Indholdsfortegnelse for 2025-03-29 i Weekend Argus Saturday

Cape Town, often dubbed the Mother City, has become the playground of the rich and famous. Not a week goes by without some new international celebrity being spotted at a high-end restaurant or in the streets of the city. Just this week, American music sensations Chloe Bailey and Coco Jones were photographed unwinding over drinks at The Nines in Sea Point. Nigerian singing sensation Ayra Starr was also spotted in Cape Town – in Langa. It is unclear what business the singer is here on, however, a viral video clip of her interacting with a fan shows that she was possibly shooting a video. And recently, a visit to the city by Joe Biden’s son Hunter – and 18 bodyguards – made worldwide news. The celebrity influence extends beyond…

Cybercrime is rapidly evolving, and the methods criminals use are becoming more sophisticated. Mike Bolhuis, an expert in serious crimes including cybercrime, highlights that social engineering – where criminals pose as trusted figures to manipulate victims – is one of the most common tactics. Older individuals, in particular, are at risk due to their limited knowledge of technology. But it’s not just fraudsters using phone calls or emails anymore – emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are now driving the evolution of cybercrime. Bolhuis pointed out that social engineering is one of the most effective tactics criminals use today. In this form of cybercrime, fraudsters impersonate legitimate organisations or trusted figures to trick victims into sharing personal or financial information. Older people, who may not be…

Twenty three trafficked South Africans narrowly escaped Myanmar’s two major earthquakes, when they were repatriated home just hours before the natural disaster struck the area where they were held captive. In an unbelievable rescue mission in which timing was everything, the 23 South Africans were repatriated home on Thursday from a facility in Myanmar where they were forced to work in online scam centres. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation’s (Dirco) Chrispin Phiri said Dirco managed to repatriate 23 of 32 South Africans who were human trafficked to Myanmar under the pretense of employment, and held captive and forced to operate scams. Seven other South Africans had returned home earlier and Dirco is still investigating if the remaining two of the 32 are South African. Myanmar, located in the…

This year, World Water Day was observed on Tuesday, March 22, but GrandWest chose to commemorate the occasion on Friday with a clean-up along the Elsieskraal river. Volunteers from GrandWest, the City of Cape Town, and learners from a nearby school joined forces to remove waste, invasive plant species, and pollutants from the waterway that flows past the GrandWest casino and entertainment complex. The initiative aimed to address the environmental issues caused by waste entering the river from upstream. Discarded rubbish and wind-blown alien plant seeds can accumulate in the river, clogging it and eventually sending waste into the sea. Mervyn Naidoo, General Manager at GrandWest, highlighted the importance of protecting water resources: “If Cape Town’s extended drought has taught us anything, it is that we can never again take…

The 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280SL Pagoda has firmly cemented its status as a legend in the world of classic cars, known for its elegance, exceptional performance, and unparalleled investment potential. This particular model recently made waves at South Africa’s premier classic car auction in Johannesburg on March 27, further elevating the Pagoda's reputation. Kevin Derrick, CEO of Creative Rides, who hosted the auction, spoke with admiration about the car on offer, describing it as one of the finest examples of the Pagoda ever seen. “It’s pristine,” said Derrick, emphasising the increasing demand for Mercedes-Benz classics in South Africa. The 280SL Pagoda, produced between 1967 and 1971, is a highly sought-after collector’s item, particularly the rare right-hand drive 1968 models – only 15% of which were made for the UK market, making…

“It’s always a good time to get active," said St Martin’s School headmaster Warren Venter. The role that physical activity and participation in sport plays in childhood development cannot be underestimated. It’s an important part of the educational process. “School sport is hugely important because, for many, it’s the only physical activity they get. For a generation where screens dominate our children’s time outside of school, ensuring they engage in physical activity is more important than ever,” he said. Venter said the broader developmental advantages that sport provides is key. “It’s not just about winning or excelling; it’s about developing critical life skills,” he said. “Communication, teamwork, and learning to work with people who may not reason the same way you do; these are skills that extend far beyond the…

