Indholdsfortegnelse for 2025-11-08 i Weekend Argus Saturday

Netflix’s Bad Influencer is giving all the chaos, clout and glam you’d expect from the influencer world, but honey, with a proper Jozi twist that makes it feel oh-so-local. From fake designer bags to slang that doesn’t always make sense (“math isn’t matching – it’s giving…”), this show dives headfirst into the highs and lows of online fame. And sis, it’s messy in the best way. At the heart of it: BK Msinga, played by Jo‑Anne Reyneke, is a single mother and fashion designer with major grit. When she can’t make ends meet, she turns to counterfeiting luxury handbags to save up for her neurodivergent son Leo’s specialised schooling needs. Then there’s Pinky Sithole, portrayed by Cindy Mahlangu, a mid‑level influencer who’s all about the flex, the content and the…

There are rare moments in history when politics transcends partisanship – when the ballot box becomes a pulpit and the voice of the people echoes like a sermon from heaven. The election of Zohran Mamdani as Mayor of New York is one such moment: a breath from heaven affirming that the arc of moral imagination still bends toward justice. In a world exhausted by violence, corruption, genocide, and deceit, the rise of a young Muslim democratic socialist in the symbolic capital of global capitalism sends a message that defies cynicism. It reminds us that the human spirit – humble, hopeful, and rooted in compassion – has not been extinguished. Every age of moral decay gives rise to unexpected prophets. That a young Muslim now leads the most diverse city on…

South Africa is facing a deepening crisis in its forensic and crime investigation systems, with massive backlogs in autopsies, toxicology, ballistics and DNA testing leaving thousands of families in limbo and countless gun-related cases stalled indefinitely. The delays, described by officials as the worst in years, have created a domino effect across the criminal justice system. Investigations are grinding to a halt, prosecutions are collapsing, and grieving families are left waiting years for closure. As of August 2025, the national backlog for toxicology cases alone stood at around 40,000, according to data from the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS). In provinces such as the Western Cape, families of gun violence victims say they face waiting times for final autopsy reports when testing is required. These delays mean that in many…

A Cape Town family has spoken out after paying for driving lessons that never took place, prompting the sudden closure of Aubrey’s Driving School after 25 years in business. Amanda “Many” Martin said she booked 10 lessons for her 21-year-old son, Matthew, after spotting a promotion shared by a family member. “I recognised the name because I did my learner’s licence through Aubrey years ago. I am someone who always does my due diligence but I trusted the brand,” she said. “He offered me a special rate that he said finished a month before I made contact, but if I made payment the same day I would fall in line with that offer, so I did. But after that, everything fell apart.” According to Martin, the first two lessons were…

The Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) has reached a monumental milestone, celebrating 20 years since its inauguration. The observatory, situated at the South African Astronomical Observatory site in Sutherland, Northern Cape, has solidified its reputation as Africa’s Giant Eye on the Sky, contributing significantly to global astronomy. The National Research Foundation (NRF) will host a prestigious gathering to celebrate this landmark anniversary on Monday. High-profile speakers will include NRF Board chair Prof Mosa Moshabela, and the Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina, who will highlight SALT’s impressive record of scientific achievements and transformative role in the African continent's space science development. Constructed in the late 1990s with a financial commitment from the South African government, SALT was envisioned to be a flagship for the new South Africa.…

A bold new musical is emerging from South Africa’s creative landscape, promising to dazzle Cape Town audiences this weekend. The Call, a queer African musical, places joy, artistry, and survival at the heart of its storytelling, reimagining Shakespeare’s classic The Tempest through the prism of South African history and queer lived experience. This vibrant production employs African drag as a theatrical language that shapes the narrative, conjures spectacle, and celebrates the brilliance of marginalised communities. Brought to life by the South African-born, New York-based, Tony-nominated producer and theatre director, Chesray Dolpha, The Call is not merely a performance; it is a celebration of the colour, creativity, and resilience of queer life on the African continent. Dolpha helms a multidisciplinary team that merges local talent with international excellence, ensuring the production…

