Indholdsfortegnelse for 2025-02-16 i Sunday Tribune

Doechii is one of the hottest names in Hollywood right now - if you haven’t heard of her, here’s what you need to know. Born Jaylah Hickmon, the American rapper is not only making her mark in the music industry but is also redefining fashion norms for a new generation of self-expression. Since her debut EP, Oh the Places You’ll Go, in 2020, Doechii has carved out a unique niche by fusing the raw power of hip hop with infectious melodies and impressive lyrical artistry. The breakthrough moment came in 2021 with the viral hit Yucky Blucky Fruitcake, which exploded on TikTok, propelling her into the limelight and securing her a place among today’s most notable artists. Following this success, Doechii signed with Top Dawg Entertainment in a joint venture…

A fallen icon often makes for great documentaries. We’ve seen this done in Hollywood time and time again with Phoenix Rising, which saw actress and activist Evan Rachel Wood speaking out on the abuse she suffered while dating Marilyn Manson, and Surviving R Kelly, which exposed the Pied Piper of R&B for his historic predatory behaviour with teenage girls. Let’s not forget about the horrifying deep dive into Allen v Farrow and House of Hammer, where disturbing facts about Woody Allen and Armie Hammer, respectively, are brought to light. In some cases, these offerings helped bring about the downfall of giants who felt untouchable. However, the rise of the #MeToo movement has pushed for accountability and provided voices for victims who have been silenced in the misogynistic showbiz world.…

AFFECTIONATELY known for his famous remark “U-Amen Usekhona Revival”, Reverend Dr Simon Dingane Gumbi, one of our proud living intercessors, is described by many as “a true Man for Others [who] challenges us to see, think, feel, be, and do better”. Even in the twilight of his life, Gumbi is renowned for his diligence and remarkable breadth of knowledge. His unwavering devotion to evangelism defines his life. Evangelism, derived from a Greek word, means “to proclaim good news”. In person, Gumbi is gentle and unfailingly patient. He combines an understanding of the Church with a kind disposition towards all who bear the Lord’s image. He is greatly admired for his oratory skills and the strength of his convictions. Gumbi embodies his evangelical motto, visus non mentietur (the vision will not…

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has initiated an investigation into the eThekwini Municipality’s Water and Sanitation (EWS) unit regarding the provision of communal ablution blocks to informal settlements. The inquiry stems from concerns over alleged maladministration and improper conduct by municipal officials related to these facilities, crucial for enhancing sanitation access in an area where the need is dire. As outlined in a proclamation by President Cyril Ramaphosa, the investigation will scrutinise activities dating back as far as January 1, 2015. The key focus lies in allegations that could reveal irregular and unlawful conduct involving public funds amounting to millions. Reports indicate that the investigation will delve into whether the municipality or the state has suffered any losses, which could be recovered. The SIU is investigating allegations of serious maladministration…

Jade Lee Ashford, 51, from Durban, the Founder and Owner of the Paw Prints Rescue and Rehoming non-profit organisation (NPO) is this week’s Unsung Hero. The organisation is a pro-life puppy and dog rescue and adoption centre that is based in Botha’s Hill. Their main focus is caring for pups and dogs that are abused, neglected and unwanted, and providing them with medical care, good food and a safe haven until they can be adopted. The team consists of about 20 staff members, with roles ranging from administration, dog and puppy handlers, maintenance and garden staff. Volunteers also lend their hand and assist with chores such as cleaning and working with the dogs. While Ashford began the organisation in 2019, she has been involved in rescue work for twelve years.…

COSATU and the DA are at each other’s throats after the former made a presentation to the International Relations and Co-operation Portfolio Committee on G20 summit’s labour stream. Cosatu parliamentary counsellor Matthew Parks had a presentation along with others on women, business and civil society. In his presentation, Parks explained that the labour presentation was on behalf of all the country’s labour federations. But this did not augur well with the DA, EFF and MK Party. DA MP Ryan Smith led the charge in asking questions about the involvement of other labour federations in the G20 labour stream. Despite Parks’s explanation that was not contested, Smith issued a statement noting with concern that the portfolio committee restricted South Africa’s G20 presidency platform to an ANC-aligned Cosatu. He said Cosatu could…

Kim Doggett couldn’t find room in her refrigerator for a chocolate mousse cake she’d picked up at Costco supermarket in the US last weekend. “We usually have a houseful of people, so I decided to do what I always do in the winter,” she said. “I put it outside on the back deck.” Doggett, who lives in Gretna, Nebraska, near Omaha, then forgot about the tuxedo cake with chocolate ganache, which one reviewer described as a religious experience. Last Sunday night, she asked her son, Hayden Doggett, to pop outside with a batch of homemade peanut butter balls because there wasn’t room in the fridge for them, either. Hayden flipped on the porch light, opened the back door, then quickly slammed it shut. “He said, ‘I’m not doing this -…

A Durban man is demanding answers as to who opened a TymeBank account in his name in which R37 000 was deposited by the taxman without his knowledge and thereafter withdrawn. Jairaj Sathdav, 68, was shocked to learn that the refund mysteriously ended up in the TymeBank account, which he did not know about. The retired former Standard Bank clerk said SARS refunded him for deducting tax from his R8 500 medical aid monthly premiums. More shocking was that the account was opened using his details without his consent. He said every year, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) would deposit his refund into his Standard Bank account. “After I completed the tax returns, the refund was processed but was deposited into the wrong account. “I bank with Standard Bank,…

