Indholdsfortegnelse for 2024-11-17 i Sunday Tribune

Ian Wyles would like to feature two properties that will go under the hammer during its auction on November 27 at 11am. The first is a liquidation matter that includes a general commercial building at 18-20 Burlington Road, Shallcross. The site has a total extent of 2 106m² with a gross lettable area of about 750m². It comprises: A double-storey building with 19 shop modules and ample parking Ground floor: A covered walkway Seven shop modules (31.9m² unit) One shop module (46.1m²) One shop module (29.7m²) One shop module (46.2m²) Upper level: Five shop modules (31.9m²/unit) One shop module (46m²) Two shop module (33.7m²/unit) One shop module (46m²) Ablutions (male and female) 42m² Access to the upper level is by a ramp with an exit ramp, leading to and…

South Africa’s youth unemployment rate eased slightly in the third quarter of 2024, but millions of young people remain unemployed in a tough economic environment The South African Youth Economic Council (Sayec), responding to the quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) released this week, warned that this is just not good enough. “Youth unemployment is not just a social challenge, but an economic liability that undermines South Africa’s potential for growth and stability,” it said in a statement. Statistics South Africa data showed the youth unemployment rate easing slightly from 46.6% in the second quarter of 2024 to 45.5% in the third quarter of 2024. The total number of unemployed youth (age 15 – 34) fell by 171 000 to 4.8 million while employed youth increased by 66 000 to 5.8…

Music has always been a canvas for flavour, rhythm and tradition but the recent surge in cross-genre collaborations is marking a transformative chapter in South Africa’s vibrant cultural tapestry. As artists reach across previously uncharted musical boundaries, what emerges is a bold statement of artistic freedom and exploration. One of the standout collaborations is the unexpected pairing of Mthandeni SK and amapiano sensation MaWhoo. Their track, Gucci, is a festive banger that has taken over South African dance floors. This captivating piece cleverly marries the soulful elements of maskandi with the pulsating rhythms of amapiano. Mthandeni SK, known for his popular hit Paris, delivers smooth, melodic verses that create a harmonic balance with MaWhoo’s rich vocals. The synergy between the artists offers a catchy anthem and a meaningful narrative. The…

A video clip circulating on social media has triggered widespread concern in South Africa and beyond. In the clip, Dr Von Ludwig, a general producer from Polokwane, warned users about a potential health risk linked to Depo-Provera, a widely used injectable contraceptive. The TikTok video, which has amassed more than 1.3 million views in less than 24 hours, says women using Depo-Provera are five times more likely to develop a brain tumour called meningioma. What is Depo-Provera? Depo-Provera is an injectable contraceptive that contains a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone, known as medroxyprogesterone acetate. It is administered once every three months and has been a popular choice for women seeking long-term contraception since its FDA approval in the 1990s. The injection prevents ovulation, thickens cervical mucus to block sperm…

Universal TV is reportedly developing a reboot of the beloved sports drama Friday Night Lights, with some of the original creators helming the project. Deadline has reported that the network, which produced the series together with Imagine Television and Film 44, is set to bring the show, which starred the likes of Michael B Jordan and Minka Kelly, to a new generation. The publication explained that the new iteration will be helmed by director Pete Berg, writer Jason Katims and producer Brian Grazer, who also worked on the original show. And while the project is still in the early stages with not many details confirmed, the reboot will centre on the world of high school football. This was also the premise of the original show, which aired for five seasons…

The toy industry is experiencing a renaissance as nostalgic retro toys emerge from the shadows of childhood. This festive season, parents are finding joy in revisiting their own youthful days, introducing their children to classic toys and board games that shaped their early memories. Toys R Us has unveiled its most anticipated toys for 2024, showcasing a rich array of interactive playsets, tech-driven gadgets, and collectibles that cater to both kids and the “kidult” demographic. From the revival of the Tamagotchi, retailing at R550, to the interactive plush Furby priced between R350 to R2000, nostalgic toys are taking centre stage once again. Joining these iconic products are retro arcade machines and handheld consoles that transport players back to simpler gaming times. “Interactive toys have been a game-changer this year, the…

A Durban woman who conspired with her lover to kill her Metro police husband has asked the court to be lenient when it sentences her. Faith Nongcebo Ntombela pleaded guilty in August at the Scottburgh High Court for the murder of her husband Captain Zwelakhe Ntombela, defeating the course of justice and theft. Captain Ntombela was gunned down by hitman Mandlenkosi Mzo Ntombela at his home in uMlazi C section while closing the gate, in May 2023. Ntombela was sentenced by the Durban High Court in August last year to 20 years imprisonment after he entered into a plea bargain with the State and disclosed who ordered him to kill Captain Ntombela. Following his sentencing, Faith, Sithembiso Justice Khumalo, a school principal and Khulani Cele who had already been locked…

