Indholdsfortegnelse for 2024-11-10 i Sunday Tribune

With a deep passion for nature and sustainable solutions, Gerhard Vermaak realised that a lot of biotech in the country is imported which led him to start his own biochemcial company, Custom Chemistry. Vermaak told Business Report that too much biotech is imported, while we have all the necessary resources and expertise in South Africa to create technologies that don’t only keep up with the rest of the world, but break new ground and set new benchmarks. Vermaak has been working with the practical application of micro-organisms for most of the past decade. He completed his studies as a biologist in 2009 at the University of Johannesburg. Vermaak applied sound biological and biochemical principles to develop practical microbiological methods for waste management, cleaning and hygiene, and agriculture. His developments include…

The culinary landscape has seen a remarkable transformation in recent years, with veganism shifting from a niche lifestyle to a mainstream choice for health-conscious and environmentally aware individuals. As the year unfolds, food trends within plant-based eating have evolved, showcasing a vibrant array of innovative flavours, sustainable ingredients, and creative cooking techniques that cater to a diverse audience. Here’s a closer look at what’s trending in vegan cuisine. The rise of comfort foods In a post-pandemic world, comfort food has taken on a new life, and plant-based versions are leading the charge. Traditional comfort foods such as mac and cheese, pizza, and burgers are undergoing a vegan renaissance, as chefs experiment with dairy-free cheeses and meat alternatives that satisfy cravings without sacrificing flavour. Brands are pumping out innovative product lines,…

DONALD Trump’s sensational triumph over the establishment in the form of Kamala Harris and the Democratic Party reveals much more about the schism between the rulers and their subjects worldwide. The sheer arrogance of the Biden administration – under which Harris serves as Vice President – has been rightly shown the door from the White House and Washington itself. Their penchant to lecture the electorate instead of properly engaging with and finding each other has finally necessitated their ejection from power. Traditionally a party associated with the poor, or the masses, the Democratic Party in the US has steadily drifted away from its base. Today, the party prides itself as home to the college educated. Veteran Democrat Bennie Sanders, always left-leaning, summed it well when he lamented that his party…

The Zulu and the British royals experienced their fair share of craziness this week as two women vented their frustrations at them. Prince William, the heir to the United Kingdom as the elder son of King Charles III and the late Diana, Princess of Wales, was confronted by protesters in Kalk Bay, including by a woman who appeared to be enraged. He was in the country to award Earthshot Prizes, a ceremony being held in Africa for the first time. In a worldwide publicised incident, some of the protesters displayed placards with the words “William, you have No sovereignty in OUR country” and shouted, “Go home now!”. A day later in Durban, Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini was embarrassed by a lone woman who pushed through security to the platform where…

Durban-based clinical expert and founder of the International External Counterpulsation Association (IECPA), Dr Rakesh Mohanlall is set to represent South Africa as a speaker at the inaugural IECPA conference in India later this month. This highly anticipated event will gather renowned doctors, cardiologists, and surgeons from around the globe to exchange insights and share success stories in the innovative field of External Counterpulsation (ECP) therapy. ECP, often described as a “Natural Bypass,” is a non-invasive, outpatient treatment revolutionising cardiac care. Known for its ability to enhance blood flow to the heart and relieve symptoms such as chest pain, fatigue, and shortness of breath, ECP is especially beneficial for patients with severe cardiac conditions who have not responded to traditional treatments or are ineligible for surgery. Its effectiveness in managing conditions…

In a celebration of camaraderie and reminiscence, Durban Indian Girls High, now known as Durban Girls Secondary, held a reunion that brought together former pupils from across five decades. Classes spanning from 1950 to 1999 united to celebrate the years of their youth, sharing fond memories and rekindling old friendships during a gathering that attracted nearly 1 000 participants yesterday. What began as a modest 50th-anniversary celebration for the Class of ’74 blossomed into a vibrant event, sparked by a simple idea publicised on Facebook by Kunsulee Naidoo. The response was overwhelming as hundreds of ex-pupils embraced the opportunity to reconnect with friends. The atmosphere was electric with nostalgia as women from different eras exchanged stories of their unforgettable school days. Among those present was Adilatchmee Naidoo, (Class…

