Indholdsfortegnelse for 2025-05-17 i Weekend Argus Saturday

I don’t know about you, but seeing Vince Vaughn on screen is always a treat. From Wedding Crashers to Dodgeball, the man’s unmatched comedic timing makes him a walking punchline with heart. So it was surprising (in a good way) to see him in something a little more grounded and heartfelt. Vaughn’s been lighting up our screens since the mid-’90s, but Netflix’s Nonnas lets him flex some emotional muscle we rarely see. And you know what? He pulls it off. Nonnas, based on a true story, is a love letter to the women who’ve kept families full, connected and comforted for generations: grandmothers, mothers, aunties. And through food, glorious, healing, life-giving food. From homemade pasta to the kind of soup that could cure a heartbreak, the film wraps you up…

Dating in your thirties is a whole new ballgame. It’s not just dating, it’s intentional, emotionally charged, and often frustrating. After all, the carefree, experimental nature of dating in your twenties has given way to a more focused approach, one that reflects your growth, evolving priorities, and the harsh realities of modern relationships. But why does dating feel so difficult in this age bracket? Is it the smaller dating pool? The emotional baggage we accumulate over time? Or the social pressure to “settle down”? Why is dating after 30 so challenging? The dating pool shrinks By the time you hit 30, a significant portion of your peers may already be married, engaged, or in committed relationships. According to a 2022 report by Statistics South Africa, over 50% of South African…

IN the daybreak of shattered dreams and fallen hope, South Africans are desperately searching for a promised land at the end of the Rainbow Nation. For Afrikaners, Trump’s America is their newfound nirvana. Some Afrikaners are lining up for a whiter and brighter future in their new homeland of America, choosing the fate of being refugees in a foreign land rather than submitting to a transforming South Africa. Oscar-winning performances in victimhood by the right-wing public protector of Afrikaner interests, AfriForum, and Afrikaners themselves have touched the sensibilities of the US President, Donald Trump. In a dramatic cinematic climax, persecuted Afrikaners from South Africa's demonic democracy are fleeing to America. It is a folk tale, written not on the ink of prejudice or persecution but on the fountainhead of racial…

For more than a year, residents of Milton Manor in Sea Point have been locked in a frustrating battle with a tree whose invasive roots were not only damaging their boundary wall, paving and building foundations, but also threatening their safety. Some units in the block, located at 2 Milton Road and boasting spectacular views of the Atlantic and Table Mountain, are worth more than R3 million. And yet, this long-standing issue was growing increasingly urgent. The tree, which stood on City property just outside the building, had sent its roots deep into the structure. One elderly resident had to rearrange her furniture to keep it from being damaged. The wall was visibly leaning, the paving was lifting, and the building manager, Billy Ackerman, had even nicknamed the boundary “the…

A heated dispute has erupted at the highest levels of South Africa’s policing oversight structures, with the Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (Popcru) calling for the removal of Ian Cameron as Chair of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Police – a demand Cameron has firmly rejected, stating he “will not sell [his] soul or lose [his] integrity”. The controversy stems from Cameron’s recent comments on social media, in which he referred to eight members of the SAPS VIP Protection Unit as “thugs” – despite their acquittal in an internal disciplinary hearing. The officers, who serve in the security detail of Deputy President Paul Mashatile, were filmed in 2023 brutally assaulting civilians on Johannesburg’s N1 highway. The footage caused national outrage and drew widespread condemnation. Their subsequent acquittal by SAPS…

Preserving South Africa’s liberation history is a gift to future generations. This according to David Martinon, Ambassador of France to South Africa, at the closing event of the Unboxing Mayibuye project on May 8. The event, held at the Nelson Mandela Gateway in Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront, marked the successful conclusion of the Unboxing Mayibuye Project – a collaboration between the Robben Island Museum (RIM), the French National Audiovisual Institute (INA), and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD). This initiative aimed to digitally preserve South Africa’s liberation history and make it accessible to future generations. Robben Island, symbolising the Struggle against apartheid, houses the Mayibuye Archives at the University of the Western Cape (UWC). These archives hold crucial collections documenting resistance to apartheid, both within South Africa and globally, spanning…

When 16-year-old Jason Hendricks first laced up his rugby boots in Grade 8, inspired by watching his father Kyle on the field, he couldn’t have imagined that sport would soon carry him across continents. Now in Grade 11 at Hoërskool Birchleigh, Jason is preparing to board a plane for his international tour – an unforgettable 10-day journey to Italy as part of the prestigious Danie Rossouw Rugby Tour. “I was shocked,” Jason said, as he recalled the moment he found out. “Especially when I found out I was the only 16-year-old in my school to feature in an under-19 tour team for Italy. I am excited for the journey ahead.” The tour, which runs from 6-15 October, will see Jason and his teammates play matches against local rugby clubs in…

