Indholdsfortegnelse for 2024-11-24 i Sunday Tribune

If you are hunting for unique Christmas gifts for the special people in your life, look no further. Bidding in Cannon’s Auctioneers’ final online auction of the 2024 season is active, with a host of antiques, fine art and collectables going under the hammer. Competitive bids are coming through in most categories, including books, Linn Ware, Royal Albert, train sets, silver, art and bronzes, large chandeliers, furniture and jewellery. There are almost 900 lots to peruse, including three highly collectable vintage motorcycles. The auction will be closing on Wednesday and Thursday from 8am daily. Visit www.cannons.co.za to view a full catalogue, auction estimates, numerous images and instructions on how to participate online. Cannon’s Auctioneers are at Shop 1, Quarry Lifestyle Centre, Hilton. You can also call 033 343 3366,…

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition is sitting up and taking notice of the fact that South Africans are being inundated with spam calls. It’s asking for public comment on changing Regulation Four of the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) by January 15. This section deals with “mechanisms to block unwanted direct marketing communication”. Basically, it suggests something that has been on the cards since 2010 when the Act was promulgated – an opt-out register. The amendments would result in marketers having to register on this database each year, as well as not market any goods or services to someone who has opted out by way of this register. I’d like to know who will be policing this, as current laws don’t seem to be enforced. I’ve had a flurry…

Despite the imminent arrival of summer, the collective culinary consciousness may easily take a nostalgic turn towards the winter warmth of hearty soups. However, this comforting classic is experiencing a vibrant resurgence, transforming how we perceive the age-old dish. Chefs and food enthusiasts alike are advocating for a visionary approach – embracing the myriad flavours of seasonal ingredients to create invigorating soups that are as delightful as they are refreshing. Gone are the days filled with thick, warming broths designed solely to ward off the chill. Today’s culinary landscape encourages us to explore the dynamic pairing of local produce and innovative combinations that not only satiate the appetite but also invigorate the spirit. SA’s rich agricultural bounty, celebrated for its diversity ranging from lush vegetables to an array of…

Leaders in the Indian community have ramped-up calls for decisive action in erecting an 1860 Monument that has been in the making since 2010 and in dealing with the “go back to Bombay” comment made at an eThekwini Municipality Council meeting recently. The snide remark emerged while DA executive committee member Yogis Govender spoke about the 1860 monument to honour the arrival of Indian Indentured labourers into the country, during the November 6 sitting at Durban's ICC. The concerns were directed at KwaZulu-Natal’s Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli, who attended the unveiling of a monument at the Bayview uBuntu Centre in Chatsworth last week to mark the 164th anniversary of the arrival of Indian indentured labourers in South Africa. Community leader Seelan Archary speaking at the event said, “Stand up for us…

In an era where mental health challenges among the young are increasing, schools play a big role in encouraging conversations about mental health by creating a safe, supportive environment where pupils feel comfortable discussing their struggles. Durban High School (DHS) has taken big strides to do just that through an innovative campaign. The school, led by Headmaster Tony Pinheiro, has partnered with media personality Jane Linley-Thomas, artist Jonathan Mazoue, and psychologist Paul Bushell of the KindnessCan movement to help boys understand and manage their mental health. Pinheiro says that by normalising discussions around mental health, we can break down barriers, encourage emotional openness, and help boys and men understand that it is okay to seek support and express their feelings. “With growing concerns about mental health challenges faced by young…

Tendai Matore, a seasoned finance executive, has been appointed as Acting Group Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), a testament to his deep expertise and long-standing leadership within the organisation. With over 15 years of experience in finance, Tendai has been an instrumental part of SABC’s financial management team, working closely with the outgoing Group CFO, Yolande Van Biljon, for the past six years. His understanding of the corporation’s financial landscape, strategic priorities, and operational goals makes him the ideal candidate for this crucial role while the search for a permanent CFO continues. A chartered accountant with an MBA in finance from Durham Business School, Matore’s career is a showcase of financial acumen, transformative leadership, and commitment to operational excellence. His journey through various high-level…

