Hostile Phala Phala witness, and thousand of learners left in limbo

Today, 14 January, the Rand is trading at R16.36 to the dollar, from R16.39 at the close of business on Tuesday. 

In Parliament, the Ad Hoc Committee investigating allegations of corruption in the police and criminal justice system will resume hearings today. 

The committee will hear testimony from former Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Khomotso Phehlane.

More adverse weather is expected in Limpopo and Mpumalanga today, affecting several schools, bridges and roads, including the Kruger National Park. Visitors have been advised to revise travel plans to the area.

Millions of South African children will return to school today, as the start of the school calendar begins. Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube will be in the North West today to welcome children.

Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, will brief the media today on the status of foot and mouth disease in the country. He is expected to outline the strategy for vaccinations.

Here are five other big things happening in South Africa today:

Iran participating in South African naval exercise despite contrary reports – Newsday

Contrary to media speculation suggesting that Iran has withdrawn from the naval exercise off the coast of South Africa, the South African National Defence Force has confirmed that Iran is an active participant. 

Thousands of Gauteng children unplaced as school year begins – Daily Maverick

With schools across South Africa opening today, the Gauteng Department of Education has still not placed a staggering 4,858 learners in Grade 1 and Grade 8. The Gauteng Department of Education is releasing placement and transfer offers daily. 

Hostile Phala Phala state witness – SABC

The Modimolle regional court in Limpopo has ruled that the fourth state witness in the Phala Phala farm theft case is a hostile witness. The court has found that he also lied that he cannot read or write English.

Deadly storms rock Mpumalanga and Limpopo – eNCA

Since the beginning of the summer season marked by heavy rains, Mpumalanga has recorded 14 deaths, while the number of fatalities in Limpopo remains at five.

Missing Kruger rhino found – The Citizen

A white rhino bull, recently relocated to the Kruger National Park, made an unexpected appearance near the Paul Kruger Gate after being missing for some time.