Buzetsheni Mdletshe, the praise singer of the Zulu king has issued a stern warning to the youth against neglecting family values such as respect and heeding the advice of elders. Mdletshe said disrespecting elders could breed unruly future adults. The historian was one of the speakers at the King Cetshwayo kaMpande memorial lecture hosted by the KwaZulu-Natal Museum in Pietermaritzburg on Thursday. The praise singer who is regarded as one of the custodians of Zulu customs, told the audience that included learners, academics, traditional leaders that the current spate of killings carried out by young adults in KwaZulu-Natal was against the wishes and teachings of the late Zulu kings, King Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu and King Cetshwayo kaMpande. “In the olden days any form of killing would only take place at the…

In light of Men’s Health Awareness month, psychologist Paul Bushell and media personality Jane Linley-Thomas write about the impact of kindness on mental health. We live in a world where there are many barriers to genuine connection. Fast-pace living, comparison, instant gratification, entitlement, devices, and fear have all contributed to feelings of loneliness and disconnection. This has had serious consequences to our mental well-being, including increasing levels of depression and anxiety, violence, and self-harm. Small and big acts of kindness have the power to make people feel seen and heard, and cared for. You only have to reflect on how the last act of kindness you did or received made you feel. And how that more than likely changed what happened next. This realisation inspired us to start a movement…

PRESIDENT Cyril Ramaphosa's inauguration in June was funded through the shifting of nearly R19 million from the national department of transport’s taxi recapitalisation programme after approval by the National Treasury. Details of the R18.9m moved from the taxi recapitalisation programme to bankroll the June 19 inauguration are contained in the adjusted estimates of national expenditure released during last month’s medium term budget policy statement delivered by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana. In total, R116.6m was shifted from the taxi recapitalisation programme to fund other programmes such as the Transport Economic Regulator, cost of living adjustments and the 27th Africa-Indian Ocean planning and implementation regional group technical meeting and 10th regional aviation safety group meeting. According to the adjusted estimates, only Parliament may approve the transfer of R80.2m from the taxi recapitalisation…

THE SACP is worried about the waning of its decades-long influence on the ANC and the DA likely having more sway on the governing party following the establishment of the government of national unity (GNU). The communist party is scheduled to hold its four-day special national congress next month at a time when the current reality is that its alliance partner, the ANC, is in coalition government with parties to its right and with what it described as “the outright bourgeois and neo-liberal DA”, on which the GNU coalition depends for parliamentary majority. According to the SACP, the influence of the ANC’s coalition partners will more than likely be towards an even stronger adherence to key neo-liberal policy prescripts – including stricter austerity, which will be justified as a more…

The Municipal Employees Pension Fund (MEPF) is set to escalate its legal battle against the City of Johannesburg after it challenged the municipality’s decision to rezone property adjacent to its R1.15 billion Nicolway shopping centre in Bryanston, amidst claims the rezoning was approved without the fund’s knowledge. In 2021, the MEPF purchased the Nicolway shopping centre from Erf 82 Bryanston for R1.148 bn. Controversy arose when the fund contested the city’s approval of the rezoning of land owned by Nordic Light Properties, arguing that it had not been properly notified as per legal requirements. The fund insists that this lack of notification violated the principle of audi alteram partem, which mandates that all affected parties should have an opportunity to be heard. The fund’s concern primarily hinges on the implications…

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has rubbished any suggestions of his side “benefiting from poor results” around their Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifiers. The South African national side kicked off their penultimate qualifying match against Uganda on Friday having already qualified due to Congo’s surprising loss to South Sudan the previous day. Both Bafana and The Cranes progressed from group K and will be in Morocco in December 2025. Broos’ men then put on a show as they dispatched Uganda in Kampala thanks to goals by Thapelo Morena and Patrick Maswanganyi and jumped to the top of the group standings with one more game remaining. Bafana will conclude the qualifiers with a home test against South Sudan in Cape Town on Tuesday. A victory will ensure they finish…

It wasn’t pretty, but the Springboks hung in during a frenetic second half to record a 29-20 victory over England at Twickenham in London last night. Here’s how we rated the world champions... Aphelele Fassi: 6/10 Didn’t get many chances to showcase his pace out wide. Unlucky that his pass drifted forward for a ruled-out try by Kurt-Lee Arendse. Claimed a few high balls in typically cool fashion, and put in some long clearing kicks. Cheslin Kolbe: 9 The first try was a fairly easy one from Manie Libbok’s cross-kick, but the second was trademark Kolbe as he stepped past opposite number Ollie Sleightholme to claim a crucial five-pointer in the final quarter. Also put in a few dazzling runs and vital kicks. Jesse Kriel: 6 Had his hands full…