Nedgroup Trust, which administers the Irma Stern Trust, has clarified its plans for the future of Irma Stern’s art collection following a wave of criticism over the sudden closure of the Irma Stern Museum at the University of Cape Town (UCT). The decision brings to an end a 56-year partnership between the university and the Trust to manage The Firs, Stern’s former Rosebank home which has served as the museum since 1972. Under the 1969 Memorandum of Agreement, The Firs was owned by UCT, while the artworks and personal effects remained the property of the Trust. UCT Council approved the termination of the agreement and the sale of The Firs back to the Trust in October, saying the move was made “with much sadness and regret”. The university said it…

From the striking new Corolla concept to the futuristic Hi-Ace concept and the rugged Land Cruiser FJ, Toyota had something for everyone at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, held in Tokyo this week. Approaching the Japanese manufacturer’s stand, it was difficult to get up close and personal with the highly anticipated new Land Cruiser FJ, such was the intense interest shown in this new 4x4. As previously reported, the new FJ is under consideration for South Africa. However, with the Japanese launch only scheduled for mid-2026, don’t expect to see it on local shores any time soon. Built around the IMV platform that also underpins the current Hilux and Fortuner, the FJ aims to make the Land Cruiser sub-brand more accessible to prospective consumers, without taking away any of its…

BAIC South Africa has confirmed that the new BAIC B30 SUV will be assembled locally at its facility in Coega, Gqeberha, marking a significant milestone in the company’s long-term commitment to the South African automotive industry. The announcement follows the B30’s debut at the Festival of Motoring and comes ahead of its official national launch in November. Local assembly will commence shortly thereafter, reinforcing BAIC’s strategy to build key models in South Africa and expand the plant’s production footprint. “Localising the B30 is about more than manufacturing – it’s about investing in people, skills, and a sustainable automotive future for South Africa,” said Ameena Hassan, the brand and the PR manager at BAIC South Africa. “Our Coega facility was built to support long-term growth, and the addition of the B30…

Black economic empowerment in South Africa is not collapsing by accident. It is being dismantled deliberately, but from two different ends of the political spectrum. From above, through constitutional litigation framed as “non-racialism”, but designed to protect historic advantage. And from below, through state incompetence, elite capture and patronage networks that hollowed out BEE’s purpose until the public could no longer recognise justice in its name. This is not policy failure – it is political sabotage. When the DA challenges BEE in court, it does so under the language of fairness, equality and constitutionalism, but the effect of its strategy is not neutral. It is racially restorative for those who already sit atop the economic ladder. Removing remedial measures in a society where ownership, capital and opportunity are still…

The 2025 DebtBusters Money-Stress Tracker reveals that South Africans over the age of 45, earning more than R20 000 a month, are facing a growing debt crisis. These individuals are now among the most financially stressed in the country, with 48% spending nearly half of their take-home pay on debt repayments. However, it’s possible to regain control of your finances and secure a stable future with strategic action and a clear understanding of your financial position. Data from the Sanlam Credit Solutions Credit Confidence Index, which analyses over 818 000 active credit users, supports this trend. The index shows that a significant 37% of Gen X users (44-58) spend over half their monthly income on debt repayments. With the cost of essentials like food, transport, and electricity continuing to climb,…

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland is bracing himself for one of the toughest tests of the season when the Sky Blues host Premier League champions Liverpool on Sunday. The Norwegian marksman lauded the quality of the opposition, describing Jürgen Klopp’s side as a formidable outfit with no obvious flaws. “I think they’re a really solid side,” said Haaland. “They won the Premier League, so they’re obviously a fantastic team with a lot of quality players. I don’t really see any weaknesses. Of course, they’ve had a few struggles here and there, but overall, they’re such a complete team. “That’s what makes them one of the strongest sides in the league. They’re the champions, playing with the golden badge, so it’s definitely going to be a tough game.” Pressed further on…

