Indholdsfortegnelse for 2025-10-19 i Sunday Tribune

October marks Mental Health Awareness Month, a time when stories of resilience and healing take centre stage. Among these is the story of Amanda Nkuna, a young entrepreneur whose belief in the power of words gave rise to SpeechCraft Academy, a platform that has turned communication into both a business and a movement for change. Founded in 2023, SpeechCraft Academy aimed to equip young people and professionals with practical skills in public speaking, debate, poetry, and communication coaching. But at its heart, it became something deeper, a space for healing, confidence, and leadership. “The idea for SpeechCraft came from realising that young people have powerful stories but often lack the confidence or platform to share them,” Nkuna said. “I wanted to create a space where communication could become a tool…

Netflix South Africa loves a little razzle and dazzle to celebrate any of their new shows, and as before, they hosted a launch for the upcoming series Bad Influencer. Nelson Mandela Square was buzzing with famous faces that had shoppers turning into fans and screaming excitedly as they saw them. The fans braved the scorching Johannesburg sun as they waited to see Mzansi stars, and thankfully, there were a few stars. Bad Influencer is a seven-part crime drama series that balances high-stakes survival with the glossy illusions of influencer culture. At its heart is BK (Jo-Anne Reyneke), a street-smart single mom whose greatest hustle is protecting her son. Destiny puts her in the path of Pinky (Cindy Mahlangu ), a rising influencer with flair and chaos to spare. For the…

Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has formally written to Fifa and the South African Football Association (Safa) as he seeks to get to the bottom of the Teboho Mokoena debacle that almost cost Bafana Bafana their spot at the 2026 Fifa World Cup. South Africa’s qualifying campaign was thrown into turmoil when Fifa deducted three points after Bafana fielded Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder in the 2–0 win over Lesotho – even though he was meant to serve a suspension for accumulating two yellow cards earlier in the campaign. The deduction left Bafana needing a final-day result, which they secured emphatically with a 3–0 victory over Rwanda to clinch their place at next year’s tournament. In a letter written to Fifa president Gianni Infantino, McKenzie accepted responsibility for the…

Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) leader Velenkosini Hlabisa has called for the immediate deportation of undocumented foreign nationals. Hlabisa said while the IFP supports migration for people with scarce skills, it wanted the government to deport all those who were in the country illegally. He made the remarks yesterday during the IFP’s 50th anniversary celebration at Jabulani Amphitheatre in Soweto, Gauteng. “As the IFP, we remain true to the issue of illegal migration. We will remain true to the commitment we made to you. Even now, in the GNU, the IFP is against undocumented immigrants from foreign countries who lack the scarce skills that we need and must return to their countries,” Hlabisa told a cheering crowd. He said the IFP remained “undiluted” on the issue of undocumented immigrants, arguing…

STRIPPED, mocked and humiliated by Israeli forces during a six-day detention in an Israeli prison, Dr Fatima Hendricks recounted the horror to a packed auditorium at the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Westville on Thursday. A breast cancer survivor who underwent a bilateral mastectomy and chemotherapy, Hendricks said Israeli soldiers degraded her for not having breasts during a strip search. “They chose that particular moment in my strip search to mock my body. The female soldiers told all the male soldiers that I did not have breasts and what I looked like as an act of humiliation,” Hendricks said. Hendricks, an occupational therapist, author and educator, who also lives with Guillain-Barré syndrome, was one of six South Africans – Hendricks, Inkosi Zwelivelile Mandla Mandela, Zukiswa Wanner, Reaaz Moolla, Dr Zaheera Soomar, and…

A SOMBRE cloud hangs over the aviation community after two young pilots lost their lives in separate aircraft crashes in KwaZulu-Natal this week, prompting tributes, official investigations and urgent efforts to repatriate one of the victims to India. Martin Brown, 33, a businessman and director of the Secunda-based marketing firm Digi Mag, and 25-year-old Mayank, whose first name is unknown, an Indian national from Delhi, both died on Wednesday after their aircrafts went missing in poor weather conditions. It is believed the two planes had departed in loose formation from Secunda Airport in Mpumalanga, heading to Margate on the KZN South Coast, when they encountered difficulties. Search teams from the Aeronautical Rescue Co-ordination Centre (ARCC) located the wreckage near Nottingham Road and atop a mountain near Boston the following day.…