Romance scams are not just a distant threat – they are a growing reality for many South Africans, with organised crime syndicates leveraging online platforms to exploit the vulnerable. Global cybersecurity and digital privacy company Kaspersky said that in 2024, its researchers detected over 414 000 “Nigerian” email scams. Researchers said these emails relied on messages that lured victims with enticing financial offers, manipulating them into email exchanges that would ultimately be used to defraud them. “The latest scams related to this method include romantic schemes requesting reimbursement for alleged travel expenses, fraudsters posing as wealthy individuals seeking business investments, and even scammers claiming to represent the Illuminati, a secret society that dates back to the Enlightenment era.” Kaspersky explained that “Nigerian”-style scams are a type of advance-fee scam in…

MAJOR states fighting for control over vital marine channels have ushered in a new chapter of the struggle for dominance over world trade routes. Fundamentally, this fight is a complicated network of political influence, infrastructural development, and strategic positioning based around maintaining the arteries of world trade. From the Middle East to Africa, the struggle for maritime supremacy is changing geopolitics and alliances in ways that can alter world trade for the next decades. Like attacks in the Red Sea lately, disruptions to maritime routes highlight the fragility of world supply lines and the vital need for safe passage. One significant change in this continuous struggle is the grandiose Israeli project Ben Gurion Canal, meant to challenge Egypt's Suez Canal. Although the idea has been around for years, some predict…

THE City of Johannesburg has suspended the Rea Vaya feeder bus service in Soweto following the murder of two drivers earlier this month after pressure from the SA Municipal Workers’ Union (Samwu) in the municipality. The incident occurred on February 3 and buses were withdrawn. However, two days later services resumed, which angered the Cosatu affiliate. Samwu said the resumption of operations under the circumstances was not only irresponsible and rushed but also a betrayal of the trust workers and commuters place in the city to protect them. According to the union, the attack on the drivers was well-planned and executed, and placed the lives of both drivers and commuters at grave risk as the perpetrators remain at large and the threat of further violence still loomed large. Samwu also…

The Durban Magistrate’s Court is set to deliver its ruling next week on the bail application for the two men accused of the attempted murder of South African Revenue Service (SARS) advocate Coreth Naude. Naude was shot in the face and neck at the entrance of the Premier Hotel in uMhlanga on July 18, 2024. She had come to Durban on behalf of SARS to the tax inquiry concerning the tax affairs of Andile Mpisane and 13 others. Mpisane is the son of Durban’s controversial businesswoman Shauwn Mkhize. The accused, Siyanda Emmanuel Mbulwana, 29, and Mcebisi Corlen Runeyi, 28, were arrested on December 18 at the Western Cape. They both said they had no previous convictions or warrants of arrest for them. Mbulwana stated that he is self-employed as the…

WITH just two weeks left for food- handling businesses to register in an effort to curb foodborne illnesses, the South African government has tightened enforcement to root out illegal operations, raising concerns about “fronting” practices by undocumented foreigners, allegedly aided by local citizens. The deaths of dozens of people, mainly children, and the hospitalisation of thousands due to food-borne illnesses prompted the South African government in 2024 to make business registration mandatory for all food-selling and handling establishments. National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure spokesperson Mava Scott said that locals registering businesses on behalf of foreign nationals was a criminal offence. “We have received some calls and some concerns from other people. It is a concern that we have noted from the feedback that we are getting from communities and…

THE Special Investigating Unit (SIU) will soon institute legal action to cancel the lease agreement the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) signed for its headquarters in Cape Town. NSFAS is paying R2.5 million per month for the office rentals, a move that raised eyebrows with the higher education portfolio committee. Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane told Parliament that work was under way to move NSFAS out of its headquarters and set up regional offices in provinces. Additionally, Nkabane had stated that the entity’s lawyers will provide advice on whether the entity would be required to pay fines or suffer additional fees for terminating the rental lease agreement after completing their legal opinion in the examination of the lease agreement. DA MP Desiree van der Walt raised the issue of…

Marumo Gallants booked their spot in the quarter-finals of the Nedbank Cup as they edged AmaZulu 1-0 at the Dr Molemela Stadium on Saturday. Bahlabane Ba Ntwa scored early in the first half and held on to protect their advantage and boot Usuthu out of the Ke Yona competition. Zimbabwean-born Junior Zindonga got the scoring underway when he opened the gates for Gallants with a solo goal in the 17th minute. The 26-year-old showed great pace and tenacity as he torched a defender on the byline before heading straight for Richards Ofori’s goal. Zindonga had the necessary composure to slot past the goalkeeper in the near post for his first goal in South African football. With an eye on continuity and momentum, AmaZulu’s technical team opted to field the same…

WILL the next Chad le Clos please stand up? While many expect the heir to the South African swimming legend to be Matthew Sates, there is another rising young star in his wake. National 50m butterfly champion Jarden Eaton has been racking up an impressive list of accolades since youth level for Team SA. The swimming sensation from Johannesburg has been on six international tours. Jarden won a silver medal at the 2022 Fina World Junior Championship; a silver and bronze at the Ghana 2021 Africa Championship; three gold, one silver and a bronze at the 2022 National Championships; and two bronze medals at the 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games. At the 2024 Africa Games in Accra, Ghana, he bagged two gold medals, one silver and a bronze. Jarden is…