Carlos Sainz will get a jump start on his transition to Williams, with Ferrari agreeing to release the Spaniard early from his commitments with the team so he can participate in the end-of-season test at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit. Sainz agreed to join Williams in July, more than five months after Ferrari announced that he would be replaced in 2025 by seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton. “This early opportunity will allow both Carlos and Williams to begin building their relationship,” Williams said in a statement. “The test session will provide a valuable chance for Carlos to begin integrating into his new team environment, and he will drive the FW46 for the first time.” Sainz will join Alex Albon to provide Williams with a veteran driver lineup in 2025. Sainz…

New Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim said on Friday that he would give “everything” to help take the struggling Premier League giants back to the top of English football. The Portuguese boss, who replaced the sacked Erik ten Hag, arrived at the club's Carrington training complex on Monday following a 4-2 win at Braga in his final match in charge of Sporting Lisbon. On Friday, United released a video of Amorim’s first interview with the club's in-house TV channel. United are 13th in the Premier League table after a poor start to the season but are only four points off the top four. “I will try to do everything to put this club in the place that it belongs,” he said. “And I believe a lot that we are going…

Following South Africa’s 3-1 series loss to India at home, Independent Newspapers’ Ongama Gcwabe rates the Proteas players. 6.5 - Tristan Stubbs - Runs:113, Ave: 38, HS: 47 Easily South Africa’s player of the series, Stubbs certainly did justice to the backing that he has been given by coach Rob Walter in the T20 format. The 24-year-old stood out for the team in tough situations and showed grit and determination with bat in hand. 5 - Marco Jansen - Runs: 102, Ave: 34, HS: 54, Wickets: 3, BBI:1/24 Despite having had a difficult series with the ball, Jansen had a decent run with the bat upon his return to international cricket. The half-century he scored in Centurion reminded everyone of his high ceiling as a batter. 4.5 - Andile…

Actress Kirron Kher has praised her husband, Anupam Kher, and said his journey in cinema had been nothing short of extraordinary. Kher said: “Anupam started with a small dream, just a young boy from Shimla with a deep love for cinema and a burning desire to make his mark. His journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.” She revealed that Anupam accepted roles which others declined. “He often faced rejection and financial difficulties, yet he kept going. “His unwavering belief in himself and his craft has allowed him to stand tall: 40 years later, he is still as driven and passionate as ever.” Anupam’s latest release is Vijay 69 in which he plays a character who displays resilience and vulnerability, traits that have come to define his real-life journey as…

Food waste has emerged as a pressing global concern. Millions of tons of edible food is discarded daily, straining natural resources and exacerbating environmental issues. In South Africa, where many struggle to afford necessities, innovative solutions addressing food waste are desperately needed. Enter Yuan Dowley, the co-founder of Afoody, a digital platform dedicated to reducing food waste while making quality food more accessible. Based in Richards Bay, but hailing from Overport, Durban, Dowley has a background in engineering that informs his entrepreneurial journey. His quest to make a positive impact stems from a lifelong fascination with problem-solving and innovation. “While growing up, I was always curious about how things worked,” he recalled, highlighting the analytical mindset that guided him towards a degree in chemical engineering at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.…

Two Amur falcons have been tagged with satellite transmitters by a senior Wildlife Institute of India (WII) scientist in western Manipur’s Tamenglong district to analyse the migratory routes of the raptors. Forest officials said the falcons were named Chiuluan-2 and Guangram with the approval of Anurag Bajpai, Manipur’s principal chief conservator of forests and chief wildlife warden,. He said that 11 Amur falcons, including the two tagged ones, were released last week at Chiuluan village after they were captured from a roosting site by a team of Tamenglong Forest Division and local volunteers under the guidance of Dehradun-based WII scientist, Dr Suresh Kumar. Two falcons named Riangsuanei and Laisana were also released. This study programme was undertaken with the guidance of the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate…

The KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, with its subtropical climate, not to mention some of the best nature-based adventures for families and the highest number of Blue Flag beaches in the province, is a top destination. South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise CEO Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya said the success of the region’s beaches could also be attributed to the hard work being done through private-sector initiatives like Keep Scottburgh Beautiful and Tidy Towns. It showed that the region was committed to providing a vibrant, clean, safe and welcoming atmosphere. Sibiya said the Blue Flag beaches attracted travellers far and wide but they were just one aspect of the diverse tourist destination. “It’s no surprise that the KZN South Coast is one of the top spots for holidaymakers over the festive season,…