Smiso Msomi AmaZulu (1) 1 Durban City (0) 0 Felies 88’ Taariq Fielies was the unlikely hero for AmaZulu as his late header settled a fiercely contested Durban Derby against Durban City at Moses Mabhida Stadium yesterday afternoon. The towering centre-back rose highest in a crowded box in the 88th minute, glancing home a pinpoint delivery from Nkosikhona Radebe’s free-kick to hand Usuthu a dramatic 1–0 victory and the bragging rights in this new chapter of Durban football rivalry. It was a fitting reward for Arthur Zwane’s men, who had to dig deep to break down a spirited and disciplined City side that showed again why they’ve quickly earned respect in the Betway Premiership. The first half offered a fresh take on the derby, with both sides showing…

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has downplayed the favourites tag ahead of their CAF Champions League Preliminary second round clash against Nigerian champions Remo Stars at the MKO Abiola International Stadium on Sunday. Currently perched atop the Betway Premiership table with a game in hand over second-placed Sekhukhune United, Sundowns have endured a challenging start to the 2025/26 season, having already conceded two domestic titles. This slow beginning has sparked frustration among sections of the fanbase, with some attributing the team’s form to what they perceive as a more pragmatic approach introduced by the Portuguese coach. However, Cardoso remains confident, drawing on the team’s attacking dominance last season, when they shattered the PSL record for the most goals scored in a single campaign. “Regarding being pragmatic or not, I…

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Friday hit out at the Indonesian government's refusal to issue visas for Israeli athletes at the upcoming Artistic Gymnastics World Championships. Last week, Indonesian authorities denied Israeli gymnasts entry visas for the championships that start today, before the Israeli Gymnastics Federation appealed the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), demanding that it either guaranteed their athletes' presence or forced a move or cancellation of the event. But CAS rejected the appeal, meaning that Israeli athletes will not compete in the October 19-23 championships in the world's most populous Muslim-majority country. In a statement released on Friday, the IOC expressed "great concern" over the Indonesian decision and said it would "discuss the specific situation" of the Asian country at its next Executive…

The UK government vowed on Friday to do everything to allow all fans to attend a match between Aston Villa and Tel Aviv Maccabi after anger at a ban on the Israeli team's supporters. Birmingham-based Villa said on Thursday that the club had been informed by the Safety Advisory Group (SAG) - responsible for issuing certificates for matches - that no away fans would be permitted at the Europa League game on November 6. "The government is working with policing and other partners to do everything in our power to ensure this game can safely go ahead, with all fans present," a government spokesperson said. "We are exploring what additional resources and support are required so all fans can attend." A UK police commissioner asked local officials to review the…

INDIA’S top court on Wednesday permitted the use of some firecrackers in New Delhi during the Diwali festival, easing a blanket ban even as the capital battles unhealthy winter air pollution. The Supreme Court said the controlled use of the less-polluting “green firecrackers” – developed by federal research institutes to reduce particulate and gas emission – would be allowed for limited periods between Saturday and Tuesday. During Diwali, a major Hindu festival of lights, widespread bursting of firecrackers adds to the already high pollution levels in Delhi. The city, home to about 30 million people, routinely ranks among the world’s most polluted capitals, with thick smog shrouding the city each winter. During the peak pollution period, concentrations of PM2.5 – tiny airborne particles that penetrate deep into the lungs –…