WHETHER you’ve never recycled before or just aren’t sure where to begin, small actions can make a big impact – and Global Recycling Day, which was celebrated on March 18, is the perfect time to start your recycling journey. Every day, valuable recyclable packaging ends up in South Africa’s fast-filling landfills or litters the environment. These are wasted opportunities to save resources, reduce pollution, and help create income opportunities for those working in the circular economy. This is the message from South Africa’s longest-standing Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO), Petco, which is urging the public to separate recyclable packaging from their general waste – whether at work, home, school, university or attending an event. Diverse motivations for recycling exist for different South Africans, according to CEO Telly Chauke. “There are…

Parisians have approved an ambitious plan to block 500 streets to road traffic and replace miles of asphalt with plants and trees, signaling a willingness to support climate policies even if they might have a disruptive impact on daily life. The nonbinding proposal by Mayor Anne Hidalgo passed with nearly 66% of the vote, according to returns published Monday, after residents age 16 or over headed to the polls Sunday. While the proposal’s supporters say the program will make the city more livable and help combat climate change, critics say the changes will make the city more difficult to navigate and further fuel the divide between Parisians and those who live in the suburbs. “With this vote, Parisians have the choice of whether or not to accelerate Paris’s adaptation…

It goes without saying that Lewis Hamilton is extremely excited about driving for the Ferrari Formula One team this year. His 2025 season might be off to a rocky start, with a 10th place finish in Australia and disqualification in China due to a technical breach, but it’s going to take a lot more than that to dampen his enthusiasm for the Prancing Horse. The seven-time F1 world champion wants to help design a supercar that will serve as a spiritual successor to the legendary Ferrari F40. “One of the things I really want to do is I want to design a Ferrari. I want to do an F44,” Hamilton announced in Australia recently, as reported by Motorsport.com. Of course, 44 is his race number. “Baseline of an F40, with…

When starting a business, choosing the right legal structure is crucial to avoid administrative, financial, and legal complications as your business grows. Each business entity offers unique benefits and challenges, and selecting the right one depends on factors such as ownership, taxation, liability, and long-term goals. This guide explores four common business structures: sole proprietorships, partnerships, private companies, and personal liability companies to help entrepreneurs make the right decisions. Sole proprietorship A sole proprietorship is the simplest and most straightforward business structure, allowing an individual to trade under their own name. This entity does not require registration with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC), although you must register with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) for applicable taxes. In a sole proprietorship, there is no legal distinction between the…

The Springbok Sevens will go into day two of the Hong Kong SVNS tomorrow needing a win over New Zealand to go through to the playoffs of their bogey tournament. After going down 26-7 to Australia on Friday afternoon in a one-sided affair, the Blitzboks’ hopes of making it through hang on a thread after starting so well in their opening match. They face the Kiwis on Saturday (7.43 am) in the final pool match. They dominated Uruguay, winning 40-7 with some excellent defending and attacking prowess, scoring six tries on their way to the romp. That skill and accuracy were missing when they took on the Aussies in the second match. Despite playing against six men in the opening stages of the game, the South Africans could not get…

The rise of halaal tourism is capturing attention in the travel industry, as more destinations cater to Muslim travellers with halaal-friendly services. From halaal dining options to prayer facilities, this growing trend is reshaping global travel. According to South African Tourism (SAT), this vibrant segment has emerged as a crucial pillar of the global travel and tourism sector, driven by a marked increase in Muslim travellers seeking destinations that align with their religious and cultural requirements. “As the demand for Muslim-friendly services rises, the industry faces opportunities in providing seamless travel experiences for this growing segment," the SAT said. The numbers speak volumes as in 2022, an estimated 110 million Muslims journeyed internationally, making up 12% of all global international arrivals. Notably, this figure represents an impressive 68% recovery from…

‘outsiders’ that much, all because of GP plates. It’s been lonely and expensive, but I’m trying to push through.” Another user, @lazo.ntush, shared: “I’m from Cape Town, and in 2018, I made a conscious decision to move to Joburg due to the cost of living and mini racism. I’ve been here since, and that was the best decision ever.” Cape Town may have been crowned the best city in the world, but it certainly seems that title comes with a hefty price tag, especially if you’re trying to survive on more than just ocean views and mountain hikes, writes Bernelee Vollmer. Digital creator and MC Nande Ramncwana also recently took to Instagram to air her shock at just how ridiculous Cape Town’s rental prices have become. “Guys, I just saw…