The protests against the newly introduced Basic Education Laws Amendment (Bela) Bill have continued to flare up as the government pushes through with implementing it. Organisations and formations against the bill, signed into law by President Cyril Ramaphosa in September, claim it would limit mother-tongue education and take away decision-making from school governing bodies. The government, led by the Department of Basic Education on the other hand, say it is meant to amend certain sections of the South African Schools Act (SASA), focusing on administrative and management processes at the school level. When parliament agreed that it was to be implemented, legislators said: “Key provisions include making Grade R compulsory, revising admission and language policies, addressing school disruptions, regulating homeschooling, and strengthening governance accountability.” But, among those opposing it are…

PRESIDENT Cyril Ramaphosa was among the first African heads of state to publicly congratulate Donald Trump on his return to office after this week’s US elections following a four-year hiatus. Shortly after Republican Trump declared victory against Democratic candidate and US vice-president Kamala Harris, who soon after conceded defeat, Ramaphosa said he looked forward to continuing the mutually beneficial partnership between the two countries. South Africa will take the presidency of the G20 countries next year and the US steps in 2026. The 2025 G20 heads of state summit is scheduled to take place in South Africa, and Ramaphosa’s office expressed optimism that Trump will make it. Later this month, Rio de Janeiro will host this year’s G20 summit, and reports indicate that some world leaders will visit Trump at…

Gauteng is teetering on the brink of a water crisis unlike any it has faced in decades. A damning report by the Institute for Race Relations (IRR) has brought to light the severe challenges in the province’s water supply system and highlighted the urgent need for action to ensure that the taps do not run dry for its 15 million residents. According to the IRR, the province’s pressing water security concerns are compounded by a growing population and economy, which are steadily increasing demand for water resources. The province’s most significant water source, the Vaal Dam, has reached critically low levels, sitting at a mere 36.2% of full capacity as of October 21, 2024, the lowest of any dam in the Free State province. This chronic underperformance not only threatens…

The eThekwini Municipality is currently involved in a legal battle with its Deputy City Manager of Corporate and Human Capital, Kim Makhathini, after it was revealed that she misrepresented her qualifications to secure her position. The matter arose following a report by the City Integrity Committee Investigations Unit (CIIU) and the Hawks, which found that Makhathini faked her qualifications. In her application, Makhathini recorded that she had a Master of Arts in Social Science degree which she claimed to have obtained from the University of Glasgow, and a National Diploma in Human Resources obtained from Damelin. However, an internal report by the CIIU dated 1 March 2023 found that Makhathini doctored her qualifications and recommended disciplinary action be instituted against her for misrepresenting her qualifications. According to the report, Makhathini…

FOR all his incredible individual brilliance, Lucas Ribeiro interestingly values team effort way more. The Mamelodi Sundowns star from Brazil gave a rare interview to the media looking ahead to this afternoon’s Carling KnockOut semi-final clash with Marumo Gallants. “I am fortunate to play for a great club with teammates who really help me to play well and to have won the championship and the AFL (Africa Football League) last season. I am happy with what we did last season and now I want to achieve more,” said Ribeiro. While it was put to him that he was unfortunate not to be nominated or even win an individual accolade last campaign, the Brazilian’s belief in team effort and less regard do individualism again came through. “The awards are good because…

