Indholdsfortegnelse for 2025-10-11 i Saturday Star

In the world of reality television, alcohol often plays a starring role. Whether it’s cocktails on a dinner table, wine on an excursion or a celebratory toast, drinking seems to be part of the script. Reality TV thrives on tension, and alcohol has become a quick way to amplify it. Producers know even the calmest cast members can become more emotional, impulsive or outspoken after a drink. Those explosive arguments, heated confessions, and shocking antics often happen around a table of drinks. While drinking is not officially mandatory for reality TV participants, the environment often makes it feel that way. Night outs, dinner parties and social challenges frequently centre around alcohol. Refusing a drink can make someone feel out of place, or at least less part of the on-screen story.…

It’s fair to say we should probably stay far, far away from any place named Wayward. Remember the series Wayward Pines? That town was everything wrong with small-town creepiness: electrified fences, secrets lurking behind every door, and adults doing very questionable things while pretending it was all for your own good. Netflix’s Wayward takes that unsettling vibe and cranks it up several notches, except this time it’s all about “troubled teens” and the institution supposedly trying to fix them. Created by Mae Martin, who also stars as Alex Dempsey, the series leans hard into the “ship off your problem child and hope they come back better” concept. Only, the place they’re shipped to looks like a literal prison and for the teens, the conditions are as harsh as you’d imagine.…

The South African Weather Service (Saws) has classified Thursday’s tornado in Germiston as an EF0 tornado, the weakest category on the Enhanced Fujita Scale. IOL reported that the country’s weather forecast authority sent a team to Germiston, in the East Rand region of Gauteng, following reports of a tornado. The team has since confirmed that an on-the-ground assessment near Rand Airport found no significant damage. According to the team, there were only minor impacts noted, which included broken branches at a nearby golf course and puddles from heavy rainfall. “Saws has classified the event as an EF0 tornado. The weakest category on the Enhanced Fujita Scale, with wind speeds of 105-137 km/h. “EF0 tornadoes usually cause only light damage but remain dangerous,” the forecaster stated. Meanwhile, a Yellow Level 2…

KwaZulu-Natal's police commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, has ignited a firestorm of controversy this week as he made several high-profile requests to Parliament. During a two-day testimony at a parliamentary inquiry, Mkhwanazi urged for investigations into critical matters concerning the integrity of the Crime Intelligence unit and alleged misconduct within the judiciary. In a dramatic series of allegations made during the inquiry, Mkhwanazi accused various state bodies, including the Independent Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) and the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), among others. He specifically charged that the judiciary appears to be complicit in major criminal activities, expressing frustration over a magistrate’s ruling that barred Crime Intelligence head Dumisani Khumalo from entering intelligence offices, saying it did not make sense. “I believe in this case that bail condition that was imposed…

Johannesburg was glowing with golden charm last weekend as 149 golden retrievers and their owners came together for the inaugural Gauteng Golden Retriever Gathering, hosted by the Gauteng Golden Retrievers at the Vitozol dog park. The heartwarming event raised funds for Golden Retriever Rescue South Africa (GR Rescue SA) and celebrated the joy, loyalty and spirit of this beloved breed. The event was put together by four golden retriever enthusiasts based in Gauteng with ticket sale proceeds going to GR Rescue SA. One of the organisers, Sandra Pavic, said: “It was a day of wagging tails, muddy paws, and unforgettable memories, all in support of Golden Retriever Rescue South Africa (GR Rescue SA). “The owner of Vitozol Dog Park went above and beyond in supporting us, providing a safe and…

Duke the golden retriever was getting settled in his new adopted home when one day he grabbed a pair of reading glasses and pranced off with them. Then Duke moved on to fine china – picking up teapots, plates and cups in his mouth and gingerly placing them on his bed to cuddle with. After that, he began thieving books, magazines and electronics from around the house. He even nabbed a 12-pack of toilet paper and an entire lamp and dragged them to his bed. “He wants these very odd items,” said Cathy Hoyt. Hoyt and her husband, who live in Richmond, adopted Duke 18 months ago. They had been warned about his strange tendency to take and guard household items, but nothing prepared them for the reality of it.…