Hollywood and royal watchers alike were oozing this week as Gwyneth Paltrow and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, hilariously addressed rumours of a supposed “beef” between them. In a lighthearted Instagram clip that is making waves online, the Goop founder and the former royal proved that there’s no bad blood – just good pie. In the video, the duo shared a lighthearted moment that quickly captured the hearts of fans. “Do you understand this?” Paltrow asked, showing Meghan casually enjoying a slice of pie in her kitchen. The Duchess simply shrugged and laughed, bringing a fun twist to the speculation surrounding their relationship. This playful interaction comes hot on the heels of Paltrow’s comments in a recent Vanity Fair interview, where she addressed the buzz surrounding Meghan…

Members of Parliament were yesterday updated on the long-awaited restoration of the National Assembly and Old Assembly buildings, which were severely damaged in a fire that swept through the national legislature. Special project manager Simon Mashigo revealed during a briefing that the completion date for the restoration is now set for October 2026. The Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA), which has been tasked with overseeing the restoration, has appointed Raubex Construction to start work on the New Assembly, while the search continues for a contractor for the Old Assembly. Mashigo said there had been delays in the demolition work due to above-average rainfall in Cape Town and the absence of as-built drawings that created limitations on demolition methodology. He also said late discoveries of items had required demolition in…

A life-size bronze statue of the late, legendary musician Johnny Clegg has found its rightful place in the monumental Long March to Freedom at Century City. This remarkable addition ensures that Clegg, celebrated for his role in both music and social activism, takes his place alongside other iconic resistance leaders and freedom fighters who helped shape South Africa’s journey to democracy. Long March to Freedom is a one-of-a-kind outdoor exhibition, a procession of life-size bronze statues that tells the 350-year story of South Africa’s liberation. Situated in Century City, the statues represent notable figures in the fight for freedom – from Nelson and Winnie Mandela, Beyers Naude, and Mahatma Gandhi to Albert Luthuli, OR Tambo, and many others whose stories are integral to the nation’s history but often overlooked. Now,…

A 16-year-old boy has been arrested for allegedly plotting an extremist attack on Cape Town International Airport and Mavericks Night Club. The Hawks’ Crimes Against the State (CATS) unit, along with several other law enforcement agencies, arrested the teen at his home after he was allegedly recruited by an extremist group through social media. Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Siyabulela Vukubi said the teen appeared in the Atlantis Magistrate’s Court on Thursday. “A Juvenile, 16-years-old ,was arrested on March 27 by the multi-disciplinary intelligence led operational team comprising of the Hawks’ Crimes Against The State(CATS), Western Cape National Intervention Unit, Western Cape Bomb Disposal Unit and Western Cape K9 Unit for contravention of the Protection of Constitutional Democracy Against Terrorist and Related Activities Act( POCDATARA) and Malicious Damage to Property,”…

For the second year in a row, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana opted not to adjust the personal income tax brackets for inflation in the 2025/26 tax year. This has numerous implications in the short term, meaning many South Africans could end up financially worse off if their salary increase pushes them into a higher tax bracket. But there is also an alarming long-term trend that has increased the burden on salaried South Africans over the past decade. For 11 of the past 14 years, Treasury's tax bracket adjustments have fallen below the official inflation rate, according to the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA). This means a middle-income South African earning R350 000 per year (R29 166 per month) has paid around R85 000 more in taxes, than they would have,…

Carnival City has been running 29 learnerships since November and December 2024. While the young participants have completed four to five months of training, they still have several more months to gain additional knowledge about the hospitality industry during the 12-month programme. The learnerships are divided between two groups: tertiary graduates who are participating in the Youth Employment Service (YES) South Africa programme, which started in December, and Grade 12 graduates who have been placed in the Food and Beverage and Cashiering divisions, from November. Ten tertiary learners are gaining hands-on career experience at Carnival City, Sun International’s casino and hotel on the East Rand, through YES. YES is a private sector-led initiative designed to tackle youth unemployment in South Africa. The non-profit organisation partners with corporates to create job…