The start of the tournament presents the Dolphins with an opportunity to move past their recent disappointments in domestic competitions as they aim to finally jump the final hurdle and move past the doorstep of victory. They first have to see off a strong Warriors side to kick start their season on a positive note. The KwaZulu-Natal outfit has had a lot of success, especially in the T20 circuit and they can count themselves unlucky not to have a title to their name, after having reached three finals in the last five seasons. The One-Day Challenge has been their much-fancied competition recently, despite last winning it in the 2019/20 and 2020/21 seasons. They shared the latter with the Lions. The Dolphins will be out to improve on their recent shortfalls,…

The Lions' superiority on the attack laid the platform for their first win at Ellis Park over the Stormers on Saturday afternoon in the United Rugby Championship (URC). A 30-23 victory ended a run of six losses against the Cape outfit in Johannesburg, but their inability to score four tries kept them from leapfrogging the inaugural URC champions on the points log. While the Stormers were comprehensively outplayed on a wet Ellis Park, for a second weekend in a row they showed tremendous fight after trailing 24-6 at a stage to score for a battling losing bonus point. Looking at that scoreline at halftime, the home side should've won by more and they collected a bonus point for four tries. They ripped the Stormers apart and their three scores in…

Arsenal ignored their injury woes to close the gap on Premier League leaders Liverpool as Mikel Merino inspired a 2-0 win against Leicester, while Omar Marmoush's hat-trick fired Manchester City's 4-0 rout of top four rivals Newcastle yesterday. Mikel Arteta's side were in danger of wasting a chance to put pressure on Liverpool in the title race as they laboured to make the breakthrough at the King Power Stadium. With his attacking options limited by a host of injuries, Arteta sent on Spain midfielder Merino to act as a makeshift striker in the closing stages. It proved an inspired move as Merino netted twice in the last nine minutes to extend Arsenal's unbeaten run in the league to 15 games. In the 81st minute, Ethan Nwaneri swung a pin-point cross…

Global sensation Ed Sheeran is having a blast during the Indian leg of his “Mathematics Tour”. Recently, the British singer used social media to drop a compilation of his precious moments from his recent trip. Sharing some memorable pictures, Sheeran wrote: “Third India dump. 1. High-fiving some dudes following us around, they were cool. 2. @arijitsingh taking me around his home town, it was a mission to get to but worth it. 3. Warm down after the show, but can’t not watch footie bruv. 4. @thejohnabraham is an @ipswichtown fan now. 5. Gave out some pink shirts to the local kids’ football team in Shillong. 6. Wearing Warney @rajasthanroyals shirt, we miss you mate. 7. People like Perfect here. 8. Took my dad on a date in Mumbai. 9. These…

Veteran actor Kannan, known for his unforgettable role in director Bharathirajaa’s classic film, Kadhal Oviyam, is all set to make a comeback to Tamil cinema. Sources close to the actor say that he will be seen in a pivotal role in director Arun Prabhu’s Shakthi Thirumagan, featuring Vijay Antony in the lead. After being years away from the limelight, Kannan’s role in this much-anticipated film has aroused the curiosity of fans and film buffs. His return is set to be a major highlight, adding emotional depth and nostalgia to the movie. Arun Prabu, who is best known for having directed critically acclaimed films like Aruvi and Vaazhl, is directing Shakthi Thirumagan, which sources say will be a blend of intense family drama, action and emotions. The film is also being…

Nicholas Pillay, a 32-year-old Capricorn born and raised in Phoenix, exemplifies the transformative power of music. With a background in psychology, he has managed to blend his two passions – entertainment and mental health. Pillay has come a long way since his early days, and his story is one of determination, creativity and an unwavering love for music. “I went to Eastview Primary School, and Earlington Secondary School respectively. I then went on to study psychology, graduating with my Bachelor of Psychology degree (BPsych) at the Pearson Institute Of Higher Education in 2015. I got married in 2022, shortly after joining the SABC. And we just had our first child in December 2024,” he said. Pillay's journey into the world of DJing began surprisingly during his first year at university.…

Donald Trump bears a certain resemblance to the Roman god Janus. In Roman mythology, Janus symbolises the duality inherent in the world and people: Creation and destruction, life and death, light and darkness, beginning and end, etc. In short, everything has a good side and a bad side. In his first term in office, Donald Trump cut taxes, identified China as an adversary and forced Europe to work harder in its own defence. In retrospect, some of his policies even appear to have been sagacious. But Trump is also a convicted felon, and he has been a notorious liar and a threat to the rule of law. In the framework of politics, it remains to be seen with which of these two faces he will go down in history. In…

US President Donald Trump is rapidly proving to be a man of his words. Love or loathe him, the straight-talking Republican Party leader and a man who received a huge endorsement for his electioneering messages is someone who can be described as “what you see is what you get”. Trump stunned Washington’s allies and foes alike when he announced this week that he had a one-and-a-half-hour telephonic meeting with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin. Although their discussion touched on various pertinent issues such as the Middle East and energy, it was Ukraine that drew widespread interest globally. Trump had vowed during his election campaign prior to the November 6, 2024 US elections that he would bring to an immediate end the Hamas-Israel war and before his inauguration on January 20,…

