Indholdsfortegnelse for 2025-08-23 i Saturday Star

While political leaders argue over the legalisation of sex work in South Africa, the women at the heart of the trade are calling for the country to look deeper. Survivors of sex trafficking and exploitation say legalisation would only cement the suffering they’ve endured, and that the current debate ignores their trauma, safety, and rights. Two of these women have shared their experiences of being trafficked, exploited, and stripped of dignity, not by the lack of legal status, but by the very system that would be legitimised through legalisation. They say that what’s needed is not a legal framework that protects pimps and buyers, but urgent interventions that protect women, restore agency, and dismantle the cycles of poverty and abuse that drive them into sex work. Speaking to the Saturday…

After a sombre week in Gauteng, where the Springboks’ shock defeat to the Wallabies at Ellis Park left fans deflated and heartbroken, the national team is determined to bring back smiles – this time from the Mother City. Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick says they felt the full weight of that Ellis Park loss the moment they landed in Cape Town, describing it as “a funeral vibe” that’s been hard to shake – especially knowing how much the Gauteng faithful had hoped for a win on home soil. The second Rugby Championship Test against the Aussies in Cape Town is set for this afternoon (5.10pm kick-off). “It felt like there was a funeral after the game at Ellis Park, the way it was so quiet and how heartbroken people were,”…

United Democratic Movement (UDM) leader and Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Bantu Holomisa, lost his temper during a live broadcast on Gagasi FM, clashing with both a listener and host Alex Mthiyane in a fiery exchange that left listeners stunned. The confrontation began after a caller phoned in to express frustration with Holomisa’s attitude, accusing him of arrogance. "I'm noticing that the general is arrogant," said the caller. "The whole purpose of inviting him was so he could answer questions we have as citizens. There was a previous caller, and the general responded by saying the person was speaking in his own language and questioned whether he had been taught respect in his language. For me, that is discrimination,'' said the caller. Holomisa fired back, saying, "This is…

John Richard barely slept on Monday night, kept awake by traumatic memories from his three years in the US Army. He struggled to get out of bed the next morning, so he drove to his recent haven: a monkey sanctuary. There, Louie, a 1-year-old black-handed spider monkey, wrapped his arms around Richard’s neck and chirped into his ear. Richard felt his heart rate slow. “It just brings a relaxation over me just instantly,” Richard said. Richard has sought ways to treat his post-traumatic stress disorder since he was discharged more than three decades ago. Since he began volunteering with the sanctuary in southeastern Mississippi last fall, Richard has found his most effective coping mechanism: spending time with monkeys. April Stewart, a US Air Force veteran, founded the Gulf Coast Primate…

The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) came alive this week as women leaders gathered for a dialogue dedicated to celebrating women’s achievements and tackling the inequalities they continue to face across different fields. The event, held under the theme “Empowering Women and Being Voices of Change: What Are We Doing as Women in Leadership to Empower Other Women?” brought together voices from politics, academia, business, and community leadership. It was attended by high-profile figures including the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi; Executive Mayor of Sedibeng District Municipality, Councillor Lerato Maloka; vice-chancellor of the Central University of Technology, Professor Pamela Dube; and VUT’s own executive leadership, alongside members of council, senate, and student representatives. The panel discussion moderated by Maureen Rathapo featured Dr Mukondeleli Kanakana-Katumba, deputy vice-chancellor for…

Kia South Africa has revealed its facelifted people carrier Carnival with an upgraded interior and a new-look exterior. They’ve done away with the mid-spec SX variant and now offer the still well-specced entry-level EX and the range-topping SXL. Exterior Designed with the company’s new SUV-inspired design language, it gets sculpted bonnet lines, a bold new character line that connects the front and rear lights and more pronounced wheel arches. In addition, it gets a new Tiger Nose grille, two-tone side mirrors, black-and-chrome rocker panel mouldings and a rear skid plate garnish. Depending on the model variant, it stands on either 18 or 19-inch alloy wheels. Interior In the two-tone leather upgraded interior, the central fascia of the Kia Carnival comes with a high-gloss black finish with a chrome strip that…

