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In today’s episode, diplomatic tensions sharpen between Pretoria and Washington as the United States continues its boycott of the G20 Summit over its unfounded claim of “white genocide” in South Africa. With Sunday’s ceremonial handover of the G20 presidency looming, President Cyril Ramaphosa says Pretoria is still in contact with Washington about a possible last-minute shift, while the White House pushes back at Ramaphosa’s remarks that South Africa “will not be bullied”. The question of who will accept the G20 chair on behalf of the United States remains a central point of friction.
Meanwhile, Johannesburg’s polished G20 welcome masks a harsher reality on its margins. As world leaders arrive by private jet, homeless communities across the city are being removed from key streets and public spaces. eNCA’s Theodore Mashele speaks to those displaced as cleanup operations intensify in the lead-up to the summit.
Across the country, South Africans are turning out in purple ahead of Friday’s nationwide shutdown against gender based violence. On the eve of the action, President Ramaphosa formally classified GBV and femicide as a “crisis”. While not the national disaster declaration Women for Change called for, founder Sabrina Walter says it is still a significant acknowledgement.
We’re also keeping an eye on:
· NDPP Shamila Batohi’s testimony at the inquiry into South Gauteng DPP Andrew Chauke’s fitness for office, including her decision to withdraw charges in the Johan Booysen case.
· Disruption at COP30 in Belem, where a fire in the UN blue zone forced evacuations and left 13 delegates treated for smoke inhalation, likely delaying the summit’s final negotiations.
SPORTS Anticipation is peaking in Dublin as the Springboks pursue their first win at the Aviva Stadium since 2012, with Rassie Erasmus confident ahead of Saturday’s clash. In cricket, the Proteas edge closer to a historic Test series win in India, a feat last achieved in 2000, as Vernon Philander reflects on the magnitude of the challenge.
And finally, a new record in the art world. A 1940 self-portrait by Frida Kahlo sells for over 54 million dollars at Sotheby’s, becoming the most expensive painting by a woman ever sold.
That is your News Bite for 21 November 2025. For updates on these stories and more, visit enca.com or watch us on DStv Channel 403.
