Indholdsfortegnelse for 2025-03-16 i Sunday Tribune

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana delivered this year’s postponed Budget Speech this week, which presented a Budget subject to Parliamentary approval. Knowing how the proposed Budget affects you will give you the power to take control of your finances, relook your financial plan and have confidence in your financial future. The Budget Speech isn’t just about big numbers for the nation – it is also about how it will affect us; from Parliament to person. What is the Budget about? In a thriving economy, people and businesses would find it more manageable to pay more tax. This, in turn, allows the government to spend money collected from taxes on short- and long-term priorities like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. On the other hand, an economy that does not grow sufficiently means…

Get ready for a glimpse into the lives of one of Hollywood’s most beloved families. Alec and Hilaria Baldwin’s new reality show, The Baldwins, featuring the couple and their seven children, is set to premiere on TLC Africa on March 24. The couple showcase an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at their life with seven children – Carmen, 11; Rafael, nine; Leonardo, eight; Romeo, six; Eduardo, four; Marilu, four; and Ilaria, two – and how they navigate the highs and lows of parenthood, marriage, and life in the public eye. Baldwin rose to fame in the 1980s with roles in films like Working Girl and Married To The Mob, to list a few. He is also known for his iconic role as Jack Donaghy in the NBC sitcom 30 Rock, which earned…

There have been mixed views on South Africa’s ambassador Ebrahim Rasool’s expulsion from the US after sharing his opinion on Donald Trump’s presidency during a webinar on Friday. Rasool previously served as SA ambassador to the US between 2010 and 2015 and was re-appointed in January. The webinar was held by the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection (Mistra) where Rasool spoke on the theme, “Implications of changes in US administration for SA and Africa”. Rasool said people should get hold of the framework document of South Africa’s national interests – because this this would guide SA “during these very turbulent moments that we are navigating between our values and our interests”. Rasool was also concerned about the level of respect SA gets on the issue of the G20. He said:…

TRIBUTES have poured in for Reverend Bekizipho Khulekani “BK” Dludla, who has been hailed a stalwart of faith, justice and moral regeneration. Dludla was given a provincial funeral yesterday. He died last week Saturday, aged 99. Born in Melmoth in 1926, the reverend dedicated his life to ministry, social justice and education. He was ordained as a minister in 1955, was a central figure in the formation and constitution of the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA) in 1967, and became the first president of the Soldiers of Christ Movement. Dludla was a firm believer of education and he served as the chairperson of Inanda Seminary from 1965 to 1981. He played a critical role in strengthening ethical leadership and fighting for a just society. During apartheid, Dludla provided…

SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter has highlighted the complexities surrounding the proposed wealth tax, emphasising that this tax is not an instantaneous solution to the nation’s pressing fiscal challenges. Kieswetter underscored the need for extensive work to lay the groundwork for the initiative. “This is one of the areas where you may need to come back and do a deep-dive discussion with members on wealth tax because the first question is, what is a wealth tax? How do we define a tax on the wealthy?” he said. He made the statement during the joint meeting of Parliament’s committees that deal with matters of finance and appropriation on Friday. The meeting was aimed at engaging Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana and the National Treasury on the 2025/26 Budget tabled earlier this week. Godongwana’s…

South African consumers face tighter wallets and financial distress after Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced the 2025 Budget on Wednesday, which saw Treasury crank up VAT from 15% to 15.5% on May 1, 2025, and up to 16% in 2026 to lasso a runaway debt crisis. This as households are braced for a 12.7% electricity tariff hike set to kick in next month. Neil Roets, the CEO of Debt Rescue, said: “I understand that the minister faces numerous challenges, including a turbulent economic landscape, crumbling infrastructure, currency volatility, global trade tensions, and an astronomical budget deficit. I commend the focus on public infrastructure spending in the amount of R1 trillion, for transport and logistics, energy infrastructure and water and sanitation. This will make life easier for most South Africans. However,…

AT the intersection of Otto Volek Road and Shepstone Road, in the bustling industrial hub of New Germany, west of Durban, all cars are stationary and idling. The traffic lights are red for all motorists in all four directions of the intersection, except for buses. There’s no green arrow that is flickering, beckoning those who are turning, to move. No, the only green light that is on, is for buses – except there are none coming. The fancy traffic lights are for the ambitious eThekwini Municipality’s GO! Durban integrated rapid transport project that has failed to launch more than three times after the announcements of going live. The green traffic lights for the buses are the bane of most motorists who use the Pinetown, New Germany, Clermont, KwaMashu and Avoca…