Reddam House Atlantic Seaboard returned from the 2025 Inter-Reddam Football Tournament with top honours, claiming gold in both the U19 Boys’ and U19 Girls’ divisions. The tournament, hosted by Reddam House Ballito, brought together six schools from across South Africa, including Reddam House Umhlanga, Helderfontein, Waterfall, and Bedfordview. In a tournament marked by team spirit and healthy rivalry, Atlantic Seaboard’s teams delivered consistently commanding performances. The Girls’ final was particularly dramatic, with Atlantic Seaboard equalising in the final three seconds of extra time to force penalties, ultimately securing victory in a thrilling shootout. The Boys’ team also impressed, finishing at the top of their division. Individual honours further highlighted the school’s dominance. Marco Za was named Boys’ Player of the Tournament, Samson Tesfaye received Boys’ Goalkeeper of the Tournament, and…

As artificial intelligence becomes an increasingly integral part of workplaces, experts say the most “future-proof” learners will be those who can confidently use AI tools while also bringing human skills to the table – leading teams, empathising with others, solving problems creatively, and adapting to change. Some schools, such as Koa Academy, are experimenting with new approaches to meet these demands. The academy uses small learning Pods of just eight learners to foster daily practice in communication, collaboration, and leadership. Students use real-time dashboards to track their progress and reflect on learning, building self-management, adaptability, and problem-solving skills often overlooked in traditional classrooms. Mark Anderson, Koa Academy’s co-founder and principal: “We integrate digital fluency by encouraging students to collaborate on shared platforms and explore age-appropriate AI uses under the guidance…

In Philipstown, a small Karoo town, a distinctive tradition of wire car racing is thriving, offering a spark of creativity and hope for the community. The quirky, homegrown event has captured international attention and is now the focus of a new global documentary, The Philipstown WireCar Grand Prix, set to premiere this month. At the heart of the movement is the newly established Philipstown WireCar Foundation, which aims to turn the film’s global spotlight into real community upliftment. “The film highlights the town’s annual race, which for more than 14 years has been a tiny beacon of hope for local youth,” says Alistair King, vice-chair of the Foundation. King says that what began as a creative project to explore the intersection of technology and human ingenuity evolved into something much…

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) has conferred an honorary doctoral degree on acclaimed South African poet, writer, and academic Antjie Krog, in recognition of her extraordinary contribution to literature, language and public thought. The honorary degree was awarded during one of the University’s Spring Graduation ceremonies. Widely celebrated for her powerful voice and creative courage, Krog, born Anna Samuel, has been a leading force in South African poetry for over five decades, captivating readers through her evocative use of language and unflinching exploration of identity, justice, and humanity. She has published thirteen volumes of poetry, with many translated into English and other languages, and is renowned for her translation of Nelson Mandela’s Long Walk to Freedom (Lang Pad na Vryheid). Speaking at the ceremony, Professor Kammila Naidoo, dean of the…

In a momentous achievement for South African science, Professor Michael Wingfield, the founding director of the Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI) at the University of Pretoria (UP), has been awarded an honorary doctorate from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU). This prestigious accolade acknowledges his pioneering contributions to global forest science and his relentless quest to uncover the hidden enemies threatening the world’s forests. Wingfield’s career encompasses a remarkable journey of more than 40 years, focused on combating fungal pathogens and pests that pose severe risks to ecosystems, industries and human survival. His influence extends far beyond the borders of South Africa, reaching institutions across continents – from the prestigious laboratories of FABI to the international networks of the International Union for Forest Research Organisations (IUFRO). Under his…

Volkswagen’s Tiguan has been a mainstay of the company for a while now, with more than 7.4 million units sold globally since its introduction in 2007. A total of 41 000 of the popular SUV have found homes in South Africa since 2009. We’re also a nation that likes a diesel engine, and thankfully, VW hasn’t pulled the plug on that option yet, which makes the Tiguan 2.0 TDI Life 4Motion introduced earlier this year, which we had on test, rather desirable. Exterior Unlike its flashier R-Line sibling, this Life version is more understated, preferring instead to go about its business without attracting too much attention. Still, LED headlights, a glass-covered horizontal bar with an integrated LED strip instead of the traditional grille, giving it a futuristic look, don’t mean…

Chinese vehicles have become irresistible to many South African vehicle buyers, thanks to pricing that often significantly undercuts the established brands and feature-packed interiors that belie those tempting price tags. Chery and GWM are now regular fixtures on the top 10 vehicle sales charts, and their Tiggo 4 and Haval Jolion models are among the best-selling SUVs in the country. Naturally, there has also been a rise in demand for Chinese vehicles on the used car market, with AutoTrader’s latest Mid-Year Report showing that searches for Chinese vehicles grew by 69% in the first half of 2025, while enquiries grew by 81%. But how well have Chinese vehicles held their value over the years? As most Chinese brands are relatively new to the market, this has been a difficult factor…

