Indholdsfortegnelse for 2025-06-29 i Sunday Tribune

As we plunge deeper into the digital age, a new societal affliction is taking root: digital addiction. According to the recent Hooked in 2025 survey presented by Casinos Blockchain, a staggering 95% of US adults engage with YouTube, affirming its status as the most habit-forming platform. Coupled with rising screen time across social media giants like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, this data raises critical questions about our relationship with technology and its far-reaching implications on mental health. The survey, which sampled 1 000 participants, paints a vivid picture of how behavioural dependencies are evolving, with distinct patterns fluctuating across different age groups and platforms. With nearly one in five users reporting over five hours spent daily on YouTube, and around 80% of respondents admitting to engaging frequently with social media,…

When it comes to having a finger on the pulse of what South African viewers want to see, Showmax is leading the way. No, this isn’t a plug for the streaming platform but about its compelling content rather. It recently introduced Untied, a talk show helmed by Relebogile Mabotja, who sits down with high-profile women unpacking their messy divorces. Yes, it is giving Unfollowed vibes. But who doesn’t enjoy a good tea spilling session, especially when it’s with the likes of Beverly Steyn, actresses Dawn Thandeka King, Mona Monyane and Palesa Madisakwane, media personality Zandi Nhlapo and model-turned-activist Sonia Booth. Of course, thanks to a last-minute court interdict, there is still a question mark over whether the interview with businesswoman Norma Gigaba will air. That said, The Real Housewives of…

As South Africa gears up for one of its most anticipated social events, the Hollywoodbets Durban July (HDJ) 2025 promises an extravagant display of glamour, excitement and fierce competition. Taking place next Saturday, at the Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse, this year’s “Marvels of Mzansi” theme is set to showcase the best of South African culture and creativity, bringing together fashionistas, racing enthusiasts and socialites alike. For many, the marquee experience is as vital to the event’s allure as the thrilling horse races themselves. From lavish decorations to exquisite dining, each tent presents a unique atmosphere that reflects the theme while providing guests with an unforgettable experience. As the anticipation builds, we explore some standout marquees to look forward to this year. Halisi Afrique’s Hospitality Step into the vibrant energy of Halisi…

The recent decision by President Cyril Ramaphosa to relieve the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition, Andrew Whitfield, of his duties has sparked a flurry of speculation and debate in South African political circles. This move, while constitutionally within the president’s prerogative as outlined in Section 93(1), has raised questions about the balance of power, the role of coalition agreements, and the transparency expected from the executive branch. The president’s authority to hire and fire Cabinet ministers and their deputies is a cornerstone of the South African constitution. This power is intended to ensure that the president can effectively lead the government and implement his vision without undue interference from other political entities. However, the absence of reasons provided by Ramaphosa for Whitfield’s dismissal has led to calls for…

Prostate cancer remains the most common cancer affecting South African men, with alarming statistics showing that one in eight will face this disease in their lifetime. Yet, what makes prostate cancer particularly dangerous is its silence in the early stages – a reality that health experts are urging men not to ignore this Men’s Health Month. “Usually, men do not feel any symptoms until prostate cancer has progressed significantly, which is why they need to be proactive about booking their routine prostate cancer screenings,” warns Dr Johan Coetzee, urologist at Netcare Greenacres Hospital in Gqeberha. Together with his colleague, urologist Dr Hannes Brummer, Dr Coetzee is on a mission to raise awareness about early detection and the life-saving impact of modern treatments. “With the advanced prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening blood…

Consultation processes and efforts to extend KwaZulu-Natal’s iSimangaliso Wetland Park into Mozambique as a Transboundary World Heritage Site are under way. This was one of the big six priorities announced by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) Minister Dion George during the budget vote on Friday. George referred to KISS – Kruger National Park, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, iSimangaliso Wetland Park Icon Status Strategy, which the DFFE is elevating into engines of ecological protection, job creation, inclusive tourism and community empowerment. George sad that iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority was advancing its commercialisation strategy, with 62 contracts already signed and new revenue from tourism concessionaires set to flow directly to the entity from September 1. “The revised National Biodiversity Economy Strategy will unlock 397 000 jobs and inject R127…