Wolves ended a wait since April for a Premier League win by beating fellow strugglers Southampton 2-0 before Manchester City aimed to end their losing run at Brighton last night. Wolves boss Gary O'Neil was under huge pressure to deliver after a 13-game winless run in the top-flight and got the perfect start when Pablo Sarabia swept home Matheus Cunha's pass for the club's fastest ever Premier League goal. Cunha smashed home a stunning second goal himself early in the second period to give Wolves a vital three points which sees Southampton replace them at the bottom of the table. Fulham moved into the top six by inflicting more misery on Crystal Palace with a 2-0 win at Selhurst Park. Emile Smith-Rowe pounced on an error from Maxence Lacroix to…

Indian star Priyanka Chopra Jonas has shared a photo on Instagram stories of her daughter, Malti Marie, in her ballet class. In the image, Malti is seen with her friends in the dance class. Chopra Jonas captioned the picture: “My little ballerina.” She earlier shared photos from her Diwali celebrations. Last month, Jonas delighted fans with pictures of her time in London In a video, Chopra Jonas captured Malti playfully talking to her dad, Nick Jonas. The little one's voice sounds endearing as she says “no no” in Hindi. The post also includes Chopra Jonas’s selfies and group photos with friends. On the work front, she will next appear in the second season of Citadel, where she reprises her role as special agent Nadia Sinh alongside co-star Richard Madden, who…

The local body-building fraternity had another remarkable achievement, as Yeskiel Naraindath returned to South Africa from Taranto, Italy, undefeated, proudly holding on to his International Body-building Fitness Federation ( IBFF) Mr Universe Fitness Model Champion title. This marks a significant milestone for Naraindath, who secured the coveted victory last year. His conviction that competition is fiercely challenging, irrespective of experience, shone through as he prepared for this year’s event. “Competition is always tough whether you are a first-timer on stage setting out to prove yourself or defending your title, as was in my case,” said Naraindath after his return. For him, this victory is not merely about the title. It is a testament to the relentless dedication and hard work that underpin his journey. “It’s about proving that winning the…

With summer around the corner, it’s time to put your braai stand on rotation. Ask any local, one of the best ways to spend your summer days is at the beach or braaiing. Most South African beaches have free entry making them accessible to the public. Free access to beaches also makes going to the beach an affordable experience. A braai is also an essential part of South African culture, bringing together family and friends for everything from birthdays to graduations to engagements and national holidays. With that being said, as we look forward to spending some time in the open air and taking a splash, here are some braai-friendly beaches. Oudekraal Beach (Western Cape) Oudekraal is a sheltered cove between Camps Bay and Llandudno. The cove is beach-braai heaven…

As South Africa’s Grade 12 exam season is underway, we cannot help but be reminded of the steep and uncertain path facing youth after completing formal schooling. The reality is clear: statistics show that of the approximately one million young people who enter the labour market annually, 60% of them will find themselves not in employment, education, or training (NEET), within the next year. Only 30% of these youths will find employment in the formal economy, with the remaining 30% venturing into small-scale entrepreneurship. In short, our country is grappling with a crisis that prevents young South Africans from accessing sustainable livelihoods and threatens our nation’s progress. We must all be acutely aware that these young people are the future policymakers, teachers, entrepreneurs, artisans and more, forming the bedrock of…

SINCE the advent of democracy in 1994, the role of state-owned companies (SOCs) has become an integral part of South Africa’s economy and its development. These institutions have over the years provided essential services, driving industrial expansion and enabling infrastructure growth. SOCs are also key vehicles and catalysts for inclusive growth, and for the implementation of the National Development Plan (NDP), which is our country’s lodestar for inclusive prosperity. Despite their indisputable contribution to the country’s economy, the financial instability, underperformance and malfeasance at SOCs in recent years have raised concerns about their capacity to fulfil their expected role effectively. Accordingly, reforming the financial management of SOCs is crucial for achieving impactful and inclusive growth, allowing them to support South Africa's broader developmental objectives without imposing excessive burdens on the…