IN2ASSETS Property Specialists will be auctioning 29 strategically located Telkom properties across South Africa, including valuable sites in the Western Cape, in its fifth portfolio disposal from the telecommunications giant. The sale, which will take place on December 5 at 11am, offers redevelopment opportunities for investors and developers alike. The auction will be live-streamed from the auction venue, ensuring both national and international participation. Among the properties going under the hammer, several standout Western Cape sites are set to attract attention: 1. 8 Jan Smuts Drive, Ndabeni, Pinelands Spanning approximately 26 363m², the extensive service yard features a double-storey office block, outbuildings and open workshops. The ample space provides numerous possibilities for commercial or industrial redevelopment, with prime access to key transport routes. 2. 130 Osborne Street, Bellville, Cape Town…

South Africa’s mounting infrastructure challenges, the private sector has pledged its commitment to partnering with the government during the fourth State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) conference held this week. This pivotal collaboration comes amid growing concerns that the government’s financial capacity to invest in infrastructure has dwindled significantly, with national debt skyrocketing from under 25% of gross domestic product (GDP) in 2008 to over 75% in 2023. Thuli Zulu, the divisional executive for client coverage at Nedbank, stressed that infrastructure development is a “shared responsibility” that necessitates urgent and concerted action from both the public and private sectors. “The government can no longer carry this burden alone,” Zulu stated, highlighting the stark reality that many SOEs, particularly Eskom, have accumulated debts that are strangling any potential for recovery. Zulu pointed to Eskom’s…

Talk about an unexpected turn. Just when streamers thought the drama ended with the two-part reunion episodes of The Mommy Club: Sugar & Spice, it got spicier. The heated on-screen exchange between Neetasha Singh Bugwandin and Naliyani Uma has spilt over from reality TV to real life. First, a quick update on what transpired on the show. Before the reunion shoot, there was an explosive off-camera interaction between the two cast members when Naliyani was brought on set. Visibly upset, she didn’t hold back in relaying what had happened to host Shahaan Ramkissoon. Neetasha said she didn’t know Naliyani and couldn’t understand the shade being thrown at her. Neetasha said Naliyani had been a fan who had shown her love on social media. But Naliyani stood her ground, pulling out…

IT IS inconceivable that a nation that once stood as a global champion for human rights could so blatantly mirror the tactics it has condemned abroad. At the Margaret Mine shaft in Stilfontein, North West, South Africa’s police and military have sealed off the entrances to trap thousands of artisanal miners underground. Dubbed Operation Vala Umgodi, this strategy deprives miners of food, water, and even the chance to surface without risking arrest. The parallels with Israel’s blockade of Gaza are unmistakable: restriction of movement, denial of basic necessities, and the punishment of entire groups under the guise of enforcement. The result is a human rights catastrophe unfolding within South Africa’s borders. Margaret Mine, located near the Vaal River, is a site of both industrial and social neglect. Acquired by Harmony…

Some South African truck drivers are counting themselves “lucky” to have returned home unscathed, having dodged the violence that erupted in Mozambique following the elections there. Others were not as fortunate as they attempted to get to the Lebombo Border post, the main crossing between Mozambique and South Africa, as their vehicles were pelted with all manner of projectiles. Frelimo were declared winners after the November 9 general elections were completed but the opposition Optimistic People for the Development of Mozambique (Podemos) party and their leader, Venancio Mondlane, claimed that the results were rigged. Mondlane mobilised his supporters, a week later, to participate in protests and strikes as an expression of displeasure for the election outcome. The call to action was heeded by thousands, barricades were set in strategic places,…

Six eThekwini Municipality employees were arrested and appeared in court on allegations of theft. According to a statement issued by the municipality, the workers were in the Inanda area on Thursday when they were arrested on allegations of theft of asphalt tar. “They were found transporting the asphalt tar and failed to produce a job card to explain why and where they were transporting it to.” The employees, who are from the Roads and Stormwater Maintenance Department, appeared in court on Friday. Head of the City’s Integrity and Investigations Unit (CIIU) Jimmy Ngcobo said the unit together with the Metro police received a tip off and pursued the employees. Ngcobo said the arrest showed that the City meant business when it came to rooting out corruption. “The team quickly acted…

JUST hours after President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the nation about food safety, Woolworths yesterday called on its customers to only buy Woolworths-labelled products from its stores or through the Woolworths online channel. This comes after seven people were arrested when police raided a factory where workers were allegedly packaging and altering dates on expired cans of Lucky Star fish in Woolworths-branded cartons. “While this investigation is ongoing, we have strong reason to believe that the product in question may have formed part of an imported shipment from an international supplier that was rejected by Woolworths, as a result of it failing to meet our stringent quality control standards. In the event of product being rejected, it becomes the immediate responsibility of the supplier to collect and dispose of the stock…

