Electricity costs hit home: Johannesburg’s City Power tariffs kick in from 1 July, with an average 8.63% increase approved by NERSA, while eThekwini also faced prepaid-power misconceptions as it implemented a 9% tariff rise and stressed customers pay the same rate (outside businesses/industry). Labour & governance: The Labour Court in Johannesburg halted a disciplinary hearing against a whistleblower engineer at Public Works, finding a prima facie link to protected disclosures. Security policy debate: The DA wants government to withdraw proposed amendments to PSIRA regulations and the Firearms Control Amendment Bill, arguing they could weaken lawful private security during crime and unrest. Energy transition & tech: Google says it has topped its $1bn Africa investment target, unveiling new cloud, connectivity hubs, an applied AI lab, and a Soweto digital innovation centre; Deputy President Mashatile launched BrainSAT and Thuraya for rural connectivity. Mining & critical minerals: Harmony says its copper push is diversification, not a break from gold identity; MRG Metals reports high gallium levels at its Garies project. Agriculture & food security: South Africa revised its bird flu defence strategy to allow vaccination, aiming to protect the poultry industry and livelihoods. Industry skills pipeline: A Youth Month “Future Skills Experience” put learners into hands-on manufacturing, engineering and trades exposure. Transport safety: A bus overturn on the N1 near Touws River killed 15 people.