LIEUTENANT-GENERAL Dumisani Khumalo, the head of Police Crime Intelligence, along with six colleagues, appeared in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on Friday to apply for bail relating to charges of unlawful senior appointments within the police force. On their first court appearance, all but one of the accused were granted bail set at R10 000 each. The arrested include five police officials who stood alongside Khumalo in the dock. Khumalo was arrested at the OR Tambo International Airport on Thursday. The group’s Chief Financial Officer, Major General Philani Lushaba, also charged, remains in custody due to a pending case, where it was ruled that he could not be released on a technicality. Henry Mamothame, spokesperson for the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC), confirmed that Lushaba's pending case did not reflect on…

In a compelling legal confrontation, Nhlamulo Ndhlela, the national spokesperson for the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP), is going ahead with a defamation lawsuit against the party’s former secretary general, Floyd Shivambu, seeking a hefty R3 million in damages despite the latter’s apology. The lawsuit comes on the heels of disparaging claims made by Shivambu during an interview with eNCA which Ndhlela asserts were baseless and intended to damage his reputation. Shivambu had publicly called Ndhlela “an imbecile” and “a fool”, alleging that he was “always on drugs and always high on alcohol”. Furthermore, these allegations included accusations of dishonesty regarding his interactions with former president Jacob Zuma, specifically suggesting the misuse of Duduzile Zuma to gain influence within the MK Party. According to Ndhlela’s attorneys, Ndou Inc Attorneys,…

On June 26, 1955, the Freedom Charter was adopted in Kliptown, Soweto, in Johannesburg. This document envisioned a free South Africa post-apartheid. It gave hope of a better future where people’s dignity would be restored, and racial stratification be a thing of the past. This gave hope for a better life for all South Africans. Of the 10 clauses in the Freedom Charter as the focal points, a few stood out and have been ventilated over the years. The first clause stated that “the people shall govern”. This assumed that a government of the people would be constituted, not the apartheid government which represented a white minority. The fourth promise was that “the land shall be shared among those who work it”. Implicit in this vision was that the black…

It rained almost non-stop in Cape Town this week, and when more grey skies greeted the Mother City on Saturday, you were expecting the worst as a rugby fan. Despite the Barbarians being in town for what is usually a festival-type running-rugby game, the slippery conditions would’ve been expected to affect both teams’ approach at Cape Town Stadium. But the Boks actually didn’t hold back in that regard in their 54-7 victory over the invitation side to entertain the 45,000-strong crowd. As early as the fourth minute, there were an array of impressive passes from the home side that would’ve been expected from the visitors. The South Africans put together a series of phases, with Lood de Jager running hard a few times, debutant prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye showcasing his deft…

Defending champion Oriental Charm will lead the charge from the coveted pole position gate for the 129th running of the Hollywoodbets Gr1 Durban July, boasting a purse of R5 million. The premier event on South Africa's horse racing calendar is on Saturday, 5 July, at Hollywoodbets Greyville, the race's illustrious home. This year’s Durban July promises a vibrant celebration themed “Marvels of Mzansi,” seamlessly merging cultural festivities with the thrill of racing at As always, the event anticipates not just fierce competition but also a showcase of South African culture and fashion, drawing crowds eager to indulge in the spectacle. Oriental Charm is aiming to repeat last year’s success under the guidance of young trainer James Crawford. Crawford, who will be saddling his first runners in the Durban July for…

Kangana Ranaut actress turned BJP politician, Kangana Ranaut, criticised Zohran Mamdani, the son of renowned film-maker Mira Nair and a contender for the New York Mayor’s post, for his anti-Hindu and pro-Pakistani views. In a message on the social media platform X, the national award-winning actress expressed shock over Zohran’s hateful views about India. “He sounds more Pakistani than Indian,” wrote Ranaut. The Mandi MP also pointed to “Bharat-raised” Nair’s marriage to celebrated author Mehmood Mamdani (of Gujarati origin), and wondered why their 32-year-old Muslim son appeared “ready to wipe out Hinduism”. On a sarcastic note, the BJP MP wrote: “On a different note met Mira ji on couple of occasions congratulations to the parents.” Ranaut’s message began with the introduction of Ugandan-born Indian American’s mother. “His mother is Mira…