The South African coastline is witnessing an alarming first: a rabies outbreak spreading through its Cape fur seal population. This unprecedented situation has raised concerns about a potential far-reaching marine pandemic, as rabies has only been observed in seals once before, in a single case in Norway back in 1980. As the Cape fur seals – approximately two million strong across colonies from the South African tip to Namibia and Angola – grapple with the effects of the virus, symptoms such as heightened aggression and disorientation lead to imminent death within 10 to 14 days of exposure. “What is unfolding along the South African coastline is unprecedented,” asserted Debby Querido, Programme Director of Animal Survival International (ASI). She cautioned about the underestimation of the threat this outbreak poses not just…

Cape Town’s very own Zubayr Charles is set to make waves with his powerful one-man show, Please, don’t call me moffie, which will debut at a festival this year, tackling identity, and LGBTQIA+ struggles in an unflinching and innovative performance. Charles, 30, from Bo-Kaap has already made a significant mark on the South African theatre scene as a multi-disciplinary writer, director, and UCT Master’s in Creative Writing cum laude graduate. His previous works – Mercy, The Battered Housewives’ Club, and This Bra’s a Psycho – have been showcased at various festivals and theatres in Cape Town. But it is his latest project, Please, don’t call me moffie, which promises to…

Rumoured since 2022, a Mercedes executive has now provided official confirmation that the A-Class will not live beyond the current generation. Mercedes Chief Technology Officer Markus Schafer confirmed this at the presentation of the third-generation CLA sedan recently, Carscoops reported. He also explained the move, stating that hatchbacks do not have widespread appeal across the world. “We need models that work all over the world, including China and the USA. I know the hatchback is the favorite bodystyle in Europe, but it was not part of the plans, and we had to make choices – even difficult ones,” Schafer said. “Reducing complexity is a key task for us. For this reason, bringing the compact family from seven to four models was necessary in this segment.” The recently-revealed CLA sports sedan…

As the United Kingdom moves to align its tax regime affecting residents who are not domiciled there with similar systems the world over, experts are warning that this poses massive changes in the tax treatment of income and assets and its effects are wide reaching. The first finance act under the Labour Party government led by Sir Keir Starmer makes what the UK’s Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT) explained are “major” changes for people who live in the UK but are not permanently domiciled there. Among those is the removal of the VAT exemption for private school fees, increases in some rates of capital gains tax and stamp duty land tax, and the extension of energy profits levy on the oil and gas sector. Effectively, it means that all those…

In a victory for long suffering members of the Private Security Sector Provident Fund, the Gauteng High Court dismissed four applications by a security company for determinations issued against it by the Pension Funds Adjudicator (PFA) to be set aside. Mafoko Security Patrols sought an order reviewing and setting aside determinations made by the adjudicator, Muvhango Lukhaimane. At the heart of each application was Mafoko’s repeated failure, in some cases over years, to pay contributions due to the fund on behalf of employees. In each case, a former employee had lodged a complaint with the PFA, with the PFA giving Mafoko and the fund a period within which to resolve the matter. In all cases, the complaint remained unresolved, requiring an investigation and subsequent determination by the PFA. In each…

LOUIS Massyn runs a bit too fast for a septuagenarian. At last year’s Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, Massyn ran his best time in 11 years – the then 73-year-old finishing in 6:30. That he could ‘roll back the years’ the way he did is because he has returned to his roots – Massyn having trekked back to his birth town in the Western Cape following many years in the Free State. “I have just recently moved back to George, and I now run for Outeniqua Harriers, and that has made a huge difference for me. Where I live there is a steep hill just outside my yard which I use for hill-repeats and that has really helped me. I am looking forward to this year’s race. I am excited,” he…

As South African Library Week comes to a close, the Western Cape Education Department announced the winners of the 2024 School Library Competition. Kerry Mauchline, spokesperson for the department said the learners have demonstrated outstanding creativity and excellent writing skills, and have each won their school a prize money to spend on library resources. The competition, which was run with the support of the department’s Education Library and Information Services (EDULIS) to celebrate International School Library Month, encouraged learners to either write a short story, or create a drawing or poster, depending on the grade they were in. “Reading and writing are crucial skills that must be mastered if our learners are to succeed in their schooling and future career, and having access to library resources at schools can make…