THE Eastern Cape MEC for Transport, Xolile Nqatha, could be arrested for fraudulent academic records and qualifications. This was after the Sunday Independent saw a criminal complaint that may soon be forwarded to the law authorities for Nqatha’s arrest. Nqatha has been accused of registering for a Master’s in Public Administration (MPA) without a bachelor’s and honours degree. The MEC, also responsible for Community Safety and Liaison, allegedly registered for an MPA with the University of Fort Hare in 2017. He was allegedly supervised by the controversial former professor Edwin Ijeoma, who also assisted and guided Premier Oscar Mabuyane to obtain a PhD without having done any work on the Master’s degree he was irregularly registered for. It was also alleged that Ijeoma used ghostwriters for Master’s proposals for Nqatha…

THE SA Police Services (SAPS) have confirmed an inquest case has been opened into the death of Nkosinathi Ndlovu, Director of Bulkeng, a company being probed for scoring an R428 million oxygen plant at the National Department of Health (NDoH). Contrary to some media reports that the police were not aware of Ndlovu’s death, the Sebenza police station’s new station commander, Lieutenant Colonel Mazibuko, confirmed the death of Ndlovu and stated that Ndlovu’s body was found two weeks ago. The Sunday Independent tracked down Ndlovu’s niece, Zamantungwa Ndlovu, who stated that her uncle was found dead on November 4 at Modderfontein, Johannesburg. However, she added that Ndlovu was buried last week in KwaZulu-Natal and that the family was considering appointing an acting director of Bulkeng as part of the succession…

AN internal report revealed interference in supply chain management, which caused the suspension of R87 million of the budget for 12 water intervention projects in the North West at the Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality. As a result, communities in the Ngaka Municipality have been left stranded. The report also highlights power struggles among officials, which have led to the sabotaging of some projects and the collapse of relations among the officials. A report dated September 16 from the Department of Water and Sanitation, addressed to the Municipal Manager and critical officials, gave insights into the power and political battles within the municipality that have negatively impacted water availability. According to the report, the municipality's ongoing failure to address the water issue has also led to service providers demanding payments…

South Africa arrived in Durban yesterday and are scheduled to have their first training session today at Kingsmead Stadium ahead of next week's first test match against Sri Lanka. The squad got together for a two-day camp at the Centre of Excellence in Tshwane earlier this week where they polished their skills ahead of the all-important series. Speaking to the media in Tshwane on Friday, Bavuma highlighted the high level of confidence within the squad, particularly the less experienced players, the ones who carried the team to a 2-0 series sweep in Bangladesh last month. “Very positive from the guys. Obviously, the confidence has grown looking at our performance in the Bangladesh series, less experienced guys who stepped up and put in match-winning performances for the team,” Bavuma told the…

The struggle between the Springboks and Wales last night resembled a lost boy forlornly whistling in the dark as the monster encroached. But, as executioner Rassie Erasmus had promised, there would be no mercy in Cardiff, as the home side perished 45-12. Erasmus’s Green Machine was never going to be stopped by a team on an 11-match losing streak. Although Erasmus midweek said he had buried the hatchet with Warren Gatland, the British and Irish Lions coach with whom he had butted heads, it is doubtful he will shed tears as Gatland surely walks the plank. The Boks have gone unbeaten on a November tour for the first time since 2014 and their 85 percent win record for the year is the best since Nick Mallett’s team won 11 out…

Three-time champion Max Verstappen criticised his Red Bull team but added it was a “nice surprise” to have qualified ahead of title rival Lando Norris for the Las Vegas Grand Prix. The 27-year-old Dutch driver, who leads Norris by 62 points with three races remaining, said Red Bull had “thrown away two race weekends” by failing to have a dedicated low-downforce rear wing for circuits with high-speed straights such as Monza and Las Vegas. The pair qualified fifth and sixth and will share the third row of the grid for tomorrow’s ‘Sin City' race in which Verstappen can seal a fourth consecutive drivers' crown by beating his friend and nearest rival. He said he had not expected to be faster than the British McLaren driver in a session topped by…