In recent years, a new trend has emerged in the world of healthcare, one that is forging a completely different path for patients seeking medical treatments. Known as medical holidays, or medical tourism, this trend sees people travelling outside their country to receive medical care that is often more affordable, quicker, and at times, technologically superior to what is available in their own countries. So, what is driving this increase in medical tourism? There are several compelling reasons that are prompting people to pack their bags and book flights to undergo surgical procedures overseas. One of the main reasons why this trend has become so popular is because it’s cost-effective. Many patients discover that procedures which might carry heavy price tags in their own countries, particularly Western nations, can…

As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza intensifies, with reports indicating over 43,736 Palestinian deaths and 103,380 injuries since Israel’s escalation of military actions on October 7, 2023, the South African government is grappling with calls for a more robust response concerning its relations with Israel. Yet, transparency regarding potential diplomatic actions, such as closing the Israeli embassy in Pretoria, remains elusive. President Cyril Ramaphosa’s administration has consistently voiced its commitment to pressuring Israel to adhere to international law and halt violence in the Middle East. However, spokesperson Vincent Magwenya provided little clarity during a recent interview with the Sunday Independent when pressed on whether the government was contemplating concrete steps like imposing a trade embargo against Israel. Despite a parliamentary motion last November advocating for the suspension of diplomatic relations…

THE ongoing legal proceedings involving the Umkhonto Wesizwe (MK) Party and the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) are revealing complexities that could significantly influence the democratic framework of South Africa. The central figure in this case is Dr Vusi Mhlongo, an expert witness whose critical findings regarding the 2024 elections have resulted in death threats, professional consequences, and misrepresentation in the media. The implications are significant. The MK Party is pursuing a court order to annul the national and provincial elections scheduled for May 29, 2024, contending that these elections did not meet the standards of being free and fair as stipulated in Section 19(2) of the Constitution. Mhlongo expressed significant scepticism regarding the IEC’s digital vote-capturing and reporting system, characterising it as unreliable and flawed: Over 15 million…

THE Municipal Workers Retirement Fund (MWRF) has been taken to the Pension Fund Adjudicator (PFA) following a failure to update Emfuleni Local Municipality workers on their two-pot applications. The workers want PFA to probe the operations of the scheme. This follows the members’ recent visit to the offices after a lack of communication between the scheme and members. The visit came after several attempts for assistance from the scheme failed. The emails, calls, and general enquiries were unanswered. The Sunday Independent also sent emails to the fund’s principal officer, Themba Mfeka, and two other emails to the administration, which were also unanswered. The Sunday Independent got into contact with Gloria Tladi (no position) who said the scheme was not a union matter and failed to answer follow up questions. Emfuleni…

AS the Gauteng department of education and the government of the province vow to continue with plans to curtail the introduction of poison to schools and suspend food vendors from pitching their stalls outside, some have branded this extreme and far off the mark. This as the numbers of children falling sick and dying from what is suspected to be poison ingested mainly through snacks bought either from tuck shops or the vendors who sell their ware outside schools continue to rise in the province and beyond, and as officials battle to pin down the actual source. In response to this and as an immediate measure, last week the Gauteng department of education issued an order to all schools and said food, whether from within or outside, should not be…

WHILE municipalities in Gauteng struggle to deliver services to residents due to their poor financial states, state schools in the province owe more than R262 million in rates and taxes to municipalities. Residents in the province are currently struggling with water and sanitation systems, which are having a negative impact on their lives. The municipalities also struggle to pay Eskom and Rand Water. Gauteng finance MEC Lebogang Maile last month revealed that Gauteng municipalities owed Eskom, the bulk of water and other organisations R27.098 billion as at July 31, 2024. Maile also revealed that 11 municipalities were owed more than R13bn to develop and improve revenue enhancement strategies and implement austerity measures to ensure service delivery operations remain within the adopted budgets. He said this money was owed to municipalities…

IT is easy to highlight South Africa’s woeful returns in bilateral T20 cricket over the last two years, particularly following the 3-1 series loss to India at home on Friday, and cast stones at head coach Rob Walter, his management team and also captain Aiden Markram. Perhaps that is just the nature of how the world works, the leaders always take the blame, but the journey of this Proteas white ball team deserves to be examined at a much deeper level. Like any other country in the world, South Africa find themselves having to scramble for players due to the ever changing landscape of professional cricket around the world. The high volume of T20 cricket around the league has led to this point where teams around the world now have…

The Springboks continued their recent domination of England after securing a hard-fought 29-20 victory at Twickenham yesterday evening. A brace of tries by winger Cheslin Kolbe, ice-cool goal-kicking by replacement flyhalf Handre Pollard and some resolute defence saw the world champions triumph over the English once again. It keeps the dream alive of an unbeaten UK tour with one more Test this weekend against Wales. For a second week in a row, the Boks were not at their best, but showed their class to trounce a spirited England. Kolbe, who played out of his skin, was named Player of the Match for his two tries, but that effort by the team on defence in the second half, even with a player down for 10 minutes, shows their class of the…