The history books show that milestone matches for players rarely come with a guaranteed win to mark the special day. While teammates often play their hearts out for the man in the spotlight, sentiment only gets you so far at the highest level of sport. The Springboks have produced eight centurions – and Siya Kolisi will become the ninth when he reaches his milestone – but only half of those legends marked their 100th Test with victory. So far, Eben Etzebeth, Victor Matfield, Tendai Mtawarira, and Willie le Roux belong to the fortunate 50 percent, while Percy Montgomery, John Smit, Bryan Habana, and Jean de Villiers endured disappointment. To be fair, three of those four defeats came against an All Blacks side at the height of their powers between 2008…

With so much riding on the Rugby Africa Women’s Sevens championship in Nairobi, Kenya, next weekend, it is no wonder the Springbok Women’s Sevens team is trotting out the big guns for the regional tournament that offers a shot at redemption … or a step closer to it. The Bok Women need a top-two finish to qualify for the 2026 World Rugby HSBC Sevens Challenger Series, and are taking no chances in their bid to get back to the HSBC SVNS top table – having lost their core status at the end of the 2024 season. SA Rugby Women’s Player of the Year, Nadine Roos, a star of sevens and fifteens rugby, is among the stellar names selected for a training camp to prepare for the continental championship. She has…

In an increasingly individualistic world, the African continent stands as a beacon of kindness and community spirit. A recent study from the 2025 World Happiness Gallup Report highlights six African countries among the top nations known for their generosity towards strangers. From communities offering helping hands to warm welcomes for visitors, these countries exemplify the African philosophy of Ubuntu – an idea that emphasises the interconnectedness of all people. Acts of kindness stimulate the release of “feel-good” chemicals in the brain, inducing happiness and reducing stress. These are the top 10 countries known for helping strangers: 1. Jamaica: The island nation took first place globally for its openness to welcoming strangers. Known for their warm hospitality, Jamaicans often go out of their way to help visitors feel at home. 2.…

Reboots have become a revolving door in Hollywood, whether it’s a TV series or film. Recently, The Hand That Rocks the Cradle dropped on Disney+. It is loosely based on the 1992 movie of the same title, helmed by Annabella Sciorra, Rebecca De Mornay, Matt McCoy, and Julianne Moore. Directed by Michelle Garza Cervera, the premise has been tweaked by Micah Bloomberg. The story centres on Caitlyn Morales (Mary Elizabeth Winstead), an attorney, who recently gave birth to her second daughter, Josie (played by Nora & Lola Contreras). She has the picture-perfect life with her supportive husband, Miguel (Raúl Castillo), and young daughter Emma (Mileiah Vega). What starts as an incidental meeting with Caitlyn representing Polly Murphy (Maika Monroe) before giving birth evolves when they bump into each other months…

Artificial Intelligence can analyse data and diagnose problems, but it cannot care. That was the central message of Dr Iqbal Survé, Patron and Founder of the Survé Family Office and Chairperson of the Sekunjalo Group, in his keynote at the 2024 International Peace College South Africa (IPSA) graduation ceremony. Dr Survé was honoured with the IPSA Business Achievement and Philanthropy Award 2025 and called for leadership grounded in ethics, empathy, and human purpose. The recognition reflected Dr Survé’s lifelong commitment to using enterprise as a force for good, building inclusive economies, expanding access to education, and championing ethical leadership in the modern world. As founder and chairman of Sekunjalo Investment Holdings, his career has been defined by transformation, innovation, and philanthropy. Through Survé Philanthropies and several educational foundations, he has…

Being surrounded by his children, teammates, coaches, and the people who have shaped his life and rugby career has left Springbok captain Siya Kolisi calm and content ahead of his 100th Test match for South Africa. Kolisi will become only the ninth Springbok to reach a century of caps when he leads the world champions out against France at the Stade de France in Paris tonight (10.10pm kick-off). While the occasion marks a major milestone for both him and head coach Rassie Erasmus, who will take charge of his 50th Test, the double World Cup-winning skipper insists it’s not about personal achievements. For Kolisi, the focus remains on honouring the jersey and making South Africa proud. “It doesn’t matter about the milestone – if the team does well, then your…