The Proteas Women will take to the field for the first time since they came close to lifting their maiden World Cup title when they take on former champions England in a three-match T20 series. The first encounter will take place at Buffalo Park in East London, and Laura Wolvaardt and her charges will get an opportunity to follow up their World Cup momentum with a first-series win against England. The former World Champions thumped South Africa 3-0 the last time they met in 2022, and their recent encounter also saw the Proteas losing by seven wickets. Despite recent results and history, Wolvaardt and her charges have improved a lot, and they are well set to claim their first series win. Here we look at the potential talking points to…

Local DJ and music producer, Jashen Joel Govindsamy, better known by his stage name Jashmir, has been thrilling fans worldwide with his infectious beats and vibrant performances. Hailing from Chatsworth, the 25-year-old is carving out a name for himself in the music industry, by blending his deep-rooted love for technology with a passion for music. While growing up, Jashmir picked up IT from his late father. In 2013, after playing around with his grandfather’s DJ controller, he realised the magic that lay in beats. The full-time graphic designer’s music has amassed more than one billion views on TikTok. He has also played to sold-out concerts, and even landed a deal with Netflix in 2022 for a project on the hit series, Blood & Water. His music has also been picked…

lawyer Faizan Khan – who was arrested in connection with the extortion-cum-death threat to Bollywood mega-star Shah Rukh Khan – had scoured online to get sensitive security details of the actor and his son, Aryan Khan, investigations have revealed. Prior to issuing the death threat and a demand for Rs 50 lakh (R1 069 895) as extortion money, Faizan carried out online searches on Shah Rukh and Aryan’s security details and their movements. This was found after forensic analysis of Faizan’s second mobile phone that the police recovered. He has been giving evasive and misleading replies on the motives behind collecting the information. On November 7, Faizan made the menacing call to the Bandra Police Station landline. He reportedly said to the policeman who picked up the phone: “Is not…

Global wellness tourism boom is good news for SA industry The years between 2013 and 2023 could be dubbed “the wellness decade,” the time in which consumer interest and need for wellness became an explosive and permanent shift. Wellness is now a larger market than many global mega-industries, including IT, pharmaceuticals and sports. Despite the rapid growth of green/ sustainability businesses, the wellness market is more than 30% larger than the green economy at R87 billion. Over the past decade, the industry has grown dramatically. The wellness market is now about 60% of the total global health expenditure of R191 trillion. From fitness and healthy eating to mental health and tourism, wellness has become a daily priority for people across the globe, including in South Africa. The Global Wellness Economy…

The Sapphire Coast in KwaZulu-Natal is set to become a beacon of inclusive tourism this holiday season, with the much-anticipated Water Sweets ’24 games, an inclusive programme for disabled holidaymakers. The new initiative is set to run alongside the Sapphire Sizzling Summer programme from December 20 to 23 and will pick up again from December 27 to 31 at the Amanzimtoti Main Beach. Romy Wenzel of Sapphire Coast Tourism said the team was excited about their expanded and inclusive tourism event. “We are delighted to continue expanding our inclusive tourism offering with the launch of the Water Sweets ’24 games hosted by Wheels on Waves in conjunction with Sapphire Coast Tourism. “This will run in conjunction with our popular Sapphire Sizzling Summer programme which includes free seaside games, giveaways…

Ian Wyles would like to feature two properties that will go under the hammer during Its auction on December 11 at 11am. The first property is at 7 Mdoni Crescent, Zini River Estate, Mtunzini. Mtunzini is a small coastal town with pristine beaches, a nine-hole golf course at the Mtunzini Country Club, a number of bed-and-breakfast establishments as well as a range of camping, caravanning and other self-contained holiday accommodations. This five-bedroom, four-bathroom house is on a 2 390m² stand, and offers views of the surrounding bush and a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The spacious layout and use of natural light create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, enhanced by the two fireplaces. The open-plan layout combines a large lounge and sophisticated kitchen space, with…

