate, a Ugandan climate justice activist, has emerged as a prominent voice at the COP26 summit in Glasgow, criticizing the lack of effective action on climate change. Despite Africa's minimal contribution to global emissions, Nakate highlights the severe impacts of climate change on the continent. She expresses skepticism about the promises made at COP summits, calling for immediate and drastic action. Nakate's activism, alongside figures like Greta Thunberg, underscores the urgency of addressing climate justice and amplifying voices from the most affected regions.

Sibusiso Mazomba, a young activist from Soweto, emphasizes the interconnectedness of climate change with social justice and socioeconomic issues in South Africa. He highlights the lack of youth representation in global platforms like the UN Climate Change Conference and the need for broader climate crisis awareness in South Africa. Mazomba advocates for interdepartmental government collaboration to enhance public awareness and suggests integrating climate change education into school curriculums and community workshops.

Former US President Barack Obama criticized the Trump administration for delaying the US fight against climate change by pulling out of the Paris Agreement. Speaking at the COP26 in Glasgow, Obama highlighted the progress made despite Trump's actions and praised the Biden administration for recommitting to climate goals. He emphasized the need for more action globally, noting that while significant milestones have been reached, much more needs to be done to address the climate crisis.