Indholdsfortegnelse for 2025-04-05 i Saturday Star

Kristin Davis thinks there were “cult-type elements” to Sex and the City. The 60-year-old actress played Charlotte York in the hit HBO show, and has revealed that she was forced to adhere to some strict rules on set. Speaking on her Are You A Charlotte? podcast, she explained: “I remember there were elements – and this is probably something I shouldn’t say – there were strange, cult-type elements about being in that cast where there were like some rules.” Davis said that the cast – which also included Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall and Cynthia Nixon – were all banned from wearing pantyhose. The actress subsequently listed some of the other rules that she was asked to follow. She shared: “No scrunchies. No banana clips.” Davis explained that the rules…

Ageing has always been a source of fear and fascination. From the alchemists of ancient times to the ultra-wealthy tech entrepreneurs of today, humanity has long sought the secrets to eternal youth. The latest chapter in this saga unfolds at gatherings like the Don’t Die Summit, where billionaires, biohackers, and scientists unite to outwit biological clocks and hack longevity. The summit’s name may sound like a sci-fi convention, but its purpose is deeply rooted in the real-world ambitions of the elite: to live longer, healthier, and perhaps even indefinitely. What is biohacking? Biohacking, a term that encompasses everything from intermittent fasting to cutting-edge genetic engineering, is at the heart of the longevity movement. For some, it’s as simple as taking supplements or following a strict diet. For others, it involves…

It’s a classic line from a spy movie: Burn After Reading. For German agent Karl Muller, that advice would have really helped. Muller, a spy who masqueraded as a Russian shipbroker and covertly travelled to England among a crowd of refugees in 1915, used pen nibs dipped in lemon to write invisible messages to his counterparts. He relayed his secrets in between lines of regular ink in what appeared to be otherwise unremarkable letters. But Muller’s cover was blown when an agent from Britain’s Secret Service Bureau – known today as MI5 – ran a flat iron over a letter he sent in 1915, causing the invisible lemon ink to show. He was executed by a firing squad at the Tower of London. Now, his trusty lemon – 110 years…

PUBLIC Protector Advocate Khokeka Gcaleka concluded that President Cyril Ramaphosa did not abuse state resources during a campaign event in the Northern Cape in 2022 to benefit the African National Congress (ANC). This finding follows a complaint by Elias Muller in October 2022, who alleged that Ramaphosa had violated the Constitution by misusing state resources for party political gain. Muller’s complaint centred explicitly on an incident during the ANC's Letsema campaign in the Northern Cape, where Ramaphosa attended the handover of a Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) house to Ouma Martha Louw in Donkerhoek. On September 30, 2022, officials from the Northern Cape Department of Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA) and the municipality presented Louw with her new home. Following this, Ramaphosa visited Louw on October 1,…

After her party, DA, for years slammed the government for delaying the process of eradicating pit latrines, Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube says the deadline is not important, but children’s safety and good infrastructure is crucial. Gwarube was speaking to journalists in Limpopo on Friday where she was handing over newly built toilets. This is part of the department’s continued efforts to ensure that learners and teachers have access to safe and dignified sanitation in schools. The deadline for the eradication of the pit toilets was supposed to be in March. In 2018, a safe initiative was launched to identify the backlog of sanitation projects that need to be cleared. “Now I want to make it clear that this is not just about a deadline that we need, simply because the…

A scientific breakthrough that could transform the fight against HIV has emerged from KwaZulu-Natal. For the first time in Africa, a clinical trial aimed at achieving long-term HIV remission — without lifelong antiretroviral therapy (ART) — has been conducted, sparking new hope in the global search for a cure. Professor Thumbi Ndung’u, a leading scientist at the Africa Health Research Institute and professor at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), has announced results from a pioneering study that could redefine how HIV is treated. The trial — the first of its kind on the continent — marks a critical shift from managing the virus with daily medication to the tantalising possibility of drug-free remission. The study involved 20 South African women living with HIV and tested a novel combination of two…