Taxpayers should not expect any significant tax hikes or immediate relief when the Budget speech is delivered on Wednesday. According to experts, the Budget is set to focus on long-term growth and fiscal prudence, with the potential for a more stable economic future. Maarten Ackerman, the chief economist at Citadel, said while the government may not introduce new tax increases, it could consider adjusting existing tax structures, such as revising VAT or introducing changes to taxes affecting high-net-worth individuals. Areas to watch include potential modifications to Regulation 28, capital gains tax, and dividend tax, Ackerman added. “Given the limited fiscal flexibility, this budget must focus on enhancing efficiency and reducing unnecessary expenditure, all while creating an environment that supports sustainable economic growth,” he said. Albert Botha, the head of fixed…

THE rise in social media videos portraying animal cruelty has sparked discussions about the motivations behind such acts, and the accountability of both abusers and those who film and share these heinous acts. The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) said since the rise of social media platforms, it had seen an alarming increase in videos depicting animal cruelty. This has resulted in inspectors now dedicating substantial time and resources to tracking and investigating these videos’ origins. On Wednesday, the NSPCA arrested a man, who referred to himself as the “King of Crocodile”, for animal cruelty after a video posted on a social media platform showed him torturing a Nile crocodile. Earlier this month, videos of a Chacma baboon named Raygun being brutally killed in Delmas, Mpumalanga, by pupils of Botleng…

The Department of Home Affairs has detained controversial Miss Nigeria Chidimma Adetshina’s mother in Cape Town. The department’s spokesperson, Siya Qoza, said investigators from the Department of Home Affairs, assisted by the police, swooped in on Anabela Rungo yesterday morning. “The department withdrew Rungo’s South African documentation in September 2024 after finding that it had been fraudulently obtained, rendering her ineligible to continue residing in South Africa,” he said. “In an apparent act of brazen disregard for the legal consequences of her conduct, it appears that Rungo has defied her ‘undesirable’ status through her Mozambican passport.” Investigators from the Counter Corruption and Immigration Services branches of the department also found Adetshina’s under-age child residing with Rungo. “After being processed by Home Affairs over her apparent illegal continued residence in South…

Residents are being urged to join local crime fighting units as the prevalence of violent crime continues to sweep across Durban. The call to action comes in the wake of incidents where residents were killed in their homes in the early hours of the morning. Aidan David, chairperson of the eThekwini district police board, emphasised the importance of enhancing volunteer numbers within community police forums (CPF). “By increasing our numbers, we can outnumber the criminals on the streets,” he said. In the early hours of Wednesday morning, intruders forced their way into a home in Sarnia near Pinetown, killing Craig Deetlefs. Last week, father of one, Justin Isaiah, 40, was shot in the chest and his father, John Isaiah, 60, sustained a gunshot wound to his abdomen when armed intruders…

The Isipingo Ratepayers and Residents Association (IRRA) has taken the eThekwini Municipality to task over poor service delivery during a meeting on Friday. Ratepayers gave municipal officials an earful. Their main concern was the Kanku Housing Project, where a sewage pump station was not functioning. In 2020, the R70 million redevelopment got under way. Sewage has thus been entering the river through the stormwater drains. Additionally, it is making the roadways in the Isipingo area smell bad. There are 360 units in the low-income housing development. The ratepayers’ list of grievances was: • Illegal dumping in Isipingo; • Roadside mechanics, Isipingo CBD, and surrounding areas; • Illegal immigrants and pop up stalls that are selling drugs; • Mini-bus taxis occupying open spaces, parks and most of the residential pavements and…

Online romance fraud has become a global phenomenon. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation in the US, romance scams accounted for losses to about 24 000 Americans, exceeding $1 billion (R18.3bn), in 2022. On the African continent, Nigeria and Ghana have emerged as hubs for internet fraud. The “Yahoo Boys” operating in Nigeria and “Sakawa Boys” in Ghana have a reputation for engaging in various fraudulent schemes, including online romance scams. Over the past decade, I have researched cybercrime and criminology, focusing on West African online fraudsters. Coverage of romance scams often centres on victim narratives or sensational headlines, leaving offender-focused research largely unexplored. In a recent paper, I studied the cases of 50 people convicted of online romance in Nigeria. A separate research study I spearheaded involved interviews…

US PRESIDENT Donald Trump’s administration has heralded a significant departure from traditional foreign policy, exemplified by its shifting stance on key international players, including Africa, the Arab nations, China and the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa). These nations, alongside recent entrants like Egypt, Iran, Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates, cumulatively possess a GDP estimated at approximately $28.78 trillion (about R530 trillion), comparable to that of the US. With a collective population of about 3.6 billion, accounting for 45% of the global demographic, this coalition represents a substantial challenge to US economic hegemony. As relations with long-standing allies like Canada and European nations are subjected to scrutiny and renegotiation, the consequences of such pivots are likely to reverberate far beyond American shores. The shock and…