Golfers at the Papwa Sewgolum golf course in Reservoir Hills voiced mixed feelings about the playing conditions of the 18-hole course, since the maintenance contract was given to a new service provider. Following complaints that the state of the golf course had deteriorated, the Sunday Tribune this week visited the course to meet the new service provider and found grass cutters busy on the fairways and the rough. New maintenance provider Leitch Landscapes was awarded a 36-month contract in September last year to maintain the municipal owned course at a cost of under R400 000 a month. Elliot Nkosi, the managing director of Leitch Landscapes, claims that the course is regularly maintained to the required standards, adding that the recent rains delayed the process of cutting the grass as the…

The Springfield Civic and Ratepayers Association is appealing to the eThekwini Municipality to improve drainage infrastructure in their area to prevent flooding. Rapid flooding occurs during torrential rainfall and storms along Alpine Road, lower Springtown and Quarry Road East on a regular basis, said Stavros Pillay, the chairperson of the association. Pillay said the municipality should consult with roleplayers to mitigate the problem. Two weeks ago, water levels on Quarry Road rose to cause property and infrastructure damage. Maulana Shaykh Imam Habeeb Soofie, a theologian of Habibia Soofie Mosque Alpine Road, said the area was prone to flooding for decades, including the 1976 floods of Tin Town that destroyed an entire settlement on the banks of the Umgeni River. Soofie said the mosque had been a landmark in the…

Man, fined R10 000 after fleecing company R1.2m The Specialised Commercial Crimes Court in Gqeberha, the Eastern Cape, has handed down sentences to 64-year-old Paul Okechukwu Mkporo and his business, Giniokem Business Enterprises CC, for their roles in a sophisticated fraud scheme that defrauded Keypak (Pty) Ltd of over R1.2 million. Mkporo and his co-accused were apprehended by the Gqeberha Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation unit in 2022. Following a swift arrest and court appearance that same day, the pair was released on warning pending further legal proceedings. However, their activities, which were uncovered as part of a larger investigation, painted a troubling picture of deceit and criminal collaboration. According to Hawks spokesperson, Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana, the accused operated as a syndicate, exploiting the email address of one of…

Dinosaurs have captured people’s imagination ever since their bones and teeth were first scientifically described in 1822 by geologist and palaeontologist Gideon Mantell in England. Dinosaur bones have taught us a great deal about these animals from the “age of dinosaurs”, the Mesozoic Era, which stretched from about 252 million years ago to 65 million years ago. However, there’s something especially appealing about a different kind of dinosaur fossil – their tracks, which show researchers what the animals were doing while they were alive. Ichnology is the study of tracks and traces and, since 2008, the Cape South Coast Ichnology Project has documented more than 370 vertebrate tracksites on South Africa’s southern coast. These sites are from the Pleistocene Epoch, which stretched from about 2.6 million years ago to 11…

In what marks their final match before the first FIFA International break of the year, Kaizer Chiefs will head to Durban this Sunday afternoon to face Richards Bay in a Betway Premiership clash at the King Zwelithini Stadium. Scheduled for a 3.30pm kick off, The Natal Rich Boys will be looking to disrupt the Glamour Boys' hopes of climbing into the top three by securing a crucial win over the Soweto giants. Chiefs, still licking their wounds after a frustrating 0-0 draw with Cape Town City at FNB Stadium on Wednesday, will be eager to bounce back. Meanwhile, Richards Bay are coming off a disappointing 1-0 loss to Magesi FC, a team currently struggling to stay afloat towards the bottom of the league. The first meeting between these two sides…

Orlando Pirates face an uphill battle to dethrone Mamelodi Sundowns as they go into this weekend’s clash at the FNB Stadium staring at an 18-point deficit. Obakeng Meletse looks at the five players that need to stand up to reduce the deficit. Tshegofatso Mabasa The Buccaneers are not only in arrears but they might have to deal with a goal difference that is also heavily weighing in the Brazilians’ favour with every match that passes. Mabasa was the 2023/24 season golden boot award winner and with only 12 matches of their season still left to play, the left-footed striker has not gone past even half of the 16 goals he scored last season. Relebohile Mofokeng Without a doubt, South Africa’s most talented player, Mofokeng, together with his Pirates side have…

Hansi Flick warned his Barcelona stars they need to focus to avoid crumbling against Atletico Madrid today in La Liga as they have in their previous two meetings this season. Leaders Barcelona are a point ahead of Diego Simeone's Atletico, third, going into the huge title clash at the Metropolitano stadium in the Spanish capital. Barcelona led against Atletico in the first league match in December but Rodrigo De Paul levelled for the visitors and Alexander Sorloth hit a 96th minute winner which helped them usurp the Catalans at the top of the table. Then in the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg Barcelona let in two goals in the first six minutes and two late goals, including another Sorloth stoppage time strike in a wild 4-4 draw. "I think…

