2026 is already shaping up as a busy year. Whether you follow football, politics, or tech, there’s a lot to keep an eye on. Below you’ll find the most talked‑about stories that matter to readers across the continent.
Messi is leading Argentina’s charge in the South American World Cup qualifiers, already netting six goals and a hat‑trick against Bolivia. His form has turned the qualification race into a must‑watch saga for fans everywhere.
In club football, the Premier League has released the full 2025/26 fixture list, and a new tool lets you sync every match straight to your calendar. No more missing a game because you forgot the kickoff time.
Over in Africa, the CHAN 2024 final – Morocco vs. Madagascar – will be broadcast across the continent, giving fans a taste of high‑stakes tournament football before the 2026 World Cup rolls around.
For rugby lovers, the United Rugby Championship round‑one line‑ups are set, with the Stormers, Sharks and Bulls ready to kick off the season. The squads have a few surprise starters, so expect a few talking points after the first weekend.
Cricket isn’t left out. Quinton de Kock has come out of ODI retirement to rejoin the South African squad for the Pakistan tour, boosting a side that’s been dealing with injuries.
In a high‑profile legal battle, Julius Malema’s firearm trial in East London has stretched into a third day, sparking heated debate about justice and political targeting.
Australia is gearing up for a sweeping social‑media age‑restriction law that will block users under 16 on platforms like WhatsApp and Twitch from December 2025. Industry experts warn the verification tech isn’t ready, and privacy groups are already sounding alarms.
On the tech front, Snapchat has launched Sponsored AI Lenses, letting brands create generative‑AI driven filters that boost engagement. Early adopters like Uber report higher click‑through rates, signaling a shift in how ads are built.
Meanwhile, Fujifilm’s new X Half camera brings half‑frame photography back with a digital twist, appealing to both retro enthusiasts and modern shooters.
In cultural news, the late Giorgio Armani’s death has prompted a wave of tributes, reminding us of his influence on quiet luxury and tailoring.
Across South Africa, a hybrid lecture at North‑West University placed indigenous languages front and centre, even though the scheduled minister was unable to attend. The event highlighted publishing projects aimed at preserving local heritage.
Finally, the African political landscape saw former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu sentenced to 12 years for a massive road tender scandal, underscoring the continent’s ongoing fight against corruption.
All these stories are constantly evolving, and Daily Focus Bothma Africa will keep you updated as new developments unfold. Bookmark this page, check back often, and stay ahead of the curve in 2026.
Microsoft unveiled that the next open‑world racer will take players across Japan, with a 2026 release slated for Xbox Series X|S and PC. A post‑launch PlayStation 5 version will mark the series' first appearance on Sony hardware. Cultural consultant Kyoko Yamashita promises an authentic Japanese feel. Fans can already add the title to their wishlists.
Continue reading...