Instead of investing haphazardly in whatever tickles their fancy, professional fund managers invest according to a carefully thought-out process or strategy that aims to beat a predetermined benchmark over the long term. Before they look at individual shares (for the purpose of this article I’ll stick to equities as an asset class), they are likely to consider the broader, so-called “macroeconomic” environment in which the market operates, although some so-called “bottom-up” managers pay little attention to macroeconomic influences. At share-picking level, there is a range of well-tested investment strategies or styles. Once a manager has established the criteria for determining not only which shares to buy but when to buy and when to sell them, the manager needs to stick to that process through good times and bad. This applies…

In June 2025, President Ramaphosa announced the concept of having a national Dialogue. He stated that the National Dialogue is a chance for all South Africans, from all walks of life, to come together and help shape the next chapter of our democracy. Dialogue: It can also refer to formal talks aimed at reaching an agreement. He stated that the objective was to seek a shared vision of what it means to be a South African and develop a new national ethos and common value system. This exercise would be an opportunity to forge a new social compact for the development of our country, a compact that will unite all South Africans, with clear responsibilities for different stakeholders, government, business, labour, civil society, men and women, communities, and citizens. In…

Mamelodi Sundowns have found themselves in a whirlwind of speculation and tension as they navigate the growing uncertainty surrounding forward Lucas Ribeiro’s future with the club. The Brazilian-born player has officially requested to have his contract terminated, a move that has raised eyebrows, given that he still has over two years left on his agreement with the club. It also raised a frenzy on social media. As foreign interest in Ribeiro continues to mount, notably from Qatar SC and the famed Brazilian club Fluminense, which Ribeiro has reportedly turned down, Sundowns appear reluctant to facilitate his departure. Despite Ribeiro’s expressed desire to leave South Africa, which seems increasingly dire as the days pass, Sundowns remain steadfast in their commitment to retaining the 26-year-old talent. With offers from various international clubs…

For decades, football clubs have enjoyed a near-monopoly over the careers of their players. Contracts were binding instruments that granted employers the upper hand, often leaving players with little say over their professional futures. But as the game has grown into a global business, the balance of power has shifted steadily toward the players themselves. The ongoing Lucas Ribeiro saga at Mamelodi Sundowns is the latest reminder of this transformation. Ribeiro, a Brazilian forward instrumental in the Tshwane giants’ domestic dominance last season, stunned the local football scene on Thursday by revealing he had resigned from Sundowns. His claim of “just cause” for termination, and his decision to escalate the matter to FIFA’s Football Tribunal, illustrates just how emboldened modern footballers have become. For all their financial muscle and trophy…

Harry Maguire believes it would be “silly” to leave Manchester United right now after revealing manager Ruben Amorim has stalled any summer transfer window moves for the defender. The 32-year-old centre-back arrived at Old Trafford from Leicester in an £80 million deal in 2019, signing a six-year contract with an option for a further season. United triggered that clause at the turn of the year and have since made clear they want to hold onto the England international this season, with Maguire yet to speak to the club about his future beyond this campaign. “Last year was the clause in their hands so there was no option for me there,” Maguire said Thursday. “There was no talking. It was just they activated it and it got extended. “This year, obviously…

After winning without convincing against Osasuna in their opening match of the season in La Liga, Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid head to Real Oviedo tomorrow for what will be a gala occasion for the newly-promoted side. Oviedo returned to Spain’s top flight after an absence of almost a quarter of a century by beating Mirandes in the second-tier play-off final in June. The club from the northern region of Asturias, coached by Serbian former player Veljko Paunovic, were therefore left facing a quick turnaround before tackling life back in La Liga. With a 40-year-old Santi Cazorla coming off the bench and Venezuela veteran Salomon Rondon leading the attack, Oviedo lost 2-0 away at Villarreal in their first game back in the elite. Now they host the 15-time European champions in…