This last week’s furore in South African cricket over the Eastern Province Warriors’ failure to meet transformation targets got me thinking about how rugby, ironically, has been the trailblazers in local sport. I say “ironically” because during the apartheid era, the Springboks were regarded by many as the poster boys of white supremacy. The lilywhite Boks were hated by large factions in this country and understandably so. Until 1992, only whites qualified for the Springboks and if you were not white, why would you support a team that excluded you? To this day there are many South Africans who still cannot bring themselves to support the Boks. In the Western and Eastern Cape there are All Blacks supporters clubs who turn out en masse to support the Kiwis when they…

In the vibrant heart of Durban, where the sun meets the sea, a unique artistic journey unfolds. Kerolin Govender, a 32-year-old architect and musician, has dedicated over two decades of his life to the arts and entertainment industry, inspired largely by the cultural fabric of his upbringing. His passion for creativity was ignited in childhood, flourishing under the nurturing guidance of his parents, who instilled in him a deep appreciation for art and culture. Today, he stands as a testament to the power of music and design in connecting people and enriching communities. Govender’s artistic odyssey is powered by his initiative, Jivanmukta, an artistic movement that he founded. This platform serves as a beacon for artists to come together, fusing Indo-African collaborations with classical and contemporary Indian music. He said…

In a significant step towards honouring the legacy of Indian indentured labourers, KwaZulu-Natal is set to unveil a monumental tribute that encapsulates their sacrifices and contributions. Contractor and artist Brendon Edwards said most of the steel structure had been done and they were waiting to have site access which has been granted. He said the 8m-high monument would have the 684 names of the Indian indentured labourers and those of the 29 people who died on the Belvedere. The sugarcane archer would be 684 strands representing the DNA of those who made the trip. This would then come down into the additional bronze, which has now been added of the family of the indentured. There will be a pond to symbolise the ocean, water and trip they made. Embracing the…

Jubin Nautiyal was in for a surprise as he arrived at Dehradun Airport as thousands of fans waited to greet the singer and offer him flower garlands. He received a traditional welcome in the presence of drums. Nautiyal last weekend received the Best Male Singer award at the International Indian Film Awards (IIFA) 2025 in Jaipur. He received this award for the song Dua from Yami Gautam starrer "Article 370". Made under the direction of Aditya Suhas Jambhale, Article 370 also starred Priyamani, Skand Thakur, Ashwini Kaul, Vaibhav Tatwawadi, Arun Govil, and Kiran Karmarkar in prominent roles. Produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Aditya Dhar and Lokesh Dhar under the banners of B62 Studios, and Jio Studios, the project got a worldwide release in February last year. Recently, Nautiyal joined…

Imagine embarking on an 18-hour journey across the sprawling Sahara Desert aboard a train laden with tons of iron ore. There are no bathing facilities, limited opportunities for breaks, and the only relief offered is a rudimentary hole dug into the ore itself. For many, this is not merely a harrowing trek but a thrilling “raw and authentic adventure”. Welcome aboard the Iron Ore Train in Mauritania – a unique experience that has stirred debate amid its growing popularity. Affectionately dubbed “The Snake of the Desert”, the Iron Ore Train stretches between Zouerat, a mining town in the heart of the Sahara, and Nouadhibou, the nation’s second-largest city, located on the northwest coast. The train can reach lengths of 2.5 to 3 kilometres as it transports iron ore - both…

As the crisp air sweeps across South Africa, autumn gets ready to make its grand entrance, bringing a splendid shift from the long, warm nights of summer to cooler temperatures. This season ushers in a palette of golden hues, clear skies, and temperate weather, making it the perfect time for transformative adventures. Whether a short getaway or a longer retreat, autumn is the ideal season to escape to the enchanting dorpies sprinkled across the country. For those ready to savour the seasonal beauty and engage in laid-back adventures, here are seven charming towns to add to your travel bucket list. A historical haven: Swellendam, WC Swellendam, the third oldest town in South Africa, serves as the gateway between the Overberg and the Garden Route. Nestled at the foot of the…

In an age where authenticity and ethical practices take centre stage in the marketplace, Nikki Robertson’s Zulu Mien stands out as a beacon of hope. Founded in the serene backdrop of Leeuwfontein Estate in Pretoria, Gauteng, Zulu Mien champions sustainable craftsmanship, offering luxe beaded jewellery that embodies the rich traditions of the Nguni people. Each piece, delicately handcrafted with the highest quality glass beads, tells a remarkable story of artistry, culture, and empowerment. Robertson’s journey began in the heart of rural Kwa-Zulu Natal. An early training stint as a product developer exposed her to the profound skills of women artisans in the area, sparking the idea for Zulu Mien. “My journey began when I was invited to train as a product developer in rural KwaZulu-Natal, working alongside women artisans.…