PARKRUN South Africa will celebrate an impressive milestone on Saturday with the 1-millionth “different” person to volunteer or participate in the event. For the past 13 years thousands of people have gathered around the country to do a parkrun starting at 8am every Saturday. South Africa’s ultra marathon great Bruce Fordyce brought the idea to the country after he was introduced to it in the UK in 2011. The global movement now has 10 million participants across hundreds of countries and Fordyce says no matter where in the world you are, parkrun follows the same format; it starts at 8am, over 5km and it is free. Parkrun was started by Paul Sinton-Hewitt in 2000. “He’s a boytjie from Potchefstroom Boys High and started parkrun in October 2004 in the UK.…

Ian Wyles would like to feature two properties that will go under the hammer during its auction on November 27 at 11am. The first is a pre-primary school at 3A Cobbleset Lane, Manors, Pinetown. The area offers suburban tranquillity and a vibrant community spirit. It is in proximity to educational institutions and medical facilities. The school building is a modern, single-storey structure clad in red brick, with large glass windows that provide plenty of natural light. The property comprises: Six classrooms Three individual office components One large meeting room Three storerooms Three wendy houses, complete with electricity and water supply Eight children’s ablution facilities Kitchen with built-in cupboards, sinks and storage Large undercover verandas The school is designed to enable sustainability with outdoor space on each side of the classroom…

A STATE witness told the Durban High Court that nine people were fatally shot at his uMlazi home, and he could have been the 10th - all this over the shooter’s missing identity document. Phiwayinkosi Sibisi was testifying in the murder trial of Siphamandla Dlomo who has been charged with the murders of Mlungisi Lungisani Zuma, Phakamani Sibusiso Dlamini, Maxwell Bankeni Sibisi, Reginald Bongimpilo Ngema, Thabani Vincent Ngcobo, Meichel Mhlengi Khathi, Ayabonga Mbayise, Sifundo Sibusiso Dlamini, and Sifiso Alex Cele. Four of the dead during the August 11, 2023 shootings were Sibisi’s family members. A massive manhunt was launched for Dlomo thereafter and he handed himself to police two days later. Apart from the murder counts, Dlomo also faces charges for two attempted murders, possession of an illegal firearm and…

Resplendent in his uniform is how Colonel Patrick Acutt knows to best honour the fallen of both World Wars. Given his family’s long association with the military, it has become customary for Acutt, 70, to feature at local Remembrance Day commemorations, known as Poppy Day. The Commonwealth tradition includes a two-minute silence at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of November 11, which marked the end of World War 1. At that moment, silence replaced the deafening sound of the artillery that had been roaring across Europe’s Western Front, as the Allied and German armies fought an interminable and bloody 4-year campaign. The optimistically-named “war to end all wars” was over, but it had claimed millions of lives. In the mud of “No-man’s Land”, poppies…

THE appointment of five members of the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) is now the subject of a Constitutional Court bid to declare the process invalid due to Parliament’s failure to facilitate reasonable public participation. Corruption Watch has hauled National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza, President Cyril Ramaphosa, the CGE and the Information Regulator to the apex court over the appointment of five commissioners of the chapter nine institution in March last year. The appointments questioned by the corruption-fighting non-profit organisation include that of Advocate Nthabiseng Sepanya-Mogale as chairperson as well as Advocate Thando Gumede, both full-time commissioners. Three other commissioners – Bongani Ngomane, Prabashni Subrayan Naidoo, and Leonashia Leigh-Ann van der Merwe – were appointed part-time commissioners. Sepanya-Mogale, Ngomane, Subrayan Naidoo, and van der Merwe are all expected to be…

FINANCE Minister Enoch Godongwana has been accused of showing the working class the middle finger after he remained mum on plans to rescue the South African Post Office (Sapo) from liquidation during his Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) last week. This was after the country’s second-largest labour federation, the South African Federation of Trade Unions (Saftu), expressed concerns that Godongwana did not comment on allocating R3.8 billion to the state-owned enterprise when delivering his MTBPS speech. Saftu said the National Treasury was in contravention of its undertaking in court to save Sapo. The cash-strapped state-owned enterprise has been in dire financial straits, and its once wide branch network has significantly shrunk over the years. Sapo, which is under business rescue, received R2.4bn funding allocation from the National Treasury in…