While the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) announced a cut in the interest rate this past week, many industry leaders have said it is a little too late and the decrease in the rate was not enough. SARB Governor Lesetja Kganyago on Thursday announced that the central bank will cut the repo rate by 25 basis points, meaning rates will drop by 0.25%. This means that the repo rate will come down from 8% to 7.75% while the prime lending rate decreases from 11.50% to 11.25%. The MPC announced its first cut in interest rates earlier this year in September, making it the first cut since 2021, which saw the rate increase by 475 basis points, that took the repo rate to a 15-year high of 8.25%, where it settled…

The race for critical minerals has turned South Africa’s abandoned mine dumps into battlegrounds where corporate interests clash with community survival. These tailings, referred to as mine dumps, are the by-products of mining operations – remnants of crushed and processed ore that contain trace amounts of valuable minerals left behind after initial extraction. Typically stored in large, toxic mounds or slurry ponds, tailings include harmful chemicals used during mining processes, such as cyanide, mercury, and arsenic, as well as heavy metals like uranium, which can leach into surrounding soil and water. In South Africa, tailings are a legacy of the country’s extensive mining history, and their impacts are evident across the landscape. For instance, the gold mines around Soweto and Kagiso have left behind uranium-contaminated tailings that continue to leak…

Foundation labels former president’s disciplinary action and axing as flawed Former president Jacob Zuma is to fight his ANC expulsion, which was upheld by the National Disciplinary Committee of Appeal, Jacob Zuma Foundation spokesperson Mzwanele Manyi said yesterday. This comes after the committe’s move to uphold the decision of the National Disciplinary Committee to expel Zuma for bringing the ANC into disrepute by forming the uMkhonto weSizwe Party. Manyi told Sunday Tribune that the disciplinary process was flawed. “This was a reckless decision. President Zuma will fight this because it was unfair. Had they given him a chance to present his case they would have arrived at a different conclusion,” said Manyi. He said that when the decision to expel him was taken, Zuma had been attending a funeral in…

As part of its celebration of Disability Awareness Month, the KwaZulu-Natal Blind and Deaf Society has been hosting a special screening of Eubulus Timothy’s film, Deep End, that features audio-visual descriptions designed specifically for blind audiences. The event, which started this month and ends on December 3, not only exemplifies the power of inclusivity in storytelling but also shines a light on the innovative work being done by the KZN Blind and Deaf Society. Veetha Sewkuran, the society’s president, explained that the motivation to adapt films for blind individuals stemmed from a desire to render storytelling and entertainment accessible to everyone, irrespective of their visual ability. “Movies, as a medium, rely heavily on visual elements, which can exclude blind audiences from fully experiencing the story. By including audio descriptions,…

FOOTBALL fans might remember Zhora Oganisian as a Russian football juggler from the Moscow State Circus. Oganisian got his name in the Guiness World Records book by juggling three footballs with his hands and keeping another airborne with his feet, while balancing on a giant football. He was also in the team of performers that opened the 2018 Fifa Soccer World Cup in Moscow. But in Westville, Durban, he is a coffee entrepreneur who together with his mother-in-law, Amina Moses, opened one of the city’s most unique coffee shops, Beti & Co. Beti & Co, which opened in June, is tucked away in the Salamanca Centre, and is home to good coffee and wholesome food. It is the meeting place of Run & Co, a group of fitness folk who…

Police say extortionists are demanding part of the money allocated for specialists to retrieve the Stilfontein illegal miners who are underground. Extortionists have made demands for some of the money for the extensive operation to extract illegal miners stranded underground at Stilfontein in North West to be set aside. Groundwork is being done by specialist mine rescue workers, using heavy machinery to set up their operation to rescue the illegal miners, colloquially referred to as zama zamas. However, North West police spokesperson Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said that the operation to rescue the trapped illegal miners – said to be in their thousands – has been targeted by extortionists. “We are happy with what is happening, we are still maintaining that we are working with community leaders but it is a…

THE Council on Higher Education (CHE) has urged the country’s public and private universities to be cautious when awarding honorary doctorates and professorships and avoid honouring persons holding public or political office. The CHE has issued a good practice guide on honorary degrees and professorships following concerns about misuse of honorary degrees and professorships by recipients and the potential abuse of the practice despite higher education institutions’ good intentions for the awards. “Honorary degrees are not normally awarded to serving politicians or government officials or anyone currently holding public or political office,” the council stated in the guide. According to the CHE, exemptions from this practice might be allowed if an institution has clear justification and institutional policy allows for it under clearly expressed conditions. The CHE is an independent…