While Martha Stewart has cornered the market as the TV doyenne when it comes to homemade recipes, DIY, decor and crafts, times are changing as new faces join the fray. With Love, Meghan, hosted by Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, is currently the talk of the town. The eight-part series recently dropped on Netflix. As one of the most Googled royal figures, the former Suits actress sparked interest with her new lifestyle show. Of course, the one-pot spaghetti dish she made in episode one left netizens divided. But, hey, love or loath her, she’s not going anywhere. While some streamers have taken a strong liking to the show, others have not. And that’s okay. It’s not for everyone. I am indifferent to the show, though, as it does feel like…

STEPHAN Flynn, author of The Edge of Disaster, said in the documentary The Crumbling of America: “When we look at Rome as a great civilisation, a big part of what made it so great was the infrastructure. The road systems, the bridges, the aqueducts. As the Romans started to neglect that investment, they crumbled and collapsed, and we ended up with the dark ages.” The same could be said of South Africa. For many years, country’s infrastructure has been impressive. However, in the past few years, South Africa's infrastructure has deteriorated. Almost all of its infrastructure has collapsed or is crumbling. The only remaining infrastructure that has remained unscathed is strongly fragile, as it is by now dated and highly vulnerable. The fragility has manifested itself through potholes and collapses…

The government will not come to a standstill if the Budget is not passed by Parliament in April, but there is a likelihood of the collapse of the Government of National Unity (GNU) or emergence of reconfigured coalition government. The worst scenario in the event that parties don’t reach an agreement will be to call fresh elections to elect a new government. This is according to political parties and a political scientist in the wake of the opposition to the Budget that was tabled for the second time by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana. It has been referred to parliamentary committees for deliberation and scrutiny before the two Houses of Parliament pass or reject it on April 2 amid the expressed dissatisfaction with its current form, especially the inclusion of VAT…

Fond memories of Skabenga*, the stray cat who claimed the five-star Oyster Box Hotel as his home, have been shared this week, following his death. Skabenga died on Wednesday at the age of 19. Visitors of the plush Umhlanga hotel have been sending messages and posting photos of the establishment’s resident feline who they met during their visit. Skabenga ruled the halls and charmed guests, sneaking treats from unsuspecting guests and lounging around wherever he pleased, like the king of the castle. Dylan White, the hotel’s front-of-house manager, said Skabenga wasn’t just the hotel cat – he was part of the family. “His big personality, lazy sunbathing sessions and occasional attitude made him impossible not to love. He had a way of making The Oyster Box feel even more special.…

THE South African Communist Party (SACP) says it has submitted its representation to remain as a registered political party on the Independent Electoral Commission’s (IEC) roll. This comes after the IEC issued a notice to de-register it and 191 other political parties. The SACP said it made its submission a few days after receiving the commission’s notice on February 21, 2025. “The party’s prompt and decisive representation to the Independent Electoral Commission aligns with its resolutions from the Fifteenth National Congress in July 2022, the Augmented Central Committee Plenary in March and April 2023, and the Fifth Special National Congress in December 2024 to contest elections,” the SACP said. Earlier, it was reported that the IEC had informed the parties that they were not represented in any legislative body, had…

THE ANC has unveiled its 2025 National Budget, a R2.59 trillion fiscal plan that claims to balance growth and equity but instead entrenches inequality, rewards inefficiency, and imposes austerity on the nation’s poor. Delivered by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana on Wednesday, the Budget reflects a government grappling with economic stagnation, mounting debt, and political fragility. While framed as a necessary step toward fiscal consolidation, the Budget imposes disproportionate burdens on low-income households while failing to address systemic inefficiencies and corruption. VAT increase The most controversial feature of the Budget is the proposed increase in value-added tax (VAT). The VAT rate is set to rise by 0.5 percentage points in 2025/26 to 15.5% and by another 0.5 percentage points in 2026/27 to 16%. This measure is projected to generate R28 billion…

Soup kitchens and feeding schemes are making a huge impact on addressing hunger and poverty in the eThekwini Municipality and South Africa. A report by the eThekwini Community Participation and Action Support (CPAS) for January 31, revealed that there are 94 soup kitchens in eThekwini. A capital budget of R600 000 and an operating budget of R138 146 670 were allocated to the soup kitchen programme. According to the municipal statistics, approximately 7 328 618 meals had been served for the 2023/24 financial year. The beneficiaries were estimated to be 5 496 463. In the report, the municipality stated that owing to social and economic problems that contributed to poverty, they undertook in 2002/3 to establish soup kitchens across all wards in the municipality. However, due to financial constraints, the…