The non-political civic organisation STOP COCT, known for promoting public participation and transparency in municipal governance, has criticised the City of Cape Town for “beating its own chest” over a recent court victory against the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) even as the City remains embroiled in a similar case in the Western Cape High Court. The North Gauteng High Court this week declared NERSA’s public participation process for 2025/26 municipal tariff applications invalid, compelling the regulator to implement strict new timelines for communicating and finalising electricity tariff decisions. The order requires NERSA to inform municipalities of Eskom’s bulk tariff increases by January 31 each year, publish all municipal cost-of-supply studies for public comment, and finalise tariff decisions by May 5, accompanied by reasons for each determination. The…

The majority of residents who attended a parole hearing for convicted killer Najwa Petersen, agreed that she should be released on parole. The hearing, in the form of a public engagement held at the Noah Centre in Lawrence Road, Athlone was facilitated by Athlone police station commander Junaid Alcock and the local community police forum. Her parole will be confirmed on November 27. Alcock explained the reasoning for this engagement. “This was an alternative way we tried to get the thoughts of the residents and neighbours in one place, instead of me having to visit them individually.” Alcock told Weekend Argus: “I must add that I could sense a lot of pain and hurt from both families and that is understandable. “But I hope that tonight’s engagement could…

The South African Human Rights Commission’s (SAHRC) Rights of Rastafari Report, released on November 3, arrives at a defining moment in the struggle for African dignity and self-determination. Its timing, one day after the global commemoration of the Transfiguration of Negus Ras Tafari – the coronation of Emperor Haile Selassie I – symbolises a spiritual and political awakening. Rastafari is not merely a faith-based tradition; it is a frontline grassroots decolonial project, confronting the racial and cultural hierarchies that persist in South African law and perception. For generations, Rastafari people have been criminalised for their African identity, their dreadlocks, and their sacramental use of the holy herb. Despite the Constitutional Court’s 2018 Prince judgment legalising private cannabis use, possession, and cultivation by adults, harassment persists. Police continue to raid homes,…

The Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture has been presented with significant updates regarding the R150 million rejuvenation project at Robben Island, a historic site renowned for its rich legacy in South Africa’s struggle for democracy. The department outlined completed projects, those currently in progress, and proposals still in the conceptualisation phase, revealing strides in restoring the island’s cultural and recreational significance. According to the presentation, R15m has already been spent on completed initiatives at the Robben Island Museum (RIM). Notable projects include the erection of six historical statues, a memorial wall, the establishment of the Nelson Mandela Museum, and the refurbishment of essential sports facilities. These endeavours celebrate prominent figures in South Africa’s history, including Autshumato, Krotoa, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe, Herman Andimba Toivo Ya Toivo,…

In the heart of Gugulethu, the vibrant township near Cape Town, a young man’s dream is about to take flight. Lonwabo Mose, a 25-year-old bass-baritone, is on the cusp of an extraordinary journey as he prepares to take his talents to the grand stages of the world. His rise from humble beginnings to the prestigious Metropolitan Opera is a testament to his resilience and exceptional talent. Born to a family that struggled to make ends meet, Lonwabo’s passion for music ignited in his youth. Growing up in Cala in the Eastern Cape and later Gugulethu, he found solace in choral singing, which eventually introduced him to the operatic genre. His musical journey found a supportive turning point when he was accepted as a student by the renowned voice coach Juan…

