The mining industry in South Africa, traditionally male-dominated, is seeing efforts to increase female participation through a mentorship program by Women in Mining South Africa. This initiative aims to support young women entering the field, addressing gender disparities and promoting equality. The report highlights the positive impact of these mentorship efforts in Johannesburg.

Komane Harold Tijane, a 44-year-old South African, aims to become the country's first Black hot air balloon pilot since the end of apartheid. The profession's expenses vary due to differing gas prices and the cost of hiring the balloon. Reporter Zaheer Cassim provides insights into Tijane's historic efforts from Johannesburg, South Africa.

Young South African athletes express gratitude for the Basketball Africa League, attributing the rise in junior leagues to the collaboration between the U.S. National Basketball Association and the International Basketball Federation. This joint effort aims to showcase African talent and promote the sport across the continent, with significant developments observed in Soweto, South Africa.

South Africa's currency is declining amid an energy crisis and rising national prices, a situation exacerbated by a U.S. official's accusation that President Cyril Ramaphosa's administration is assisting Russia in its conflict with Ukraine. Reporter Zaheer Cassim from Johannesburg has spoken to officials, experts, and citizens about the impact of the rand's depreciation on their lives.

Ashley Ness, an inspector with Highveld Horse Care, discovered a large cache of donkey hides in South Africa, revealing a grim aspect of the illegal wildlife trade driven by Chinese demand for ejiao, a traditional medicine. The Donkey Sanctuary report estimates a global trade of 1.8 million hides annually, with the potential for donkey extinction within five years if the current demand continues. South Africa's NSPCA has reported on the inhumane slaughter methods in the illegal hide trade. Efforts to counteract this include promoting alternative donkey products and considering humane, regulated trade. Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Pakistan have banned donkey trade, while South Africa is exploring regulated trade opportunities to meet Chinese demand without decimating donkey populations.

South Africa's severe power cuts are threatening small businesses like Soweto Creamery, which President Cyril Ramaphosa once praised. The energy crisis, caused by state power company Eskom's load shedding, risks pushing the country into recession and exacerbating unemployment. Despite government promises to resolve the issue, experts like Matthew Cruise from Hohm Energy predict worsening conditions. The crisis has led to protests in Johannesburg, with the opposition Democratic Alliance criticizing the ruling ANC for the recent electricity price hike and ongoing power blackouts.

South Africa is experiencing a high unemployment rate of 34%, one of the highest globally, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and civil unrest in July. Black women are disproportionately affected, with an unemployment rate of 41%.

South Africa's unemployment rate has surged to 34%, one of the highest globally, exacerbated by the pandemic and recent riots. Black women are disproportionately affected, with an unemployment rate of 41%. The report highlights the severe economic challenges faced by women in the country.

The University of Johannesburg is utilizing virtual reality to enable students to replicate laboratory experiences, a need that has arisen due to COVID-19 restrictions preventing physical attendance. Linda Givetash reports on this development, with contributions from Zaheer Cassim and Marcus Harton.

Women in Mining South Africa has initiated a mentorship program to support young women like geologist Baile Sebetlele in the male-dominated mining industry. Despite making up less than 15% of the workforce, women like Sebetlele are breaking barriers and advancing in their careers. The program, which has received positive feedback, aims to address challenges such as inadequate physical infrastructure and unsuitable personal protective equipment. The Minerals Council South Africa's survey highlighted these issues, and companies are adapting to ensure women's safety and comfort. The organization also provides career booklets to schools to showcase the diversity of mining jobs. With the success of the program, Women in Mining is considering expanding to assist mid-career women.