The Macau Grand Prix, back for its 71st edition this weekend, is renowned as the proving ground for young motorsport talent and exactly 10 years ago the eyes of the world were on a teenage Max Verstappen as he arrived in the southern Chinese city. The young flying Dutchman was already being tipped as a Formula One world champion of the future when strapped himself into an F3 car to take on the treacherous Guia Circuit in November 2014. He had one aim in mind, to emulate the F3 victories of his heroes Senna and Schumacher, who had conquered the 6.2km of narrow, unforgiving city street track - one of the greatest challenges in motorsport. Signed a few months earlier by Red Bull’s junior team, Verstappen had been guaranteed a…

Lee Carsley’ England are guaranteed to win promotion to the Uefa Nations League League A with a victory over Ireland at Wembley today. That is after they claimed a 3-0 win against Greece on Thursday, which showed the strength in depth that awaits Thomas Tuchel when he takes over as coach. England were hit by a rash of withdrawals before Thursday's Nations League clash in Athens, but Carsley's team made light of the star absences to keep alive their hopes of promotion to the tournament's top tier. Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Phil Foden were among nine players to pull out of England’s last two games of 2024 amid speculation they were encouraged by their club managers to miss the fixtures. England captain Harry Kane launched a scathing…

Actor Sidhant Gupta, who will play the role of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first prime minister, in the series Freedom at Midnight, has penned a beautiful poem as a tribute to the late political leader on what would have been his birthday. On Thursday, Gupta shared several pictures on social media. They featured photographs of Nehru with activists and leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore. The photographs also showcase Nehru sharing a tender moment with a child, and holding a red rose, his signature accessory that symbolised his spirit and ideals. Gupta wrote: “My distant dream is coming alive after all the miseries, struggles and fight. Breaking the shackles imprisoning my light. I carried the weight of the life I played. Tasting glories in his life’s story. “While his…

Recent data from The Marketing Research Foundation (MRF) has shed light on where South African consumers are directing their finances amidst growing economic pressures. As food, education and medical bills dominate spending, the country’s evolving landscape reflects significant shifts in consumer behaviour between July 2023 and June 2024. Johann Koster, the CEO of the Marketing Research Foundation, said, “Our MAPS dataset provides a holistic view of the South African consumer landscape. In addition to the interviews, over 10 000 leave-behind questionnaires are completed each year, enabling us to capture detailed information, from product categories and brands to behavioural and psychographic insights.” The report revealed that South Africa’s population aged 15 and above stands at 43 592 223, comprising of 18.5 million households with an average size of 3.7 people. The…

The African Group of Negotiators (AGN), led by Ambassador Ali Mohamed, this week issued a clarion call for substantial and immediate climate action at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan. Representing 54 African nations, the AGN highlighted Africa’s acute vulnerability to climate impacts and set forth key demands aimed at securing the continent’s future in the face of intensifying climate change. Speaking at the Joint Opening Plenary of COP29, Mohamed said, “COP29 must deliver meaningful results that send a clear signal of the multilateral system’s ability to address the most pressing global challenges effectively.” He outlined three primary goals critical to Africa’s climate agenda: ambitious climate finance, addressing loss and damage and advancing a just transition. The AGN’s top priority is achieving a robust and transparent climate finance goal that meets the…

In recent weeks, alarming reports of food poisoning cases in South Africa have raised serious concerns about public health and food safety standards, particularly among children. The increase in cases has primarily been attributed to the food consumed from school tuck shops and local spaza shops, highlighting an issue that demands immediate attention. Across social media and news platforms, horrifying reports of children falling ill – or worse, succumbing to food poisoning – have become all too common. With families mourning the loss of their loved ones, the weight of this crisis is felt acutely in every corner of the country. Experts warn that the rate of food poisoning among young schoolchildren is escalating at an alarming pace, transforming what should be a safe and nurturing environment into one fraught…

If you enjoy thrillers, Do Patti is worth checking out. This Hindi-language Netflix feature is helmed by Kajol as Inspector Vidya “VJ” Jyothi Kanwar, Kriti Sanon in dual roles as twins Saumya and Shailee Pundir and Shaheer Sheikh as Dhruv Sood. Set in Devipur, a village in Uttarakhand, the film opens with Saumya accusing her husband of attempting to kill her. The story tugs at the heartstrings of VJ, who has spotted bruises on Saumya on many occasions. However, she always refused to lay a charge against her husband – until now. With Dhruv coming from an influential family, he’s been able to get out of any legal trouble. In flashbacks, the film contextualises the situation. Saumya and Shailee lost their mom when they were little. Maaji (Tanvi Azmi), their…