Global star Priyanka Chopra will next be seen as the M16 agent Noel Bisset in the much-awaited Hollywood drama, Heads of State. Chopra spilled the beans on what it was like being the only woman in a male-dominated movie starring John Cena and Idris Elba. Sharing her experience of working alongside Cena and Elba, PeeCee said, “Oh, it was amazing. I didn’t feel left out at all. It didn’t feel like... It wasn’t like it was high school. They wanted to work together when they did ‘Suicide Squad’, and that’s where the inception of the movie came about. And Peter Safran (producer) was like, we’ve got to bottle and sell this.” “So I’m just really happy to be on the ride with them and be the only girl in this,…

In a whirlwind of romance and luxury, Cardi B recently unveiled snippets of her vacation with her new footballer boyfriend, Stefon Diggs. Known for her vibrant personality and unfiltered commentary, the rapper took to Instagram to share details of their extravagant getaway, which has set social media abuzz. The videos highlight how Diggs has become her genie, fulfilling long-held travel desires. Cardi B expressed her disbelief as she revealed that they were staying in a real castle, saying, “Why does this man have us staying in a castle? I’m talking about a real castle.” The couple have been enjoying romantic moments together in picturesque Paris, and this enchanting stay at the lavish castle was much-needed for the busy rapper. The rapper's excited tour of the castle showcased its impressive features,…

In an age where mass production dominates the consumer landscape, House of Lemba is carving out a niche in the jewellery industry that resonates with authenticity and cultural depth. Founded by Bernice Pearl Dickson, this bespoke jewellery brand offers a unique blend of creativity and heritage, drawing from her rich cultural background and a deep-seated fascination with natural diamonds and gold. At 48 years old, Bernice’s journey is both inspiring and indicative of the challenges many entrepreneurs, particularly black female business owners, face in South Africa. Born on December 7, 1976 in the township of Mabopane, Pretoria, Dickson embodies the spirit of resilience that has come to define the Lemba community, known for their rich traditions and entrepreneurial spirit. Her childhood was steeped in family tales of business ventures, including…

The queen of talk shows, Oprah Winfrey, once again takes the lead in tackling a subject that affects millions of women: menopause. In 2023, Winfrey opened conversations around menopause with her groundbreaking special, The Menopause Talk. Now, she returns to this vital subject in an even more profound way with An Oprah Winfrey Special: The Menopause Revolution. In the special, which is currently streaming on Disney+, Winfrey brings together a powerhouse panel of guests, including actresses Halle Berry and Naomi Watts, along with journalist Maria Shriver. Each of these influential figures bravely shares their stories of misdiagnosis and the often-painful symptoms they faced. Also joining the discussion are expert voices such as Dr Mary Claire Haver, a specialist in women’s health and Dr Rhonda Voskuhl, a neurologist renowned for her…

In South Africa, where societal expectations often demand that men shoulder life’s burdens in silence, the pressures of work, family, and responsibility can take a hidden toll. The result? Physical and mental health quietly slip down the priority list – often until it’s too late. Statistics from the South African Depression and Anxiety Group paint a stark picture: one in three South Africans will experience a mental health issue in their lifetime, yet only one in 10 will get the help they need. Even more alarming, suicide rates among men are five times higher than among women – a haunting reminder of what happens when struggles go unspoken. “Too many men are silently struggling because we’ve been conditioned to ‘man up’ instead of speak up,” says Tim Carter, Head of…

Life sentence for murdering secret girlfriend A northern KwaZulu-Natal man has been handed a sentence of life in prison for killing his “secret” girlfriend. The Vryheid Regional Court sentenced Innocent Fanyane Dubazane, 51, on Friday for the murder of Nonsikelelo Nqobile Xaba, 45, in February 2024 in the Mondlo area. National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson Natasha Ramkisson-Kara said the pair were in a relationship, but they had kept it a secret from their families. On February 8 last year, Xaba’s body was discovered in a ditch in the C section area of Mondlo. “The body was covered with a duvet cover and shade netting. The deceased was fully clothed, but she did not have shoes on. It appeared that she was brutally assaulted with a blunt object,” said Ramkisson-Kara.…

After a memorable family weekend away in the Drakensberg, a family lost three of their loved ones within hours. Kevin Govender, 50, was on his way to Durban on Monday to prepare for his father, Mannie’s funeral when he and his daughter, Emily, 23, died in a car accident on the N3 near Harrismith. Mannie, 82, a cancer survivor, had taken ill on Sunday in the Drakensberg and died later that day. Seelan Govender said that his siblings, along with their families, and his parents were in the Drakensberg last weekend for a family getaway. “My dad took ill on Sunday morning and we took him to a medical facility for treatment, where he later passed away. “We decided to travel back home to Johannesburg to pack and travel to…

