Transcript

Hello everyone, this is Erika from ‘Just a Moment News’, and today’s date is July 12, 2024. Let’s dive into some of the day’s most intriguing headlines and stories.

Starting off, we have a significant development involving the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in South Africa. Tshifhiwa Matodzi, the former chair of VBS Mutual Bank, has made some startling revelations about Julius Malema and Floyd Shivambu. In a meeting that took place in early 2017 at the EFF’s Sandton penthouse, it was decided that sixteen point one million Rand from VBS would be funneled to the EFF. This money, according to investigative reports, was used for various personal expenses including a restaurant in Soweto and property enhancements. Matodzi, who has been sentenced to fifteen years for his role in various crimes, detailed how these funds were disguised as donations and business loans through a company called Sgameka Projects, managed by Floyd Shivambu’s brother.

Switching gears to the entertainment industry, Dax Shepard has just inked a lucrative deal with Amazon’s Wondery. This eighty million dollar contract encompasses exclusive distribution and ad-sales for Shepard’s “Armchair Expert” podcast. Additionally, the agreement includes the development of two new podcasts, production of an annual livestream, and a first-look option on new podcast ideas from Shepard. Wondery will also manage the merchandise for “Armchair Expert” and has rights to the podcast’s back catalog starting September 1.

In the world of wildlife and science, two lion brothers named Jacob and Tibu have set a record for the longest known swim by lions. Captured on thermal drone footage, they swam across the Kazinga Channel in Uganda, a distance of 1.5 kilometers. This extraordinary feat is part of their quest for mates, a journey made necessary by the dwindling lion population in their habitat, which has been nearly halved in five years due to human encroachment and poaching.

Moving on to health news, a new study from the American Cancer Society indicates that nearly half of adult cancer deaths in the U.S. could be prevented through lifestyle changes. The study highlights smoking as the primary risk factor, contributing to nearly 20 percent of cancer cases and one-third of cancer deaths. Other significant factors include excess body weight, alcohol consumption, and physical inactivity, among others.

In the realm of entertainment, Netflix’s new series “Supacell” is generating considerable buzz. The series, set in London’s inner city, follows a group of young adults with superpowers who face severe oppression from authorities. Directed by Rapman, “Supacell” blends elements of urban culture with the superhero genre, offering a fresh perspective with its gritty narrative and complex characters.

Lastly, there’s an exciting development concerning the RMS Titanic. A team of experts plans to create the most detailed photographic record of the Titanic wreck to date. This mission, led by RMS Titanic Inc., will utilize advanced imaging technology and robotic vehicles to scan the entire ship and surrounding debris. This expedition aims to provide new insights into the Titanic’s state and history while respecting the legacy of the site.

That wraps up our news for today. This is Erika from ‘Just a Moment News’. Thanks for tuning in, and we’ll catch you next time with more stories.

Keywords - moment, daily, news