THE United States, China, Germany and Japan which are the four largest economies in the world, are facing record-low fertility rates, rapid ageing population and changing consumption patterns. For many pundits, this demographic shift will also be charectarised by a total shift in economic and political power dynamics, with the balance of forces tilting towards the Global South. This impending shift is not only unique to the four mentioned major economies but the majority—if not all developed economies—and has subsequently created a lot of panic and a lot of conspiracy theories especially among conservatives who see this dynamic as an existential threat compounded by a growing trend of right-wing politics and “pronatalism” across Europe and the US. The question Is whether countries in the Global South will leverage on…

THE City of Johannesburg’s top brass, including mayor Dada Morero, could be forced to forfeit being driven around the municipality in luxury vehicles by an army of members of the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD). This is after the City of Joburg missed the Valentine’s Day deadline set by the Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg, Judge Stuart Wilson suspending his January 2 order setting aside the March 2024 council resolution, to adopt and approve the Protection and Security for VIP Risk Management System Policy and declaring it unconstitutional and invalid. Judge Wilson then suspended the orders until Friday and gave any interested person to apply to extend the suspension period before its expiry and produce facts showing that doing otherwise would result in imminent harm. The policy, which was legally…

FOLLOWING South Africa’s recent two losses against New Zealand and Pakistan respectively in Lahore and Karachi earlier this week, the heat on limited-overs coach Rob Walter has gotten hotter. Walter's One Day International record does not make for pretty reading, having lost six consecutive matches including a whitewash to Pakistan here at home during the festive season, making it now eight losses in 11 matches since the start of 2024. In today's world, Walter's head would have been on the chopping block long ago given the little time professional coaches get to build teams across sporting codes. Perhaps the only reason behind Walter retaining his position after such dismal results is that Enoch Nkwe is the director of national teams and has high performance. With Nkwe having an extensive coaching…

Mihlali Baleka Kaizer Chiefs (1)(3) Sirino 13’, Miguel 77’ (p), Mmdi 89; CHIPPA UNITED (0)(0) Everybody needs their own version of Mbuyiseni Ndlozi around them. The person who brings so much light and positivity during a dark time for the party! And Gaston Sirino proved how much influence he can have on this Kaizer Chiefs team after ensuring they kept their chances of winning a trophy alive. Sirino and Co delivered a perfect Valentine’s Day present to the Chiefs faithful as they beat Chippa United at FNB on Saturday night to reach the Nedbank Cup last eight. Sure, Sirino, Inacio Miguel and Pule Mmodi scored three goals, but this was a masterclass performance from Amakhosi all round. Even the fans who are usually…

Indoor Hockey Men’s World Cup bronze medallists South Africa feel they have put African hockey on the map with their recent dream triumph in Croatia. The BlitzStokke ended their campaign in Croatia on a high, beating Belgium 6-5 in a pulsating bronze medal match at the Zatika Sports Centre in Porec. They had also secured notable wins over European champions Poland in their final pool match and a 6-0 thrashing of Iran in the quarter-final. Head coach Justin Rosenberg feels they have won the respect of the hockey world. ‘We put Africa on the map. But more so, we put South Africa on the map,” he said. “We competed with three out of the top five nations in the world, we beat two out of the five and that, for…

Durban City head coach Simo Dladla has highlighted the potential jeopardy their dreamy Nedbank Cup journey is opening the club to. The Motsepe Foundation Championship outfit booked their spot in the quarter-finals of the Ke Yona competition by coming from a goal down to beat Betway Premiership side TS Galaxy on Friday. Only seven months into their rebranding (having previously been known as Maritzburg United), the second division team are three games away from a potential R7 million payday if they can lift the cup. However, alongside that is their fine performances in the league where they sit top of the standings and are now firm favourites for promotion to the top flight next season. City are five points ahead of Orbit College in the second division with 18…

Rassie Erasmus’ Springboks have won every trophy on offer to them in rugby but there is a jewel they can add to their crown — a victory over the All Blacks at fortress Eden Park where they have not lost in 50 consecutive games. The Boks play their arch-rivals in Auckland on September 6 and a week later in Wellington. The New Zealand capital is a relatively happy hunting ground for the Boks but the same can’t be said for Auckland. To be fair, Eden Park is a burial ground for tourists, full stop. The All Blacks' unbeaten streak there is a record for Test match venues worldwide. The Kiwis last lost a match at Eden Park in 1994 when France beat them. Incidentally, that was the year when Ian…

Every man and his dog had written off the Sharks and given them very little chance of beating the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday. There was almost no way that the Durbanites could emerge victorious. They were missing several top-class Springboks due to resting protocols, injuries or suspension, and the Bulls had come off their first ever United Rugby Championship win in Cape Town over the Stormers. Jake White had picked his strongest possible team, although there were also a few stars missing for various reasons, and the Bulls had done almost everything but win. The Pretoria outfit had decimated the Sharks scrum, with Wilco Louw again demonstrating that he should undoubtedly be the Bok No 3 against the All Blacks in New Zealand this year. The Bulls pack…

Bollywood actress Rakul Preet Singh, who is gearing up for the release of her upcoming film Mere Husband Ki Biwi, says her character Antara is a very headstrong girl and someone who has a lot of self-love as well. “She’s an adventure-loving girl and a lot into sports. “I think the aspect that I connect with Antara is the headstrong part and she’s very certain of what she wants in life and doesn’t get distracted. This light-hearted movie is produced under the banner of Pooja Entertainment by Jackky Bhagnani, Vashu Bhagnani, and Deepshikha Deshmukh. The film is about a Delhi professional, who navigates through a complicated love triangle when his old flame returns to his life just as he begins falling for someone new, leading to a series of comedic…