As the wellness travel phenomenon gains momentum and societies increasingly acknowledge the importance of mental health, Sweden has taken a step that sets it apart from the rest of the world this Mental Health Awareness Month. In a groundbreaking initiative known as “The Swedish Prescription”, the nation now allows doctors to prescribe travel for wellness, offering a unique solution for those seeking restorative experiences. In collaboration with medical professionals, its official marketing company, Visit Sweden, has established a framework where patients can be issued a prescription for a visit to Sweden, allowing them to benefit from the country’s myriad wellness offerings. Patients can now easily download a medical referral through the tourism agency’s site. This document serves as a tool to initiate discussions with healthcare providers about how a healing…

Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, has made history by hosting its inaugural Diwali celebrations, a festive event that has captured the hearts of visitors and the Indian community worldwide. Held from October 9 to 12, the celebration marked a significant milestone with the Diwali Dance Fest 2025, a vibrant three-day event dedicated to honouring Indian culture and heritage. The festivities kicked off with a spectacular parade that transformed the resort into a kaleidoscope of colours, showcasing the rich and diverse traditions associated with Diwali. Adding a whimsical touch to the cultural celebration, beloved Disney characters, Mickey and Minnie Mouse, donned traditional Indian attire, delighting guests of all ages. This unique representation not only highlighted the magnificence of Indian culture but also reinforced Disney’s commitment to inclusivity. Pooja Jhunjhunwala,…

The food industry is undergoing a profound transformation, shaped not just by economic pressures and climate realities but by consumers who are reimagining what they eat, how it is produced, and why it matters. According to PwC’s Voice of the Consumer 2025 report, South Africans are playing a leading role in pushing for healthier, tech-driven, and sustainable food choices. The survey, which engaged more than 20 000 consumers globally, including over 1 000 South Africans, revealed that people are no longer passive participants in the food system. They are driving the change. Nearly three-quarters of local respondents said they are concerned about ultra-processed foods and pesticide use, while 70% plan to increase their consumption of fresh produce in the coming months. “Consumers are asserting their values-led appetites,” the report noted,…

For an edge-of-your-seat thriller, Wayward is an excellent choice. In this fictional town of Tall Pines, an unsettling and suffocating eeriness permeates everything. You know that saying, “Hurt people, hurt people”, well, here, it’s a similar mindset in that the brainwashed brainwash others. It’s a disturbing but widely accepted reality in this town, where everyone knows your business. However, rebels lurk in its midst, and that is where the suspense gains momentum. The eight-part series opens on an innocuous note: Alex Dempsey (Mae Martin), a young police officer who is also transgender, moves to Tall Pines with Laura Redman (Sarah Gadon), his heavily pregnant wife. Amid them settling in and Alex getting ready for his first day on the job, high school BFFs Leila (Alyvia Alyn Lind) and Abbie (Sydney…

Police have remained tight-lipped amid mounting allegations that President Cyril Ramaphosa suspended Inspector-General of Intelligence (IGI) Imtiaz Fazel over claims that he leaked sensitive investigation reports implicating National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola and Crime Intelligence head Lieutenant-General Dumisani Khumalo. Ramaphosa announced Fazel’s immediate suspension this week but offered no explanation for the decision. He confirmed that the suspension will stand pending the outcome of an inquiry by Parliament’s Joint Standing Committee on Intelligence (JSCI) into Fazel’s conduct. Ramaphosa announced on Wednesday that Fazel, whom he appointed in November 2022, had been suspended with immediate effect but did not provide reasons. The committee informed Ramaphosa that it had received a complaint on Fazel’s conduct and that it would conduct an investigation in accordance with the Intelligence Services Act. The Act makes…

The testimony of suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has been extended by a day until Wednesday to afford more time to facilitate lead evidence from Chief Evidence Leader, Advocate Norman Arendse, SC. This is also to facilitate the playing of a recording in which KwaZulu- Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi allegedly threatened Mchunu, should he proceed with disbanding the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT). Mchunu’s legal team made available the recording before the start of the hearing on Friday, but the part wherein Mkhwanazi allegedly makes “fight back” threats could not be found, other than references in the conversation between him and Mchunu’s chief of staff, Cedrick Nkabinde. The inquiry is probing the allegations made by Mkhwanazi at the explosive media briefing on July 6, when he made allegations of…