When Mandla Mandela stepped off that plane, tired, handcuffed, still defiant, the cameras flashed like we’d just won a World Cup. But what exactly were we celebrating? That he survived detention? That our government got him back? That we still remember what moral courage looks like? It’s wild, isn’t it? A humanitarian flotilla sails into international waters with food and medicine, and comes back with bruises and body-cam footage of humiliation. And somehow, the world barely blinks. Maybe because these days, outrage has a shorter lifespan than a TikTok trend. But make no mistake – their return isn’t just a homecoming, it’s a mirror. It reflects how sovereignty has become a muscle some nations flex and others neglect. When power gets paranoid Israel called the interception “protection.” Sure. But protecting…

The two-pot regime, which allows pension fund members to access a third of every contribution made into their retirement investments from last September, is expected to shine a spotlight firmly on companies that breach the requirements of the Pension Funds Act. The Financial Services Conduct Authority (FSCA) has, as of September 25, identified 5 830 employers that are in breach of the section in the Pension Funds Act that mandates companies have seven days to pay over pension fund deductions to the fund. As a result, Pension Funds Adjudicator Muvhango Lukhaimane expects complaints to rise simply because pension fund members won’t be able to access a third of the investment that should have been paid over. As of last September, two pots – a vested pot and a savings pot…

As South Africa joins the global observance of World Investor Week 2025 (6-12 October), the South African Insurance Association (SAIA) has issued a considered appeal to consumers to broaden their understanding of financial wellness. While budgeting and investment remain central pillars of financial planning, SAIA emphasises that non-life (asset) insurance is equally vital in safeguarding individuals and households against unforeseen financial shocks. According to SAIA, non-life insurance, which includes cover for motor vehicles, homes, and business assets, plays a critical role in promoting financial resilience. It enables consumers to transfer the financial risk associated with unexpected loss or damage to an insurer, thereby preserving personal wealth and facilitating recovery. SAIA encourages consumers to view insurance premiums not as discretionary expenses, but as strategic investments in long-term financial stability. “As consumers,…

McLaren Racing chief executive Zak Brown has found himself at the centre of a courtroom storm after being accused of instructing staff to delete messages relating to Alex Palou’s aborted move to the team. Brown, testifying in London’s Commercial Court this week, strongly denied allegations of destroying evidence, insisting that the use of WhatsApp’s disappearing messages feature was “company policy” and not a deliberate attempt to withhold information. The accusations surfaced when Palou’s legal team produced messages suggesting McLaren employees had been told to use disappearing chats to “cover their ass on lawsuits.” One alleged exchange even showed Brown himself instructing team members to “keep everything on WhatsApp and then delete.” For Palou’s lawyers, this behavior represented a breach of the duty to preserve evidence once litigation became likely. Brown…

UEFA on Thursday denied ongoing talks with Super League promoter A22 Sports Management but it admitted it had met the body, after the promoter told AFP it was “negotiating” with UEFA to create a new Champions League format. “What A22 and the Super League clubs have done is to propose an agreement to UEFA that essentially consists of providing a free broadcasting platform and making very slight changes to the current competition format,” said an A22 spokesperson. In this version, a far cry from the initial semi-closed competition project that nearly tore apart European football in 2021, the 36 teams currently qualified for the Champions League would be divided into two groups of 18 clubs, with the highest-ranked teams then competing in the round of 32. UEFA acknowledged several “public…

We’ve all been there. You notice a strange ache, an unfamiliar rash, or a stubborn cold, and the first thing you do is search online for answers. Before you know it, you’re convinced it’s something serious. Studies show that over two-thirds of Americans and 69% of Canadians head straight to the internet for health information. In South Africa, where almost 60% of the population has internet access, the trend is just as common. The problem is, search engines don’t know anything about you. They can’t take your age, medical history, or personal health needs into account. Even worse, much of the information online is outdated or simply incorrect. Pharmacists do much more than fill prescriptions. They are highly trained healthcare professionals who can give you reliable, personalised advice without needing…