FROM climate change to geopolitical tensions, voices calling for unity and cooperation among rising nations become ever more important as the world struggles with hitherto unseen issues. As a potent group ready to change world dynamics, Dr Iqbal Survé, chairman of Independent Media, presents an energising and hopeful vision for BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa). His fresh observations highlight not only the possibilities of BRICS but also the need for the Global South to claim its position on the world scene. Survé was speaking during an interview with journalist and broadcaster Igshaan Higgins for the Leadership Exchange on the Voice of The Cape this week. The interview focused on, among other issues, Survé’s insights regarding BRICS, the impact of international bodies like the International Criminal Court (ICC),…

The bromance between best friends Siya Kolisi and Eben Etzebeth is well documented and the latter says there will be no confusion when Kolisi comes on in the second half of today’s match against Scotland. Kolisi will spearhead one of the most experienced Bomb Squads in Rassie Erasmus’ reign, with Pieter-Steph du Toit, RG Snyman, Jasper Wiese and Malcolm Marx among the power-packed substitutes. “Siya and I always discuss things together, no matter who is starting,” said Etzebeth, who will lead the Boks out for the tour opener in Edinburgh. “Me and Siya always work together, on and off the field. He maybe speaks to the referee a bit more but we like to discuss things before we make decisions. It doesn’t matter who starts.” Erasmus’s plan is to bulldoze…

Kagiso Rabada is once again the No.1 bowler in red-ball cricket according to the ICC world rankings, but as much as he believes Test cricket is the pinnacle of the game, South Africa’s spearhead says winning the World Test Championship is not at the top of his bucket list. The Proteas, whose inability to win a limited-overs World Cup has baffled cricket-lovers around the globe, are in position to make the World Test Championship final next year, even though they are currently lying fifth in the standings with a win percentage of 54.17. But their last four Tests in this cycle are all at home and winning all of those games, against Sri Lanka and Pakistan, will lift that figure to 69.44%, which will guarantee them a place in the…

As business travel picks up, some companies are facing the challenge of employees bypassing their travel policies in favour of their personal preferences, a practice known in the industry as “going rogue”. This ranges from upgrading an economy flight ticket to business class because the economy class was supposedly full or a booking made directly with an airline instead of through the corporate platform and a five-star hotel justified by its proximity to a conference venue. According to Mummy Mafojane, Productive Operations Leader at FCM Travel, this shift towards unofficial booking practices is giving organisations more than just a financial headache. “What we’re seeing isn’t simple rebellion. When staff routinely work around travel policies, it usually means those policies aren’t keeping pace with how business travel works today,” she said.…

Desperate South African motorists and commuters who were looking forward to some relief at the tanks in the months leading up to the festive season have had their hopes crushed by the announcement of a petrol price increase that kicked in this past Wednesday. The Department of Petroleum and Mineral Resources (DMRE) announced that petrol prices increased by 25 cents per litre for both 95 and 93 unleaded, dashing the plans of millions of households who were counting on some relief to afford their year-end trip to spend the holidays with family and friends. This means motorists will now pay just under R21.00 for a litre of 93 unleaded at the pumps and R21.30 per litre for 95 unleaded. Neil Roets, CEO of Debt Rescue said that this petrol price…

As we enter Movember, a month dedicated to raising awareness about men’s health issues, it’s essential to confront male mental health. South Africa, like many other countries, faces a mental health crisis. Among men, this is deeply rooted in cultural norms and exacerbated by social challenges. Sadly, the stigma surrounding their vulnerability is contributing to a silent epidemic and startling rates of suicide, substance abuse and gender-based violence (GBV). Understanding South Africa’s male mental health crisis Men’s mental health is frequently misunderstood and often neglected. Globally, traditional notions of masculinity have created an atmosphere where men feel pressured to suppress their emotions. In South Africa, the statistics speak for themselves: men are four to five times more likely to die by suicide than women. This alarming figure underscores a deeper,…

