eNCA News Bite - 19 January 2026

Описание: In today’s episode, a national disaster declaration for flood-ravaged Limpopo and Mpumalanga is bringing some relief, but communities on the ground are still counting the human cost. Two more children are missing after being swept away by floodwaters in Phalaborwa, (https://www.enca.com/news-top-stories...) while the body of a man who disappeared last week in Vhembe has been recovered. The death toll in Limpopo has now climbed to over a dozen since summer storms began, with widespread damage to roads, homes and schools.

Adding to the pressure, the South African Local Government Association says government’s current disaster response is putting lives at risk. Salga is calling for a comprehensive overhaul of disaster management systems, warning that municipalities are not adequately equipped to deal with climate-driven emergencies. (https://www.enca.com/news/call-govern...)

The SANDF has been deployed to flood-hit Mozambique, where weeks of relentless rain have left communities stranded. South African soldiers (https://www.enca.com/top-stories/sand...) are assisting with evacuations, supported by an Oryx helicopter and a specialist search-and-rescue team under Operation Chariot.

At the World Economic Forum in Davos, there’ll be no President Cyril Ramaphosa this year, but Team South Africa is on a charm offensive to woo investors and showcase economic reforms. (https://www.enca.com/videos/wef-sa-go...) The 2026 WEF is taking place under the theme “The Spirit of Dialogue”, as global leaders grapple with economic uncertainty and geopolitical tension. eNCA’s Heidi Giokos is on the ground in Switzerland.

US President Donald Trump is also expected to feature prominently in Davos, amid a growing stand-off with Europe over his renewed push to acquire Greenland. (https://www.enca.com/business/trump-t...) Denmark has pushed back strongly, with France and the UK joining the chorus of opposition.

Back home, the DA is demanding answers over Iran’s participation in the “Will for Peace” naval exercise off the Cape coast. The party claims the SANDF ignored President Ramaphosa’s instruction (https://www.enca.com/news-top-stories...) that Iran should only participate as an observer, given international concern over Tehran’s crackdown on protesters.

13 pupils were killed in a horrific crash near Vanderbijlpark, when a truck collided with the minibus taxi transporting them. (https://www.enca.com/news-top-stories...) Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has been pressed on learner safety following the tragedy.

In the Western Cape, Knysna is edging closer to Water Day Zero, with the Akkerkloof Dam sitting at around 15% capacity. (https://www.enca.com/top-stories/knys...) The Department of Water and Sanitation says poor maintenance is largely to blame, as residents anxiously await either urgent intervention or significant rainfall.

In other news, we’re keeping an eye on…

• More than 2,700 children in Gauteng are still without confirmed school placements, (https://www.enca.com/news-top-stories...) with officials warning the number could rise as late applications continue to come in from other provinces.
• In the Eastern Cape, six men accused of murdering 18 people in Lusikisiki are back in court as the trial resumes in Mthatha. (https://www.enca.com/top-stories/lusi...)
• The Senzo Meyiwa murder trial continues in the Pretoria High Court, with police officers expected to take the stand once again. (https://www.enca.com/videos/sa-explai...)

SPORTS

It wouldn’t be an AFCON without drama, and Senegal’s shock win over hosts Morocco delivered plenty. (https://www.enca.com/sport-top-storie...) After a controversial stoppage-time penalty sparked protests and a temporary walk-off by Senegal players, the match resumed — and Senegal made it count. Their goalkeeper saved a chipped penalty before a stunning extra-time goal sealed the title.

In cricket, Sunrisers Eastern Cape secured a crucial top-two finish in the SA20, beating MI Cape Town by seven wickets and knocking out the defending champions in the process.

At the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic continues his pursuit of a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title, as he chases yet another crown at Melbourne Park. (https://www.enca.com/sport/zverev-wob...) Meanwhile, Venus Williams made history at 45, becoming the oldest woman to compete at the tournament, though her wildcard run ...