Indholdsfortegnelse for 2025-08-12 i Cape Times

The South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) has voiced robust support for Eskom's plans to initiate the construction of a new nuclear power station in Duynefontein, situated adjacent to the Koeberg facility. This initiative signifies a critical move towards enhancing South Africa's energy security and is set to adhere to the highest standards of safety, environmental protection, and regulatory compliance, as previously demonstrated by Eskom at the Koeberg nuclear power plant. Necsa is keen on expanding its role in nuclear fuel manufacturing and, in April, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC). In this context, the organisation on Monday welcomed the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), Dion George’s announcement that Eskom has received environmental authorisation to proceed with the construction of…

Trust is not just earned; it is governed. This governance imperative applies universally. From private corporations to State-Owned Enterprises, trust is the invisible currency that dictates whether an organisation thrives or collapses. It is the bedrock of reputation and the lens through which all governance actions are judged. Yet, for many boards, trust is spoken of only in the context of crises, not as a standing governance priority. An organisation can meet every regulatory requirement, produce clean audit reports, and still forfeit stakeholder confidence. Why? Because trust is built not through compliance alone, but through conduct, culture and consistency. The governance challenge is to make trust a conscious, measurable and strategic outcome rather than a by-product of other decisions. Stakeholder trust is a strategic asset, influencing whether investors commit capital,…

Every year, over 250 000 new mobile apps are launched across Apple and Google’s app stores. Yet research by Data.ai reveals that the average smartphone user interacts with only nine apps a day, with the majority of their time concentrated in just two or three apps - and almost always, WhatsApp is one of them. In fact, WhatsApp now boasts over 2.8 billion global users, and in South Africa, it holds near-total dominance in the messaging space, with penetration rates exceeding 93%, and the average user spending over 38 minutes a day on the app, according to SimilarWeb’s State of Mobile Usage Report 2024. In light of this, businesses need to confront a glaring contradiction: while consumers are actively consolidating their digital behaviour into a handful of core apps, companies…

The corporate travails at JSE-listed East European property group MAS took another twist on Monday when shareholder PK Investments (PKI) insisted its “voluntary offer” is fair, and the concerns raised by the MAS independent board were not material. PKI’s offer follows its earlier attempt to get MAS to sell all its assets, but this was thwarted at a shareholders' meeting. It also follows concerns expressed by nine minority South African institutional shareholders about aspects of governance in the MAS board. These shareholders, which together own 15% of MAS, include Meago, Sesfikile Capital, Ninety One, Catalyst, Eskom Pension Fund, and Stanlib. South African REIT Hyprop also earlier withdrew a bid for MAS, because MAS’s board and PKI allegedly failed to provide information. PKI has offered cash of €1.40 per MAS share…

Troubled retailer, OK Zimbabwe has secured a financial life-line pivotal to its revival bid under new management. The company, which competes in Zimbabwe’s retail sector against Pick n Pay, Spar and other smaller players, intends to raise as much as $30 million to revive its struggling retail operations. OK Zimbabwe’s battle for survival comes against the backdrop of wider wholesale and retail sector challenges that include monetary challenges and pricing distortions that are driving away suppliers. For OK Zimbabwe, the plan for revival plan includes securing a financial package to turnaround the company. This month, OK Zimbabwe raised $20m through a rights offer, the company said Monday. “The rights offer was fully-subscribed through a combination of shareholder take-up and shares taken up by the underwriters in accordance with the underwriting…

The DA has announced reform proposals aimed at empowering state-owned entities (SOEs), which it claims offer a better alternative to BBBEE, employment equity, and the Expropriation Act - policies it insists must be scrapped. Speaking at a media briefing in Johannesburg yesterday, DA leader John Steenhuisen said the three acts are major obstacles to economic growth. “BBBEE and racial quotas have failed, and together with expropriation without compensation, create an environment that deters investment, growth and job creation for the majority of South Africans,” Steenhuisen said. He blamed the policies for discouraging investment in the country. “These policies are simply not fair. They don't help the millions of South Africans ... who just need the government to get out of the way. These policies must go.” Steenhuisen said the DA…

Professor Jill Farrant, a renowned authority in plant molecular physiology from UCT, was celebrated for her remarkable contributions to science at the 2025 National Research Foundation (NRF) Awards. Professor Farrant received the Lifetime Achievement accolade at the NH Johannesburg Sandton Hotel under the event's theme ‘Innovating for a Sustainable Future’. The annual NRF Awards recognises outstanding achievements by individuals and teams whose excellence has significantly advanced science for the benefit of society. Professor Farrant described this recognition as her most significant honour from her homeland. She reflected on her journey and dedication to fighting for equality across race and gender in South Africa. “To have this recognition means a lot to me. I must acknowledge my students and collaborators worldwide, as well as the God of my understanding for guiding…