If you haven’t checked out Tyler Perry’s latest romance, Ruth & Boaz, yet, you’re missing out on more than just a touching story. There’s a lot to admire, especially Boaz’s good looks, but let’s dive into what truly makes this film special beyond its eye-catching cast. At the heart of the Netflix film is Ruth Moably (Serayah), a talented singer dating Naomi’s (Phylicia Rashad) son, Marlon (Chaundre Hall-Broomfield). Ruth receives an incredible opportunity from a Grammy-winning producer, but the music she’s been performing leaves her spirit feeling empty. Previously, Ruth and her singing partner, Breana (Nijah Brenea), used to write powerful songs about love and social issues, but in pursuit of fame, they shifted their focus to themes of wealth and power. Ruth decides to back down from the eight-figure…

The body of the late South African ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, who died last week at a hotel in Paris, has arrived at King Shaka International Airport before being transported to his home in KwaZulu-Natal. The Department of Transport and Human Settlements confirmed the arrival of the body at the airport yesterday. ANC KZN leaders were also present as they welcomed Mthethwa’s body back to his home province. “Importantly, we express our deepest condolences to the Mthethwa family, especially Sisi Phili (Buthelezi, Mthethwa’s widow), for allowing us to be part of the final journey of our leader,” said KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport Siboniso Duma. “We know that the family is going through the most difficult period. We wish to thank religious leaders and ordinary members of society who have…

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) spent R267 billion on social grants in the 2024/2025 financial year. Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe praised the performance of SASSA and its sister entity, the National Development Agency (NDA), for “turning the tide and improving the performance of the sector” during a presentation to the Portfolio Committee on Social Development in Parliament on Wednesday. According to Tolashe, the R267 billion in spending includes the Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, which alone benefitted more than 9 million South Africans. Normal social grants also grew modestly by 0.6% from 19.1 million beneficiaries in March 2024 to 19.2 million in March 2025. The minister attributed these milestones to the department’s focus on stabilising leadership and filling critical vacancies. “Other highlights for the year…

In a scene that could have been lifted straight from a Hollywood movie, the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) swooped on the Sandton mansion of tenderpreneur Hangwani Maumela on Thursday, seizing a jaw-dropping array of luxury assets – including three identical blue Lamborghinis. The raid is part of a wider investigation into alleged irregular tenders at Tembisa Hospital, where over R2 billion in public funds were reportedly misappropriated. According to the SIU, the operation forms part of a larger R820 million asset recovery drive, targeting businesspeople suspected of benefiting from inflated or fraudulent procurement contracts at the hospital. Aside from the flashy Lamborghinis, authorities confiscated designer furniture, expensive artwork, and other high-end property from Maumela’s residence. IOL previously reported that these assets were considered part of the ill-gotten gains linked to…

Jokes about geriatric sex and endless profanity have been embraced by Saudi fans at the Riyadh Comedy Festival, even as foreign comedians face a backlash for taking part. The star-studded event, backed by a Saudi government body, has driven a wedge through the stand-up scene, as comics who staunchly defend free speech in the West are accused of hypocrisy. It is one of a swath of new events in Saudi as the conservative kingdom, which has faced fierce criticism over its human rights record, tries to revamp its image and oil-reliant economy. But in Riyadh, many locals were happy just to have a laugh as they lapped up the bawdy material. “Can I say dirty stuff? Is that allowed here?” famed roastmaster Jeff Ross shouted to a packed crowd as…

With its boxy design, cramped interior and notorious clouds of blue smoke billowing from its exhaust, the Trabant is often referred to as the worst car ever made. But somehow the plucky East German vehicle has refused to die out, with a dedicated group of enthusiasts still devoted to keeping refurbished models on the road. As Germany prepares to celebrate 35 years of reunification on Friday, the number of Trabis on the streets is actually on the rise as the old rattletraps gain a new legion of fans. There are around 40 800 so-called Trabis registered in Germany today, according to the KBA federal transport authority – compared with about 33 000 ten years ago. Glenn Kuschan, 58, counts several Trabant owners among the customers at his car repair shop…

Gauteng schools claimed top honours in the 2025 EduPlant National Competition Finals during World Food Month, with Molefe Mooke Primary School winning the National Award and Dilopye Pre-Vocational School taking first place in the Centre of Excellence category. The competition celebrates schools that have excelled in creating sustainable food gardens, teaching students life skills while addressing food insecurity. Gauteng’s success highlights the province’s growing leadership in school-based food sustainability initiatives. The EduPlant programme, run by Food & Trees for Africa in partnership with Tiger Brands, shortlisted 32 schools from over 300 participants nationwide. Learners received training in permaculture practices, growing vegetables, fruits, and herbs for school feeding programmes, with surplus produce shared with local communities. Chris Wild, Executive Director of Food & Trees for Africa noted, “While food security and…

