Indholdsfortegnelse for 2025-04-05 i Weekend Argus Saturday

Kristin Davis thinks there were “cult-type elements” to Sex and the City. The 60-year-old actress played Charlotte York in the hit HBO show, and has revealed that she was forced to adhere to some strict rules on set. Speaking on her Are You A Charlotte? podcast, she explained: “I remember there were elements – and this is probably something I shouldn’t say – there were strange, cult-type elements about being in that cast where there were like some rules.” Davis said that the cast – which also included Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall and Cynthia Nixon – were all banned from wearing pantyhose. The actress subsequently listed some of the other rules that she was asked to follow. She shared: “No scrunchies. No banana clips.” Davis explained that the rules…

Ageing has always been a source of fear and fascination. From the alchemists of ancient times to the ultra-wealthy tech entrepreneurs of today, humanity has long sought the secrets to eternal youth. The latest chapter in this saga unfolds at gatherings like the Don’t Die Summit, where billionaires, biohackers, and scientists unite to outwit biological clocks and hack longevity. The summit’s name may sound like a sci-fi convention, but its purpose is deeply rooted in the real-world ambitions of the elite: to live longer, healthier, and perhaps even indefinitely. What is biohacking? Biohacking, a term that encompasses everything from intermittent fasting to cutting-edge genetic engineering, is at the heart of the longevity movement. For some, it’s as simple as taking supplements or following a strict diet. For others, it involves…

On the back of Human Rights Month, it would be an injustice to neglect to confront the glaring systemic corruption which continues to erode the nation’s economy and undermine fundamental human rights of its citizens. With the current pressure on day-to-day affordability threatening livelihoods on a large scale, South Africans are facing a further financial squeeze from the upcoming increase in value-added tax (VAT) coming into effect on International Workers’ Day – May 1. The proposed Budget, from the National Treasury will raise VAT by 0.5 percentage points on May 1 and by the same margin on April 1, 2026, bringing the rate to 16%. As if that was not enough, the electricity price tariffs are going up by a further 12.7% on April 1. These increases threaten to further…

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has expressed grave concerns regarding the potential effects of US tariffs on South African exports, particularly in light of the looming implications of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). Steenhuisen said his department was looking at existing trading agreements with other countries to widen market access for South Africa’s products should South Africa no longer be part of AGOA. “What we are doing is taking existing agreements that we have with other partners like the European Union, Japan, China, and many others, and looking at how we can deepen and widen access. “We are really taking full advantage of the full variety of goods that are there as some of the products that would probably see some curtailment in the US market, and find other…

In a groundbreaking collaboration, the Generation Gender (G) programme, spearheaded by ACTIVATE! Change Drivers alongside Sonke Gender Justice and Action Aid, has unveiled the Gen G Engage app. This innovative application, launched at the end of Human Rights Month, aims to equip civil society organisations (CSOs), young people, and communities with essential resources and tools to combat gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide across South Africa. The launch comes amid a troubling increase in GBV cases in the country, highlighted by President Cyril Ramaphosa during the 2025 State of the Nation address, where he identified GBV as a “national crisis” and a “second pandemic.” As young people constitute a significant portion of the population affected by these injustices, the Gen G Engage app seeks to amplify their voices and empower them…

In a step towards empowering communities around the world, Airbnb has announced the latest recipients of its Community Fund grants, benefitting over 160 organisations across more than 30 countries and six continents. Launched in 2020, the Airbnb Community Fund, with a robust budget of $100 million (approximately R1.8 billion), aims to provide support to local communities and residents. Every year, Airbnb collaborates closely with its hosts to identify issues and helps select various non-profit organisations deserving of financial boost. This year, the Fund emphasised cooperation with local hosts, who play a vital role in driving community-based impact through their nominations. Airbnb hosts have nominated organisations that address crucial concerns ranging from economic empowerment and environmental sustainability to ending abuse and exploitation. Among the noteworthy recipients of this year’s grants in…