February is often celebrated as the month of love, a time when romantic relationships take centre stage. However, it is essential to recognise that love exists in many forms, and relationships and friendships are equally significant. These connections play a crucial role in our overall well-being, enriching our lives and providing support in times of need. According to psychologist Dr Robert Puff, friendships make life more enjoyable and enhance our everyday experiences. He says: “As we move through life, we find that there are many things out of our control. We can’t choose our parents, genetics, or control the things that happen in the world around us. “One thing that we can control is who our friends are, and this decision can either make our lives so much richer and…

As South Africa approaches its 2025 Budget speech this Wednesday, experts agree that taxpayers should not expect any significant tax hikes. This as the Budget is set to reflect a focus on long-term growth and fiscal prudence, with the potential for a more stable economic future, but no immediate relief for South Africans. Maarten Ackerman, the chief economist at Citadel, said while the government may not introduce new tax increases, it could consider adjusting existing tax structures, such as revising VAT or introducing changes to taxes affecting high-net-worth individuals. Areas to watch include potential modifications to Regulation 28, capital gains tax, and dividend tax, Ackerman added. “Given the limited fiscal flexibility, this budget must focus on enhancing efficiency and reducing unnecessary expenditure, all while creating an environment that supports sustainable…

Celebrated South African actress, film producer, television host, and author Salamina Mosese continues to add her unique voice to the landscape of storytelling. Known for her winning performances at the South African Film and Television Awards (Saftas), Mosese’s latest literary endeavour is an extension of her passion for storytelling – one that not only reflects her artistry but also underscores her commitment to representing African narratives, particularly in children’s literature. In her own words, Mosese finds her “creative energy in everyday moments that often go unnoticed”. Whether it’s overhearing conversations, witnessing small acts of kindness or observing the struggles of ordinary people, she believes that life is brimming with stories waiting to be told. This inspiration extends from the vibrant noise of marketplaces to the calming embrace of nature and…

Lorraine Moropa is ready to captivate audiences in her latest role as Letsatsi, a woman of faith and patience, in Not My Type, on Showmax. The actor, known for her stellar performances as Kwaito legend Mandoza’s wife in Nkalakatha: The Life of Mandoza and in The Dock, recently shared her excitement for the upcoming romantic drama on Instagram. The actor went on to express her deep gratitude for the role, which she credits to God’s grace and provision. “I’m completely overwhelmed with gratitude and joy, thinking about the incredible journey that brought us to this moment,” she wrote, sharing her heartfelt thanks to the team behind the film. Moropa’s candidness about her faith and the importance of this role is evident in her words. “Thank you, God, for trusting me…

Political commentary in South Africa is a minefield. It is a space where the commentator is expected to navigate a labyrinth of racial, socio-economic and party-political loyalties, often at the expense of intellectual honesty. The public, it seems, demands consistency not in the pursuit of truth, but in the reinforcement of pre-existing biases. This expectation creates a paradoxical environment where commentators are both revered and reviled, often for the same piece of commentary, depending on the day and the audience. The situation is particularly fraught when it comes to commentary on the ANC, the EFF, the DA and the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP). Similarly, figures like Helen Zille, Jacob Zuma, Julius Malema and Cyril Ramaphosa elicit strong reactions, often drowning out any attempt at balanced, nuanced analysis. In South Africa,…

Ian Wyles would like to feature two properties that will go under the hammer during their auction on February 27 at 11am. The first property is a deceased estate consisting of two commercial offices – sections 14 and 15, Hythe Flats at 348 Sarnia Road, Sea View. Sea View is situated next to Rossburgh and is conveniently located, with easy access to transport routes, schools, shops and dining options. Section 14, Hythe Flats, is a 67m² ground level sectional title commercial unit located in a mixed-use sectional title development known as “Hythe Corner”. The unit comprises: Reception/meeting room Three office components Storeroom Kitchen fitted with melamine cupboards and countertops, and a single bowl sink Two parking bays Section 15 Hythe Flats is a 93m² ground level unit, which comprises: Tiled…

Muslim cleric Moegsien Hendricks was gunned down in the Eastern Cape yesterday morning. He had been in Gqeberha to marry a lesbian couple in Bethelsdorp. According to Facebook user Rif’at Brower, the local community and imams refused to marry the lesbian couple (Naadira Abader’s daughter). “Naadirah Abader’s daughter was getting married to another female non-Muslim. Sheikh Mukhtar of (Port Elizabeth) PE said that they will not marry the two females and no one in PE will. “The females then got the gay so-called imam from Cape Town – Moegsien Hendricks to marry them. “Moegsien was shot and killed at the wedding. There is less Fasaad now with him gone. We cannot allow this Fasaad (moral corruption against God) and Jahiliah in our community and faith.” Police spokesperson Captain Sandra…