While romantic couple getaways and action-packed family holidays have their charms, nothing compares to the soul-nourishing joy of travelling with the women who mean the most to you. Whether it’s with your mom, your daughter, your favourite aunt or your ride-or-die bestie, an overseas trip can bring endless laughs, shared inside jokes, heartfelt chats and the simple pleasure of doing what you love with people who just get you. Even better, exploring a new culture together – from sampling its food and soaking up its scenery to meeting new people and embracing its traditions – creates a special kind of bond that lasts long after you return home. If you’re planning a girls-only trip abroad, booking an organised tour can make the experience even more enjoyable. With safety, logistics and…

“Eat less and move more.” We hear this often, as if obesity were that simple to solve. But science reveals otherwise. Obesity isn’t about willpower; it's a chronic disease recognised by the World Health Organization (WHO) and impacts far more than the number on the scale. For women, the dangers of obesity go beyond appearance or stigma. Excess abdominal weight is linked to hormonal imbalances, pregnancy complications and even changes to a baby’s DNA, called epigenetic programming. Why does the WHO call obesity a chronic disease The WHO now classifies obesity as a chronic disease because it is complex, long-term, and relapsing. It involves a mix of genetic, biological, psychological, social and environmental factors that go beyond personal choice. Research published in The Lancet shows that 40-70% of obesity has…

My F*k, Marelize went from being a 20-second viral video to a feature-length movie. This is certainly an unprecedented move. However, after watching the clip, Brett Michael Innes, who directed Sink, Fiela se Kind, Catch Me A Killer, and Unseen 2, found his curiosity piqued. And so he reached out to Marelize Horn, and after they spoke, that’s when he realised he had a gem of a story on his hands. Initially announced at the 12th Silwerskerm Film Festival a year ago, the project premiered as this year's opening night movie. The excitement surrounding the film was infectious, from the blue carpet moments to the screening at The Rotunda at The Bay Hotel. Those expecting a typical comedy about an accident-prone teenager will be pleasantly surprised, as this goes far…

Schools across South Africa have been rocked by a series of violent incidents this week. In the latest incident, in the Eastern Cape, a Grade 9 learner was stabbed by two fellow learners at Enkwenkwezini Senior Secondary School. Meanwhile, in the North West, a group of learners at Hoër Tegniese Skool in Klerksdorp disrupted classes and assaulted a teacher. Also trending ths week was the unrest seen at another Gauteng school, with violent clashes between learners from West Ridge High School and Hoërskool Roodepoort leading to serious injuries and the stabbing of a school principal. In the Eastern Cape incident, a Grade 9 learner from Enkwenkwezini Senior Secondary School in Alice, in the Amathole West Education District, was assaulted and stabbed with scissors by two fellow learners. The Eastern Cape…

The counterfeit dupes of the popular plush Labubu dolls are sometimes called “Lafufus” - but the US Consumer Product Safety Commission has another name for them: choking hazards. The commission issued a warning for consumers to avoid the counterfeit dolls because they pose “a serious risk of choking and death to young children.” The knockoffs “break apart easily, releasing small pieces that can become choking hazards,” the commission said, urging consumers to stop buying and using Lafufus “immediately.” “These fake Labubu dolls are dangerous, illegal, and have no place in American homes,” Acting Chairman Peter Feldman said. “No parent should have to wonder if a toy will stop their child from breathing. Protect your children and buy only from reputable sellers.” Fakes of the “ugly-cute” toys have flooded the market…

In a telling concession, National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola has acknowledged that the South African Police Service (SAPS) does not possess a specialist unit to confront the growing threat posed by Operation Dudula and similar groups targeting undocumented foreign nationals within public health facilities. His remarks came during a media briefing in Olifantsfontein, Pretoria, where he oversaw the destruction of more than R400 million in confiscated drugs. Masemola confirmed that, while there is no dedicated task force for Operation Dudula, the police are relying on their Public Order Policing (POP) division to manage disturbances when they arise. “On Operation Dudula, we don’t have a unit specifically to deal with them. We have Public Order Policing (POP) countrywide, and their job is to deal with crowd management,” Masemola stated. The…