With just four more artists left to be revealed, the Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) 2025 is on the brink of unveiling its full line-up of 33 world-class acts. And today, they’re turning up the heat with an electrifying mix of legendary icons, rising stars and genre-defining pioneers. Leading this latest wave of announcements is the incomparable Kandace Springs – the soulful jazz sensation whose velvety vocals and masterful piano work have captivated audiences worldwide. Returning after a three-year hiatus, she brings her deeply personal and introspective album, Run Your Race (2024), a tribute to her late father, the legendary Scat Springs. A mix of jazz, soul and heartfelt storytelling, the album sees her collaborating with Gregg Wells (Adele), Matt Hales (Lianne La Havas), Evan Rogers and Carl Sturken…

A miniature dachshund, aged just one year old and weighing around eight pounds, appears to have pulled off a feat nobody thought possible: surviving for 16 months on a rugged island off Australia’s southern coast. Now, locals on Kangaroo Island are hopeful they will be able to reunite the dog, Valerie, with her owners after several recent sightings. Volunteers have narrowed down the search area and are now relying on video surveillance and – yes – roast chicken to entice her. Georgia Gardner, 24 and Joshua Fishlock, 25, were camping on Kangaroo Island in November 2023 when they left Valerie in a playpen to go fishing at the beach nearby, Gardner said. While the couple was away, Valerie ripped the pen open and hid under a parked car. As other…

Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Bernice Swarts launched the “One Employee One Tree Initiative” at Environment House in Pretoria. This aims to have 10 million trees planted by 2030, however, the figure could be even higher, if there is buy-in from all government employees and civil society. If the programme succeeds, it will mean the South African government would have played its part in improving the quality of the air and mitigating the continuous risk of soil erosion. In a report released in 2024, Global Forest Watch said there has been a total loss of up to 12% of trees and forests worldwide from 2001 to 2023 due to deforestation which is not being rapidly reversed. South Africa also experiences challenges of deforestation due to the expansion…

Italian cars have always been known for their flair and sometimes quirky innovations so it’s no surprise that Maserati has announced that they have taken customisation to the next level. Called the Officine Fuoriserie Maserati at their plant on Viale Ciro Menotti, Modena, it’s where customers have no limit as to the configuration and personalising of their House of the Trident-badged car, including an innovative painting line. Tailor-made According to Maserati, Officine Fuoriserie is a comprehensive tailor-made journey where the experience of buying a car is all-encompassing and seamless, from the initial configuration to the dedicated delivery to the factory. “The home of the new Officine workshops is in the historic Modena plant. This area is the beating heart of an extraordinary brand, the longest-lived in all of Italy's Motor…

Insurance of any kind is a grudge purchase, and perhaps life and dread disease even more so because death, or being permanently incapacitated and unable to work, is not a pleasant thought. Yet, either a critical illness diagnosis or death will “not only have an immense emotional impact on your family but a financial impact as well,” said Corli Basson, business manager of Underwriting at 1Life Insurance. She said that life cover payouts can be used to cover daily expenses such as food, clothing, school fees, and rent/home loans to safeguard your family’s financial future and build generational wealth. “Life cover will protect your family’s lifestyle and financial future should you pass away.” Life insurance can also cover settling a bond. Managing executive of Absa Life, Eugene Strauss, said: “It…

When Capitec broke onto the retail banking scene over 20 years ago, I sensed that it would shake up the banking industry in South Africa. The simplicity and accessibility of its offering to consumers ensured its immediate success. But I didn’t expect the “Big Four” (Absa, FNB, Nedbank and Standard Bank) to be so nonchalant about this innovative new kid on the block. I could continue about the innovations Capitec brought to banking, its meteoric rise as a brand, and its emergence today as South Africa’s largest bank in terms of number of retail customers, but I’ll save that for another column. Here, I want to focus on the Big Four and how, in my opinion, they have largely failed to up their customer-service game to win back the customers…

Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane disclosed the findings of an in-depth investigation into the tragic collapse of a multi-storey building in George, which resulted in 34 fatalities two years ago. Addressing the Human Settlements Portfolio Committee on Friday, Simelane revealed that the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC) had failed to follow its internal processes during the registration phase of the ill-fated project, leading to catastrophic consequences. The investigation, executed by the NHBRC Board, was described by Simelane as a “very sad report”, highlighting significant systemic failures within the council. Simelane detailed that several critical lapses occurred, including the failure to properly disclose structural engineering drawings and details. “There were lapses of enrolment requirements which were overlooked by our internal staff at the council. Some things like the attachment of…