DR VASU Gounden, an expert in global governance and conflict resolution, was honoured with the 2025 Contribution to African Diplomacy Award. The award was on behalf of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (Comesa), International Relations Society of Kenya and the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung. The recognition pays tribute to Gounden’s visionary leadership as the founder and executive director of the African Centre for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes (ACCORD), where he dedicated over three decades to shaping dialogue, advancing mediation, and strengthening conflict resolution mechanisms across Africa and beyond. Gounden, who is a lawyer, mediator and an experienced conflict management practitioner and trainer, said he was deeply honoured and humbled. “This recognition from Comesa, the International Relations Society of Kenya, and the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung means a great…

MORE than 200 000 learners in KwaZulu-Natal will begin their final matric examinations on Tuesday. The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has set an ambitious target, seeking a minimum pass rate of 95% for the 2025 examinations. In total, 179 751 full-time candidates and 16 148 part-time students will sit for the exams, reflecting a 3% increase in participation compared to 2024. MEC for Education, Sipho Hlomuka, said they have developed an Academic Improvement Plan, aimed at improving their pass rate from 89.5% to a minimum of 95%, with the ultimate goal of reaching 100%. Improvement plans He said the 12 districts formulated district-specific improvement plans aligned to the provincial strategy. In preparation for the upcoming examinations, a series of educational programmes were rolled out, including winter programmes and spring classes.…

Nzuzo Njilo, the son of former Pietermaritzburg mayor Themba Njilo, will face trial next year over allegations of swindling a businessman out of R1.5 million in a bogus chrome metal deal. Njilo – whose high-profile marriage to a social media influencer ended in 2023 – has been accused of deceiving Khumbulani Cele in February 2023 by falsely claiming he could deliver one thousand tons of chrome metal. Prosecutors have alleged Njilo diverted the deposited funds for personal use instead of procuring the promised metal. The Durban Specialised Commercial Crimes Court confirmed on Friday that the trial would proceed over two days in January next year. Magistrate Ferial Seedat set dates for January 20 and 30, indicating that no availability remained for this year. Njilo’s appearance marked another chapter in his…

Residents in Umbilo and surrounding areas have voiced their frustration over the growing issue of truck congestion, citing significant impact on their quality of life, property values and local businesses. Jonathan Erasmus, from the Umbilo South Association and member of the CPF, said trucking had been a significant issue in this part of Durban and had increased tenfold since the railways collapsed. Erasmus said that when Umbilo Road got congested, the traffic started filtering through Bartle Road, which was the main road in Umbilo. “When we’ve got heavy congestion, I can count up to about 24 trucks coming past my house in a given day. That’s a significant amount for a residential road,” he said. Erasmus said trucks were destructive vehicles that broke the trees and paving. He said Hillier…

Ian Wyles Auctioneers is featuring three properties set to go under the hammer during their multi-property auction on October 29 at 11am at the Oyster Box Hotel, 2 Lighthouse Road, uMhlanga Rocks. The first property is 55 Witkop Street, Lindequesdrif, North West. The area is positioned between Vanderbijlpark and Potchefstroom and is close to the Free State border and the town of Parys. It sits along the northern banks of the Vaal River. The 18 200m² residential plot offers prime riverfront access and combines spacious family living with rental potential and outdoor leisure. The property comprises three houses on one plot and is ideal for family living, a retreat, or rental income. Two of the homes are ready for immediate occupation. It features: • Prime riverfront access to the Vaal…

On October 19, 1977, the apartheid government invoked the Internal Security Act and took two serious decisions that left an indelible mark on South Africa’s beleaguered past. Firstly, it banned two newspapers – The New World and Weekend World. It also detained some of the columnists – including the editor, Percy Qoboza. Secondly, the apartheid government banned 19 Black Consciousness organisations. The aim was to silence the voice of anti-apartheid activists. This decision was informed by the political mood at the time, following the brutal assassination of Black Consciousness leader Steve Biko on September 12, 1977. The apartheid government was aware of the potential danger that could destabilise the country. When South Africa transitioned to the new political dispensation, various changes were implemented to align with the new Constitution. Regarding…

