SABCNews PM Headlines @17H00 | 31 July 2026

* Mpumalanga's coal belt is taking a step towards cleaner energy. The Ummbila Emoyeni Wind Energy Facility has begun commercial operations in Bethal, with the first 155-megawatts of a planned 900-megawatts now online.

* A second Investigating Directorate Against Corruption witness has challenged former IDAC Head, Advocate Andrea Johnson's, Madlanga Commission testimony. Senior Investigator Mantsha Raphesu has backed claims that Johnson misled Parliament, and questioned the authenticity of the Section 27 referral affidavit.

* A state witness has defended the arrest of alleged gunman, Musa Kekana, in the attempted murder trial of Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala. Captain Phimi Sekgobela has told the High Court in Johannesburg that the arrest was justified, as the defence seeks to exclude evidence obtained during it.

* Twelve people have died in a bus crash on the N1 near Trompsburg in the Free State, including five children. The N1 has now been re-opened.

* Bafana Bafana Coach, Hugo Broos, has confirmed he's stepping down, with his SAFA contract expiring today. This ends his five-year tenure.

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