Galleria Challenge Galleria Mall Challenge took place on Sunday, March 9, with a series of fitness activities ranging in distances of 5km, 10km, and 21km. These were some of the participants:…

THE issue of human rights abuses has been one of the critical subjects in South Africa’s political history. The Khoisan communities were on the receiving end following the arrival of the whites on the shores of this country. The slaves also saw their human rights being violated. White expansion from the Cape of Good Hope saw the rights of black people being violated. The beginning of apartheid in 1948 and subsequent discriminatory legislation saw the human rights of the oppressed people being trampled upon. Given this context, it did not come as a surprise when Nelson Mandela emphasised human rights in his 1993 article which was the foundation of South Africa’s foreign policy agenda. Having been the victim of human rights abuses, Mandela pleaded with the world to respect human…

South Sudan’s post-civil war Transitional Government of National Unity held together by a tenuous Revitalised Agreement for Conflict Resolution in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) signed in 2018 appears to be on the brink of collapse. This was after reports of renewed clashes between the South Sudanese forces controlled by President Salva Kiir and the White Army militia believed to be loyal to the First Vice President Riek Machar. Although the militia does not fall under the direct control of Machar, its members are drawn from the Nuer ethnic group to which Machar belongs and fought alongside his Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO) against Kiir’s Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) during the five-year civil war from 2013 to 2018. South Sudan descended into a civil war in 2013, just two…

AT China’s recent annual “two sessions” political gathering, Chinese modernisation once again captured global attention. International observers are closely following a range of new measures designed not only to accelerate Chinese domestic transformation but also to unlock fresh opportunities for global development. Chinese modernisation, built on a foundation of openness and co- operation, will continue to yield global benefits with each new milestone. Today, China stands as a formidable force in the global economy, accounting for around 18% of the global economy, and the added value of China’s manufacturing sector contributes to about 30% of the world’s total. Year after year, the nation has contributed about 30% to global economic growth. With import and export records with almost all countries and regions designated in the UN Statistics Division, the country…

The last time Boland won a Division One title was during the Covid-19 bubble days when they won the CSA T20 Challenge at St George's Park in Gqeberha in 2022. After having rather forgetful seasons, the side has been able to turn their ship around in the ongoing CSA One Day Cup, dominating on their way booking a home final. Boland Seam bowler Glenton Stuurman told Independent Media that their new recruits including Gavin Kaplan and Grant Roelofsen have breathed life into their team. "After having a season like we had last year, we knew that we had to do something different and for us, it was getting some new faces in, new energy, a different type of hunger and ultimately everyone that will buy into what we want to…

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has backed Orlando Pirates midfielder Relebohile Mofokeng to rediscover his best form. Mofokeng made the cut for Broos’ 23-man squad to take on Lesotho and Benin over the course of the next two weeks to continue their attempt to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to be hosted in North America jointly by the United States of America, Canada and Mexico. The 20-year-old has been a key member of Jose Riveiro and the Bucaneers league title-chasing side, and with them taking part in every competition this season, including their continued participation in the CAF Champions League, and Mofokeng has been heavily involved in their busy schedule. Games have been coming thick and fast and with Pirates constantly on the hunt for Mamelodi Sundowns…

Two lucky Formula 1 drivers could make history next season and join Cadillac - the 11th team to compete for the World Championship. It will be the first time that 11 teams take the grid since the start of F1 in 1950. Since then, only 10 teams and 20 drivers have competed but this month, the FIA made a historic announcement, confirming Cadillac’s seat on the grid, and the second American team behind Haas. The addition of Cadillac also means that there’s two new seats available next season, with a host of former drivers looking to seize a spot. But Cadillac Team Principal Graeme Lowdon said they are looking into hiring American drivers as well. Valterri Bottas Being a bunch of newbies in the paddock, Cadillac will have to align…

Being the leader of a national team in South Africa is a tough task, but Blitzboks captain Selvyn Davids is happy he can count on other seniors in the team to lighten the load. The flight-footed Davids claimed the Springbok Sevens Player of the Year award on Thursday after a season where the South Africans bagged a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. On the SVNS Series, though, things didn't always go according to plan, but they've turned a corner in the new season and currently sit in fourth place on the overall series log with two tournaments to go. The South Africans are only six points behind log-leaders Argentina and can still win the title with a big push in Hong Kong and Singapore. According to Davids, they…