CONSENSUS among international relations scholars is that our global order system is currently undergoing changes of great significance. The convergence in Sochi, Russia, of Africa’s foreign affairs ministers and their teams attested to the fundamental shift in global relations. Africa’s top envoys were hosted by their Russian counterpart, the veteran foreign minister Sergey Lavrov. Africa is in many ways a microcosm of the Global South. The continent represents many schools of thought and various intellectual standpoints. For example, Africa was the epicentre of the Western colonialism of the last century, often characterised by what some scholars have summed up as a period better described as a Scramble for Africa. The continent’s natural mineral resources are also a representation of the largely untapped wealth. Upon such resources rests the huge potential…

Nosipho Mkhize, a KwaMashu mother has cautioned parents to be on the lookout for where their children buy their snacks from. Mkhize’s daughter recently found a pill in a packet of chips that she had bought from a spaza shop in the area on her way home from school. She was with a school friend. “We are all aware of what has been happening. She told me that they usually open the snacks and share them. When they opened the packet they found a pill in it,” she said. Mkhize said she went to the police with the packet of chips and showed the pill to them. She said they could not open a case because they did not know what charge it would be. “The detective took the pill…

There is good news for the thousands of travellers expected along the busy N2 route as the festive season approaches. Repair work is under way to fix part of the Umbogintwini River Bridge following its partial collapse earlier this month. The collapse has led to a partial road closure and massive traffic congestion on one of the country’s busiest corridors, used by freight and logistics companies to ferry goods. According to the KZN Transport Department, the road freight corridors of the province are some of the busiest routes in South Africa. “The N2 corridor route from Richards Bay to Mpumalanga via Piet Retief, is an important route for timber, coal and other commodities. To the South of Durban, the N2 corridor links KZN to the Eastern Cape and the southern…

FOR centuries, it has been held that the ideas and movement for the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade came from western abolitionists. No input from Africans has been acknowledged. As a professor of African and Atlantic history, I challenge this notion in a book titled Lourenço da Silva Mendonça and the Black Atlantic Abolitionist Movement in the Seventeenth Century. The book is based on new material found in Portuguese, Spanish and Vatican archives. Its key argument is that the ideas and movement for ending transatlantic slavery began largely among Africans in the Portuguese empire in the 17th century. And not, as most accounts would have it, as a European idea in the 18th century. The book is based on two decades of research into abolition, universal freedom and justice.…

SOUTH Africa may have to adapt to the times and adjust its climate policies amid the return of American President-elect Donald Trump. Trump has made it clear that his government will repeal significant climate policies passed during President Joe Biden’s presidency. Under the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), South Africa was expected to begin moving away from generating electricity from coal, which accounts for four-fifths of its electricity generation, to producing more renewable energy using a $9.3 billion (R169.1bn) climate loan from Germany, France, the UK, the US, and the EU. However, Trump’s return after winning the 47th Presidential race may spell a dilemma for South Africa as Washington shifts from its previous energy policies, which Trump said were a “new scam.” During his presidential election campaign, Trump pointed at…

IN what can only be described as a perfect storm of political and social upheaval, explosive events keep on unfolding nationwide. Among them is the commencement of the formal inquiry into the conduct of Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba by the Health Professions Council of SA (HPCSA). This investigation stems from a trending video of the Premier’s remarks to a foreign national, who was a patient back in 2022, when Ramathuba was the Health MEC of Limpopo. The HPCSA, together with a number of complainants, have since launched what appears like a witchhunt against the Premier, citing Ramathuba for unprofessional conduct, a “breach of fundamental ethics, and fostering a discriminatory environment”, among others. The Premier has fervently rejected these allegations against her, stating that they are unfounded and baseless. Ramathuba has…

THE Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Angie Motshekga has been accused of hiding the true state of the SA National Defence Force’s (SANDF) prime mission equipment and its ability to fulfil its constitutional mandate. This was after Rize Mzansi leader Songezo Zibi asked Motshekga to provide information on the percentage of the defence force fleet that has reached the end of its lifespan but is still being operated. Zibi also requested the Minister to give a breakdown of this in each division as well as the cost to replace the outdated equipment. However, Motshekga, in her response to Zibi, said South Africa has established a practice and norm consistent with international practices that matters of combat readiness of the country’s military capabilities are only discussed in a closed session,…

THE Special Investigating Unit (SIU) will finally probe the troubled Vaal University of Technology (VUT) over four years after independent assessors’ recommendation an investigation into the institution’s current and former officials and student leaders. President Cyril Ramaphosa has authorised the corruption-busting unit to investigate allegations of maladministration in the procurement of services to refurbish student residences as well as campus security and protection-related services in 2018. ”The SIU investigation will examine whether the contracting of these goods and services was done in a manner that was not fair, competitive, transparent, equitable or cost-effective; or to applicable legislation manuals, guidelines, practice notes, circulars or instructions issued by the National Treasury and any related unauthorised, irregular or fruitless and wasteful expenditure incurred by the university or state or losses suffered,” the unit…