Melrose Arch in association with 947 is bringing Easter magic to life with an exciting line-up of activities for families to enjoy. From thrilling games to a whimsical Easter egg hunt, delicious treats, and live entertainment, there's something for everyone to enjoy over the long weekend at Johannesburg’s popular precinct. The unique urban design, interconnectivity, pedestrianised curved streets, and amazing buildings create a vibrant atmosphere that is out of this world and allows for a pleasant stroll, all the way from the Piazza to the Square. From Friday 18 to Monday 21 April, little ones can immerse themselves in the Magical Rainbow Easter Playground with Clamber Club on the Melrose Arch Piazza. Designed for children aged 1-10, this play paradise features obstacle courses, soft play areas, ball ponds, face painting,…

As the award-winning series Adulting prepares to conclude its third season, the spotlight has notably shifted towards the formidable female characters whose powerful performances have captivated viewers. Some of the leading women delve into the highlights of their roles and experiences throughout this remarkable season. In a season marked by emotional turmoil and complex relationships, viewers have also witnessed the character transformations of the women as they challenge their male counterparts and reveal their inner strength. Londeka Sishi, who stars as Nkanyezi, has her character firmly standing her ground against her husband's hopes for children. Sishi explains that Nkanyezi is resolute about not wanting a baby, which creates tension in their relationship. “I think she makes an effort to really let her walls down. She has fallen in love with…

In the wake of the acquittal of televangelist Timothy Omotoso, clarion calls have been made on the justice system to protect victims of rape and gender-based violence after injustice has come under the spotlight. This week, Omotoso and his two co-accused, Lusanda Sulani and Zukiswa Sitho, were acquitted of all charges related to racketeering, trafficking in persons, rape, and sexual assault. Meanwhile, the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), advocate Shamila Batohi said they would interrogate the “failure of justice” and have sought a transcript of the proceedings - which ran over eight years. They will consider it to determine whether the criticism of the prosecution team was warranted. Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has also since the judgment written to the NDPP, requested a report concerning…

THE Rwandan High Commission in South Africa is gearing up for a profound moment of reflection as it prepares to commemorate the 31st anniversary of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi people, an event known as Kwibuka31. This poignant ceremony will take place on Monday at the Sheraton Hotel in Pretoria, signaling the beginning of a 100-day period of remembrance. As articulated by the High Commission, this year’s commemoration will centre around the unifying theme of “Remember Unite Renew.” It serves not only as a remembrance of the atrocities but as a call to action for all people of conscience to honour the memories of the victims, stand in solidarity with survivors, and recommit to ensuring that genocide finds no place in the world. “Kwibuka31 is a moment of remembrance…

Italian cars have always been known for their flair and sometimes quirky innovations so it’s no surprise that Maserati has announced that they have taken customisation to the next level. Called the Officine Fuoriserie Maserati at their plant on Viale Ciro Menotti, Modena, it’s where customers have no limit as to the configuration and personalising of their House of the Trident-badged car, including an innovative painting line. Tailor-made According to Maserati, Officine Fuoriserie is a comprehensive tailor-made journey where the experience of buying a car is all-encompassing and seamless, from the initial configuration to the dedicated delivery to the factory. “The home of the new Officine workshops is in the historic Modena plant. This area is the beating heart of an extraordinary brand, the longest-lived in all of Italy's Motor…

Imagine pouring your hard-earned money into an investment, trusting the promises of wealth and prosperity only to find yourself empty-handed, deceived, and abandoned. This is exactly the cautionary tale unfolding for those caught up in the financial schemes of Jacques Adriaan Jordaan—a name now ringing alarm bells thanks to the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA). Let me share my personal insight here. Not long ago, one of my cousins found herself navigating through a sea of enticing investment offers on social media. The promises of “guaranteed high returns” were incredibly alluring, and the testimonials backing them seemed convincing. Luckily, she paused before making any decisions, and that pause saved her from falling into the trap of unauthorised financial advisors. She asked me for advice and I told her that what…