A ZIMBABWEAN accountant is in trouble for the theft of over R17 million from his former employer, Johannesburg-based non-profit company Education and Training Unit (ETU), over a period of six years. Details of the misappropriation emerged during the ETU’s North Gauteng High Court application for the sequestration of its erstwhile accountant, Edward Mwanandimai. Mwanandimai, who is a member of the UK-based Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, is accused by the non-profit company of misappropriating more than R17m, which was only uncovered after his resignation in May 2020. He was employed by the ETU, which works on democracy and development in South Africa and Southern Africa, between July 2014 and May 2020, when the unit discovered that during his employment he had misappropriated large sums of money. According to the ETU,…

THE SAPS and the senior public prosecutor dismissed fraud charges against WesBank and its chief executive officer (CEO), Ghana Msibi. The charges were brought by the financial investigator, Emerald van Zyl, in July. This was after the bank allegedly failed to refund two overcharged clients on their vehicle interest rates. The case was opened at Bellville Police Station in Cape Town. However, in a statement released earlier this week, WesBank announced that it had been exonerated from any wrongdoing. The bank said the accusation was based on incorrect calculations. WesBank head of marketing and communication, Lebogang Gaoaketse, said: “Following their investigation into the fraud charges filed by Mr Van Zyl, the SAPS and the prosecutor in the case have elected not to pursue any fraud charges against WesBank or Mr…

Arsenal got their Premier League title challenge back on track with a 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest yesterday as Chelsea moved up to third by beating Leicester 2-1. Champions Manchester City were aiming to snap a four-game losing streak when they host Tottenham later yesterday. Arsenal were expected to be contenders to take City's crown after finishing second in each of the past two seasons. The Gunners had failed to win in their previous four league games to start the weekend nine points adrift of leaders Liverpool, who travel to bottom-of-the-table Southampton today. Martin Odegaard’s return from injury is a major boost to Arsenal's hopes of a first title in over 20 years and his pass teed up Bukayo Saka to blast home the opener on 15 minutes. Saka turned…

The Springboks ended their UK tour unbeaten after a 45-12 win over Wales in Cardiff on Saturday evening. Despite making several changes, the world champions were far too good for their opponents, raking in seven tries. Independent Newspapers rate the performance of the Bok players. 15 Aphelele Fassi (8): Showed he belongs in the Bok 15 jersey with some great covering at the back in defence and when attacking. He looks comfortable when fielding kicks and joining the attack. 14 Cheslin Kolbe (8): Worked all over the park and popped up even on the opposite wing when the team attacked. Looked dangerous every time he had the ball in hand. 13 Jesse Kriel (7): He never stopped working. Capped off a brilliant season with another solid display…

The 72-year-old Cameroon-born coach Hugo Broos has become a national treasure after he moulded Bafana Bafana into a match-winning combination with a remarkable pull these days. Just over a year ago, Bafana played an international friendly against neighbours eSwatini at the FNB Stadium and less than 500 fans pitched for the game. The match was the team’s only warm-up match for Afcon 2023, where South Africa finished third. Afterwards, Broos said the near-deserted stadium gave him a sickening feeling and he was gutted by the team's poor performance in a goalless draw. A year later, the team that surprised friend and foe alike after claiming bronze at Afcon in Ivory Coast, are crowd pullers of note around the country. Bafana’s guardians, the South African Football Association, decided to move home…

The 2024 Carling Knockout Cup final provided all the thrills and spills anticipated with both sets of teams contributing to a lively occasion in the City of Roses. Although Dikwena Tsa Meetse walked away the champions on the day, it was football that won on the night with the second instalment of the Carling KnockOut Cup noted down as one for the history books. Football Writer Smiso Msomi picked out five big performances that contributed to the spectacle of the Carling Knockout Cup Final: Elvis Chipezeze It was unsurprising that the Magesi goalkeeper and captain would be one of the standout players in this encounter having already bagged three player of the match awards in his team’s run to the final. The experienced shot-stopper was the only difference between Sundowns…