Yvonne Chaka Chaka recently celebrated 36 years of marriage to her husband, Dr Mandlalele Mhinga. Sharing a series of photos from their early days, she reflected on their journey with gratitude and love, writing: “36 years ago on this day, we said YES, we do. Thank you for being a good friend and father to our children. Siguga Sonke (We’re growing old together). God is good. And he is our Rock.” Their story spans decades of partnership, music, family and faith. Chaka Chaka, born Yvonne Machaka in Soweto, is a renowned South African singer, songwriter, and humanitarian. She gained prominence in the 1980s with hits like I’m Burning Up, Sangoma and Thank You Mr DJ. Her music has earned her accolades and recognition both locally and internationally. Mhinga, affectionately known…

PinkDrive NPC is celebrating a remarkable achievement as its founder and CEO, Noelene Kotschan, was honoured with the prestigious award for Social Impact Influencer of the Year (NPO) at the Fluxx Awards, held in Doha, Qatar, on October 3. This award, particularly significant as it coincides with World Breast Cancer Awareness Month, highlights Kotschan’s dedication to advancing women’s health and her relentless pursuit to ensure accessible cancer screening and education throughout South Africa. The Fluxx Awards, integral to the Fluxx Conference, are renowned for recognising visionary leaders and organisations that create a tangible impact globally. This year’s ceremony showcased a constellation of thought leaders and influencers from various sectors, including healthcare, sustainability, and social innovation. Award winners are meticulously chosen by an international panel of judges based on their leadership,…

Rhino Ops, a powerful new documentary that profiles one of South Africa’s most ambitious and successful anti-poaching interventions launched this week. This film was produced by Nature, Environment and Wildlife Filmmakers (NEWF), in partnership with HHMI Tangled Bank Studios, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, and a team of emerging African film-makers. The film documents the large-scale dehorning operation initiated at Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park since April 2024. Rhino Ops further offers a rare and intimate look into the frontline of rhino conservation and the courageous work done by Ezemvelo’s Game Capture unit. “The film highlights the human stories behind the operation, focusing on Dumisani Zwane, in charge of game capture and field operations at Ezemvelo, whose leadership and dedication have been instrumental in the success of the programme,” said Noel Kok, Executive Director…

In her humble home on the red soil of the Green Kalahari, 92-year-old Katrina Esau listened intently as her two great-grandchildren practised the ancient N|uu language of South Africa’s indigenous San people. As the young children enthusiastically sang out phrases, Esau interjected occasionally to correct their pronunciation of the distinct sounds and deep clicks of her mother tongue, of which she is the last first-language speaker. Visitors to the family home near the banks of the Orange River in the Northern Cape province also chipped in, with pride, a few words of N|uu in homage to the matriarch’s efforts to keep alive a language that researchers say is 25 000 years old and endangered. On the walls, photographs of the quietly dignified and graceful Esau wearing a crown and collar…

When BMW unveiled its brand-new iFactory in Debrecen, Hungary, much of the global attention focused on the European milestone, a ground-up site designed to build the Neue Klasse, BMW’s next generation of vehicles. But for South Africa, it’s important too. BMW’s Rosslyn plant, just north of Pretoria, has been a cornerstone of the country’s automotive sector since 1973, and the Debrecen principles could soon trickle through to Rosslyn. South Africa’s role in BMW’s worldwide production network is long established. The plant was the first BMW facility outside Germany. Today, it produces the X3 for export to more than 40 markets. Dr Milan Nedeljkovicć, BMW production board member, stressed that Rosslyn’s future remains central to BMW’s global ambitions. “Rosslyn is currently a 15-unit plant producing around 75 000 to 80…

Creating generational wealth requires the discipline to save consistently and the insight to invest wisely. Even small amounts set aside over the long term can improve the financial well-being of multiple generations. On paper, these principles may seem straightforward to apply, but in a South African context, generational wealth creation is challenging. Due to the country’s underperforming economy, rising consumer inflation, existing debt, and financial hardship, many South Africans are struggling to cover daily essentials with their disposable income, such as food and utilities. Consequently, South Africa’s Household Saving Rate decreased to -1,20 percent at the beginning of 2025. Compared to the global average of 10%, South Africa has one of the worst savings rates in the world. However, the global savings rate is calculated with national accounting standards based…