TWO police officers are set to appear in court today following their arrests for allegedly selling commissioned blank affidavit forms to the public for R100. The men in blue - a 41-year-old sergeant and a 31-year-old constable - were stationed at the Table View police station and were arrested on Sunday night. They are now facing charges of corruption and defeating the ends of justice. Western Cape Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant-General Thembisile Patekile issued a firm warning following the arrest. “Corruption within our ranks will not be tolerated, and every effort will be made to remove any police officer found on the wrong side of the law from the Service,” Patekile said. Police spokesperson Andrè Traut said the matter first surfaced last year when a signed and commissioned statement was discovered…

In December 2024, the South African Communist Party (SACP) announced that henceforth, it will contest elections alone outside of the Tripartite Alliance comprising the ANC, COSATU and the SACP – as well as South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO). This includes the much-anticipated upcoming 2026 Local Government Election (LGE). It was not the first time that the SACP had taken such a decision. But this time it sounds serious, and the ANC has conceded defeat in persuading it. This incident triggers a few questions. Firstly, what has prompted the SACP to take such a firm decision this time? Secondly, does this mark the end of the Tripartite Alliance? Thirdly, what impact will the SACP’s decision have on the ANC during elections starting from 2026? Fourthly, could this incident have been…

Manufacturing sector will have a positive contribution to the overall gross domestic production MANUFACTURING output surged more than expected in June. Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) on Monday said manufacturing production rose by 1.9% year-on-year in June 2025, quickening from a 0.7% increase in May, and overshooting market estimates of a 1% advance. This marked the second consecutive month of industrial growth, meaning that the manufacturing sector will have a positive contribution to the overall gross domestic production (GDP) for the second quarter. Lara Hodes, Investec Economist, said the outcome was ahead of consensus expectations. Hodes said this was in line with the movement of the seasonally adjusted Absa Purchasing Managers’ index (PMI), which picked up moderately in June, supported by some recovery in demand. "Accordingly, the sector will contribute…

The inaugural report into the impact of foreign owned e-commerce retailers titled: Offshore e-Commerce Disruption in South Africa, makes for grim reading. This report, commissioned by Proudly SA and painstakingly compiled by the Localisation Support Fund (LSF), eloquently illustrates the deleterious impact that offshore e-commerce retailers have had on the South African economy and lays bare how these conglomerates have displaced the country’s manufacturing capabilities and cannibalised thousands of jobs in the retail, clothing, textile, footwear and leather (R-CTFL) industries which cumulatively employ over 212 000 people. Over the past five years, offshore e-commerce retailers have grown rapidly in South Africa’s R-CTFL e-commerce space and fundamentally disrupted established local value chains. In 2024, Shein and Temu collectively achieved approximately R7.3 billion in sales, accounting for 3.6% of the total R-CTFL…

If there was ever a doubt that podcasts matter, last week's developments in South Africa have proven that they do. Lately, some podcasters have influenced national debates that resulted in legal challenges. There’s even a feeling that there’s a need to regulate podcasts. Is this an ideal approach? A closer look of the global state of podcasts shows that they are unstoppable and it's too late to regulate. Here’s why… Podcasting has been around for over a decade, but it’s in the last few years that it’s gained massive traction. According to recent data from GWI, over 60% of internet users worldwide now listen to podcasts at least once a month - up from just 45% in 2020. Podcasting is now filled with talking heads who discuss all sorts of…

Dis-Chem Life CEO, Greg Smith, has said that the new entrant was carving out a bold new path grounded in ready accessibility, smart technology, and deep integration within South Africa’s largest pharmacy and healthcare retail network. The pharmaceutical company recently acquired about 50% of OneSpark, an insurtech startup, for R155.9 million. The merged Dis-Chem Life entity launched in February this year, gearing to capitalise on Dis-Chem’s expansive footprint across South Africa. Smith told Business Report in an interview this month that business has been steady over the first few months of operation as Dis-Chem Life. He also disclosed that the company is looking to expand from within the Dis-Chem ecosystem. “Our growth starts from within...the biggest growth is within our own network. Now with over 350 Dis-Chem stores across the…

The bra has long been considered an essential part of daily life, yet many women may not realise the hidden health implications of this wardrobe staple. The traditional “lift and separate” underwire design, often marketed as the gold standard for support and shaping, could be a silent killer, contributing to a range of physical and emotional issues. From chronic aches and poor posture to potential chemical exposure, a growing body of evidence suggests that the very garment meant to provide comfort and confidence could be doing more harm than good. The musculoskeletal risk The average woman carries a significant amount of weight in her breasts – a load that can be exacerbated in those with larger cup sizes. If a bra fails to distribute this weight effectively, the entire burden…