China embodies the economic progress and political independence that African countries strive for. A country with a recent history not unlike Africa’s own, with relatively similar challenges, yet it continues to surge ahead, overcoming hurdles that still hold many African countries back. Whether admired or critiqued, its ability to deliver tangible development to its people suggests a governance formula worth examining closely and learning from. For instance, what can African countries learn from China’s “eight-point decision”? When the Communist Party of China (CPC) introduced the “eight-point decision” in December 2012, few imagined that such a brief set of rules would spark one of the most significant transformations in China’s modern governance. It was met with skepticism by many observers who viewed it as a modest administrative adjustment. However, more than…

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has to find solutions after three consecutive defeats for the Premier League champions, but today's meeting with Manchester United is arguably even more important for Ruben Amorim. AFP Sport looks at the challenge that faces both managers ahead of the hotly anticipated clash between English football's two most successful clubs. Slot's first crisis The Dutchman made the unenviable task of succeeding Jurgen Klopp look easy last season as Liverpool won the league with four games to spare, equalling United's record of 20 English top-flight titles. Only once in Slot's debut campaign did Liverpool suffer back-to-back defeats and that came in exiting the Champions League and losing the League Cup final in March as a gruelling winter schedule took its toll. The Reds were determined to…

After nearly two decades of racing, South Africa’s Anthony Raynard will put the pedal to the metal in the 2026 Dakar Rally in the bike category. Known as the ultimate endurance challenge, the Dakar Rally will be a major focus for the multiple national champion and international competitor Raynard. At 35, the seasoned veteran has had success in motocross, supercross, enduro, and rally raid. It’s been something of a long-term ambition to compete in the Dakar Rally, explains Raynard. Raynard’s Journey: From Motocross Champion to Dakar Rally Dreamer “The Dakar Rally is the ultimate test,” says Raynard. “It’s where everything you’ve trained for physically, mentally, and mechanically is put to the test,” said Raynard. “For me, it’s a dream I’ve had since I first saw those riders pushing through…

When you’re in the kind of rut that the Lions have found themselves in at the start of this United Rugby Championship season, you take a win — no matter how it’s achieved — and bank the points with relief. That was the story at Ellis Park on yesterday afternoon, where the home side beat the Scarlets 29-18, securing a bonus point for scoring four tries in the process. This was a clash between the bottom two teams in the 16-team log — and it showed in a largely forgettable encounter. The Lions had most of the early possession, but it was the Scarlets who struck first in the 12th minute when Wales flyhalf Sam Costelow slotted a superb penalty from 40 metres out. As the first quarter drew to…

HINDUS deem some nights auspicious for material and spiritual success. These nights are so magical that worshipping with sincerity can alter your destiny, making it more favourable even if it’s not written in your horoscope. One can easily tap the divine cosmic energy through proper prayer and rituals at these auspicious times. Among such nights are Hanuman Jayanti, Navarathri, Janmashtami, Sharad Purnima, Diwali and Shivarathri. Holi night is also very auspicious to do secret prayers. On Diwali, Sharad Purnima and Navarathri, devotees can please Mother Lakshmi easily. Diwali is a five-day festival, with the first three days crucial to pleasing Mother Lakshmi. This year it is over six days, as per astrological calculations in South Africa. So October 21 provides a gap because Amavasya sets at noon. On the first…