THE family of Nhlalayenza Ndlovu, the slain chief whip for the Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Umngeni Municipality, has expressed disappointment and frustration over the police's sluggish pace in bringing his murder suspects to justice. Although an alleged hired hitman has been arrested, the family feels the investigation has stalled, leaving them in a state of uncertainty and fear. During a court appearance on Friday at the Howick Magistrate’s Court, the hitman, whose identity remains undisclosed for legal reasons, was remanded into custody and the case postponed until November 25 for further investigation. His arrest – a significant, albeit solitary, development in the case – comes after months of pressure from private investigators and the DA aimed at expediting the process. Ndlovu was killed in December last year. He was…

In a powerful intersection of creativity and compassion, attorney Jonathan Mazoue, who heads a prominent law firm in Durban and is an aspiring artist, is leading a transformative campaign to foster mental health awareness. Teaming up with media personality and motivational speaker Jane Linley-Thomas, Mazoue aims to use art as a conduit for discussion and healing, addressing a pressing need for dialogue about mental well-being in a traditionally stoic environment. Mazoue's journey into the realm of arts is as inspirational as his mission. Initially driven by a desire to create beautiful paintings, he discovered the deeper impact his work had on viewers. “I have a passion for living a life of impact with purpose,” he said. “When I first started painting, I was just trying to paint visually appealing pictures,…

In2assets Property Specialists will be auctioning 29 strategically located Telkom properties across South Africa, in its fifth portfolio disposal from the telecommunications giant. The auction will be on December 5 at the Mount Edgecombe Country Club, with simultaneous online bidding available for national and international investors. The diverse portfolio spans eight provinces, offering investment opportunities in various property segments. The collection includes: 10 properties in Gauteng Six properties in the Eastern Cape Five properties in the Western Cape Four properties in KwaZulu-Natal Individual properties in North West, Limpopo, the Northern Cape and Mpumalanga “These properties, previously serving as Telkom’s service hubs, maintenance workshops, transmission stations, telecommunication towers and customer service centres, present unique opportunities for savvy investors,” says Rainer Stenzhorn, the head of marketing at In2assets. “With sizes ranging from…

Former Springbok rugby flyhalf Pat Lambie is making waves once again, but this time in the world of real estate. After hanging up his boots in 2018 because of injury, Lambie began a new chapter in life, taking on the role of sales and project coordinator for residential developments. With an eye for design and a passion for sustainable living, he is now set to move into his dream home with his wife Kate and their sons, Jackson 5, Samuel 4 and 2 month old Harry. Located in Seaton Estate on the North Coast, overlooking the kilometre-long Christmas Bay beachfront, Lambie’s eco-friendly home features a blend of modern design and functionality designed by architect Lisa Rorich. The house is not only a testament to Lambie’s vision but also his commitment…

THE recent post election conflict in Mozambique, coupled with the closure of the Lebombo border post, has generated significant economic repercussions for South Africa. This comes after the Border Management Authority made the decision on Thursday to close the border crossing into Mozambique in response to a new wave of protests that erupted around Maputo. Mozambique is experiencing violent demonstrations following the election results announced on October 24, with the ruling party’s presidential candidate, Daniel Chapo, winning 71% of the vote, extending the Frelimo party’s 49-year rule. CEO of the Road Freight Association, Gavin Kelly, said the disruption to cargo moving through the Maputo Port amounted to losses of approximately R5 billion so far. “The disruptions are currently mainly for cargo moving out of South Africa. We do know that…