Short-term insurance shields you from the financial blow of losing or damaging essential possessions like your home, car, or electronic devices. But that doesn't mean you should be overpaying for this protection, warns South African short-term insurance actuary, John Wessels. Wessels says if you've been claim-free for years and haven't reviewed your insurance policy recently, you're likely overspending. “Your risk profile may have improved since you first signed up, especially for younger drivers who've gained experience without filing claims. Comparing quotes from different insurers could save you money, but remember to be honest about your claims history,” he advises. Unfortunately, many South Africans see insurance as a “grudge purchase,” neglecting it until they need to claim. According to Wessels, this approach is problematic: “Your short-term insurance contract should be readily…

England forward Marcus Rashford continued his recent revival on loan at Aston Villa from Manchester United, netting his first league goal for the club in the huge 3-0 win over Brighton in midweek. However, it's United who could be the biggest beneficiaries of the club reject's continued fine form, even with a return to the Red Devils highly unlikely. The player's huge salary could put a dent in any potential earnings for his parent club. Pundits feel that should the strong run continue, and Villa opt against signing him, United could fetch even more for Rashford. The player's wages are still seen as a major stumbling block, though. In the January transfer window, Rashford secured a loan spell at Aston Villa, who are paying a minimum of 75% of his…

The CAF Disciplinary Committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) met on Thursday to view reports after the latest round of Champions League quarter-final matches but it has yet to announce it's findings and subsequent decisions. There were incidents at all four Tuesday games around the continent, but the bouts of crowd violence that swept through Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Tshwane, where Mamelodi Sundowns hosted Tunisian heavyweights Esperance Sportive, were hugely damaging to the image of CAF, the governing body of African football. The most alarming occurrences at Loftus compromised the safety of spectators and a few were treated for injuries afterwards. It severely tarnished the reputation of the high-stakes Champions League tournament. CAF’s swift response highlights the seriousness with which it approaches issues of crowd control and safety.…

The government has announced its plans to counter the stiff retaliatory tariffs imposed on the country by US President Donald Trump but will not enter into a tit-for-tat battle with its second-largest trading partner. Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau yesterday urged caution over the Trump administration’s new tariffs. Earlier this week, Trump slapped several countries across the world with tariffs ranging from 10% to 73%, and in South Africa’s case 31%, which will be effective from next Wednesday. In response to the announcement, the government has detailed its plans to counter the tariffs and indicated that it needs clarity on the basis for the 31% to be implemented by the US when South Africa’s average tariff is 7.6%. Tau and his International Relations and Co-operation counterpart Ronald Lamola…

A 16-year-old girl who slipped while crossing a flooded stream was among three victims recovered by SAPS divers during a week of flash floods that ravaged communities across Gauteng. From Saturday, March 29 to Thursday, April 3, the South African Police Service (SAPS) Gauteng Water Policing and Diving Services responded to multiple water-related emergencies, resulting in three tragic recoveries and several rescues. In one of the first incidents, Tshwane SAPS members recovered the body of the teenage girl in Tsakane. “Allegedly, the 16-year-old girl had slipped into the flooded stream running between Tsakane and Duduza while crossing over a pipe the previous day,” said police spokesperson Warrant Officer Grant Giblin. Her body was found approximately two kilometres from the point of entry and handed over to Tsakane SAPS. On…

IN A MOVE to support spaza shops across the country, the Departments of Trade, Industry and Competition and Small Business Development will launch a R500 million Spaza Shop Support Fund. The fund provides various types of support including the initial purchase of stock via delivery partners, upgrading of building infrastructure, systems, refrigeration, shelving, and security, as well as training programmes which include Point of Sale devices, business skills, digital literacy, credit health, food safety, business compliance. Initially introduced by President Cyril Ramaphosa in November last year, the fund will be administered by the National Empowerment Fund (NEF) and the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency, and will provide support to township businesses, convenience stores and spaza shops. Small Business Development Minister, Stella Ndabeni, said the opening of the fund will mark…