THE 1999 film, Biwi No. 1, is all set to light up the big screens once again. The movie, starring Salman Khan and Karisma Kapoor, will be re-released on Friday. The film is directed by David Dhawan. “Audiences still talk about the film’s humour. Comedy films are best enjoyed when watched in a group and on the big screen. Re-releasing Biwi No. 1 will give fans a chance to celebrate those memories,” Dhawan said. Biwi No. 1, which also stars Sushmita Sen, Tabu and Anil Kapoor, explored the themes of love, loyalty, fidelity and family. It struck a balance between tradition and modernity. Producer Vashu Bhagnani said: “Biwi No. 1 holds a special place in our hearts. The movie won the hearts of millions. Bringing it back to the big…

The festive season brings with it the joy of gift-giving and as travellers embark on their holiday journeys they are bound to collect gifts for loved ones along the way. According to Lynette Machiri, Customer Experience Leader at Flight Centre South Africa, shopping for gifts at local markets or directly from artisans while travelling means you’ll bring something home that tells a story of the people, the destination and the culture. “It allows you to delight your loved ones with something unique while also giving back to the community you’re visiting, making it a gift that gives both ways. “But with the excitement of holiday shopping, one must also be mindful of what you’re buying, how you’ll transport gifts home, and whether the items comply with customs regulations,” she…

Old Johannesburg Warehouse (Old JW) Auctioneers’ bumper end-of-year online auction will be held over two days – on Thursday and Friday. A vast array of antiques, art and collectables will be on offer. A number of pieces have special significance to the history of Durban, including the first Natal Mercury printed, dated Thursday, November 25, 1852, along with the first issue of its forerunner, The Natal Times, of August 29, 1851. Also on offer is a Clymer Dixon Columbian Press, a cast iron printing press invented by George Clymer in 1813, probably the first of its kind in the province of Natal. Durban also features strongly in the artworks on sale. Included will be numerous pieces by the late Barry Truter – a prominent figure on the art scene, and…

Tasneem Thavar is no ordinary professional within South Africa's bustling retail sector. Among the more than 160 000 employees of the Shoprite Group, the nation's largest private employer, Thavar stands out as a rising star whose rapid ascent in the industry has become a testament to her unwavering dedication and passion for retail. Today, she serves as the Head Buyer for Usave, a supermarket brand comprising over 484 outlets across the country, providing her with the platform to make a significant impact in the lives of everyday South Africans. Raised in a single-parent household, Thavar became the first member of her family to attend university, a feat made possible by her mother’s role at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, which allowed her to study for free. Throughout her academic journey, she…

This November, World Sugar Awareness Week invites us to reflect on an often-overlooked element of our diets: sugar. With its prevalence in our favourite foods and drinks, the sugar consumption trend is escalating globally, raising alarms about its long-term health implications. In light of this growing concern, many are now turning towards low-sugar diets as an alternative to foster better health and a refined relationship with food. Taking place between November 18 and November 24 this year, World Sugar Awareness Week serves as a timely reminder of sugar's extensive impact on our health. The link between high sugar intake and various health issues, including obesity and diabetes, has never been clearer. Acknowledging these realities, individuals across the globe are starting to reassess their dietary choices in pursuit of a…

IN HIS last act of cowardice, outgoing US President Joe Biden has done what he dreaded doing at the height of his comfort in office, authorising Ukraine to fire long-range missiles into Russia, an act the Kremlin has long described as a “red line”. The question is, why now? So heavily are the dice loaded against the lame duck US president that his anointed heir, Kamala Harris, was mercilessly rejected by an overwhelming majority of the electorate. This means that even if the soon-to-be ex-president Biden would have wished to rule from the grave, the brutal drubbing of the Democrats by the incoming President Donald Trump’s Republican Party has condemned whatever is left of the Biden administration to nothingness. Trump will be inaugurated on January 20 next year, when his…