THE government has been called out to establish strict measures to combat the prevalence of food poisoning and save lives. The South African National Christian Forum (SANCF) has called for a state of emergency, while the General Industries Union of South Africa (Giwusa) demanded the establishment of local consumer councils. Both SANCF and Giwusa have blamed the government for not doing enough to deal with this scourge. SANCF also called on the government to close all spaza shops and allow the owners to reapply for their licences. The forum said there must be structure so the spaza shop owners reapply under strict scrutiny. This comes amid increasing cases of suspected food poisoning among school learners. Six children from Soweto under the age of ten died after consuming snacks bought from…

THE Free State provincial government has finally been forced to intervene in the troubled and cash-strapped ANC-run Matjhabeng local municipality following a scathing court ruling forcing the state to take action amid worsening service delivery. Earlier this year, the DA launched an application to have the municipality declared in serious and persistent material breach of its duties to provide services in a sustainable manner. In its application, the DA cited Free State premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae, her provincial executive, cooperative governance and traditional affairs (Cogta) and human settlements MEC Saki Mokoena, Cogta minister Velenkosini Hlabisa and the municipality, who all indicated they intended to oppose the matter. President Cyril Ramaphosa and his national executive initially filed notices to oppose the DA’s application but failed to file answering affidavits while the Free…

The famed Springbok ‘Bomb Squad’ has been replaced by the so-called ‘Nuke Squad’ for today’s Test against Scotland at Murrayfield (6.10pm SA time start) – and it is rather impressive when you see some of the names among the replacement. Captain Siya Kolisi stands out as one of the seven South African forwards on the bench, along with fit-again lock RG Snyman, flank Pieter-Steph du Toit and electric scrumhalf Grant Williams. But there is a danger that the Boks might only have a full go at the Scottish outfit once these stalwarts take to the field in the second half, and assistant coach Mzwandile Stick has warned the visitors that it is something they can’t afford if they hope to stretch their unbeaten run to nine against Gregor Townsend’s team.…

DStv’s unexpected decision to end its sponsorship with the Premier Soccer League (PSL) despite its contractual obligation with a year remaining on their agreement has proved a boon in disguise. In May the PSL was plunged into despair and its hierarchy was wholly unprepared for the dire situation. However, by default, Betway, a British online gambling company, replaced DStv as the title sponsor of the PSL Premiership. The PSL Premiership sponsorship is now bigger than ever and the PSL bigwigs would have been silently delighted that DStv had pulled out with a year remaining on their sponsorship contract. A few days ago, Irvin Khoza, the chairperson of the (PSL), announced that the Betway Premiership winners will receive R20 million. This is an increase of R5 million on what Mamelodi Sundowns…

The Sandfields Siva Subramaniar Temple in oThongathi has reopened its doors to the community. It underwent restoration after the destruction caused by a tornado in June. The temple reopened to the public with a prayer ceremony on November 2, a significant event for devotees eager to reconnect with their spiritual home. The tornado struck the North Coast, wreaking havoc across several areas including oThongathi, Seatides and La Mercy. It destroyed infrastructure and claimed the lives of a dozen people. The Siva Subramaniar Temple, a cornerstone of the local community since its establishment in 1930, suffered significant damage. Through fund-raising efforts and donations, renovations were recently completed. Vijen Subramunier, chairperson of the temple, said its roof was torn away, windows and doors were destroyed, and the electricity was cut off. The…

From Table Mountain to spotting the Big 5 in Hoedspruit, Jonathan Butler's annual October homecoming tradition captures the essence of his deep connection to his South African roots. The Grammy-nominated musician and guitarist, who is based in the US, took to Instagram to share his journey with friends, fans and followers. Butler has been touring the country on safari with his wife, Nadira. He said, every year around October, which is also his birthday month, he hosts guests as he journeys from The Mother City to the African bush. During his recent journey, Butler visited Table Mountain, Robben Island and the safari territory of Hoedspruit in Limpopo. He revealed that he stayed at the Kapama River Lodge in Hoedspruit where he saw all the Big 5 game: lion, elephant, leopard,…