Hours after a 7.7-magnitude earthquake devastated Myanmar last week, sending dangerous tremors across Southeast Asia, the American officials charged with responding to the disaster received their termination letters from Washington. Most of the personnel who would have made up a US response team, including security and sanitation experts, were already on indefinite leave. Many of the US programmes that would have provided lifesaving materials, including fuel for ambulances and medical kits, were shuttered weeks ago. US planes and helicopters in nearby Thailand, which have been used before for disaster relief, never made it off the ground. America’s response to the catastrophic earthquake has been crippled by the Trump administration’s sweeping cuts to the US Agency for International Development, according to eight current and former USAID employees who worked on Myanmar,…

Are you silver-tongued? Do you have the gift of the gab? If so, the brand-new Nou praat jy! public speaking competition is meant just for you. Curro Durbanville High School proudly invites high schools across the country to enter their most seasoned team for this prestigious competition-with-a-twist: Two learners must team up and present the speech in unison. The theme is Afrikaans - ‘n taal van kleure en klank, and it’s quite fitting, because Afrikaans has been an official language for 100 years this year. The speech contest can be presented in a persuasive, entertaining or motivational manner and is open to Afrikaans Home Language Speakers and Afrikaans First Additional Language Speakers in a category for Juniors (Grade 8 and/or 9) and Seniors (Grade 10 to 12). Each team has…

With just four more artists left to be revealed, the Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) 2025 is on the brink of unveiling its full line-up of 33 world-class acts. And today, they’re turning up the heat with an electrifying mix of legendary icons, rising stars and genre-defining pioneers. Leading this latest wave of announcements is the incomparable Kandace Springs – the soulful jazz sensation whose velvety vocals and masterful piano work have captivated audiences worldwide. Returning after a three-year hiatus, she brings her deeply personal and introspective album, Run Your Race (2024), a tribute to her late father, the legendary Scat Springs. A mix of jazz, soul and heartfelt storytelling, the album sees her collaborating with Gregg Wells (Adele), Matt Hales (Lianne La Havas), Evan Rogers and Carl Sturken…

As South Africa continues to grapple with the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), a coalition of activism groups has united to launch an innovative application, Gen G Engage. The initiative is spearheaded by the Generation Gender programme, ACTIVATE! Change Drivers, Sonke Gender Justice, and Action Aid with an aim to combat gender-based violence and femicide, creating safer communities for all. It is explained that this platform, introduced at the conclusion of Human Rights Month, aims to empower civil society organisations, young individuals, and communities to effectively navigate the justice system while providing crucial support to GBVF survivors across the nation. It is revealed that the application comprises three fundamental components: Access to Justice, Access to Information, and the core Gen G Engage platform itself, all dedicated to fostering…

IN a whirlwind of gravity-defying feats and unwavering determination, Jean-marc Johannes has etched his name into the annals of South African sporting history. Not just a skateboarder, but a trailblazer, Johannes has shattered expectations and rewritten the narrative of what's possible, culminating in a string of accolades that would make even the most seasoned athlete's head spin. "Initially I set a goal for myself to win just one international event, and this took place in 2016 when I won the first SA skateboarding Gold at the FISE World Series Am in China,” Johannes tells Independent Media. “This goal, at the time, seemed impossible, but I was willing to work for it to make it a reality, and when it happened it changed my perspective on the goals I was going…

Under the new “two-pot” system, the cash in retirement-fund “savings pots” presents a real temptation to fund members, but withdrawing it should be resisted for a few very good reasons. An “instant gratification” mindset may kick in when you check the balances of the various “pots” in your retirement fund. It’s important to keep that mindset in check because surrendering to it will cost you in several ways. You may think, ‘Oh, I’ve got R20 000 I can withdraw. Why don’t I use it to buy a new lounge suite or treat myself to a weekend at a luxury spa?’ However, if you were to choose to spend that money, the wise decision would be to leave it where it is. First of all, you will not receive the full…

South Africa's life insurance industry closed the year 2024 in a strong financial position, maintaining its ability to weather economic uncertainties, according to the Association for Savings and Investment South Africa (Asisa). With assets under management totalling a staggering R4.5 trillion, the industry also achieved a solvency buffer of 1.99 – nearly double the Prudential Authority's Solvency Capital Requirement (SCR). Figures released by Asisa reveal that life insurers paid out R 639 billion in claims and benefits during 2024, marking a record high. These payments, which included retirement annuities, endowment benefits, and claims related to life cover, disability, critical illness, and income protection, offer vital financial support to policyholders and their beneficiaries during life's most challenging moments. Gareth Friedlander, a member of the Asisa Life and Risk Board Committee, highlighted…