In a significant move advocating for improved animal welfare standards, leading animal protection organisations from Australia and New Zealand have joined forces to urge the South African government to ban live animal exports by sea. This call comes in the wake of South Africa’s draft Regulations for the Exportation of Live Animals by Sea, which are currently open for public comment. The push for reform follows Australia’s historic initiative to phase out live sheep exports by sea by May 1, 2028. An independent panel presented a comprehensive report in October 2023 after conducting an extensive six-month inquiry, which drew over 4,100 public submissions. Meanwhile, New Zealand has led the way by implementing a total ban on live exports by sea since May 2023. Ending live animal exports has been shown…

World leaders delivered a message of solidarity and renewed resolve to address global warming days before the start of the COP30 climate summit in Brazil, despite lackluster attendance and the erosion of a key goal to curb rising temperatures. It was a challenging backdrop for the more than 50 heads of state and government ministers who gatgered in the Amazonian city of Belém on Thursday and Friday. Gone is the confidence and sense of grand ambition that united nearly 200 nations a decade ago, with the adoption of the landmark Paris Agreement. Left in its place is a gnawing sense of urgency and the hard reality of implementing some climate promises, especially as the accord’s most ambitious goal – to keep warming to 1.5C above pre-industrial levels –moves further out…

The South African Navy Choir has made history by winning the championship title at the first-ever Chief of the South African National Defence Force (CSANDF) Choir Competition, an event aimed at promoting musical excellence, discipline and unity across the Defence Force. The inaugural competition, held at Thaba Tshwane City Hall, brought together choirs from across the SANDF. Participants were divided into two categories: the Standard Category, featuring the South African Army, Air Force and Navy choirs, and the Chamber Category, which included the South African Military Health Service (SAMHS), Chief of Joint Operations/Special Forces and the Logistics Division. In preparation for the event, the Navy Choir attended an intensive training camp at the South African Naval College in Gordon’s Bay, where members refined their performance under the guidance of…

A Volvo has become the first battery electric vehicle (BEV) to drive up the historic Sani Pass into Lesotho in the Drakensberg Mountains. Closing South African Transport Month, the EX30 Cross Country ticked a box in the record books, proving that sustainable mobility can also thrive in some of the harshest conditions 56 years after the first Volvo climbed the pass in 1969. Exploration and innovation “The ascent of Sani Pass by the EX30 Cross Country is a defining moment for electric mobility in South Africa,” said Grant Locke, the managing director of VCSA. “It demonstrates that electric vehicles can tackle the most challenging terrain, and that clean, sustainable energy can power adventure in even the most remote and rugged locations.” Locke added that the historic journey also marks a…

Single motherhood is becoming the norm in South Africa, with 42.3% of households headed by women. But with the cost of raising a child hitting R1.6 million and women's unemployment at 35.9%, financial planning has become a matter of survival. Gerda van der Linde, Verso Wealth MD, says she and the female financial planners in her team have specifically seen that more women are finding themselves solely responsible for raising a child. She explains that this could happen for a variety of reasons, including divorce, the death or absence of a partner, or having to step into this role as the oldest child. “Becoming a single mother can happen to anyone,” says Van der Linde. “This shift in family dynamics is not just a social issue - it's an economic…

In an increasingly interconnected yet uncertain world, South African investors face a unique set of challenges. Local market volatility, political risks, and the persistent threat of a weaker currency have led many people to look beyond our borders for security and growth. However, offshore investing is far more than simply ‘chasing returns’ abroad; it’s a strategic and powerful tool for long-term wealth building, risk diversification, and building financial security. Nonetheless, navigating this complex landscape requires more than just a desire to invest globally and ideally necessitates professional guidance from a financial adviser. The value of global diversification One of the primary benefits of global investing is diversification. By spreading investments across different economies, currencies, and industries, you can reduce the impact of local market downturns on your overall portfolio. Not…

Karma might be real after all. And that’s why you have to feel for Thembinkosi Lorch, as his improper conduct on and off the field seems to have caught up with him. Lorch is playing some of his best football in a long while. And while he was hoping for the grandest honour a footballer can get - a chance to represent his country at major tournaments - the only recognition he’ll get now is the loud cheers and applause from the Wydad Casablanca passionate ultras. Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos is not endorsing the return of the attacker to the national team - not now or in the near future. In fact, Lorch must forget about having an international career as long as Broos is still in charge. Broos…