The retirement reality check: Why 'later' is now for younger South Africans It is said that success favours the focused and that retirement is not an age, but a mindset. This also rings true for retirement planning, when fear of complexity often leads to procrastination in younger generations. The landscape of retirement is changing. South Africans are living longer, navigating unpredictable job markets, and grappling with the rising costs of living. Generation Z (born between 1995 and 2012) and younger generations can often only start saving for retirement much later because many could not find immediate employment in a struggling economy. However, retirement planning cannot be a distant, abstract concern to worry about “later” for these generations. As soon as they have found employment, they must realise that later is…

The Lions have a double Springbok boost for their URC encounter with Benetton in the form of scrumhalf Morne van den Berg and prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye. The latter had a limited role off the bench in last week’s narrow loss to Zebre, while Van den Berg was with the Springboks in London for the Rugby Championship finale against Argentina. Ntlabakanye, who is dealing with a difficult issue off the field around a controversial allegation of a doping offence, will make a big difference as a starter in Treviso. The tighthead is a powerful scrummager, an aggressive tackler, and a strong ball carrier. He was capped for the Springboks earlier this year, playing in the victory over Italy in Gqeberha and the loss to the Wallabies in Johannesburg, only to have…

Thomas Tuchel blasted England’s “silent” fans for failing to back his team loudly enough during their 3-0 friendly win over Wales at Wembley on Thursday. Tuchel’s side delivered an eye-catching first-half display as Morgan Rogers, Ollie Watkins and Bukayo Saka all netted inside the first 20 minutes. England’s swaggering performance, which followed a 5-0 demolition of Serbia in a crucial World Cup qualifier in September, was a promising sign as they gear up for next year’s World Cup. But Tuchel took exception to what he felt was a tepid response from England supporters in the sell-out crowd. “We did very, very well. We had an excellent first half, we were 3-0 up very quickly but could have been four or five. “ Then we couldn’t score the fourth one or…

After a difficult start in Liverpool, midfielder Florian Wirtz will hope a return to the familiar surroundings of international duty with Germany will ignite a turnaround in form. Wirtz is yet to score or assist in nine matches in the Premier League and Champions League since arriving at Anfield in the summer for a fee of £100 million that could rise to £116 million. Liverpool’s three-game losing streak, their longest under coach Arne Slot, has put extra pressure on the 22-year-old midfielder. Germany’s October World Cup qualifiers present an ideal chance for Wirtz to rediscover his touch. After an opening 2-0 loss in Slovakia and an unconvincing win over Northern Ireland, the four-time World Cup winners also need to find form quickly to secure qualification for next year’s tournament. Only…

Another day, another trend. Kanye West recently decided to get dramatic again by posting what he called a “Betrayal List” on his socials. The man loves theatrics, so this one didn’t exactly come as a shocker. Before deleting it, he declared he was in “pain that no one person can fix”, then shared a list titled The Betrayal. The now-viral post included everyone from his ex-wife, Kim Kardashian (obviously), to Diddy, Pusha T, Kid Cudi and Ty Dolla $ign. He even threw in NBA star LeBron James, US president Donald Trump, and fictional characters like Curious George and Patrick Star. But the real fun started when the internet decided to make their own betrayal lists, and they’re pure gold. Instagram user @dancingbird222 posted, “My betrayal list inspired by Kanye,” featuring…

Police commissioner General Fannie Masemola yesterday said he did not know the classification of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate’s (IPID) report on its Phala-Phala investigation. Masemola also confirmed that Presidential Protection Services head Major-General Wally Rhoode has been cleared of wrongdoing after the conclusion of a disciplinary hearing into findings made against him by Public Protector Kholeka Gcaleka two years ago. Responding to questions in the parliamentary inquiry, Masemola said Rhoode was subjected to a disciplinary process with other police officers. “The process ran its course. He was found not guilty,” he said. MK Party MP Vusi Shongwe asked Masemola whether Rhoode was mandated to investigate the break-in on the farm of President Cyril Ramaphosa. He said the Constitution empowers police to prevent, combat and investigate crime, among other things.…

Scented stamps designed to celebrate artisan croissants hit letterboxes across France on Wednesday, honouring the world-famous delicacy. Nearly 600 000 postage stamps will pay tribute to the “emblem of French gastronomy,” the national postal service, La Poste, said on its website. The scent of butter and flaky crust wafts through a post office in Valence, where director Anthony Richet told AFP he was “quite proud” to be selling the stamps. It is one of three locations where the new design was introduced during Tuesday’s preview sale, coinciding with the national competition for the best butter croissant in southeastern France. The branch in the south-eastern French city serves 400 customers every day. “Of the 400 I had yesterday, there were fifty collectors who showed up,” some even coming from Lyon, said…