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag. With a little planning and creativity, you can provide your body with the essential nutrients it needs while also supporting your mental well-being - all without stretching your budget. By focusing on affordable, nutrient-dense foods, making thoughtful choices and adopting sustainable habits, you can fuel your body and mind effectively and economically. Plan your meals ahead Planning your meals for the week helps you shop smartly, avoid impulse buys, and reduce food waste. Start by listing affordable staples you already have, then build meals around them. Batch cooking and freezing meals also save time and money. Prioritise whole, unprocessed foods Whole foods like beans, lentils, oats, brown rice, eggs and seasonal vegetables are usually cheaper and more…

Former South African Ambassador to the US Ebrahim Rasool says President Cyril Ramaphosa is correct to be cautious in appointing a new ambassador to the US. In an exclusive interview with Independent Media at the G20 Interfaith Forum (IF20) in Cape Town, Rasool said the question the country must ask itself is whether it wants to go through the embarrassment of nominating an ambassador, and then having them wait, which was the original plan by the Republicans with him. “The question is, do we want to go through that embarrassment of the US making our ambassador stay in limbo for a few months, and then because we have nominally appointed an ambassador, it cuts other channels of communication. “This (current) state shows that you can still pick up the phone,…

Liverpool have splashed out to defend their English Premier League crown but face stiff competition from an Arsenal side desperate to shed their “nearly men” tag and a rejuvenated Manchester City. After storming to a record-equalling 20th English top-flight title in Arne Slot’s first season in charge, Liverpool have looked to build from a position of strength during a summer marked by tragedy. Portuguese forward Diogo Jota was killed in a car accident alongside his brother last month, plunging the club into mourning. Tributes to Jota will continue throughout the season, with “Forever 20” — his shirt number, now retired — printed on Liverpool’s jerseys. The Reds have already spent £260 million (about R6.2bn) on Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong. However, after the departures of Luis…

While much of the speculation ahead of this weekend’s kick-off of the English Premier League has focused on champions Liverpool’s title defence and their massive spending spree, there has been little attention on Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City. Most analysts seem to have written off the Citizens as title contenders, but given their recent history, that would be premature. City have won six Premier League titles since the Spaniard took over, including four successive wins from 2020 to 2024 — a first in the history of the EPL. The last time they surrendered the championship to the Reds, in the 2019/20 season, they bounced back emphatically to reclaim the title. It seems strange, then, that last season’s runners-up Arsenal and Chelsea, who finished fourth, are more frequently listed among Liverpool’s strongest…

The first convention of the National Dialogue is expected to go ahead on Friday despite growing concerns about the cost of the gathering. Intended to launch an extensive public dialogue process aimed at addressing the pressing socio-economic issues faced by citizens, the Convention is not without its detractors. While the National Convention Organising Committee remains optimistic, critics have voiced significant concerns over the financial implications and the efficacy of such discussions amidst a backdrop of unfulfilled promises from previous government initiatives. Political analyst Siyabonga Ntombela from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) said that South Africa was not a nation in the true sense and meaning of the word. “We are not even united in our diversity, plus we do not even have a unique identity that unifies us. Instead, we…

For those who don’t know and understand the continent, it’s easy to fall into the ‘Africa as a country’ trap. Yet, if there’s one place in the world where a one-size-fits-all approach is sure to fail, it’s Africa. On a continent of contrasts, success comes from understanding that every country, community, and individual has unique social, cultural, and economic contexts and frameworks. Drilling down even further will expose another truth. Africa’s women are taking their rightful place, no longer limited by gender stereotypes and societal norms. All they need are the tools to enable and empower them. So, how does this translate into supporting women on Africa’s digital transformation journey? The World Bank reports that women in low- and middle-income countries are 15% less likely than men to use mobile…

Three weeks ago, my wife Sithabiso and I were at a private medical facility in Jakarta, marvelling at what might be the most efficient care I've ever experienced. Following streamlined pre-consultation rituals and a thorough half-hour session with a passionate dermatologist, my niggling adult eczema in beast-mode was properly diagnosed and treated, clearing completely within a week and leaving me with empowering education about my condition. The UK's National Health Service (NHS), competent though they were in serving me, had managed the same through frustratingly cautious, iterative protocols over several weeks. Our business trip was interrupted by devastating news: my father had been rushed to hospital after suffering what we would later discover was heart failure. The irony wasn't lost on me. Here I was, accessing impromptu premium private care…