The Cape Town Baroque Orchestra (CTBO) invites music enthusiasts to immerse themselves in an exquisite chamber concert titled Enlightened France, celebrating the elegance and innovation of 18th-century French repertoire. Held in the comfortable and intimate setting of St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in De Waterkant, this concert promises to enchant audiences with its rich historical context and vibrant musical expressions. The concert features an impressive array of compositions showcasing the talents of three distinguished artists: Annien Shaw on the baroque violin, Sarah Cunningham on the viola da gamba, and Leon Schelhase on the harpsichord. Together, they will breathe life into works by renowned composers such as Marin Marais, François Couperin, Elisabeth Jacquet de la Guerre, Jacques Duphly, and Jean-Philippe Rameau – names that resonate with the grace and brilliance of the…

The Global Humane Conservation Fund of Africa has embarked on a heartwarming journey of hope and resilience with the release of Nkanyiso, a once-captive cheetah, and her four cubs into the wild at the Nyosi Wildlife Reserve. This pivotal moment not only highlights the success of rewilding efforts but also represents a broader movement to protect vulnerable species in Southern Africa. Nkanyiso first stepped into the Nyosi Wildlife Reserve in April 2023, as part of a dedicated collaborative rewilding initiative involving the Global Humane Conservation Fund of Africa, The Metapopulation Initiative, and the reserve itself. Following years of captivity, Nkanyiso underwent a meticulously monitored rewilding process, where she learned essential skills such as hunting prey and navigating natural terrains without human intervention. However, in April 2024, Nkanyiso faced an unexpected…

In a turn of events, conservationists are celebrating the rediscovery of the Boosmansbos long-tailed forest shrew (Myosorex longicaudatus boosmani), a mammal that has eluded researchers for 46 years. The creature was observed on the edge of a pristine forest patch in CapeNature’s Boosmansbos Wilderness Area. Originally described in 1979 by scientist Nico Dippenaar, this unique subspecies is geographically isolated from its relatives in the Gouritz Valley. Its limited range and habitat disruptions resulting from forest loss and climate change have contributed to its Critically Endangered status on the IUCN Red List since 2016. The momentous finding came during a survey conducted from May 3 to 6, a culmination of four strenuous attempts over four years. Dr Marienne de Villiers, an ecologist with CapeNature, expressed her joy at finally ticking this…

South Africa’s Car of the Year for 2025 is the BMW X3, and this marks the eighth time that the Bavarian brand has won the local competition in its 39-year history. But why did the X3 take overall honours? Based on the jury evaluation following two rigorous days of driving, it was actually the BMW M5 that scored the highest. However, the competition, sponsored by Old Mutual since 2023, also has an automated scoring component based on extensive data sets supplied by Lightstone auto. This element, which accounts for 20% of the final score, focuses on value aspects, taking into account the vehicle’s features, pricing and actual sales figures versus its natural competitors. This automated scoring process elevated the X3 to overall victory, with the M5 falling down to third…

Planes, dolls and pencils – how many does a person really need? America’s children will have to make do with fewer pencils when they’re doing their schoolwork. And when play time comes around, they’ll have to be satisfied with fewer dolls. This is the observation of their president, who has been cranking tariffs up and down like a thermostat as he runs hot and cold on allies, antagonists and his own standing with the public. US President Donald Trump offered this assessment in response to questions about the possibility of rising prices and empty store shelves and just how much financial uncertainty and pain Americans should expect. His answer targeted a kind of modest excess that might be considered part of the American Dream – the freedom of parents to…

South Africa is facing a job crisis, and it’s worsening. The latest employment figures are hard to stomach: 237 000 jobs lost in the first quarter of 2025, pushing the official unemployment rate to a staggering 32.9%. That’s 8.2 million people without work. If we include those who’ve given up looking for work, that figure balloons to 12.7m, roughly 43.1% of the workforce. These aren’t just stats. Behind each number is a household battling to survive, young people losing hope, and communities on the brink. Unemployment at this scale isn’t just an economic issue, it’s a social crisis with far-reaching consequences. It’s no surprise that poverty continues to tighten its grip. Over half of South Africans, around 55%, live below the poverty line, according to recent data from Stats SA.…

A noteworthy clash is set to unfold in Cape Town this afternoon (3pm kick-off) when Stellenbosch FC face off against SuperSport United in a match that could resonate far beyond the final score. The implications of this Premiership encounter at the Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch extend beyond the table standings. It may also mark a significant moment in South African football history. It has been whispered in hushed tones that SuperSport United’s franchise is destined for a new chapter next season, relocating to the nation’s legislative capital, Bloemfontein. With this impending move looming large over the match, local Mother City fans can expect heightened emotions as they bid adieu to the Tshwane-based team that has become home for many Cape Town-born players and coaches over the years. The current…

Sharks coach John Plumtree was only half-joking when he said didn’t need to do any analysis of the Scarlets team because he has been watching his son closely this season, just as any father would do. Taine Plumtree will be on the flank for the Scarlets tonight (7.30pm kick-off) in a final-round United Rugby Championship match that could have a third place log finish riding on it for the Sharks. If they beat the Scarlets and later tonight Leinster beat the Warriors, the Sharks will finish third. “Obviously with Taine playing for them, I watch the Scarlets a lot, and I have been doing that for a long time now, so I am very familiar with their game,” Plumtree said yesterday. “I have watched them closely, and they are one…