The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) has issued an urgent recall of the YAZ PLUS brand of contraceptive pills following a significant packaging error that could jeopardise the efficacy for women who are using them. The recall affects a specific batch of the medication, identified as batch number WEW96J, made by Bayer (Pty). SAHPRA categorised the recall as Class II, Type. This is for medications that may lead to temporary or medically reversible, adverse health problems. The Type A designation means that the recall is intended to reach all suppliers of the affected medicines, ensuring that public health remains a priority. SAHPRA spokesperson Madimetja Mashishi said: “SAHPRA is collaborating with the manufacturer to ensure a speedy recall”. He urged those who are in possession of the YAZ PLUS…

Singer, actor and TV personality, Shantanu Mukherjee, affectionately known as Shaan, is returning to South Africa, with two shows on December 7 in Durban and December 8 in Johannesburg. LIVE LOVE LAUGH Shaan Se is a musical extravaganza, featuring Bollywood classics and upbeat numbers from the past four decades. The playback singer is considered one of the most versatile singers in Indian cinema with many of his songs becoming the heart and soul of Bollywood’s most memorable films. He has lent his voice to some of the biggest stars including Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and Aamir Khan with chart-toppers like Tanha Dil, Who Pehli Baar, Chand Sifarish and Jab Se Tere Naina. Eagerly anticipating the concert, Shaan says: “South Africa, it’s been too long. I am eagerly anticipating my…

Kicking off 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence and in tribute to the late gender-rights activist, humanitarian and academic Professor Anshu Padayachee, the Paint the Silence exhibition will open at Suncoast CineCentre today. The exhibition inaugurates the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign that kicks off tomorrow, coincides with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and runs until December 10, which is International Human Rights Day. This year’s theme: Every 10 Minutes, a Woman is Killed. #NoExcuse. UNiTE to End Violence against Women.” It resonates with the ongoing mission of the UN Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to cultivate safer, more just societies worldwide. The exhibition is a collective power of the arts to spotlight the suffering of countless…

South African women are under attack. As the country observes the 16 Days of no Activism Against Women and Children starting from tomorrow it is cold comfort for thousands of people who have lost their loved ones to gender-based violence. In August, on Women’s Day President Cyril Ramaphosa called on men across South Africa to take a stand against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) by signing a virtual pledge. The pledge commits men to being allies and part of the solution by maintaining positive behaviour and attitudes and to take responsibility for their actions. However, the crime statistics released by the South African Police Service painted a bleak picture. Over the past three years, during the same period, more and more women became victims of murder and gender-based violence crimes.…

The implications of the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his former defence minister, and a Hamas military commander for alleged war crimes may be more symbolic than substantial. With 124 countries, including South Africa, obligated to enforce these warrants, analysts suggest little will change for those named. While the South African government and some organisations, including the Palestine Solidarity Alliance (PSA), welcomed the ruling. Some political analysts felt there would be no consequences as Israel appeared to be protected by some of the most powerful nations in the West. “First, Israel has become a law unto itself. Israel is also encouraged in its disregard for international bodies such as the ICC by the support it receives from Western countries such as the…

THE ANC in the Northern Cape will be the first province to hold its conference in April next year ahead of its crucial national general council (NGC) months later and the 2027 national conference. The national conference is likely to elect President Cyril Ramaphosa's replacement as party leader, but ANC Northern Cape provincial chairperson Dr Zamani Saul has shot down talk of lobbying by potential candidates before the 2026 local government elections. Addressing the ANC Youth League’s provincial conference in Kuruman this week, Saul warned potential candidates not to campaign in the Northern Cape in a reckless manner and engage in premature leadership engagements. According to Saul, structures in the province are not going to engage in adventurous debates on who should lead the ANC in 2027. ”We will wait…

A FORMER employee who reported allegations of corruption against the bigwigs at the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has detailed how she was dismissed and requested intervention from Songezo Zibi, the chairperson of Parliament Standing Committee on Public Accounts (Scopa). The whistleblower, Bibi Madiba, was fired for reporting administrator Dr Randall Carollisen to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) in 2019. However, she was accused of disclosing sensitive recordings to a third party. Madiba previously asked for the intervention of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training (PCHET), the Public Protector, and Human Rights without any luck. Madiba recently lost a fight for her reinstatement at the Labour Court, where she claimed that she was unfairly dismissed. However, the parliament communication team did not confirm…