Springbok Sevens head coach Philip Snyman says he is pleased with the progress made in refreshing his ageing squad and building depth, after wrapping up their final conditioning block ahead of the 2026 SVNS season, which kicks off in Dubai at the end of the month. “One of the main aims for this season is to expand our selection base with an eye on the 2029 Olympics, and that remains the case,” Snyman said. “Our squad is ageing, and we need to adapt to that. I also wanted to give myself more options in selection, especially among the forwards, and I’m happy with where we are. “Instead of three, I can now select from at least 10 players to start a match in the forwards – exactly the position I…

There will be plenty of venomous mini-battles within the grand war between the Springboks and France Tonight in Paris. From the electrifying backs to the bruising forwards, fans can expect a series of fascinating one-on-ones as both sides look to gain the upper hand in what promises to be an intense showdown at the Stade de France (10.10pm kick-off). While victory will require a full 23-man effort, both the Boks and Les Bleus will lean on a few key players to set the tone. Here’s a look at the crucial positional duels that could define this blockbuster clash. Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu vs Romain Ntamack (flyhalf) It will be a proper baptism of fire in the north for the young Feinberg-Mngomezulu; however, sinking won’t be an option for the wunderkind as he…

“New York, concrete jungle where dreams are made of, there’s nothing you can’t do…” Right now, these iconic lyrics by Alicia Keys and Jay-Z are more than just an anthem for the city that never sleeps. They feel like the perfect soundtrack for Zohran Mamdani’s historic rise as New York City’s newest mayor. Viral TikTok videos from Mamdani’s campaign often show him singing along to Empire State of Mind. He comes across not just as a politician seeking votes, but as a real New Yorker who reflects the energy, diversity and resilience that make the city shine. When Mamdani took the stage to deliver his victory speech as the newly elected mayor of New York City, the energy in the room was electric. “Donald Trump, I have four words for…

The relentless tide of gun violence sweeping across South Africa demands an honest assessment of its sources. Our investigation reveals a deeply unsettling truth: the very institutions mandated to safeguard our citizens are, far too often, complicit in arming the criminals who terrorise our communities. The proliferation of illegal firearms is inexorably linked to endemic corruption within the South African Police Service (SAPS), particularly the Central Firearms Registry (CFR). Police officers selling state weapons or fraudulently issuing licences to underworld figures are a betrayal of public trust that has a direct, bloody cost. This flow of arms from official channels into the hands of organised crime fuels the murder rate and general violence epidemic. Compounding this crisis is the alarming lack of proper oversight on state-held firearms. With thousands of…

THE ANC in the Western Cape says it is good riddance that four of its leaders, including its former provincial secretary, have left for the DA, accusing them of having collaborated with the enemy to mess up the province’s main opposition party and kill it. Former ANC provincial secretary, Neville Delport, two councillors, and the regional leader appeared at the DA’s media briefing in Cape Town on November 5 as new members. Others who crossed to the DA are former ANC ward councillors Daniel Baadjies from Langeberg and Paul Strauss from Cederberg, as well as former ANC regional executive member Jason Donn. ANC Western Cape's Provincial Task Team spokesperson, Sifiso Mtsweni, accused the defected leaders of having collaborated with the DA in destroying the ANC. The ANC has failed to…

Spekko Rice, a household name in South Africa, has unveiled a striking new look for its product range with the launch of its campaign, ‘7 Weeks Around the World’. This initiative not only showcases the brand’s refreshed packaging but also reimagines rice as a meal's centrepiece, encouraging South Africans to think of this staple grain in a vibrant and adventurous light. Grounded in Spekko’s Feed Your Curiosity: 7 Days 7 Ways platform, the campaign embarks on a culinary voyage through seven distinct countries – Japan, Indonesia, Morocco, Mexico, Italy, Thailand, and India. Each stop on this gastronomic journey introduces food lovers to innovative recipes that elevate rice from a simple side dish to a starring role. Among the tantalising dishes, food enthusiasts can experiment with Temari Sushi from Japan, dive…