Adapting and overcoming situations are some of the skills Proteas Women's coach Mandla Mashimbyi wants to work on in training camp ahead of their Tri-Series in Sri Lanka later this month. The Proteas will face India and Sri Lanka in a set of One Day Internationals in Colombo from April 27 to May 11. The Proteas play four group matches and if they finish on top, will make a final match of the series. Three rookies are among the 20 players who have been called up to Pretoria to sharpen their skills ahead of the series, including wicketkeeper Karabo Meso, Mianè Smith and spinner Seshnie Naidu. Meso and Naidu returned runners-up from the recent T20 U19 World Cup in Malaysia, where they went undefeated through the tournament before losing to…

It has been a tough balancing act for Jake White this week ahead of the Bulls’ Challenge Cup last-16 playoff against Bayonne on Saturday (1.30pm start). While he may not say it out loud, White would regard as the United Rugby Championship as the preferred title to the Challenge Cup. In that regard, the URC encounters against Munster in Limerick and Glasgow in Scotland on April 18 and 25 loom large for the Pretoria side if they hope to finish in the top two. But at the same time, you never want to miss out on a trophy, and the Challenge Cup would provide some much-needed European silverware for the Loftus Versfeld cabinet. The tricky part, though, is that if they beat Bayonne at the Stade Jean Dauger on Saturday,…

As the world emerges from the grip of the Covid-19 pandemic, global tourism is witnessing a remarkable resurgence. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), the number of international tourists, which peaked at 1.5 billion in 2019, is projected to hit 1.8 billion by 2030. However, with this booming growth comes the pressing issue of overtourism – an alarming phenomenon that threatens to suffocate some of the globe’s most cherished destinations. Overtourism occurs when the sheer volume of visitors overwhelms a location, leading to overcrowding, environmental degradation, and strained relationships between tourists and local communities. Recently, Spain has become ground zero for anti-tourism sentiments, with protesters actively urging British visitors to steer clear this summer to protect their local environments and quality of life. This disturbing trend is…

A crippling linen shortage at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital is forcing the cancellation of surgeries and compromising patient care — a stark reflection of a public healthcare system in distress. As staff scramble to deliver essential services amid broken laundry machines, power outages, and dwindling resources, fears are growing that this is no longer just an operational hiccup, but a full-blown crisis putting lives at risk. Independent Media received a press release from the DA on Thursday, highlighting the ongoing linen crisis at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital. In response, we visited the facility later that afternoon to verify the claims. On arrival, however, there was little visible evidence of dirty linen lying around, and the situation appeared relatively under control. It appeared that efforts had been made to…

Pressure mounts from the ANC National Working Committee (NEC) for President Cyril Ramaphosa to deal with DA ministers who did not support the 2025 National Budget. Sources told IOL that the ANC Parliament caucus was not impressed with how the DA voted against the budget while they are a big fish in the Government of National Unity (GNU). Although insiders could not confirm the exact decision by the NEC, the ministers are potentially to be without jobs. The ANC is expected to convene a special NEC meeting on Monday to deliberate on the way forward following recent developments in Parliament. The NEC, the highest decision-making body of the ANC between conferences, will consider critical matters affecting governance and the national political landscape. “The NEC will decide on what to do…

As the US revs up plans to take in Afrikaners as refugees fleeing "persecution" in South Africa, the matter has escalated as a Bill has been tabled in Congress outlining the Asylum for Farmers and Refugees in Crisis and Necessary Emigration Resettlement (Africaner) Bill. The act was introduced by Republican Congressman Troy Nehls and will give Priority-2 refugee status to Afrikaners. "The Afrikaner population in South Africa has been experiencing unjust racial discrimination, and the situation continues to get worse by the day," said Nehls. "President Trump is right. How Afrikaners are being treated is a massive human rights violation. My bill will offer Afrikaners a pathway to the United States to flee the persecution they’ve lived through initiated by their own government." Here is a breakdown of the 'Africaner…