South Africa’s police stations are in a state of crisis, with dilapidated infrastructure, unsafe working conditions, and a lack of resources severely hampering the ability of officers to perform their duties. This is according to the Portfolio Committee on Police who had a first hand account during a recently concluded oversight visit to several police stations in the Eastern Cape, Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. Among the most shocking revelations is the state of Belhar Police Station in the Western Cape, where officers are reportedly forced to share toilets with criminals – a practice that not only breaches basic human dignity but also compromises safety. Ian Cameron, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, has confirmed these conditions to the Weekend Argus, stating: “Unfortunately, it is all very true. I…

Liezl Bopape Curnow, a 37-year-old from Belhar, is determined to change the narrative for women in South Africa. As she competes in the Mrs. Universe South Africa pageant, Liezl isn’t just aiming for the crown; she’s using the platform to raise awareness around domestic violence and empower women and girls who face similar struggles. In her final year of studying Ministry and Theology, Curnow’s journey has been anything but easy, but it’s one that fuels her passion for making a difference. Growing up with her grandparents in Valhalla Park, sharing a room with her parents and two siblings, Curnow recalled being shielded from the harsh realities of poverty and crime by her mother, who worked tirelessly to expand her daughter’s horizons. Despite the challenges, she learned the importance of perseverance…

The extent of sea ice blanketing the Arctic this winter fell to the lowest level on record, researchers announced this week; an ominous signal about the effects of climate change in the world’s fastest-warming region. March is usually the peak season for Arctic sea ice; after months of ceaseless polar darkness, conditions are frigid and much of the ocean is frozen over. But just 5.53 million square miles of ice had formed as of March 22 this year - the smallest maximum extent in the 47-year satellite record, according to the National Snow and Ice Data Center. Since then, the ice has already begun to melt again. “Sea ice is acting like the old canary in the coal mine,” Dartmouth University geophysicist Don Perovich said. “It’s saying loud and clear…

Or can South Africa’s dangerous driving problems be solved? A criminologist weighs in If you have ever been in a car in South Africa, you would have experienced it. Not the beautiful surroundings or potholed roads, but the complete lack of adherence to the rules of the road and daily carnage. It seems that once we get behind the wheel of a car, the laws are irrelevant. Alcohol-related deaths While on holiday in the Northern Cape over the festive season, we would regularly stop next to the road at the rather dilapidated picnic spots to stretch our legs. The proliferation of empty liquor bottles was appalling. Empty beer, wine and hard liquor containers were spread everywhere. That means that the possibility of encountering a driver under the influence was relatively…

Imagine pouring your hard-earned money into an investment, trusting the promises of wealth and prosperity only to find yourself empty-handed, deceived, and abandoned. This is exactly the cautionary tale unfolding for those caught up in the financial schemes of Jacques Adriaan Jordaan—a name now ringing alarm bells thanks to the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA). Let me share my personal insight here. Not long ago, one of my cousins found herself navigating through a sea of enticing investment offers on social media. The promises of “guaranteed high returns” were incredibly alluring, and the testimonials backing them seemed convincing. Luckily, she paused before making any decisions, and that pause saved her from falling into the trap of unauthorised financial advisors. She asked me for advice and I told her that what…

Short-term insurance shields you from the financial blow of losing or damaging essential possessions like your home, car, or electronic devices. But that doesn't mean you should be overpaying for this protection, warns South African short-term insurance actuary, John Wessels. Wessels says if you've been claim-free for years and haven't reviewed your insurance policy recently, you're likely overspending. “Your risk profile may have improved since you first signed up, especially for younger drivers who've gained experience without filing claims. Comparing quotes from different insurers could save you money, but remember to be honest about your claims history,” he advises. Unfortunately, many South Africans see insurance as a “grudge purchase,” neglecting it until they need to claim. According to Wessels, this approach is problematic: “Your short-term insurance contract should be readily…