The interview begins with laughter as Masana Mkhabela and Lilly Playne recall the moment they heard they had been elected head girl and deputy head girl, respectively, of Roedean School (SA) for 2026. “It was a great and surreal moment,” they agree – a mix of disbelief and quiet joy at being trusted to lead a school they’ve both called home for more than a decade. What are the chances that two four-year-olds who met in crèche would grow up to lead their high school together? For the pair, it’s not just a coincidence. Masana and Lilly have spent their entire school journey side by side, from pre-primary through to the leadership roles they’ll step into next year. It’s the kind of full-circle story that rarely happens by accident and…

New murals at Altena Primary School in Strand have been brought to life by the drawings of the school's pupils. Mieke Hall, the lecturer at the Visual Arts Department at Stellenbosch University, recently created the four murals together with the teachers, parents, pupils, and volunteers as part of her PhD research. “I worked with learners in different classes through art lessons where they drew the school’s values. I chose to start with their drawings because I did not want to impose my own ideas of what should be on their walls,” she said. The murals face each other in a courtyard in the foundation phase block, between Grade 1 to 4 classrooms. Ms Hall said the existing murals at the school primarily depicted characters from prescribed reading books imported from…

As a new year unfolds, it brings with it an opportunity for South African music lovers to embrace the enchanting melodies and vibrant performances of the Ndlovu Youth Choir. Set against a backdrop of prior sold-out shows, the choir’s concerts in Johannesburg and Cape Town have evolved into essential experiences for fans of all ages. This year, in preparation for their much-anticipated performances, Showtime Management has announced the tour dates for the Ndlovu Youth Choir’s 2026 South African tour, promising to bring joy and a celebration of culture to audiences. The tour kicks off with a riveting series of performances at the Artscape Theatre Centre in Cape Town, starting on February 5 at 7:30pm. This will be followed by another show the next day, at the same time, and two…

A remarkably complete tyrannosaur specimen, unearthed in the middle of Montana, US, may finally settle one of the most contentious debates in paleontology and upend our understanding of Tyrannosaurus rex, one of the most famous extinct animals on earth. A paper published in the journal Nature presents strong evidence that the new fossil, along with four others assumed to be teenage T. rex, are actually part of a distinct group called Nanotyrannus. The researchers discovered fine differences in the bones and evidence the new fossil was a mature adult that had stopped growing, revealing that it was not an immature T. rex. The study also fleshes out a more diverse picture of the predators of the late Cretaceous, making the case that there were two species of nanotyrannus. For several…

As the countdown to the 2025 Cape2Rio race begins, six young sailors will represent the Alexforbes Angel Wings crew. The crew will compete against young talent from Brazil, Germany, and Switzerland. The crew, hailing from the Royal Cape Yacht Club (RCYC) Sailing Academy, will embark on this iconic transatlantic voyage from Cape Town to Rio de Janeiro on December 27. This remarkable journey will span approximately 3,300 nautical miles and take between three to four weeks to complete. The crew roster includes Skipper Sibusiso Sizatu (33), Philasande Gwala (24), Yonela Temela (25), Sesona Ntsaluba (21), and Renaldo Mohale (32), with Yobanathi Klaas (20) serving as the reserve sailor. Significantly, four of the six crew members are women, a pivotal move towards enhancing gender diversity within the sport of…

Mazda’s stand at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo played host to the debut of two stylish new concept cars: the Vision X-Coupe and the Vision X-Compact. Both were designed to embody the theme for this year’s exhibition: “The joy of driving fuels a sustainable tomorrow” for the year 2035. Hopefully, we won’t need to wait that long to see production models on the road that take inspiration from these two new concepts, but if the brand’s previous “Vision” design studies are anything to go by, we shouldn't have to wait too long. The Vision X-Coupe takes a unique approach to “sustainable” motoring by combining an electric motor with a two-rotor turbocharged rotary engine to produce a maximum output of 375kW. The plug-in hybrid model can cover up to…