After five drama-filled seasons, Garcelle Beauvais has decided to hang up her diamonds and bid adieu to The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills (RHOBH). The ever-glowing 58-year-old actress and former model took to Instagram to share the news, stating: “It’s been a wild ride, some amazing things have happened and some hard things have also happened but it’s been a ride nevertheless.” ​ From the get-go, she captivated audiences with her unfiltered honesty and sassy one-liners. Who could forget the time she confronted a fellow housewife with a sassy: “Honey, I’m Garcelle Beauvais, I don’t have to do anything!” Her fearless approach to calling out questionable behaviour and her loyalty to her friends quickly made her a fan favourite.​ Beauvais joined RHOBH in season 10, bringing a fresh dose of…

As South Africa faces ongoing economic challenges, a troubling trend has emerged with many citizens increasingly turning to gambling, not as a form of entertainment but as a desperate means of survival. What was once considered a leisure activity has morphed into a coping mechanism for financial hardship, leading to an alarming uptick in problem gambling. A popular betting site, BettaBets conducted a study during their Smart Money Management Workshop in Crossroads, Mpumalanga, revealing that a staggering 54% of participants admitted to using grant money to feed their gambling habits, a situation exacerbated by an absence of income opportunities. With joblessness rampant, 89% of those surveyed reported being unemployed; many individuals feel that gambling could be their ticket to financial stability. Weekend Argus sister paper, Saturday Star spoke to local…

In light of the tragic death of experienced pilot James O’Connell, who crashed during a performance at the West Coast Air Show in Saldanha, aviation expert Dr. Guy Leitch has provided insight into the factors that contributed to the fatal incident. O’Connell, a decorated South African Air Force pilot, was performing a routine display on a retired military aircraft when it suddenly lost altitude and entered a steep dive. Tragically, he did not survive the crash. Dr. Leitch explained that while well-designed and certified aircrafts are generally safe, the real danger arises from performing maneuvers at low altitudes. Leitch explained that any well-designed aircraft, approved and certified by authorities, is safe when operated correctly. “If a maneuver is initiated at 5 000 feet above the ground, there is ample room…

The validity of the confessions in the Joshlin Smith disappearance case was questioned by defence attorneys, who claimed that coercion, torture, and undue influence were used to obtain them. Detective Captain Wesley Lombard denied any assaults took place in his presence, as the trial continued with a focus on the treatment of the accused. Joshlin was last seen at her Middelpos home last year February. Her mother Racquel ‘Kelly’ Smith, boyfriend Jacquen Appollis and Steveno van Rhyn are on trial and face kidnapping and human trafficking charges. Charges were dropped against Lourentia Lombaard who turned State witness. On Friday morning, Appollis’ lawyer Fanie Harmse argued that the statements made by his client were obtained under duress. He stated that on March 4, his client believed the individuals at the Sea…

Bidders Choice is hosting the liquidation auction of two properties in Vredenburg, perfect for investors. The first is the sale of a ±5732m² stand of undeveloped commercial land on behalf of NDFT Investment Holdings (in liquidation). The property can be viewed on April 8 at 2 Haarlem Street, Vredenburg, from 10am to 3pm. The second property is a three-bedroom house with an erf extent of ±701m². The property comprises three bedrooms, one bathroom, a kitchen, TV room and staff quarters. Viewing is at 4 Haarlem Street, Vredenburg, on April 8, from 10am to 3pm. The auction for both properties is on April 16 at 11am. For more information, please visit www.bidderschoice.co.za or call 082 459 8877 or 082 784 7878. |…

Despite a decline in the number of international tourists visiting South Africa in February, recent statistics reveal an encouraging trend in the tourism industry's recovery. Month-on-month the rate of growth in travelers, between January and February fell, which is not surprising given that February falls outside peak season. Yet, the year-on-year growth numbers were solid. Statistics South Africa’s most recent figures show that, when measured in current prices, income for the tourist accommodation industry increased by 12.1% in January 2025 compared with January 2024. This, it said, was due to a 4.5% increase in the number of nights each person stayed, and an 11.7% increase in the average income per stay unit night sold. Hotels saw the biggest increase, the print showed. In addition, accommodation income also increased in the…