In a sunlit shack on the outskirts of Lesotho's capital Maseru, 34-year-old Lieketseng Lucia Tjatji sits under a black cloth pegged to a tin wall and emblazoned with the head of a lion. To her left, a wooden table is weighed down by containers of roots, powders and dried herbs, remedies she now offers to HIV patients who have been cut off from vital medication after US President Donald Trump's aid freeze in February. "I am a traditional doctor or a witch doctor," Tjatji says, her voice steady. "I have helped people. More and more are coming." They are the desperate of a nation buffeted by poverty and gripped by one of the highest HIV rates in the world with roughly one in four adults living with the virus, according…

They are often disparaged as ugly, sly and cruel scavengers but for South African artist Hannelie Coetzee, hyenas are symbols of female power and the normalisation of queerness. The walls of her studio in the university district of downtown Johannesburg are covered in drawings in ink and rooibos tea of the sloped-back carnivores, her heroines of the bush. With cute ears but a frightening jaw, the animal is also represented in sculptures Coetzee fashions from scavenged materials. "I am very curious about hyenas from an ecofeminist perspective," said the artist, whose work has been exhibited internationally. "They're the underdog, misrepresented," she told AFP. "They have been Disney-fied, made into creatures they are not." Coetzee, 53, identifies in the animal a "celebration of the matriarch" in packs that are led by…

The Oceans 8 Charity Swim is back, and this year’s Interschools 1 Mile Challenge promises to be bigger and more impactful than ever. Taking place on June 14-15 at Vetch’s Beach, Durban Undersea Club, this open-water swim gives students the chance to push their sporting limits, support worthy causes, and earn recognition for their school - all while boosting their mental and physical well-being. "Swimming helps build mental fitness. The Oceans 8 Challenge gives South African schoolchildren a healthy outlet to channel their energy, build confidence, and contribute to something greater than themselves. It’s the perfect antidote to the academic stress that comes with preparing for exams,” said, Nicci Carvalho, event spokesperson. Oceans 8 was founded by charities for charities in 2023 to support the incredible work across conservation, education,…

Multimedia artist Nakhane has made a stunning return to the music scene with the release of their latest dance classic, Killer. Shedding light about the song they detail that this release marks a significant moment of transformation in their artistic journey, intertwining themes of rebirth and consequence that have resonated deeply throughout their life as a musician, film-maker, and writer. With the interpretation of this classic hit, the celebrated musician not only continues to establish their versatility as a contemporary voice in art but also reintroduce themselves to the world of music post their acclaimed 2023 album, Bastard Jargon. The music sensation tells Saturday Star that the genesis of the song came during a performance of their previous work, You Will Not Die. During encores, fans expressed their eagerness for…

EVERTON, stung by their derby defeat to Liverpool, face a monumental challenge against high-flying Arsenal. The Toffees are desperate for three points to climb the table, while Arsenal know any slip-up could derail their title chase. Everton's Senegalese star, Idrissa Gana Gueye, opens up about life at Merseyside and his deep connection to Senegal. As much as it pains him to admit it, Gueye believes Sadio Mane is the greatest Senegalese player to have played in the Premier League. Despite Mane playing for his rival club, Liverpool, Gueye concedes that Mane is the best player to have represented Senegal in the Premier League. “Maybe it’s difficult for me to say it, but Sadio is the best Senegalese to have ever played in the Premier League, he just played in the…

Or can South Africa’s dangerous driving problems be solved? A criminologist weighs in If you have ever been in a car in South Africa, you would have experienced it. Not the beautiful surroundings or potholed roads, but the complete lack of adherence to the rules of the road and daily carnage. It seems that once we get behind the wheel of a car, the laws are irrelevant. Alcohol-related deaths While on holiday in the Northern Cape over the festive season, we would regularly stop next to the road at the rather dilapidated picnic spots to stretch our legs. The proliferation of empty liquor bottles was appalling. Empty beer, wine and hard liquor containers were spread everywhere. That means that the possibility of encountering a driver under the influence was relatively…