I wonder if, as adults, we monitor the number of times we use the toilet, especially for the number two business, as much as we do with our children? I want us to talk about our relationship with toilets, particularly with those who find toilets, or perhaps any mention of them, somewhat distasteful. My sister and I were talking the other day about what it means to raise children in South Africa’s current economic climate. She laughed so hard when I told her that beyond the rising costs of living, what truly tested me as a first-time mom was changing nappies. I am assured that anyone who has raised a baby knows the unspoken science of monitoring stool colour, texture and frequency. It’s not glamorous, but it’s necessary because one…

Here’s a question for young working South Africans. What is your most valuable asset? No, it’s not your property, and it’s not your retirement savings. It’s you. Unless you are in retirement or close to retiring, your ability to work and earn an income is more valuable than the assets you have accumulated. It is therefore essential to protect yourself as a living asset. Long-term insurance comprises mainly life cover and disability cover. If you’re young and single and own little in the way of assets, life cover is not essential; it only becomes so once you start a family and have dependants. Disability cover, on the other hand, is a must-have from the beginning of your career, because if you become disabled and cannot earn an income, you still…

Do you have questions about your last will and testament? David Thomson, Senior Legal Adviser at Sanlam Trust, answers some of the key questions South Africans have raised with Sanlam during Wills Month. He says that with two-thirds of South Africans (66%) not having a will (according to the 2025 Sanlam Legacy Wills Survey), this is a real concern for many South Africans. Understanding the process of drafting a will can help more people leave lasting legacies of love and avoid situations where families are left vulnerable and estates remain bogged down for years. Thomson addresses some of the main questions: Forged Wills: how do I stop someone from faking or manipulating my will? Sadly, you can’t stop someone from trying. What you can stop is a forgery being accepted…

Proteas top-order batter Tony de Zorzi says he went back to his routines on and off the field to be able to turn his form around in the ongoing tour to Pakistan. A little over a month ago, many wouldn’t have had De Zorzi in their Proteas squads, let alone a playing XI, because the 28-year-old was struggling for runs at the time. He showed good form during the white ball tours of Australia and England; however, he still couldn’t put together big runs. When he got injured in England, his involvement in the ongoing Pakistan tour looked even less likely. However, the left-hander has been able to make a full recovery and was selected in the Test squad against India next week, likely replacing Temba Bavuma. In the first…

As Siya Kolisi runs out to face France tonight to earn his 100th Springbok Test cap, the occasion will rightly be framed as a national celebration, a monument to his leadership, his World Cup victories, and his symbolic significance as South Africa’s first Black Test captain. Yet the true measure of Kolisi’s journey is found not in the triumphs of 2019 or 2023, but in a crisis period around 2015, a pivotal moment when he nearly lost his prodigious talent to personal demons. This turning point, a battle fought off the pitch, is what truly forged the leader South Africa came to know. After Kolisi burst onto the international scene with one of the great Springbok debuts against Scotland in 2013, he went through a dip in the…

As summer approaches, South Africa’s coastline comes alive, and the announcement of the Blue Flag Beach status for the 2025/26 season brings excitement to beachgoers. Every year, the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (Wessa) reveals the best beaches across the country, recognising those that excel in coastal management and sustainable tourism. This year, 70 beaches and pilot sites have been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag status, highlighting their commitment to cleanliness, safety, and environmental management. Among the 70 beaches, 12 are in KwaZulu-Natal, with eight of these situated along the picturesque South Coast. The Western Cape boasts 21 Blue Flag beaches, while the Eastern Cape is home to 17. Notably, McDougalls Bay in Port Nolloth, Northern Cape, has also received Blue Flag status as a pilot site. This…