ONLINE homeschooling offers a wealth of opportunities for learning, but it also comes with unique requirements. With the constant barrage of digital distractions, maintaining focus can be a daunting task. However, there is a secret ingredient that can transform the online homeschooling experience: presence. Being fully engaged, attentive, and intentional in learning is the key to unlocking true success, an education expert says. “Presence matters. When students are fully present, they absorb and retain information more effectively. Active participation in discussions elevates understanding from superficial to profound, fostering a deeper connection with the material and leading to better academic outcomes,” said Jo-Anne Buchner, Cambridge International Principal of Evolve Online School, a brand of Africa’s leading private education provider, ADvTECH. “Moreover, presence acts as a shield against stress, enhancing motivation and…

As road networks continue to inch into the breathtaking yet fragile ecosystems of mountainous regions, a concerning trend is emerging: endangered and vulnerable wildlife is increasingly falling prey to vehicle collisions. This dire issue was brought to light by Professor Aliza le Roux at the recently held Southern African Mountain Conference (SAMC2025), where researchers and policymakers convened to discuss pressing environmental challenges. Prof Le Roux, who serves as the Assistant Dean of the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences at the University of the Free State, presented a comprehensive study titled Patterns of wildlife-vehicle collision in montane environments. This research highlighted that certain endangered animals, such as the African wild dog and elephants, along with vulnerable species like lions and leopards, are at significant risk as their habitats become accessible…

The Mini has come a long way since the tiny two-door was revealed way back in 1959, and as generations have come and gone, it’s adjusted with the times and remains contemporary. With the world placing its focus on new-energy vehicles (NEV), Mini has come to the party with the unveiling of the first crossover model for the premium small-car segment with the fully electric Aceman. Developed in a joint venture with BMW Group and Great Wall Motors (GWM), the Aceman fills the void left by the Clubman, which won’t be part of their offering, although fortunately there’s still a five-door Cooper hatch. It may be a Mini and slot into the premium small-car segment, but at 4 076mm long, 1 754mm wide and 1 514mm tall, it’s not exactly…

Current political circumstances and geopolitical events can always provide reasons for investors to think twice about diversifying globally. But is that thinking valid? A closer inspection reveals it may not be. Even before this year’s political news took shape, investors may have been concerned about global equities. The outsized performance of the “Magnificent Seven” (Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Meta, Microsoft, Nvidia and Tesla) has left the US equity market focused on a small group of mega-cap tech companies, while their performance has left major global equity indexes highly concentrated in the US. The current political and geopolitical turmoil only provides further reasons to consider maintaining a domestic bias. The daily headlines are filled with ominous news about tariffs, and the overall global state of geopolitical tension is high. Are these sufficient…

Manchester City face Bournemouth in the FA Cup quarter-finals aiming to keep alive their last chance of silverware in a turbulent season. City are the last of the Premier League's big guns still standing as Nottingham Forest, Fulham and Brighton headline the FA Cup's year of the underdog. Here is a look at the key storylines ahead of the weekend's action: Bournemouth threat to troubled Man City In danger of enduring their first season without a major trophy since 2016-17, Manchester City will head to Bournemouth with some trepidation after losing at the Vitality Stadium earlier this term. When Pep Guardiola's men were beaten 2-1 by Bournemouth in the Premier League in November, it was the first time in their history that City had lost to the Cherries. The shock…

As the sun dips below the horizon, an enchanting new form of travel is taking flight – one that elevates our connection with the universe and invites us to embrace the stories hidden within a star-studded sky. Enter noctourism, a burgeoning movement appealing to those who seek deeper adventures beyond the constraints of daylight. This captivating experience offers travellers a way to rediscover the cosmos and revel in the extraordinary beauty that unfolds once darkness descends. “Have you ever gazed up at a starry night sky and felt a sense of wonder?” asks Lynette Machiri, the customer experience leader at Flight Centre South Africa. In bustling cities like Johannesburg, where bright lights obliterate the splendour of the celestial realm, countless individuals may have forgotten this breathtaking sight. Light pollution, as…