Different states in the US hosted Diwali celebrations to commemorate the holy day with Hindus in America. New York City Mayor Eric Adams hosted a Diwali celebration at his official residence, extending warm greetings to the Indian community and lauding their valuable contributions to the city’s cultural and economic life. Representing the Consulate General of India in New York, Deputy Consul General (DCG) Vishal Jayeshbhai Harsh conveyed festive wishes underlining Diwali’s timeless message of light, hope and joy. Adams held the festivities at his official residence, Gracie Mansion. The Indian Consul (Education) and Head of Chancery in Atlanta participated in the first Diwali celebrations at the Florida Capitol in Tallahassee. Several state-elected officials, dignitaries and prominent members of the Indian diaspora joined in celebrating the festival of lights and India’s…

A fresh wave of excitement is set to sweep through South Africa’s cruise industry as MSC Cruises announces the arrival of a new ship for the 2026/2027 cruising season. The MSC Armonia will make its debut in South African waters, marking a significant expansion of the company’s local fleet and offering travellers new routes, destinations, and on-board experiences to look forward to. Last season, over 90 000 South Africans cruised South African waters and over 2 000 jobs were created for locals. The season officially sets sail on November 27, 2026, with more than 30 departures scheduled from the Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal in Durban and the Cape Town Cruise Terminal. Cruising options Voyages will range from two-night mini breaks to 12-night cruises, taking passengers to some of the most…

Industry players have reacted positively to plans for the R50 billion development of the Port of Gauteng. The White Paper for the Port of Gauteng was released two weeks ago. Developer Francois Nortje said the Port of Gauteng aims to become Africa’s most advanced inland trade gateway, addressing chronic inefficiencies in the national logistics system while creating more than 50 000 permanent jobs. Malcolm Hartwell, Norton Rose Fulbright director and master mariner, said that in the first instance, any investment in logistics infrastructure is welcomed by traders and transporters who have struggled with South Africa’s inefficient and expensive logistics network, which has been dominated by Transnet’s monopoly over the ports and rail network. “Low-margin traders need efficient and cost-effective logistics networks to develop and grow their businesses. The decline in…

Guess who’s back, baby? Our favourite real estate reality show, Selling Sunset, has returned for a ninth season. Our guilty pleasure where the homes are dream-worthy, but the tea? The absolute main course. Let’s be real, we’re not just here for mansions (though yes, we’ve all imagined ourselves living there). We’re here for the drama. Maybe they should name the series Selling Drama, but let’s not go there. Season eight gave us all the usual: lip fillers, fashion statements, and plenty of drama. But it was the messy entanglements between Emma Hernan, Bre Tiesi, Chelsea Lazkani and Chrishell Stause that truly kept fans hooked. And now, the new season is already stirring the pot. The trailer hints at the incident that led to Nicole Young being temporarily paused. Young, part…

It’s already mid-October, and if you’re like me, you might have taken on the Sober October challenge. For an entire month, we’re saying “no thanks” to alcohol. Why? For me, it was a simple personal dare: Can I really go a whole month without a drink? I’ll be honest, I’m not what you’d call a heavy drinker. My usual go-tos are a crisp gin and tonic or a celebratory glass of bubbly, which is my absolute favourite. Since I rarely drink alone, my drinking is almost entirely social. A couple of glasses of wine with family at a get-together, or coming up with creative cocktails on girl nights, that sort of thing. Because of this, the first half of the month, which I’ve mostly spent alone, hasn’t actually been that…

DEPUTY national commissioner for crime detection, Lt-Gen Shadrack Sibiya shocked many people with his evasive answers during his appearance before the portfolio committee that is investigating alleged political interference in the police and criminal justice system this week. Below are snippets of his answers or attempts at answers and some felt like monologues that dealt much with his supposed nemesis KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. Referring to Lt-Gen Mkhwanazi July 6, 2025, media briefing: “Maybe I should also wear camouflage. I also used, at some point in my life, I also wore camouflage uniform. Maybe I should also wear one, go and make a conference as well and talk things. But I will be fired from the podium same time. That day, on stage, doing that, I’ll be gone.”…