Celebration of South African heritage and horse racing The Hollywoodbets Durban July taking place on Saturday, July 5, is expected to attract about 45 000 race-goers. A highlight on the horse racing calendar, the Durban July, as well as other events around the city is expected to inject R690 million into the city’s economy. This year’s theme, “Marvels of Mzansi”, celebrates South Africa’s rich heritage, cultural diversity and breathtaking landscapes, paying tribute to the nation’s extraordinary achievements. Stephen Marshall, Hollywoodbets events and marketing executive, said they expected 45 000 guests, including a mix of celebrities, influencers and high-profile dignitaries from across the country. “This year, we are especially thrilled to introduce an exclusive VIP Marquee Village, which will offer a curated, high-end experience that truly showcases the glamour, fashion…

KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC, Nomagugu Simelane, is under fire after allegations surfaced that she and her close associates have influenced the appointment of hospital board members linked to the ANC and political patronage. Sources argue that the recent appointments across various health institutions in the province lack transparency and merit, raising concerns about cadre deployment in the health sector. The controversy escalated after a formal complaint was lodged with the department, prompting questions about the integrity of the appointment process. Last Friday, Ndunankulu Phakamani Owen Dlamini, traditional leader of Esiphahleni under the Esiphahleni Traditional Council, penned a letter raising serious concerns. “I was born and currently reside in Richmond. Following my nomination by the Traditional Council, I submitted an application to serve as a board member in Richmond Hospital, representing our…

Ian Wyles Auctioneers is featuring two properties set to go under the hammer during their multi-property auction on July 30 at 11am at the Oyster Box Hotel, 2 Lighthouse Road, uMhlanga Rocks. The first property is a commercial building in a secure gated industrial node – Sections 12 and 13, Dura Industrial Park, 1 Van Der Bijl Road, New Germany. Dura Industrial Park serves as a key component within KwaZulu-Natal’s industrial framework. Strategically positioned in one of the province’s most established industrial zones, the park offers exceptional connectivity, well-developed infrastructure, and close proximity to essential commercial and logistical amenities. The property comprises: • Two consolidated sectional title units • GLA: ±1 650m² • 75 parking bays • Three-phase power supply • ±85m² office components per unit, split over two levels,…

The global shocks Africa has had to deal with have been coming fast and furiously in recent years. The Covid-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war and the re-election of Donald Trump as the US president in 2024 are some of the external shocks that have had a massive impact on Africa’s economic standing and prospects. As the continent was still trying to find its feet from the devastation caused by these geopolitical wrecking balls, another, potentially more devastating one, suddenly emerged on the horizon. On June 14, the world woke up to the news of Israel’s surprise attack on its long-time foe, Iran in the so-called Operation Rising Lion. The Jewish state deployed hundreds of its warplanes over the Iranian skies dropping bombs on the Islamic Republic’s nuclear and other military…

How Africa can foster sustainable diplomacy amid trade tensions The abrupt exit of Donald Trump from the G7 Summit in Canada, without having side meetings with Global South leaders from South Africa, India et al, and this week’s Nato Summit where core nations committed to a 5% of GDP spending on Defence amid Trump tariffs has cemented ‘nationalism as the new normal.’ Meanwhile, 9 July is a key date when Trump tariffs kick in and will further erode African nations – who face high costs of capital and many face social conflicts amid multiple cost of living crises facing the continent. In this context, South Africa should develop a smart agile and sustainable diplomacy rooted in both national interest and continental solidarity. Traditional blocks and alliances are…

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce punched her ticket to a ninth World Championships with a third-placed finish in the 100m at the Jamaican national athletics trials on Friday. Fraser-Pryce, a three-time Olympic gold medallist and 10-time world champion, clocked 10.91sec to finish third in the women's 100m final and secure a berth for the World Championships in Tokyo in September. Tina Clayton won her first national title in a personal best of 10.81 with reigning 200m world champion Shericka Jackson second in 10.88. Tia Clayton, twin sister of Tina, was fastest in the semi-finals but pulled up with an apparent injury in the final. Fraser-Pryce won her first world championships medal at Osaka in 2007 - a silver in the 4x100m relay -- before going on to win 10 world titles, five of…