The Sharks’ commitment to transformation was recognised at the SA Rugby Awards evening on Thursday when they landed the inaugural President’s Award. SA Rugby president Mark Alexander handed over the trophy to KZN rugby president Graham Mackenzie and thanked the Sharks for their “unwavering commitment to transformation.” It was under the stewardship of former Sharks CEO Ed Coetzee that the Sharks got ahead in the transformation game. Skilful black Africans were recruited at the top level and others were brought through the Sharks Academy. Every Saturday the Sharks field a team that is representative of South Africa. The coaching staff doesn’t have to wonder about player colour in terms of representation targets because the squad is richly integrated with South Africans of all races, colours and creeds. Alexander said: “The…

Each week, we will feature an extra-ordinary Mzansi personality who is excelling in their line of work. This week, we get to know more about award-winning radio personality, author, podcaster/MC and keynote speaker, Carol Ofori. How long have you been in the entertainment industry and what motivated? I have been in the arts ever since I finished school, so over 20 years! At school, I loved the arts. I got awards for debating, drama and poetry. I have always enjoyed writing and performing. If there was a play, I was in it and most often the lead. I thought I would get into acting after school, but ended up studying journalism and went to study that for a few years before I got into broadcasting. What are some of…

After Hollywood action director JJ Perry dubbed Toxic a “banger”, actor Yash took to social media to share his thoughts on the compliment. The actor expressed his excitement and gratitude in response to the recognition from the renowned director. Taking to his X handle, Perry posted a photo where he is seen posing alongside Yash and captioned it: “Was a pleasure working with my friend @thenameisyash on the film #Toxic! Had a great run in India, got to work with a lot of my dear friends from all over Europe :-) can’t wait for everybody to see this one. It’s a banger. So proud of what we did.” The KGF actor was quick to take note of the stunt director’s sweet compliment as he took to the comments section to…

The makers of Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna starrer Sikandar have delivered another peppy number from the much-awaited drama, Bam Bam Bhole. An energetic and colour-filled anthem for Holi, the song enjoys some infectious beats and lively visuals that have brought out the fun, exuberance the traditional festival. The track has been taken to a whole new level with Khan’s swag dance moves. With electrifying music by Pritam, Bam Bam Bhole enjoys the energetic voices of Shaan, and Dev Negi. The lyrics for the track have been penned by Sameer. Earlier, the Zohra Jabeen track from Sikandar was highly appreciated by the music lovers. The primary number from the drama features Salman and Rashmika tapping a foot to Farah Khan's choreography. Farah said that she had a blast choreographing Salman…

Small-scale to medium enterprises (SME) play a pivotal role in South Africa’s economy but they may well have been forgotten when Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana delivered his 2025 Budget Speech this week. Shawn Theunissen, the founder of Property Point and eTTP, said the 2025 budget statement “was a missed opportunity to leverage SMEs as a catalyst for economic growth and job” creation. “Instead of bold action, we saw vague commitments and a lack of urgency on the issues that matter most to small businesses,” he said. The 0.5% VAT increase proposed for 2025/26, rising by another 0.5% the following year was expected to add an additional direct financial strain on SMEs. The hike in the VAT rate will increase operational costs for small businesses and further squeeze profit margins at…

Local movies have earned a special place in the hearts of Mzansi. It also explains why streaming platforms keep investing in these offerings. Now, if you’ve been following the Umjolo film franchise on Netflix, you probably also watched the fourth offering, Umjolo: There Is No Cure. Of course, Stained Glass has cemented its prowess in the romance genre. The stories mirror real-life struggles in relationships, addressing issues related to commitment-phobic partners, open relationships, infidelity and so forth. The stories are relatable. The casting is praiseworthy and the direction, deft. Needless to say, the latest movie is no different. Set in Durban, it follows Thoko (Londeka Sishi), an openly lesbian beauty queen who, after losing her title due to a scandal, has been attracting a lot of heat from the media.…

Ageing is a natural part of life, but how we age is often influenced by our lifestyle choices and self-care routines. While genetics play a role, incorporating mindful self-care practices into your daily life can help you maintain a youthful appearance and feel more vibrant. Here are some effective self-care practices that can help you look younger and radiate confidence. Prioritise skincare Your skin is one of the first places where signs of ageing appear. A consistent skincare routine can work wonders in maintaining a youthful glow. ● Cleanse and moisturise daily: Use a gentle cleanser to remove dirt and impurities, followed by a moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated. Hydrated skin looks plump and reduces the appearance of fine lines. ● Wear sunscreen: Sun exposure is one of the…

THE Zulu monarch has described the action of some royal family members listing King Misuzulu as a prince in their newly unveiled royal family tree as disrespectful. Three senior Zulu princes, Vulindlela, Thulani and Mathubesizwe, addressed the briefing at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban on Friday to unveil the family tree, which listed the king and his siblings as princes and princesses. They are brothers to the late King Goodwill Zwelithini and uncles to King Misuzulu. The release of the tree to the public was in anticipation of the outcome of a yet-to-be-heard appeal lodged by King Misuzulu at the Supreme Court of Appeal against the Gauteng High Court, Pretoria, ruling against President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recognition and gazetting of the kingship, which is being disputed within…