The Sanatan Shakti, through a widely circulated message, has urged its followers and allies who stand against cultural exploitation to boycott Pick n Pay Hypermarket by the Sea in solidarity with the organisation’s call for accountability and reform. Sanatan Shakti, a Westville-based organisation that was formed a year ago to promote economic, spiritual and cultural aspects, has accused the supermarket’s Diwali pop-up market of cultural exploitation and exclusion of Hindu vendors. Udesh Singh, secretary of Sanatan Shakti, said Hindu vendors were marginalised at the pop-up market. “Sanatan Dharma festivals, especially Diwali, are sacred expressions of faith, unity, and community. They are not commercial events for exploitation by those who disregard or misunderstand their deep spiritual meaning. “Diwali has always been a time when Sanatanis support Hindu economies, from family-run stores…

Kyle Deutsch hoping to push musical boundaries with his new single ‘Calling’ Award-winning musician Kyle Deutsch is hoping to inspire connections through his brand-new single, titled Calling. The pop track – featuring Willem Stander and infused with emotive lyrics which evoke strong feelings of nostalgia – was released on Friday. It also features the Durban-born artist’s distinct ability to modernise retro sonics with an upbeat tempo. The former Idols SA contestant explained that Calling was open for interpretation. “This song is applicable for anyone – if you have someone in your life or even if you have a calling yourself.” He added: “If your best friend calls you or anyone that you love, someone that you enjoy spending time with, if they call, you are going to be ready to…

EIGHT-time nominee and two-time GRAMMY® Award-winning jazz vocalist Gregory Porter will now perform live at the Durban International Convention Centre on November 15, as part of his three-city Love is King South African concert tour which also includes Cape Town and Johannesburg. The acclaimed singer-songwriter is headed to Durban, a city he’s long dreamed of visiting. He’s heard about the rhythm, the ocean, the people, and the energy that make Durban so unique. Showtime Management and GRIZA Enterprises, the concert promoters has announced the new date owing to recent weekend availability at Durban ICC. The change follows fan feedback requesting a weekend show and was made possible by updated venue availability. Existing tickets remain valid for the new date and no action is required. Gregory Porter will perform in five…

AS the clock ticks down to the final National Senior Certificate exams scheduled to commence on Tuesday, education experts are urging parents to foster a supportive environment for their children rather than imposing pressures tied to academic expectations. This pivotal moment in a learner’s life should not be overshadowed by the anxiety of performance metrics, but rather celebrated as a part of their learning journey. Parents should not put pressure on their children because of their expectations, but rather provide reassurance that your love, pride, and support do not depend on a number on a report card, say education experts. From Tuesday, the matric class of 2025 will begin their exams. Juan-Pierre Moller, an educational psychologist, and lecturer at the South African College of Applied Psychology, said a child’s value…

THE South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) KwaZulu-Natal regional is undergoing digital income verification and biometric registration of more than 100 000 social grant beneficiaries, which is aimed at tightening the net on fraud. The Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Social Development, which was in the province this week, praised KwaZulu-Natal’s Sassa for modernising its operations. The committee began its week-long oversight visit to KwaZulu-Natal on Tuesday with a briefing from Sassa officials at the Ilembe District Municipality offices. During the engagement, regional manager Thamo Mzobe detailed the strides made in implementing the Beneficiary Biometric Enrolment (BBE) system, which went live across all 82 local offices on September 1. Mzobe said 901 officials had been trained to operate the system, with 748 already migrated to the BBE platform. Each office, she…

ACE Frehley, the galvanizing guitarist who helped make Kiss one of the biggest rock groups of the 1970s and ’80s, died in Morristown, New Jersey. He was 74. His family announced the death in a statement, noting that he had recently fallen at home. Frehley announced earlier this month that he was canceling the rest of his 2025 tour dates because of “ongoing medical issues”. An inspiration for guitarists from Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine to Slash of Guns N’ Roses, Frehley added a dose of blues riffage to Kiss’s theatrical, hard-charging style of rock. He leaned into the band’s pyrotechnics as well, launching smoke bombs and lasers from his Gibson Les Paul guitars. And he occasionally sang. “A guitar player so incredible, his ax billowed smoke and…