Cape Town City will now have to prepare for life in the Motsepe Foundation Championship after being officially ruled out of the promotion/relegation playoffs earlier this week, bringing a long and difficult season to a disappointing close. The Citizens, who ended the campaign 15th on the Premiership table, fell short when it mattered most and must now regroup for the challenges of second-tier football. The Cape side paid the price for their inconsistency throughout a campaign that only saw them get seven victories from 28 matches and their turn out in the playoffs also lacked the urgency the club has been known for in the last 10 years. Their 1-0 defeat to Orbit College handed the Rustenburg-based side a historic promotion to the top flight. The result took Orbit to…

The Springbok Women are under no illusions about the challenge that awaits them when they take on the in-form Canada, the world No 2, at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria on Saturday next week, as they step up preparations for the Rugby World Cup. A number of players who have been named in the initial squad of 26 will still have vivid memories of the last time the two teams met in 2023. Canada humbled the Springbok Women 66-7 in that Test, on March 25, 2023 in Madrid, Spain. The South Africans will be keen to set the record straight on home soil. History, and recent form, suggest that won’t be an easy task, however. The Springbok team’s performance coach, Swys de Bruin, said they are under no illusions about the…

In an increasingly interconnected world, migration patterns reveal a significant trend: more individuals are opting for new horizons beyond their home countries. From Americans considering relocation after the US presidential election to young South Africans leaving for destinations like China, South Korea and Dubai due to high unemployment rates, the trend of becoming an expat is on the rise. Fuelled by both economic and social factors, the exodus of South Africans echoes a larger global narrative of migration. The perceived reasons for their departure vary widely, broadly categorised as push factors, such as economic instability, escalating crime rates, political uncertainties, and pull factors, including better job opportunities, enhanced living conditions and safer environments. As the world braces for potential geopolitical disruptions, including looming threats of conflict, migration patterns may further…

The US government has announced that, effective immediately, all individuals applying for an F, M, or J nonimmigrant visa must adjust their social media privacy settings to ‘public’. The F, M, and J visa categories are essential for international students, academic exchange visitors, and those pursuing specific nonimmigrant activities in the US. The new requirement reflects an evolving approach to national security and immigration regulations. By making social media accounts publicly accessible, applicants are facilitating the review of their online presence, which is considered vital for the assessment of potential risks and adherence to immigration protocols. Officials have emphasised that the move is necessary to bolster the integrity of the visa application process. As the application process intensifies, candidates must take heed of this requirement, ensuring that their social media…

One of the major pillars of the South African economy, the tourism sector, has seen some substantial growth year-on-year According to Statistics South Africa (StatsSA), tourism accommodation for April 2025 indicated that total income for the tourist accommodation industry increased by 9.8% in April 2025 compared with April 2024. The tourism and hospitality sector have welcomed the news as a huge positive for the sector. Stats SA said that measured in nominal terms (current prices), total income for the tourist accommodation industry increased by 9.8% in April 2025 compared with April 2024. “Income from accommodation increased by 14.8% year-on-year in April 2025, the result of a 4.5% increase in the number of stay unit nights sold and a 9.9% increase in the average income per stay unit night sold. In…

A few months before Shona Ferguson’s death on July 30, 2021, I had a 10-minute virtual chat with him about Ferguson Films, in partnership with Samad Davis, venturing into new territory with Kings of Jo’burg. He also played the lead role of Simon “Varder” Masire. Confined to remote working, South Africa, like the rest of the world, was, at the time, navigating life with the coronavirus. As always, he was generous with his time and thoughts. He was truly a gem, both as a person and a creative. Several years later, the show is now in its third season on Netflix. And, if the ending is anything to go by, there’s a possibility of it returning. I hope he's looking down, proud of the seeds he planted and the legacy…

In 1996, Pastor Baker led the chant of a group of Christians protesting at the Joburg Pride, as he had done on previous occasions, holding up the usual “Adam & Eve, not Adam & Steve” posters, while clutching and preaching from his Bible. A bunch of queens armed with posters bearing our Tree Emblem and Preamble to our Constitution leapt onto a float at Library Gardens in a fabulous flurry, thrusting the posters in front of themselves, forward and backward, and getting the whole crowd to chant back: “God loves me, and he knows I'm gay!” Pure genius If you didn't know, Gay is an acronym for “Good As You”. It was not the first Pride event I had ever attended, but it was certainly light years apart from the…