Italtile said ceramics market trading conditions have continued to deteriorate and it predicted only a marginal 0.1% to 5.2% increase in headline earnings per share (HEPS) for the financial year to June 30, 2025. The manufacturer, distributor, and retailer of ceramic tiles, sanitaryware, and bathroom accessories said it expected HEPS to be between 123.1 cents and 129.4 cents, compared with 123 cents that was reported last year. The group's directors said in a trading statement on Monday that intense competition, over-capacity, and subdued demand has exerted pressure on tile manufacturers. The South African economy showed almost no GDP growth, resulting in depressed consumer confidence and low spending in the building and construction sector. “Consumers remain price-conscious and constrained by tight budgets while searching for trusted quality and good value,” Italtile’s…

It’s that time of year again when we’re caught between tying up loose ends and trying not to tie ourselves in knots. The final months often feel like a mad sprint: deadlines at work, family demands, exams, school runs and the constant hum of WhatsApp groups. No wonder so many of us arrive at December utterly depleted. If you’re feeling that heavy brain fog, the short fuse, the constant tiredness that even a weekend lie-in doesn’t fix, you’re not alone. Burnout is real, and it’s more common than we think. The World Health Organization has officially classified burnout as an “occupational phenomenon”, warning that unchecked stress can lead to exhaustion, negativity and lower productivity. But here’s a thought worth holding onto: maybe the antidote isn’t doing more or pushing through,…

“Ubuntu is broken”, Archbishop Thabo Makgoba said when he delivered the keynote address at the G20 Interfaith Forum (IF20) in Cape Town yesterday, which saw several global voices committed to shaping inclusive and ethical policy coming together. The IF20 forum convenes religious leaders, civil society organisations, government officials, multilateral institutions, and scholars to explore collaborative solutions to pressing global challenges. The IF20 event is intended to reflect and reinforce South Africa’s G20 Presidency theme: “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability.” During his address, Makgoba appealed to President Cyril Ramaphosa and the government to take action on the five G20 action areas. This included food security and poverty, economic and financial action, social cohesion as a foundation for peace, migration and refugee movements, human trafficking, and religious involvement, as first responders. “IF20’s continued work…

PARTICIPANTS in this year’s Eskom Expo for Young Scientists West Coast regional science fair impressed the judges with their creativity, critical thinking, and innovative solutions to real-world challenges facing South Africa. The event held at the White City Multipurpose Centre, Saldanha on Thursday featured 85 projects showcased by 129 young scientists in Grades 4–12 and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) NC(V) Level 2 to NC(V) Level 4 students. These learners progressed in their Expo journeys after taking part in various activities throughout the year, including workshops and District Expos. The most popular category at this year’s fair was Social Sciences, with 23 entries, followed by strong participation in Energy (17), Engineering (15) and Chemistry and Biochemistry (eight). Eskom Expo’s West Coast Provincial Coordinator, Ursula Boys, extended her heartfelt…

To pay maintenance to a divorcing spouse - even if it is only interim payments as per a court order pending a final divorce - is a legal obligation, the court reminded a husband based in Switzerland, who blamed a skiing accident for his non-payment. The Western Cape High Court did not accept his excuses and ordered the man to pay R277 000 in arrear maintenance to his wife. This must be done within 15 days and if he failed, his wife was granted permission to immediately launch contempt of court proceedings against him. The wife, who lives in Cape Town, turned to court as she wanted her husband, from whom she is not yet divorced, to honour his maintenance obligations as per a previous court order. The court, in…

There was a time when Rassie Erasmus took orders from Joe Schmidt, and the Springbok coach admits he is nervous going up against his old master when the Springboks host the Wallabies on Saturday at Ellis Park. Schmidt is the man respected for building the Ireland rugby dynasty, and Erasmus says he learned from him when he and Jacques Nienaber were coaching Munster in 2016 and 2017. “I’m not one to suck up other coaches because it doesn’t help your team perform better on match day, but Joe is a great coach,” Erasmus said, after naming his team for the opening Test of the Rugby Championship. Schmidt has picked the Wallabies up off the scrapheap — they could not get out of their pool at the last World Cup —…

South Africa's Bafana Bafana came good with a 2-1 win over Guinea in their Chan Group C clash at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Uganda, on Monday. After their hard-fought 1-1 draw against group favourites Algeria on Friday, Bafana managed a win in their second group clash by scoring a goal in each half. Bafana Bafana aimed to end Guinea's unbeaten record against South Africa, which had lasted through five matches since their first encounter in March 2001. The Elephants, as Guinea are nicknamed, have a record of two wins and three draws and had yet to concede a goal against South African opposition. The scoring jinx was finally broken, 24-years later, by captain Neo Maema with a ninth-minute goal after an innocuous upfield kick from deep…