The Durban High Court this week heard evidence regarding allegations of RDP houses being sold in Ward 101, Cato Crest. This information was disclosed by a State witness, whose identity is protected for security reasons. The State witness said during the campaigning for the 2021 local government elections, community members complained about this issue to Siyabonga Mkhize. Mkhize was an ANC ward candidate in Cato Crest, who was shot and killed on October 15, 2021, alongside his comrade Mzukisi Nyanga, while they were seated in a Nissan Navara in Cato Crest. The State’s case alleges that Nkosinathi Emmanuel Ngcobo, Sandile Mzizi, former ward councillor of Ward 101 Mzimuni Ngiba, Sifiso Mlondo, and Phathesakhe Ngiba conspired to kill Mkhize as they did not want him to be a councillor. Leading evidence…

An uMhlanga resident has called for a ward-based analysis and transparency on service providers to address the challenges of inferior infrastructure repairs in the eThekwini Municipality. Barbara Jellis made the suggestion after sewer pump stations malfunctioned in the area around Shelbourne Avenue and Ronan Road – affecting air quality as well as causing pipelines to back up. Jellis said for more than a week, sewage has been pouring across the lawned verge on Armstrong Avenue and flowing down to the M4 bridge in La Lucia. She added that the pump houses are not coping and that sewage is flowing into stormwater drains, which are affecting the beaches near Homeford Drive. eThekwini Ward 35 councillor Bradley Singh said this posed a serious health risk to residents, wildlife, and marine ecosystems. He…

THE critical role of unregistered SIM cards in about 60% of extortion attempts has reignited calls for stricter enforcement of the Regulation of Interception of Communications and Provision of Communication-Related Information Act (RICA). This statistic, revealed in Parliament this week by Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, underscores the growing exploitation of South Africa’s lax SIM card registration system by criminals, putting the safety and security of citizens at increased risk. Rica, enacted in 2002, was designed to ensure that all SIM cards are registered to their users, providing law enforcement with a critical tool to trace criminal activity effectively. However, with an estimated 60 million prepaid SIM cards incorrectly registered each year, the system is failing to deliver on its promise. This legislative shortfall has created a fertile ground for extortionists,…

COOPERATIVE Governance and Traditional Affairs Velenkosini Hlabisa has promised leaders of the Khoi and San community that they will take their seats in houses of traditional leaders in all three spheres of government. Hlabisa was speaking at the three-day all-inclusive national convention of the Khoi and San community leaders at the Birchwood Conference Centre, in Ekurhuleni, set to discuss and find permanent solutions to challenges raised by the community, including their recognition. He described the convention as a national consultation that should contribute to bringing about unity and ultimately cooperation on the leadership and the process for the Khoi and San communities. Hlabisa said there is a National House of Traditional and Khoi and San Leaders but the Khoi and San are not there and are only there by name.…

SOUTH Africa is facing an imminent water crisis that is quickly rearing its ugly head. For almost two decades, the nation has been contending – not only with incessant power cuts – but also with severe water shortages. According to the latest UN data, the national population in 2025 will reach about 65 million, and projected to steadily increase. Although water insecurity is oftentimes assumed to be a challenge in rural communities, the World Bank stated that more than 67% of the country’s population is located in urban areas, as of 2023. Ultimately, this shines a stark light, not only on the perpetual issues surrounding service delivery in South Africa, but especially surrounding the politics of water scarcity, and how the nation is expected to grapple with this. As climate…

The United States has long positioned itself as a global champion of human rights, democracy and economic opportunity. However, its policies and decisions concerning South Africa, particularly regarding its white minority, have often been fraught with contradictions, suspicions and unintended consequences. From the apartheid era through the post-1994 democratic transition, Washington’s involvement in South Africa has frequently exacerbated racial tensions and economic disparities. The recent surge in H-2A visas issued to South African farm workers, who are predominantly white, and Donald Trump’s executive order (EO) prioritising the resettlement of Afrikaners as refugees underscore the complex and often problematic nature of US engagement with South Africa. The US has a complicated history with South Africa, particularly during the apartheid era. Washington maintained economic and political ties with the regime and prioritised…

A 31-year-old man from Sherwood in Durban has brought former senior State prosecutor, advocate Bheki Manyathi, to defend him in his double murder trial of two young women, whom he allegedly shot in August last year. Manyathi was the prosecutor in the corruption case of the former speaker of Parliament Nosiviwe Mapisa Nqakula, however, it was not clear if he will continue with this case. Manyathi was also an evidence leader at the Moerane Commission of Inquiry into the killings of political office bearers in KwaZulu-Natal, which began in 2016. This commission led to the formation of the national political task team. Earlier this week, Manyathi told the high court that he would need a week to familiarise himself with the case of Lungani Mthethwa, who is charged with…

Orlando Pirates sniff out any possibilities of an upset as they beat Baroka FC 3-1 in their Nedbank Cup clash at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday. The Buccaneers advance to the last eight in their chase of a third consecutive Nedbank Cup title and they also maintained their unbeaten run against the NFD Motsepe Championship side in their 14 encounters. In their own backyard for this crunch fixture, the Ghosts were haunted by the memories of their harsh league loss against Mamelodi Sundowns the week before but an opportunity to emphatically bounce back stood before them. In a competition famous for having even the smallest of stones toppling the mightiest of giants, David has emerged victorious previously as the script that was written in the final of the then Telkom…