THE government will continue to function should the DA decide to leave the Government of National Unity (GNU) as the ANC will invite other parties, which are represented in parliament. That’s the view of political analyst Tessa Dooms who said even if the DA were to leave the 10-party GNU, the ANC would bring in eight other parties to replace it. But it became clear during a press briefing yesterday that John Steenhuisen, the leader of the DA had no intention of announcing his party’s departure from the GNU. “If the ANC wants to kick the DA out for fighting against corruption, well, so be it,” said Steenhuisen. Instead the DA will intensify its pres- sure on President Cyril Ramaphosa to fire the ANC’s Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane, Higher…

Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has refuted allegations of a substantial backlog of forensic exhibits in the SAPS laboratories. This was after EFF MP Rebecca Mohlala had asked about what concrete steps the police took to address the massive DNA backlog that continued to delay justice. This included victims of rape and femicide amid thousands of forensic samples remainoning unprocessed for years, and perpetrators remaining at large within communities. Mchunu said the assertion that there was a persistent and massive backlog of exhibits at the police forensic science laboratory (FSL) was invalid. “The FSL has had an increase in the volume of exhibits received. Registered case entries for analysis, increased by 63.21% from 307 826 in 2021/22 to 502 407, as at the end of the 2024/25 financial year,” he said.…

Durban’s Clairwood residents were informed this week about how a multimodal transport network and the Cato Ridge inland dry port could help prevent the suburb from becoming a logistics hub. Warwick Lord, CEO of Cato Ridge Inland Port, gave a presentation to residents in Clairwood on Friday titled: “Catalyst for the increased efficiency and sustainability of trade in Sub-Saharan Africa’. Desmond D’Sa, co-ordinator of the South Durban Community Environmental Alliance (SDCEA), called for the meeting. The municipality consulted stakeholders on amending the Land Use Scheme in Clairwood to Special Zone 40: Logistics. This aligned with the Local Area Plan (LAP) adopted by the City in 2014. Lord explained that multimodal transport involved using more than one mode of transport to move goods and offered significant benefits, including lower transportation costs,…

When Durban businessman Sid Moodley bought his first horse three years ago his dream was to win races, and this year he is hoping his dream would come true with his first Durban July runner in Madison Valley. Madison Valley is among the 18 horses in the main field event in the R5-million Hollywoodbets Durban July that will take place on Saturday, July 5 at Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse. Moodley, from Umhlanga, said he knew Madison Valley was a quality horse who had the potential to be in the Durban July. “It is not easy to get a horse to run in the main race of the prestigious Durban July. This is a victory alone. Winning this race would be a dream come true. The trainer, Frank Robinson, and I are…

“OR Tambo is the busiest airport in Africa, handling around twenty million passengers annually. Beneath the terminals, though, lies the darker side of this colossal hub – where baggage vanishes without a trace, and packages are surreptitiously swapped in and out of luggage,” says Zain Aboobaker. “To me, the airport always felt like a malevolent force, perhaps because I knew there was no way to regain control over the smuggling operations happening there. In the end, the airport simply dismissed me as irrelevant. The greed that ran through it was entrenched, organised, insatiable… and it had no intention of being stopped.” This is the world that Aboobaker captures in his gripping debut novel, The Customs Man. Few travellers passing through OR Tambo International Airport – a place many associate with…

MKP, Shivambu tussle signs of a deeper conflict Reactions to and commentary on Floyd Shivambu’s press conference have come fast and furiously from many quarters. This is understandable. First, Shivambu is no ordinary politician. He was part of the formidable leadership of the ANC Youth League led by Julius Malema. The two were pivotal in the formation of EFF, its policy framework, and its electoral appeal. Shivambu’s political shift to the Umkhonto we Sizwe Party (MKP) after the 2024 national election caused a stir. His position as secretary-general placed him at the hub of the new party. As a person of considerable stature in all of these political parties, with ready access to confidential decision-making and information, he was regarded as a trusted comrade. As a result, many were shocked…

The Springboks started their season off in fine fashion, finding little effort to dispatch the Barbarians yesterday evening in Cape Town. They scored eight tries en route to a 54-7 victory in a wet and windy DHL Stadium. Despite the weather, which didn’t always allow for an entertaining clash, especially in the first half, the Boks were full value for their first victory of 2025. Flanker Vincent Tshituka led the scoring for the Springboks and picked up a double on debut in a match that he won’t forget. However, it was returning lock Lood de Jager who stole the show with a near-perfect performance. He last played almost two years ago in the Green and Gold, but on Saturday it definitely did not look that way. The lock ruled the…