FROG watching might not be as popular as birding, but that might soon change following the launch of a new app designed to help users identify the amphibians croaking outside. The app, known as Frogs of Southern Africa, was developed by Professor Louis du Preez in collaboration with herpetologist Vincent Carruthers. Du Preez says the app grew out of his book, Field Guide to the Frogs of Southern Africa, which took four and a half years of research to complete. “Amphibians were the first animals to colonise land 350 million years ago and now they are in trouble. They are the most threatened vertebrate group. I just felt compelled to do something and reach out to the public,” he said. The “lite version” of the app is free to download,…

Grammy Award-winning producer and singer Zakhele 'Zakes Bantwini' Madida is expanding his influence beyond the stage, using his record label and festival to foster mentorship, collaboration, and cultural pride in Afro House and Afro Tech. Madida tells the Saturday Star that the record label, Mayonie Productions, was established with a clear mission: to cultivate a safe and supportive environment for women in the music industry, with a vision centred on empowering female artists by providing them with essential resources and an effective platform to flourish. “Initially, the label was focused on female artists, providing them with the resources and platform they needed to thrive. Over time, as we expanded, we embraced a wider range of talent, but the core mission of fostering a nurturing atmosphere remains.” The label has since…

"I know him, I know him and I also know her." These were the words uttered by former President Nelson Mandela when he was asked to autograph a 1996 booklet, The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, lovingly gathered over a few years by retired chef Neels du Plooy. Now the much-travelled booklet is on sale on Facebook Marketplace with a price tag of a million rand, which might seem steep were it not for the fact that it has the signatures of 30 iconic South African political leaders and judicial pioneers who crafted our peaceful transition to democracy. Many South Africans got a copy of the beloved booklet when it was released, but while ours have no collector value, Du Plooy's is sure to pique the interest of…

When Temiloluwa Johnson says, “it’s always a good day to be queer”, one almost expects a sardonic laugh to follow. Particularly given that the young photojournalist is based in Nigeria, a country long renowned for being repressively anti-queer. The West African country’s Same-Sex Marriage Prohibition Act carries with it sentences of up 14 years imprisonment for those found guilty of consensual same-sex sexual relations. The Act also imposes a 10-year prison sentence on anyone who “registers, operates or participates in gay clubs, societies and organisation” or “supports” the activities of such organisations. Despite this repressive context, queer folk and their allies across the West African nation continue to seek, find and create safe spaces for gathering and self-expression. An example of this is Lagos’s ballroom events. It is one of…

Volvo’s new South African managing director, Grant Locke, has returned from Sweden after 18 months with a clear mission: to restore customer confidence, strengthen dealer networks and guide the brand through South Africa’s cautious transition to electric mobility. Speaking on the sidelines at the launch of the new Volvo EX 30 Cross Country, Locke said: “As a South African, I understand the unique culture and mindset here. That gives me an advantage in helping ensure trust in the Volvo brand locally. Right now, my biggest challenge is rebuilding that trust.” Dealership restructure Earlier this year, Volvo embarked on a significant dealership restructure, to improve profitability and align the network with market realities, but the move created uncertainty among customers. “When a dealership closes, people worry about servicing their cars. Marketing…

On August 18, a proclamation signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa to double the disclosure threshold and annual donation limit in the Political Funding Act (PFA) was published in the Government Gazette (No. 53182). The proclamation is dated August 6 but was only published recently. The new annual donation limit will be R30 million, up from R15m, and the new disclosure threshold will be R200 000, up from R100 000. This will deepen secrecy in political funding and make it easier for private interests to influence our politics and for corruption to occur. Politics requires funding and the role parties play in a democratic system is vital. But there needs to be a balance between ensuring that parties are adequately funded, and that such funding is regulated and mitigates the risk…

Economically active women often carry a double burden as breadwinners and primary caregivers, according to Wendy Myers, head of securities at PSG Wealth. She says this limits their ability to rise to senior roles, impacting income potential and causing financial strain. According to Myers, despite significant strides in representation and empowerment, South African women continue to shoulder a disproportionately heavy burden of financial stress. DebtBusters’ latest Money Stress Tracker found that nearly 75% of female respondents reported high levels of financial anxiety, 10% more than men. She says the drivers behind this imbalance are deeply rooted in both societal dynamics and systemic barriers. Ané Craig, head of fixed income at PSG Asset Management, adds that financial literacy also plays a role. “Another key reason that women experience higher levels of…