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana finally delivered the 2025 Budget Speech on Wednesday. Notably, this is the first time in South Africa’s 31 years of democracy that the Budget Speech had been postponed. The disagreement within Cabinet was believed to stem from several factors, with the key issue reportedly being an increase in Value Added Tax (VAT). VAT, a form of indirect consumer tax, is governed by the Value Added Tax Act No. 89 of 1991. While VAT was raised from 14% to 15% in April 2018, the government initially proposed an additional increase of 2% to bring the VAT rate from 15% to 17%. This proposal has sparked considerable debate, as VAT is the second-largest contributor to South Africa’s tax revenue after personal income tax (Moneyweb, 2025). The government is…

The eThekwini Municipality has spent a whopping R187.5 million since 2018, providing security and maintenance for the GO! Durban bus route and stations, despite the project being stalled. Work on the Bus Rapid Transport system has been halted for the past eight years, with the city wasting multimillions of rand on a project that is not bringing in any revenue. This has angered the national government, which recently threatened to stop additional financing. The supposedly state-of-the-art Corridor 3 (C3) route between Pinetown and Bridge City, in the north of Durban, whose construction began in 2014, remains a white elephant. According to the city’s GO! Durban News publication, the C3 was supposed to be completed by the end of 2017 and become operational the following year. The city was allocated R9…

On December 26 last year, a FlySafair flight from Durban to Cape Town became the focus of controversy after Nobuntu “Nobs” Mkhize, then a brand manager at the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), was involved in an incident that quickly went viral. In an interview with Newzroom Afrika, Mkhize explained that the altercation began when she requested a lighter wine than the merlot offered by the flight attendant. According to Mkhize, the flight attendant insisted she take the merlot, despite her preference for a lighter option. Mkhize then asked to see the menu, which led to further escalation when the flight attendant refused to serve her any other options. The situation intensified when the flight attendant returned with another crew member. Footage from the incident shows Mkhize throwing a can…

Ian Wyles Auctioneers is featuring two properties that will go under the hammer during their multi-property auction on March 27, at 11am, at the Oyster Box Hotel, Umhlanga Rocks. The first property is a luxury wildlife retreat with exclusive river frontage at 1736 to 1741 Seekoei Road, Marloth Park, Mpumalanga. Marloth Park is a picturesque wildlife sanctuary and holiday town situated in the northeastern part of South Africa. It lies between the towns of Malelane and Komatipoort, and spans 3000 hectares. The estate is 20km from access to the Kruger National Park. The park’s southern boundary is marked by the Crocodile River, which separates Marloth Park from the Kruger National Park. Marloth Park serves as a popular stop-over for tourists on their way to the Kruger National Park, Mozambique, or…

THE struggle against apartheid was a collective effort involving various liberation movements, with the ANC being the oldest and most prominent. Once a unifying force, the ANC enjoyed widespread support from diverse communities. The Freedom Charter, adopted at the Congress of the People (COP) in Kliptown on 26 June 1955, became a blueprint for a non- racial, non-sexist, and democratic South Africa. It articulated the aspirations of the majority, declaring that South Africa belongs to all who live in it. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the Freedom Charter, providing an opportunity to reflect on the ANC’s evolution since it assumed power in 1994. While the Charter remains a beacon of hope, the ANC’s ability to uphold its principles has waned, raising questions about its future relevance. Power of…

Orlando Pirates’ defender-cum-midfielder Bandile Shandu says their title race fate is solely on their hands, and that’s why they are not focusing on other teams. Pirates are second on the log with 40 points, 18 behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns who have played four games more. With the rescheduling of their games in hand yet to be decided, Pirates could trim that gap to 15 points if they beat Sundowns today. Pirates will host Sundowns at the Calabash at 3.30pm, not only eager to bag three points, but to avenge their 4-1 loss in the first leg last month. Shandu, though, is adamant that they won’t be obsessed with beating the champions for external reasons, instead they want to improve themselves as a unit. “If we improve ourselves then we are…

Liverpool can win the first trophy of the Arne Slot era in today's League Cup final against a Newcastle side desperate to end the club's 56-year wait for major silverware. In the first final of the English domestic season, runaway Premier League leaders Liverpool head to Wembley aiming to erase the bitter taste of their Champions League exit against Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday. The Reds were beaten 4-1 on penalties by PSG in the last 16 second leg at Anfield. It was a rare blow in what has been a successful first season in charge for Slot, who arrived from Feyenoord to succeed Jurgen Klopp last year. Sitting 15 points clear at the top of the Premier League, the Reds are within touching distance of a record-equalling 20th English title…