Curro Delft’s debating team is making waves in the arena and have proudly earned the badge of achieving first place at the Western Cape Interschool Debate and qualified to compete in the High School National Debating Championship held in Durban. Marlee Faro, project manager, public relations for Curro Delft said the learners had begun their debating as an after school gathering session which grew into a passion. “There is something profoundly moving about watching young people discover they have something worth saying, and realising they have every right to say it with confidence, she said. “What began as a modest after-school gathering has grown into something remarkable. “Curro Delft’s debating society had no external mentors, no formal training programmes, and limited resources, yet teachers and learners learned as they went,…

Skukuza Safari Lodge Experience the epitome of luxury surrounded by the untamed splendour of the African wilderness at Skukuza Safari Lodge, nestled within the iconic Skukuza Rest Camp in Kruger National Park. Here, amid unrivalled biodiversity, every moment becomes a celebration of nature’s grandeur and opulence. With 128 remarkable rooms, including family suites and opulent accommodations, Skukuza Safari Lodge offers a sanctuary for every traveller. Whether you seek a cosy retreat for two or a spacious haven for the whole family, our range of accommodations promises a perfect fit for your needs. Savour the essence of South African hospitality with our diverse dining options, from exquisite à la carte selections to indulgent buffet feasts. Under the starlit sky, immerse yourself in the tradition of braai nights, where the tantalising aroma…

Producer Kevin Hunter has been denied guardianship of his ex-wife and talk show host, Wendy Williams. The latest development comes after a judge dismissed Hunter’s attempt to challenge her guardianship. Currently, Williams is under the guardianship of Sabrina Morrissey. The court ruled that Hunter could not move forward with the lawsuit he filed on behalf of Williams, stating he cannot act as her friend in this case. Initially, Hunter filed a federal lawsuit back in June in New York, seeking to end Williams’s guardianship arrangement while accusing Morrissey of exploiting her. He also demanded $250 million (R4,6 billion) in damages. Hunter’s original lawsuit has been halted, but the judge did leave the door open for him to possibly refile in his own name. However, any new legal action must centre…

The month of October marks the vibrant celebrations of Pride Month 2025 in South Africa, organised by the esteemed Pride of Africa Foundation. This year, the festivities centre on the evocative theme “Purely, Queerly, African”, which honours African queer identities while advocating for empowerment, visibility and community solidarity throughout the continent. The celebrations leading up to the Johannesburg Pride March on Saturday, October 25, will include community dialogues, curated performances, and local art showcases. This event serves as the flagship of the month and stands out as one of the largest LGBTQ+ advocacy gatherings on the continent. Kaye Ally, the founder and director of the Pride of Africa Foundation, tells the Saturday Star that this year’s Pride aims to unite thousands of participants, allies, and supporters from across South Africa,…

On a warm spring day, more than 6 000 Afrikaners marked the 200th birthday of apartheid-nationalist icon Paul Kruger within sight of the Union Buildings in Pretoria, the seat of South Africa’s Black-majority government. The authorities made no attempt to halt or interfere with the peaceful celebration where memorabilia commemorating Afrikaner rule was on open display, just one signal that belies claims the minority group is being persecuted. Those include US President Donald Trump’s assertion that White Afrikaner farmers are being subjected to genocide, a falsehood that’s sparked outrage among South Africans and soured relations between the two nations. Afrikaans speakers – not all of whom are White – account for about 11% of the population of 63 million, hold top positions in business, academia and the judiciary, and rank…

The Embassy of France in South Africa, along with the French Institute of South Africa (IFAS) and Electric South, has unveiled an innovative initiative dubbed “Futures_Past: Amplifying Memory with Immersive Technologies”. This two-year project aims to transform the way archives engage with the public by leveraging the powerful tools of immersive storytelling. In a world where the heritage sector faces significant challenges – from insufficient digitisation efforts to evolving audience expectations – this initiative emerges as a timely solution, offering new avenues to connect with history, memory, and culture. According to Ingrid Kopp of Electric South, “Futures_Past is not only about preserving heritage, but also about amplifying it for new generations. By merging archives with immersive technologies, we can honour memory while inspiring future innovation”. The initiative comprises three essential…