Sekhukhune United will need nothing short of a remontada if they are to overturn a two-goal deficit against Stellenbosch FC and reach their first MTN8 final. The two teams will meet again in the decider today at 6pm. Babina Noko were undone in Cape Town two weeks ago, Stellies punishing their defensive lapses to claim a 2-0 advantage in the first leg. Head coach coach Eric Tinkler admitted afterwards that his side had failed to follow instructions, a lapse that has left them with a mountain to climb in today’s decisive clash in Polokwane. But comebacks are not foreign territory in football. From Real Madrid’s dramatic Champions League fightbacks (remontada) to Sekhukhune’s own ability to turn games around, belief remains central to knockout football. Former Bafana Bafana striker Lehlohonolo…

Kevin De Bruyne will lead Napoli’s Serie A title defence today when he makes his full debut at promoted Sassuolo, but the champions head into the new season rocked by a long-term injury to star striker Romelu Lukaku. De Bruyne was, alongside ageing icon Luka Modric, the big new name to arrive in Italy this summer and fans were hoping his link-up with Belgium teammate Lukaku would push Napoli to success both at home and in their return to the Champions League. The 34-year-old has suffered from hamstring injuries which caused him to miss significant chunks of the last two campaigns with Manchester City, where he won six Premier League titles and in 2023 the Champions League. But he was excellent in Napoli’s recent friendly against Girona, scoring twice and…

Japan’s ability to reimagine the ordinary is what makes it such a compelling destination for curious travellers. From futuristic cafés to silent protests, Japan’s approach to everyday life reflects a society that values order, beauty, empathy and innovation. Here’s a look at six remarkable aspects of life in Japan that make it unlike anywhere else on earth. 1. A café where robots serve as waiters, controlled by people who are physically disabled: In Tokyo’s bustling district of Nihonbashi is Dawn Avatar Robot Café, a place where coffee, compassion and cutting-edge technology intersect. Here, the servers are robots – humanoid machines that glide smoothly between tables. But what makes this café truly revolutionary is that the robots are remotely operated by individuals with physical disabilities, including those with conditions such as…

People travel for various reasons, often searching for joy and meaningful experiences. Scientists from Cornell University have found that travelling offers lasting happiness, surpassing the temporary joy from material wealth. The emotions tied to purchases fade over time, while travel memories pump enduring happiness into everyday life. In a society increasingly focused on meaningful moments, travel and happiness share a profound connection. Experiences gained through travel, such as improved mental well-being, new perspectives and personal growth, often result in a greater sense of happiness. Taking a break from life’s stresses allows individuals to rejuvenate, promoting calm and well-being. Exposure to diverse cultures, environments and lifestyles broadens horizons and fosters personal growth. Interactions with locals and cultural immersion enhance appreciation for one’s own life. Travel, therefore, significantly contributes to happiness If…

South Africa is preparing for a strong shoulder tourism season in September, expecting a surge in domestic and international visitors. Despite recent negative media on crime and US tensions, economists and industry leaders remain optimistic. Economist Dawie Roodt said the spotlight on South Africa could even help tourism. “The tension between South Africa and the US... “I don’t think it will have much impact... it could even be positive and might actually contribute to marketing the country as a tourist destination.” Provinces like Western Cape, Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal are all gearing up for a bumper tourism season with Gauteng expected to exceed its R30 billion projection for this season. Western Cape hotels, guesthouses, and attractions are already seeing strong bookings. Cape Town Tourism reports a 6% year-on-year rise in…

The Portfolio Committee on Public Service and Administration has called for a joint meeting with the Standing Committee on Finance to probe serious allegations of misconduct and financial irregularities at the Government Pensions Administration Agency (GPAA). This comes after media reports revealed that a senior financial manager was suspended for refusing to authorise over R21 million in payments that he considered questionable. The official, now facing disciplinary action, had earlier written to the Minister of Finance, requesting an investigation into contracts dating back to June. The committee has also flagged alarming reports of a so-called “ghost contract”, a 10-year lease agreement worth nearly R1 billion for a non-existent building intended to serve as the GPAA’s headquarters. The contract was allegedly concluded without following proper procurement procedures. Committee Chairperson Jan de…