As the world emerges from the grip of the Covid-19 pandemic, global tourism is witnessing a remarkable resurgence. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), the number of international tourists, which peaked at 1.5 billion in 2019, is projected to hit 1.8 billion by 2030. However, with this booming growth comes the pressing issue of overtourism – an alarming phenomenon that threatens to suffocate some of the globe’s most cherished destinations. Overtourism occurs when the sheer volume of visitors overwhelms a location, leading to overcrowding, environmental degradation, and strained relationships between tourists and local communities. Recently, Spain has become ground zero for anti-tourism sentiments, with protesters actively urging British visitors to steer clear this summer to protect their local environments and quality of life. This disturbing trend is…

For a generation once regarded as the backpacking adventurers of their youth, South African millennials are now redefining their approach to travel as they settle into middle age. As the oldest members of this cohort reach their mid-40s, their preferences have transformed significantly, reflecting the balancing act many face between careers, family obligations, and rising living expenses. “Despite tighter budgets driven by rising costs, local millennials are still going on holiday,” notes Samantha Pillay, director at ekko, a lifestyle brand catering to millennials, who observes this shift first-hand. However, these holidays are not the extravagant getaways of previous generations. “We’re seeing a shift towards more value-driven holidays,” Pillay says. “While South African millennials aren’t necessarily booking five-star hotels, they do want quality, relaxation, and unique experiences.” The trend towards “microcations”…

Parliament’s plans to hold hybrid sittings over the next five months while Public Works and Infrastructure Department installs internal fittings, has sparked a fiery debate among MPs. This is as parliamentarians clashed over finding a venue other than the Cape Town City Hall even if it was anywhere in the country while some complained about financial implications and disturbing family lives of employees. This emerged when the National Assembly programme met on Thursday to consider its business and the programme for the next term. The MPs heard that the dome will not be available for use from next week to allow Public Works and Infrastructure Department to install all internal fittings to avoid the hiring of venues. Secretary to National Assembly, Masibulele Xaso, said the dome will not be available…

A Hermanus doctor’s dismissal has been declared fair by the Labour Court after it disagreed with the arbitrator’s finding that it was procedurally unfair. This comes as it was revealed in the disciplinary records that the doctor had at times used cocaine and in so doing, posed a threat to patients. The review application against the arbitrator’s finding was brought to the Labour Court sitting at the Western Cape High Court, by the Western Cape Department of Health. The arbitrator found that the dismissal of the doctor on February 29, 2020, was substantively and procedurally unfair and awarded him six months’ remuneration as compensation. Labour Court judge Robert Lagrange said in his judgment that the doctor’s “misconduct was inherently serious and posed an imminent threat to patients, the liability of…

Along the stunning False Bay coastline, a long-standing tradition has continued where locals and visitors flock to the shore to buy fresh fish straight from the ocean. This ritual not only supports the livelihood of local fishermen and women but also offers a rare chance to witness the dedication and hard work that goes into each catch. Here you can get anything from your usual Snoek, Hake (Stockfish), Kabeljoe, Yellow Tail, Hottentots or St Joseph - a vast variety. However, as Easter approaches, fish prices often rise, reflecting the challenges faced by the community, but for many, supporting this tradition is worth it, as it connects them to the very people who bring fresh, ocean-caught fish to their tables. Customer Melvyn Williams, a regular visitor to the False Bay coastline,…

Four new South African plays are hitting the stage. The plays, Dust, The Dropped Baby, Knock Knock and the first Afrikaans entry to the programme, H(Eg) will be showcased at the The Masque’s One-Act Play Festival from 10 to 12 April 2025. The plays, featuring works by writers Lauren Bates, Alex Learmont, Dawn Garisch and Charlene Colling, have been developed as part of the Theatre’s Play Reading Programme. “Each script has been through our Play Reading Programme and is ready to be brought to life on stage. After the performance, audiences will have a chance to chat to the writers, directors and actors about the entire process,” said festival director Melanie O’Connor Horn, who will host the post-performance discussions. “South Africa’s vibrant theatre industry has a wealth of stories to…

