News 13 Feb 2026

1. [Christianity/Stats] 2026 World Christian Population Report: DRC to Surpass U.S. as #1 Christian Nation:

The 2026 report reveals that the global Christian population has hit 2.67 billion, growing at 0.95%, which outpaces the global population growth rate of 0.88%. With 69% of believers now in the Global South, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is projected to replace the U.S. as the world's most populous Christian nation by 2075. Africa leads this growth with an astounding annual rate of 2.59%.

• (Source): Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary / iGoodNews (2026.01.13)

2. [Politics/Economy] SONA 2026: Declaration of Economic Recovery and Local Government Reform:

President Ramaphosa declared 2026 as a year of "decisive intervention" during his SONA at Cape Town City Hall. Key priorities include: ①Restoring municipal service delivery; ②Modernizing ports and integrating 50GW of renewable energy; and ③Implementing an intelligence-led policing model. He highlighted SA’s sovereign credit rating upgrade to 'BB' as a sign of financial stability that will drive infrastructure and social development.

• (Source): Resolve Communications / SAnews / allAfrica (2026.02.12)

3. [Economy/Finance] JSE Hits Record High of 120,000 Points Amid 'Green Shoots': 

The ACDP noted in a budget briefing that the JSE index surpassed the 120,000-point mark, driven by reliable electricity and fiscal consolidation. While these "green shoots" provide optimism, analysts emphasize that unlocking the private sector’s R1.8 trillion cash reserve for job creation requires further strengthening of the criminal justice system to boost business confidence.

• (Source): ACDP Official Statement / JSE Data (2026.02.02)