A sheep named Kiki zips around the yard of an animal sanctuary in a motorised wheelchair. She navigates on her own, tilting a joystick with her head to move forward and back, left and right. “She’s like a crazy teenager; she wants to go very fast,” said Deb Devlin, president of the Don’t Forget Us, Pet Us sanctuary in North Dartmouth, Massachusetts. Kiki was born with limited mobility and cannot walk. Her mother contracted Cache Valley virus while pregnant, which caused Kiki to be born with fused joints and spinal issues. At birth, Kiki’s mother rejected her and refused to feed her, which is not uncommon when a lamb is sick or disabled. The farm where Kiki was born didn’t have the resources to look after her and contacted Don’t…

Prepare to be moved as the production The Greatest Love of All: A Tribute to Whitney Houston starring Belinda Davids returns to Johannesburg at the iconic Mandela Stage at the Joburg Theatre, today and tomorrow. Starring proud Port Elizabeth-born Belinda Davids - the international singing sensation hailed for her breathtaking vocal resemblance to Whitney Houston - this musical tribute is a celebration of one of the greatest voices of our time. With stunning live band accompaniment and backing vocalists, this show delivers a powerhouse performance that honours Whitney’s legacy and timeless music. Belinda Davids has captivated audiences across the globe, from London’s West End to the Apollo Theatre in New York, and now brings her phenomenal talent back to South African soil for this special limited engagement. Fans will experience…

The MTN8 semifinal second leg between Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates is a showdown for the ages, and a man who has worn both the yellow and blue and the black and white has weighed in. Ahead of today’s clash at the Lucas Moripe Stadium, former midfielder Sibusiso Vilakazi says it's too close to call, but his gut tells him the Brazilians will ultimately progress to the final. Vilakazi, who recently had an exclusive chat with Showmax Premier League, weighed in on the crucial MTN8 semifinal second leg between Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates today, at the Lucas Moripe Stadium. "I think they can progress because they have an away goal, which is a massive luxury coming into the second leg," he says. "That one goal changes everything and puts…

The landscape of South African literature is witnessing a dramatic shift as renowned publisher and writer Melinda Ferguson, declares her independence with the launch of her new publishing venture, Melinda Ferguson Books, along with her audacious imprint Ride or Die Press. This bold decision marks a turning point for Ferguson, a passionate advocate for authentic, courageous storytelling who is well-known for her ability to spot emerging talent and challenge conventional narratives. “This moment has been a long time coming,” Ferguson says. “I’ve worked alongside some of the biggest names in local publishing. Along the way, I’ve paid my dues and built my brand. Now it’s time to fly solo.” Ferguson’s career began with an Honours degree in Publishing from Wits University, which she completed in 2012. Shortly thereafter, she teamed…

You recognise it the moment you see it; there aren’t any swooping lines or aerodynamic curves, and owners absolutely love them. No prizes for guessing it’s the Suzuki Jimny, which has burrowed into the hearts of South Africans unlike any other vehicle currently on sale. They wave at each other on the road, have massive Jimny gatherings, and there are Jimny clubs scattered throughout the country that gather at off-road tracks regularly. Five doors This was the first time I had the opportunity to test the five-door GLX version, having previously spent many thousands of kilometres in the three-door driving up the West Coast’s Diamond Route, as well as a memorable trip through Botswana. Purists initially said that adding an extra two doors would take some of the Jimny’s charm…

In the past few weeks, individuals identified as members of an organisation which calls itself March and March have stood at the entrance of public hospitals, particularly Addington Hospital in Durban, demanding to see the ID documents of all patients and visitors. They have prevented entry to the hospital of at least the following categories of persons: those who either do not possess a South African ID document, or refuse to show them one; SA ID holders whose ID documents have been lost or stolen; SA ID holders who were born outside SA, and the children/grandchildren of parents/grandparents who are SA citizens but were born outside SA; and a disabled SA-born child whose mother, the holder of a green bar-coded ID, was born outside South Africa but resident here for…