MAGESI (2) Kakora 48’, Mekoa 88’ MAMELODI SUNDOWNS (1) Rayners 36’ This could not be scripted. So, such is the unpredictability of this beautiful game the old adage ‘football is fickle at the top’ yet again burst into life! Magesi achieved the improbable last night as they beat Mamelodi Sundowns 2-1 in regulation time to win the Carling Knockout final in Bloemfontein. You can bet this wasn’t on the…

TS Galaxy midfielder Puso Dithejane believes the Rockets still have what it takes to finish in the top five of the Betway Premiership despite their difficult start to the season. The Mbombela-based outfit has had it tough this season in the league; they are currently rooted at the bottom of the log with four losses from the six matches they have played so far. They were also eliminated by a sole Lehlegonolo Mokone goal against Magesi FC in the quarter-finals of the Carling Knockout competition earlier this month. Bosnian mentor, Sead Ramovic, added on to the Rockets’ misery with his sudden resignation during a post-match television interview following their 1-1 draw against Stellenbosch FC earlier this month. He has since been replaced by his fellow countryman, Adnan Beganovic, who was…

Ruben Amorim takes charge of Manchester United for the first time at Ipswich today, confident that he is the man to revive the troubled Premier League club. Amorim arrives hailed as one of Europe’s brightest coaching prospects after a highly successful spell at Sporting Lisbon. But the 39-year-old is United's sixth permanent appointment since legendary former boss Alex Ferguson retired in 2013. In the 11 years since, United have failed to challenge in either the Premier League or Champions League and currently sit 13th in the English top-flight. Here we look at the challenges Amorim faces to bring back United’s glory days: Impose his style Two trophies in his two full seasons in charge was not enough to save Erik ten Hag as there was no reason to believe the…

Singer-songwriter Raja Kumari, who recently released her track Born Superstar, said the song celebrated the uniqueness of every person. The song features her powerful vocals in Telugu clubbed with high-energy beats. Raja Kumari collaborated with AR Rahman, the Oscar- and Grammy-winning musician, and she shared that her love for classical dance had been the foundation for her music. Raja Kumari also dedicated the song to every individual. The track showcases her versatility for blending hip-hop and pop with Indian classical elements. Raja Kumari said: “There is a superstar in each one of us, and Born Superstar celebrates the uniqueness that all of us carry. It’s not just a song, but a daily reminder of breaking free from doubts that cause an hindrance in achieving greatness. “I hope to cherish the…

It was an auspicious moment for the Hindu community in Ballito, when the long-awaited Prem Sai Ashram officially opened its doors recently. The opening of the ashram, in Ashley Park, in the Ballito Business Park, took place amid the energy of chanting and celebrations. Local devotees would no longer have to travel long distances for religious observances. For many years, Hindus in Ballito on the North Coast faced hurdles in finding a suitable venue for worship. Paul Naidoo, a retired business owner and a devoted member of the ashram, said there was no place for Hindus to worship in Ballito. “We at the Ballito Sai Bhajan Group used to have satsangs in a community hall. Some Hindus travelled to oThongathi and KwaDukuza, which posed risks, especially at night,” he said.…

Situated along the glistening coastline of the Indian Ocean, Durban is a city pulsing with culture, history and breathtaking landscapes. If you find yourself in this vibrant South African locale and have only two days to explore, this guide will ensure you experience the best the city has to offer. Day 1: Embrace coastal charm Your journey begins with an energising stroll along the Durban beachfront. The Golden Mile, a bustling stretch of pristine beach lined with palm trees, is perfect for taking in the ocean breeze. Renting a bicycle or simply walking will allow you to soak up the seaside atmosphere as you pass locals and tourists enjoying the sun and surf. Once you’ve enjoyed the scenery, head to the uShaka Marine World. This world-class entertainment park seamlessly combines…