IN a whirlwind of gravity-defying feats, Jean-marc Johannes has etched his name into the annals of South African sporting history. Not just a skateboarder, but a trailblazer, Johannes has shattered expectations and rewritten the narrative of what’s possible, culminating in a string of accolades that would make even the most seasoned athlete’s head spin. “Initially I set a goal to win just one international event, and this took place in 2016 when I won the first SA skateboarding Gold at the FISE World Series Am in China,” Johannes tells Independent Media. “This goal, at the time, seemed impossible, but I was willing to work for it to make it a reality, and when it happened it changed my perspective on the goals I was going to set for the future.”…

As winter approaches, South Africa faces a drier-than-usual season, particularly in the South-Western parts of the country. Christien Engelbrecht, lead scientist at the South African Weather Service, said that while winter is the rainfall season for the southwestern parts of the country, this winter of 2025 is likely to be drier than normal. “Predictions indicate enhanced probabilities for below-normal rainfall. Temperatures are expected to be above-normal during this period,” she said. Engelbrecht explained that South Africa is expected to experience neutral ENSO conditions during the winter. “The influence of ENSO over South Africa is mostly restricted to the mid-summer months and the summer rainfall region. “This means that neither El Niño nor La Niña will have a significant impact on the winter weather this year.” She warned that reduced rainfall…

For Amy-Lee Siljeur and Mogamat Viljoen, karate isn’t just a sport – it’s a chance to change the story of where they come from. Both 14-year-old Amy-Lee from Lentegeur and 13-year-old Mogamat from New Woodlands have earned their Western Province colours, a remarkable achievement in the karate world. But now, they face an even bigger challenge – raising the funds to compete for their National colours and earn a spot at the African Karate Championships in Johannesburg next month, it’s a struggle that resonates deeply with both athletes, who come from Mitchells Plain – a community often misunderstood and overshadowed by stigma. Both are from the SA JKA Karate Association, run by Sensei Jon Williams. “It’s an incredible feeling to get my Western Province colours,” Amy-Lee says, her voice steady…

Under the new “two-pot” system, the cash in retirement-fund “savings pots” presents a real temptation to fund members, but withdrawing it should be resisted for a few very good reasons. An “instant gratification” mindset may kick in when you check the balances of the various “pots” in your retirement fund. It’s important to keep that mindset in check because surrendering to it will cost you in several ways. You may think, ‘Oh, I’ve got R20 000 I can withdraw. Why don’t I use it to buy a new lounge suite or treat myself to a weekend at a luxury spa?’ However, if you were to choose to spend that money, the wise decision would be to leave it where it is. First of all, you will not receive the full…

South Africa's life insurance industry closed the year 2024 in a strong financial position, maintaining its ability to weather economic uncertainties, according to the Association for Savings and Investment South Africa (Asisa). With assets under management totalling a staggering R4.5 trillion, the industry also achieved a solvency buffer of 1.99 – nearly double the Prudential Authority's Solvency Capital Requirement (SCR). Figures released by Asisa reveal that life insurers paid out R 639 billion in claims and benefits during 2024, marking a record high. These payments, which included retirement annuities, endowment benefits, and claims related to life cover, disability, critical illness, and income protection, offer vital financial support to policyholders and their beneficiaries during life's most challenging moments. Gareth Friedlander, a member of the Asisa Life and Risk Board Committee, highlighted…

As the Easter holiday draws near, many people historically take this time to travel to sacred places, seeking not only the serene beauty of destinations but also a deep connection to faith, heritage, and history. The global religious tourism market is poised for significant growth, with reports predicting an impressive annual growth rate of 15.3% through 2030. This surge reflects a burgeoning interest among travellers in experiences that resonate on a spiritual level. Inbaal Honigham, a renowned celebrity psychic, notes that seekers of spirituality often choose their travel destinations based on diverse motivations. “Some seekers traverse to historically significant locations to feel closer to cultures or figures they admire and revere. They are inspired by mythologies, age-old tales, and mythical figures,” she explains. This trend indicates a revival of interest…