South Africa’s vehicle manufacturing industry relies heavily on exports to the European Union, but with this region poised to ban the sale of new internal combustion engine vehicles in 2035, the sector remains in peril unless it gains export contracts for electric vehicles. South Africa’s Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, has joined the chorus of industry heavyweights calling for South Africa’s industry to adapt to this fundamental shift in the global automotive landscape, and embrace new energy vehicles (NEVs). Addressing industry stakeholders at the 2025 South African Auto Week, hosted by Naamsa in Gqeberha on Friday, Tau reiterated that the future competitiveness of the auto sector hinged on rapidly embracing NEVs. “Global markets are rapidly transitioning away from internal combustion engines. The United Kingdom and the European…

This week, I had the honour of attending the 13th Pan-African Conference on Illicit Financial Flows and Taxation (PAC) in Sandton, a gathering that reaffirmed what many of us have long known: multinational corporations are bleeding Africa dry, and our people are paying the price. The theme of this year’s conference, Honouring a Legacy, Building the Future, could not have been more fitting. It marked ten years since the release of the High-Level Panel (HLP) Report on Illicit Financial Flows from Africa, chaired by former President Thabo Mbeki. That report was a watershed moment. Before its publication, most conversations around capital flight were narrowly focused on corruption and the misuse of public funds. But the HLP exposed something far more insidious, a global system designed to extract wealth from our…

“When America sneezes, the world catches a cold.” This saying, which has been around forever, epitomises the dominance of the US financial system in the global economy. And it reflects the love affair investors globally have had with the US and how dependent they have become on its stocks and bonds. You would have thought that the global financial crisis (GFC) of 2008, which wiped billions of dollars off investors’ balance sheets worldwide, would have reset the global financial system, shifting it away from US dominance. But it didn’t. The US government and Federal Reserve stepped in to avert a repeat of the Great Depression of the 1930s by bailing out bankrupt financial institutions, reducing interest rates to near-zero, and printing money, euphemistically called “quantitative easing”. Stock markets bounced back,…

Benin have taken a significant step towards qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a hard-fought victory against hosts Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali yesterday. This vital win moves Benin to 17 points in CAF’s Group C, positioning them two points ahead of their nearest rivals, South Africa, who managed a goalless draw against a depleted Zimbabwe side. The decisive moment of the match came from Nigerian-born striker Aiyegun Tosin, who netted the only goal of the encounter just 10 minutes from time, solidifying Benin’s lead in the group standings. Tosin, who plays in France for Ligue 1 club Lorient, proved to be the difference-maker as he capitalised on a defensive lapse from the Rwandan side. Rwanda’s efforts to find parity fell short, with their best…

Premier League referee Anthony Taylor says his family no longer attends high-profile matches due to the constant barrage of abuse he receives. In an interview with BBC Sport, the British official spoke about the “worst situation” he had faced, when he was harassed by angry Roma fans following the 2023 Europa League final in Budapest. The Italian side lost to Sevilla on penalties after an ill-tempered game, during which Taylor issued 13 yellow cards. Then-Roma boss Jose Mourinho criticised Taylor in his post-match press conference before directing a foul-mouthed rant at him in a car park, labelling his performance a “disgrace”. The Portuguese was subsequently banned for four matches by European football’s governing body UEFA. The following day, Taylor was targeted by fans of the Italian club as he waked…

Affordable adventures in shoulder season The shoulder season for travelling, which falls before the busy summer months, has seen a big jump in travel plans among Gen Z. According to Airbnb, searches by these young travellers have soared by 26% as it’s more affordable during this time. A recent Focaldata survey found that over 80% of Gen Z respondents say that the cost of travel is a major factor in their choices – 42% of them prefer to travel between September and November. According to Airbnb, Paris, Osaka, Munich, Mexico City and Porto, Portugal, are some of the top destinations for Gen Z travellers. They are also searching for hidden gems without crowds. According to Airbnb, here are some of their peaceful finds: Naha, Japan: Sometimes referred to as…

As Christmas decorations begin to appear across cities and shopping centres, it’s a reminder that the festive season is fast approaching. For many, the idea of a “white Christmas” – one marked by snow, twinkling lights and the warmth of indoor gatherings – remains the ultimate holiday dream. Whether it’s the nostalgia of festive films or the allure of snow-dusted landscapes, a white Christmas captures the magic and tradition of the season. If you’re planning to travel this December, here are some of the best destinations around the world to experience a truly wintry Christmas. Lapland, Finland: Few places embody the spirit of Christmas like Lapland, Finland. Located above the Arctic Circle, Lapland offers a genuine winter wonderland experience with guaranteed snow, reindeer sleigh rides, and the chance to…