The usual suspects have hailed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to establish “a panel for the selection of the next National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP)” as a testament to his commitment to openness and transparency. Nothing could be further from the truth. The establishment of a panel is a cynical response to strident calls wanting the NDPP appointment to be done entirely by Parliament and to have “the appointment of the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) to be taken off the president’s hands”. (Cosatu). For its part, the DA has proposed an amendment to the Constitution “to ensure Parliament appoints the head of the NPA – not the president – following a transparent and rigorous vetting process”. The current process does little to dilute the presidential prerogative. First, the…

For decades, the prevailing notion was that the “solution” to the Israeli occupation of Palestine lay in a strictly negotiated process. “Only dialogue can achieve peace” has been the relentlessly peddled mantra in political circles, academic platforms, media forums and the like. A colossal industry burgeoned around that idea, expanding dramatically in the lead-up to, and for years after, the signing of the Oslo Accords between Yasser Arafat’s Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and the Israeli government. The unmaking of “peace”: The problem was never with the fundamental principles of “dialogue”, “peace” or even “painful compromises” – a notion tirelessly circulated during the “peace process” period between 1993 and the early 2000s. Instead, the conflict has largely been shaped by how these terms, and an entire scaffolding of similar terminology, were…

Nottingham Forest manager Ange Postecoglou was sacked yesterday after just eight matches in charge - just minutes after a 3-0 home defeat to Chelsea. "Nottingham Forest Football Club can confirm that after a series of disappointing results and performances, Ange Postecoglou has been relieved of his duties as head coach with immediate effect," the club posted on X. "The club will make no further comment at this time." Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis left his seat during the contest at City Ground and an announcement on Postecoglou's future was confirmed shortly after fulltime. Postecoglou was only appointed on September 9 - months after Europa League success with Tottenham - but after no win and six defeats from his first eight matches, Marinakis has acted and Forest are on the hunt for…

Bafana Bafana’s Fifa World Cup qualifying campaign had its share of ups and downs, but in the end, they reaped the rewards of their persistence and resilience. Their qualification marks a monumental opportunity to test themselves against the world’s best when the global showpiece kicks off next year. Head coach Hugo Broos and his assistant Helman Mkhalele have etched their names into footballing history. Their achievement sees them join an exclusive group of individuals who will represent their nation at the World Cup both as players and as coaches. Since his appointment in 2021, Broos has broadened his player pool, building a well-balanced squad that mixes youthful energy with seasoned experience—a formula that has proved vital as South Africa prepares for both the Africa Cup of Nations and the World…

There was no happy homecoming for the star-studded Sharks as Ulster beat them 34–26 in their United Rugby Championship clash at Kings Park on Saturday afternoon. Coach John Plumtree fielded a starting lineup featuring 13 Springboks, but the wholesale changes appeared to disrupt the team’s rhythm and cohesion against an Ulster side that made it three wins from three to start the campaign. The Sharks’ powerful pack made an early statement by winning a penalty at the first scrum, but it was the visitors who struck first. They moved the ball slickly down the left flank for fullback Michael Lowry to score in the fifth minute, with flyhalf Nathan Doak adding the conversion. Despite growing into the contest, the Sharks were hampered by handling errors and poor execution, while Siya…

Actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui has opened up about his much-anticipated role in the upcoming film Thamma. He shared that it’s a role his kids are particularly excited about. Nawazuddin revealed that his performance is bound to delight his children, giving a glimpse into the personal connection he feels with this project. Talking about his role, the Lunchbox actor shared: “Trust me, I’ve wanted to do something like this for a while,” he grinned. “My kids are going to be thrilled. I play a very weird character – but that weirdness is fascinating. It’s nothing like what I’ve done before, and I had an absolute blast on set. “It’s like being a batsman. You’re ready, but you still don’t expect that kind of delivery. Thank God I got it. I’m just happy…