With alarmingly high levels of youth unemployment, at almost 50%, there is a very real concern that South Africa’s future generation can’t save at all, if retire comfortably. Salem Nyati, consumer financial education specialist at Momentum Group, says the clear reality is that “many young people have little or no income to save”. The low savings rate among youth has serious long-term consequences, says Nyati. “If today’s young people are unable to build even a small nest egg, we face a future where millions may reach retirement age without adequate resources,” she says. Nyati adds that the low savings rate, coupled with high unemployment, will place additional strain on the national fiscus and social support systems, which are already under pressure. “In 40 years, this could result in a generation…

AS someone who’s spent years immersed in the world of consumer advocacy and healthcare communication, I’ve come to appreciate the power of data, not just as numbers on a page, but as stories about real people navigating our health system. The latest Health Quality Assessment (HQA) results for 2024 offer exactly that: a snapshot of how South Africa’s private healthcare sector is performing when it comes to prevention, early detection, and chronic disease management. These findings aren’t just for policymakers or scheme executives. They’re for all of us, the parents booking vaccinations, the young professionals managing chronic conditions, the daughters urging their mothers to go for mammograms. Because behind every percentage point is a person, and behind every missed screening is a missed opportunity to intervene early. Let’s start with…

Steve Barker and Eric Tinkler will put their friendship aside when they face off in a crunch MTN8 semi-final second leg at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium today. Stellenbosch coach Barker heads into this decider with the advantage after his team beat Tinkler’s Sekhukhune United 2-0 at home in the first leg. However, Barker knows their job is far from done, given his familiarity with Tinkler both as a coach and as a person. The two are friends off the pitch, having crossed paths several times — including in the classroom during a CAF coaching course last season. Moreover, their rivalry as coaches — which has featured spells in the iKapa Derby between Stellies and the now-relegated Cape Town City — has fostered mutual respect for each other’s abilities. “I…

Liverpool boss Arne Slot said Thursday the Premier League champions will only sign the right player for the right price but refused to be drawn on the club’s position regarding unsettled Newcastle striker Alexander Isak. Since Liverpool’s reported £110 million bid for the 25-year-old Sweden international was rejected earlier this month, they have not held further talks but equally do not appear to have given up hope of bringing Isak to Anfield. Newcastle, for their part, are reported to be demanding a British record transfer fee of £150 million for Isak. The forward’s decision to go public on Tuesday, accusing Newcastle of breaking promises and saying he “can’t continue” and “change is in the best interests of everyone”, has intensified speculation about Isak’s future. Newcastle’s response was to insist: “We…

A crisis is never far away at Marseille but the speed at which things have unravelled for the French giants at the start of this season is unprecedented. The former European champions came into the campaign fresh from finishing second in Ligue 1 last season behind champions Paris Saint-Germain and with hopes of pushing the capital club closer this time around. Roberto De Zerbi’s team also have Champions League football to look forward to and there was plenty of optimism around the Stade Velodrome on the back of the business done by the club in the transfer window. Brazilian winger Igor Paixao joined from Feyenoord for a reported club-record fee of 35 million euros, while Gabon striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was another headline-grabbing recruit as he returned to OM following a…

Hotel launches pet sleep buddy service the Biguiyuan Phoenix Hotel in Wuhan, in China’s Hubei province, has launched a “pet sleep-accompanying” service. Since its inception in July, this allows guests to share their stay with a friendly dog for just 499 yuan (R1 220). With an array of adorable canine companions available, the hotel taps into a growing trend that acknowledges the emotional benefits of pet companionship while travelling. The service lets guests select from 10 dogs, featuring friendly breeds such as Golden Retrievers, Huskies, and West Highland White Terriers. Each canine companion is either raised by the hotel or sourced professional trainers and certified to be vaccinated and health-checked. On booking, guests must sign an agreement to ensure safety and responsibility during their furry encounter. Guests…