Olympics silver medalist Bayanda Walaza continues his rise as one of South Africa’s best sprinters with yet another impressive outing on track. The 19-year-old was one of four 4x100m silver medalist winners from the Paris Olympics last year in a team that also included Shaun Maswanganyi, Bradley Nkoana and champion sprinter Akani Simbine. His exploits in the 2024 World Athletics U-20 Championships, where he picked up gold medals in the 200m and 100m events in Lima, Peru, solidified why he is known as the world's fastest teenager. Walaza took to the field for his first 60m race at the Curro Podium Grand Finale last weekend and he breezed through his competition at an impressive time of 6.58 seconds, winning his first ever outing in the event. Excited about his performance…

Former Olympic sprinter Matthew Quinn couldn’t wait to get the new nationwide schools athletics series, Track and Field, up and running at Hartswater High School in the Northern Cape this weekend. He sees the series as the ideal way to unearth the next Prudence Sekgodiso, Bayanda Walaza, Benjamin Richardson, Bradley Nkoana or Akani Simbine. Quinn is one of the co-founders of the series trumpeted as the biggest and most prestigious in South African schools athletics. He said there were already great athletics competitions in Gauteng and the Western Cape. “The idea behind it (the series) is to take athletics to every corner of the country. “We want to find the next Prudence, Bayanda, Bradley, Benji, and the Akanis of the world,” Quinn said. “Because those kids didn’t grow up in…

The Sharks have had some unlikely victories at Loftus Versfeld over the years, and their shock 29-19 defeat of the Bulls in Saturday night’s United Rugby Championship derby is close to taking the cake. The Durban team were missing 15 top players, including seven current Springboks, while the Bulls had been on a red-hot streak. But the Sharks did not get the memo that they were going to lose heavily. The astonishing result was as much about the Sharks’ dogged refusal to give in – even when they were down to 12 players at one point – as it was to the Bulls being shockingly poor. This game was supposed to be a gift five log points for Jake White’s men, but they delivered a wretched performance that saw their…

Ace music director Ilaiayaraaja will form a girls’ orchestra in honour of his daughter, National Award winning singer Bhavatharini, who died last year. Participating in an event organised to remember Bhavatharini on February 12, which was her birthday, Ilaiyaraaja said that Bhavatharini had told him that she wanted to start an orchestra. The music director said: “Bhavatharini’s last wish was to start a girls’ orchestra. Two days ago, when I was in Malaysia, several girl groups sang before me. When I saw it, I remembered what my daughter Bhavatharini had told me.” Stating that he was going to start an orchestra in Bhavatharini’s name, Ilaiyaraaja said: “Girl students – both school and college students – who are not over 15 years will be a part of this orchestra. I am…

Sri Lankan beauty and Bollywood star Jacqueliene Fernandez agrees that cinema plays a major role in setting trends in the fashion world. “Does cinema play an important role? Of course, yeah, it does,” she said. “Because certain roles, figures and certain characters are so fashionable and stylish that they've exploded or once people have, like, taken a liking to them or once their style has kind of been liked. She said that films influenced people when it came to fashion. “Yeah, it influences so many people so it's the same with style, people like to copy the style of their favourite characters,” said the actress, who turned muse for designer Kanika Goyal at the Blenders Pride Fashion Tour in Chandigarh. She said that fashion to her meant being…

Durban-based content creator Uthika Naidu, 37, has carved a unique niche for herself as an influencer, using her platform to explore the intersection of motherhood, heritage and culinary delights. Since her journey began in 2020 during the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic, Naidu has evolved organically from a parenting blogger into a beloved voice that celebrates South African Indian culture through food. “Becoming a mom for the first time opened my eyes to the realities of motherhood,” Naidu shares. “I wanted to articulate a raw and real perspective, sharing my experiences and connecting with other moms. Then, as Covid-19 unfolded, I found myself gravitating towards something that felt both safe and personal – food content.” Her passion for South African Indian cuisine became the cornerstone of her online…

zamandosi.cele@inl.co.za Imagine strolling through the bustling markets of a foreign city, basking in the sun on pristine beaches or indulging in exquisite local cuisines – all without the stress of paperwork. As global travel becomes increasingly accessible, South Africans are seizing the opportunity to explore a plethora of vibrant destinations that offer the added convenience of visa-free entry. In a world where time is of the essence, the ability to pack your bags and embark on an adventure without the hassle of lengthy visa applications is a game-changer. Whether you’re yearning for thrilling escapades, romantic getaways, serene relaxation, or immersive cultural experiences, countless places are waiting to be discovered. From the historical wonders of ancient civilisations to the breathtaking landscapes that seem to be plucked from a postcard. Here…

The thrill of travelling often brings to mind breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable encounters. A new report by Go2Africa reveals that for many adventurers, going on safari commands a prominent spot on their travel bucket list, ranking as the second most popular experience globally according to Google search trends. This fascination with wildlife safaris speaks volumes about our innate desire to connect with nature in its most magnificent form. Miguel Farinha, Manager at Kruger Gate Hotel, encapsulates the essence of safari travel, stating: “A safari holiday is one of the best ways to fully immerse yourself in the wonder of nature in all her glory.” The appeal extends far beyond the allure of witnessing the famed Big Five; it offers an unparalleled opportunity not just for personal enjoyment but also…