Insurance of any kind is a grudge purchase, and perhaps life and dread disease even more so because death, or being permanently incapacitated and unable to work, is not a pleasant thought. Yet, either a critical illness diagnosis or death will “not only have an immense emotional impact on your family but a financial impact as well,” said Corli Basson, business manager of Underwriting at 1Life Insurance. She said that life cover payouts can be used to cover daily expenses such as food, clothing, school fees, and rent/home loans to safeguard your family’s financial future and build generational wealth. “Life cover will protect your family’s lifestyle and financial future should you pass away.” Life insurance can also cover settling a bond. Managing executive of Absa Life, Eugene Strauss, said: “It…

When Capitec broke onto the retail banking scene over 20 years ago, I sensed that it would shake up the banking industry in South Africa. The simplicity and accessibility of its offering to consumers ensured its immediate success. But I didn’t expect the “Big Four” (Absa, FNB, Nedbank and Standard Bank) to be so nonchalant about this innovative new kid on the block. I could continue about the innovations Capitec brought to banking, its meteoric rise as a brand, and its emergence today as South Africa’s largest bank in terms of number of retail customers, but I’ll save that for another column. Here, I want to focus on the Big Four and how, in my opinion, they have largely failed to up their customer-service game to win back the customers…

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecogluo claimed VAR was “killing the game” after the technology was used to rule out a potential equaliser in the side's English Premier League defeat to fellow Londoners Chelsea. Spurs lost 1-0 against the Blues at Stamford Bridge in the league clash on Thursday night that took Enzo Maresca's side back up to fourth in the table. The Spurs boss thought midfielder Pape Sarr had cancelled out Enzo Fernandez's header for Chelsea, only to see the blistering strike chalked off after VAR intervened. Sarr was deemed to have fouled Chelsea player Moises Caicedo in the build-up. It took repeated replays to overrule referee Craig Pawson's decision to award the goal. The length of time it took to reach the decision was only one of the things…

Kevin De Bruyne was hailed by Pep Guardiola as one of the Premier League's all-time greats after the Belgian confirmed yesterday that he will leave Manchester City at the end of the season. De Bruyne, 33, has won 14 major trophies since joining City from Wolfsburg in 2015, including six Premier League titles and the Champions League in 2023. “Nothing about this is easy to write, but as football players, we all know this day eventually comes. “That day is here - and you deserve to hear it from me first,” De Bruyne said in a post on social media. “Football led me to all of you - and to this city. Chasing my dream, not knowing this period would change my life. This City, this club. “These people... gave…

As the Easter holiday draws near, many people historically take this time to travel to sacred places, seeking not only the serene beauty of destinations but also a deep connection to faith, heritage, and history. The global religious tourism market is poised for significant growth, with reports predicting an impressive annual growth rate of 15.3% through 2030. This surge reflects a burgeoning interest among travellers in experiences that resonate on a spiritual level. Inbaal Honigham, a renowned celebrity psychic, notes that seekers of spirituality often choose their travel destinations based on diverse motivations. “Some seekers traverse to historically significant locations to feel closer to cultures or figures they admire and revere. They are inspired by mythologies, age-old tales, and mythical figures,” she explains. This trend indicates a revival of interest…

For a generation once regarded as the backpacking adventurers of their youth, South African millennials are now redefining their approach to travel as they settle into middle age. As the oldest members of this cohort reach their mid-40s, their preferences have transformed significantly, reflecting the balancing act many face between careers, family obligations, and rising living expenses. “Despite tighter budgets driven by rising costs, local millennials are still going on holiday,” notes Samantha Pillay, director at ekko, a lifestyle brand catering to millennials, who observes this shift first-hand. However, these holidays are not the extravagant getaways of previous generations. “We’re seeing a shift towards more value-driven holidays,” Pillay says. “While South African millennials aren’t necessarily booking five-star hotels, they do want quality, relaxation, and unique experiences.” The trend towards “microcations”…