Jake Paul beat boxing legend Mike Tyson by unanimous decision to win an intergenerational heavyweight battle in Texas on Friday (Saturday morning South African time) that failed to live up to its enormous hype. The bout between the 27-year-old social media influencer-turned-prizefighter Paul and the 58-year-old former heavyweight champion Tyson was streamed live on Netflix and played out in front of a sold-out crowd at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. Those fans were left largely disappointed as Tyson showed his age and was never able to generate any offence against his younger opponent, landing just 18 punches to Paul's 78. “First and foremost, Mike Tyson - it’s an honour to be able to fight him,” said Paul. “It was as tough and hard as I thought it would be.” Tyson, who…

Ireland coach Andy Farrell said he would take Friday’s edgy 22-19 win over Argentina as they had managed to achieve something they had failed to do in the defeat by New Zealand and that was “win ugly”. The Irish dominated the first part of the match and with three tries led the Pumas by 13 points at the break, but just as against the All Blacks last Friday ill discipline and shoddy play allowed their opponents to take the initiative. “It was three or four games in one, wasn't it really?,” said the 49-year-old Farrell. “Obviously the over-riding feeling is we're delighted to get the win. We said last week we had a chance of winning ugly. We did that this week, that’s a plus.” Farrell said in a post-match…

THABANG Mosiako is back! And he is looking to end a year that was somewhat soured by a much-publicised fight with his former coach with a bang. The hugely talented Nedbank Running Club athlete finished a very close second in the inaugural Hollywoodbets Joburg 10K in Melrose on Saturday, losing out to Kenyan Vincent Kipkorir by a second. He beat Boxer Athletic Club’s Chris Mhlanga in a sprint finish that saw both runners credited with the same time of 29:52 on the pretty tough course. Speaking afterwards Mosiako thanked his supporters for standing by him during a difficult period that saw him being painted as an ill-disciplined athlete by his former coach Mike Mbambani. Mosiako and a few of his teammates were kicked out of the renowned coach’s Ikamva camp…

France will be out to avenge their defeat from earlier this year when they take on Italy in a UEFA Nations League clash at the San Siro in Milan today, defender Lucas Digne said. Italy secured a 3-1 comeback win at the Parc des Princes in Paris when the teams met in September in the Nations League A Group 2’s opening game. Luciano Spalletti’s Italy top the group with 13 points from five games, three ahead of second-placed France, who played out a lacklustre 0-0 draw with Israel on Thursday. Both teams have already sealed their spots in the quarter-finals scheduled for March. “There’s definitely a spirit of sporting revenge in the group. When you lose to someone (Italy), you don't want to lose twice, that's a must, and I…

After 24 years of nurturing young minds from grades 1 to 7, Westville Hindu Primary School is set to close its doors permanently due to insurmountable financial difficulties. The school, which has become a vital part of the community since its establishment in 2000 by Dr Bisraam Rambilaas, leased its land from the Shree Sanathan Dharma Sabha of South Africa. In recent months, however, the school has faced troubling economic challenges, prompting an eventual eviction notice from its landlords. Rambilaas said the situation had significantly worsened over the years, with a steady decline in pupil enrolment leading to an acute financial strain. “The landlord has instructed us to ask parents and learners to find alternate schools,” he said. The eviction notice was served in mid-October. Although the school sought a…

SLOW travel is gaining popularity among travellers who are driven by a desire to build connections with others and their surroundings during their stay, according to the 2025 Hilton Trends Report, Slow travel is immersing oneself into a destination for an extended time to experience the culture as a local. It encourages a leisurely approach to travel. Seventy-three percent of global travellers seek out authentic, local experiences when travelling with their children. Rural tourism is one way to embrace the trend. As South Africans look forward to summer, the KZN South Coast is home to the highest number of Blue Flag beaches in the province. However, the beaches are just one of the many attractions that set the “Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom” apart from others. South Coast Tourism and…

As the year draws to a close, travel trends offer a fascinating glimpse into the evolving priorities and preferences of people around the world. According to Miguel Farinha, the hotel manager at Kruger Gate Hotel, where 2024 was focused on recharging experiences, an emphasis on making the most of each trip taken is expected to grow in the coming year. “As we look towards 2025, we also see a continuation of some familiar themes, but with new nuances that reflect a growing desire for deeper, meaningful, personalised experiences,” said Farinha. He added that this trend holds for solo trips, for those who want to reconnect with nature and dig into regional cuisine. The travel expert shared some insight on what will shape the travel landscape in 2025. Balancing independence and…