South African wheelchair tennis star Kgothatso “KG” Montjane is gearing up for the defence of her Wimbledon doubles title, alongside Japanese partner Yui Kamiji, and is hoping for back-to-back Grand Slam wins. KG is keen to carry the momentum from the defence of their French Open title on the clay of Roland Garros onto the grass courts of the All England Club. The title in Paris was the fourth Grand Slam win for the South African tennis superstar who recently celebrated her 39th birthday. They had to dig deep to see off the Chinese pairing of Xiaohui Li and Ziying Wang in the women's doubles final, coming back from a set down to secure a 4-6 7-5 (10-7) victory. Her major victories also include the 2023 US Open. While she…

The 2025 Fifa Club World Cup arrived with much promise for African football, particularly for South Africa as Mamelodi Sundowns carried the hopes of the nation onto the global stage. Alongside them stood continental heavyweights Al Ahly, Wydad Athletic Club, and Esperance de Tunis — four clubs that have dominated African football over the past decade. However, the group stage brought a harsh reality. None of the four African sides progressed to the round of 16, and while there were moments of quality, the early exits laid bare the concerning gap between Africa’s best and the rest of the world. It was a tournament that underlined how far African clubs still have to go to match their counterparts in Europe, South America, and parts of Asia. Yet within the overall…

Celebrating 50 years of spiritual leadership in Phoenix The Bethsaida Ministries International in Phoenix celebrated 50 years of spiritual leadership and community service. From humble beginnings in the Phoenix industrial area, the church now has two premises in Phoenix, with the one on Stonebridge Drive able to accommodate 6 000 congregants. Bishop Emmanuel Moodley, whose late father, Dr Emmanuel Joseph Moodley, was one of the founders of the church, said it was amazing to mark 50 years. “My dad would have been so happy,” said Moodley. To mark the 50th Jubilee celebration the church hosted a number of events last week including the planting of 100 trees in memory of those who started with the church, a celebration for senior citizens, a musical concert and a community outreach where food…

Actor Gurmeet Choudhary shared a powerful glimpse into his lifelong connection with martial arts, paying tribute to legendary icon Bruce Lee. In his latest post, the Geet – Hui Sabse Parayi actor opened up about whow martial arts has shaped not only his physical strength but also his mindset. Inspired by Bruce Lee’s philosophy of consistency, focus, and hard work, the actor continues to embrace martial arts as a way of life, drawing peace and power from his training. Taking to Instagram, Choudhary posted a bare-bodied photo that captured more than just fitness, it reflected his lifelong dedication to martial arts. In the caption, he revealed that martial arts has been an integral part of his life since childhood, serving not only as a form of training but also as…

The makers of Aap Jaisa Koihave dropped the trailer of the romantic film. Helmed by Vivek Soni of Meenakshi Sundareshwar fame, the cast includes Ayesha Raza, Manish Chaudhari, and Namit Das in key roles. Aap Jaisa Koi will see R Madhavan in the role of Shrirenu Tripathi and Fatima Sana Shaikh as Madhu Bose. The film will share the tale of finding your “Barabari Wala Pyaar” when you least expect it. Madhavan said: “Aap Jaisa Koi is unlike any love story I’ve done before, it’s quiet, awkward, and deeply human. “Shrirenu is one of the most complex characters I’ve played, someone who longs for companionship and closeness but doesn’t quite know how to ask for it, yet he is rich with emotion underneath. Fatima Sana Shaikh said: “I feel…

A father had the surprise of his life when he received a whopping $1 000 (R17 850) bill for breakfast at Disneyland. John “Rock & Roll” Tolkien, known on social media as @jrockandrollt, shared his jaw-dropping experience on X, along with receipts that made headlines around the world. “‘Princess Breakfast’ at Disneyland with my kids. Almost spit out my coffee,” he wrote, capturing a moment that many parents can relate to - shock at dining costs during family outings. Wait, how much? The total bill came to $937.65, (R16 912.35), which included a generous $150 (R2 705.54) tip for three adults and two children. The dining experience, aptly named Disney Princess Breakfast Adventures, takes place at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel in Anaheim. Guests are treated to a three-course breakfast while…