Lions rookie loose forward Renzo du Plessis was massively surprised when he saw his name on the list of players for the first Springbok alignment camp this past week. After a breakthrough Currie Cup season, where he scored tries for the fun of it, the 22-year-old made the camp despite playing the least minutes of all the invited players in the United Rugby Championship (URC) this season. His exploits in the Currie Cup last season, of which he won Player of the Year at the recent SA Rugby Awards, laid the foundation for his inclusion. It also shows that Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus has noticed something in the rookie that could benefit the national side in the future. “I played the least number of minutes out of everyone at…

Patrice Motsepe, president of CAF, who has extended his leadership of the organisation until 2029, has promised to address the issue of national stadiums across Africa. On Wednesday, Motsepe was re-elected unopposed for a second four-year term at the 14th CAF extraordinary general assembly in Cairo. He said national stadiums would be one of his key areas of focus. “In 2021, there were 36 countries that were not playing football in their own countries. The number has come down to 12, but for us, this is still a big number,” said Motsepe. “At CAF and Fifa, it is our job to continue supporting the development of sports infrastructure.” Motsepe urged national federations to work with private financiers to help build national stadiums in countries where government budgets are restrictive. He…

Through the highs and lows, this season's Betway Premiership season has delivered end-to-end action on and off the field and as Orlando Pirates get to host the defending champions at the FNB Stadium this Sunday (3.30pm kick-off), there will be a lot on the line. Both teams will get another shot to showcase just why they are the best two sides in the country currently. Here, Obakeng Meletse looks at the three major talking points ahead of the crunch clash. Home away from home Fitting for a fixture of this magnitude to be hosted at the iconic FNB Stadium but perhaps puzzling to what brought about that decision as it does not only take away the little edge the Bucaneers would have had playing in front of their faithfuls but…

Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri put up stellar drives in the first qualifying round of the season, taking pole and 2nd place for the Australian Grand Prix. Norris edges his Australian team mate by 0.084s to take pole position as he fights for his first world title. Red Bull's Max Verstappen initially took pole but was beaten by the hometown hero Piastri by four tenths. Norris put a damper in the Australian crowd spirits shortly after with a blistering 1m 15.096s lap to trump Piastri. Verstappen had to settle for third, with George Russel in the Mercedes behind in fourth. Arguably the most impressive lap of qualifying belonged to Yuki Tsunoda in the Racing Bulls' car to finish the top five. Alex Albon broke Ferrari fans hearts around the world,…

Actress Malavika Mohanan, who is working in several south Indian films, penned a heartfelt post on why she considers the traditional ritual of Theyyam special. Theyyam is a folk religion that involves dance, music and worship of various deities, spirits and ancestors. It is a ritual practiced in northern Kerala and some parts of Karnataka. Taking to her timeline on Instagram, she wrote: “Theyyam has been a mesmerising part of my life since childhood. “Visiting my hometown in Kerala every year, I’ve always been captivated by the vibrant displays of dance, colour, and spirituality. “The performance isn’t just a spectacle, it’s a living connection to the divine, where performers embody gods and mythological figures. “Their towering headgear, intricate makeup and energetic movements create an atmosphere that feels both otherworldly and…

As the world continues to open its doors to travellers eager to explore new horizons, the importance of having a valid passport cannot be overstated. For South Africans, this crucial document not only serves as a key to international destinations, whether visa-free or otherwise, but also significantly impacts travel plans. Each year, countless South Africans face unnecessary airport drama due to expired passports, inadequate documentation when travelling with children, and more. To ensure your next journey is smooth sailing, here are five essential tips to help you navigate the complexities of passport readiness. Ensure your passport's validity Before setting off on your adventure, it is vital to ensure that your passport is not only valid but that it has enough lifespan to satisfy your travel plans. According to the customer…

In an ever-changing world, personal goals often become anchors for our wanderlust, guiding our choices and shaping our experiences. As we navigate through life’s complexities, the desire to explore new horizons and create lasting memories becomes increasingly important. Travel not only allows us to escape the routine but also offers opportunities for personal growth, connection, and rejuvenation. Antoinette Turner, the general manager at Flight Centre South Africa, understands the transformative power of travel. From familial adventures in vibrant settings to serene getaways that promote relaxation, each journey offers a unique experience. As part of efforts to help you explore the world and fulfil your aspirations, she unveils a breathtaking array of destinations that not only appeal to the soul but also invigorate one’s spirit. These carefully curated locations cater to…