South Africa’s tourism industry has long been recognised as a powerful economic engine. Last year, it contributed more than 3% to GDP and supported close to 700 000 jobs. So, it’s no surprise that the government’s promises to modernise travel processes, including the long-awaited rollout of an e-visa system, have been welcomed. But for many in the industry, it’s clear that a digital visa alone won’t fix deeper issues holding back growth. Yes, the move towards digital travel authorisations is the logical next step in a tech-driven world. But the road to South Africa remains frustratingly uneven. Tourism leaders argue that digitisation alone will not solve the country’s “sluggish” tourism recovery or competitiveness on the global stage. Anton Gillis, chief executive officer of Hamac and Kruger Gate Hotel, says the…

As wanderlust continues to inspire, an increasing number of explorers are embarking on solo journeys across the diverse landscapes of Africa. While the thought of travelling alone may initially provoke uncertainty, the rewards of doing so can be profound. From wildlife-rich national parks to serene coastlines, Africa is brimming with safe and intoxicating destinations ideal for solo sojourners. Solo travel is a powerful catalyst for personal growth. Whether it’s building confidence, fostering self-reliance, or embracing independence, the benefits are numerous. Striking out alone allows you the freedom to tailor your adventure, craft an itinerary that suits your interests and pace, and leaves room for spontaneity. While the thrill of navigating un- familiar territories can be daunting, overcoming challenges empowers solo explorers and enhances problem-solving skills. Thoughtful planning, such as hiring…

Karabo Lediga’s directorial debut, Sabbatical, is a bittersweet mother-daughter drama. It explores profound themes of family roots, ambition, integrity, deception, and loyalty. If you haven’t seen it yet on the big screen, it is highly recommended. The film benefits greatly from the exceptional performances of Mona Monyane as Lesego and Clementine Mosimane as her mother, Dorris, a truly remarkable pairing. I had the pleasure of a tête-à-tête with the actresses, who have developed a strong offscreen bond, marked by their noticeable warmth towards one another and praiseworthy comments. It was truly heartening to witness, especially since this is the first time they have worked with one another. Mosimane said: “It was delicious working together, and I think it’s because we were giving each other the space to deal with the…

We all love a good serum or a miracle hair mask, but what if the secret to glowing skin and healthier hair wasn’t in a bottle? According to Dr Suhail Alam of Aventus Clinic, it’s not about buying more products but more about rethinking the little things you do every day. “Your daily routine has a bigger impact on skin and hair health than any single product,” he says. “Simple tweaks to your habits can help you preserve your glow, prevent damage and even maintain a youthful appearance.” Below are seven sneaky habits that could be sabotaging your skin and hair. Your phone might be wrecking your skin: Think about how many times your phone touches your face. Now think about all the grime, oil, and bacteria that might be…

Explore the poignant social media reactions to this week’s most pressing stories, from protests and housing crises to tragic losses that resonate deeply within our communities. Two children die in wendy house fire • Shahida Pieters: This is so sad really, MTBSRIP. But where were their parents? • Rushana Roxy Cox: No words of comfort will comfort the parents in this time of bereavement. God’s love endures forever. • Genine Jacobs: So sad condolences to their families as they live through this journey of he loss of two beautiful angels MTDSRIP and rise in glory. • Maureen Bantham: Let us not ask questions. Jesus said... suffer little children to come unto me, for such is the kingdom of God. No questions, just pray. • Serenity Barends: RIP my…

Community demands urgent reforms after repeat offender strikes again He was convicted a predator that raped a young girl almost two decades ago. Then, six months after being released on parole, lured his next victim to his lair and allegedly raped her. If it wasn't for the brave residents of Hanover Park who sounded the alarm, the outcome may have been more tragic. This case, of a nine-year-old girl, bears eerie similarities to the rape and murders of eight-year-olds Tazne van Wyk and Reagan Gertse – both killed by men previously convicted of violent offences. The incident has reignited national outrage over South Africa’s parole system, which the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has claimed it has been working to reform for several years. The 51-year-old man appeared in a…

After 15 long years, the much-loved Green Point Flea Market has finally come home – and the excitement is impossible to miss. On Sunday, May 11, the market officially reopened at its original home in Green Point, and will now be held every Sunday from 8am to 6pm – except on major stadium event days. From the moment the first stall opened, it was clear: this was more than just a market reopening. It was a return of soul, culture, and connection. “This is Cape Town – the land of the people,” said Rosheda Muller, Chairperson of the Green Point Flea Market and National President of National Informal Traders Alliance of South Africa (NITASA). “This market is part of our identity. It’s how we survive, how we thrive – and…

A spectacular week of surfing, sunshine, and South African longboarding spirit came to a close on Saturday as the 2025 Billabong SA Longboard Championships wrapped up in unforgettable style at Lower Point, Jeffreys Bay at the weekend. Durban North’s Christy Gilmour and Jeffrey Bay’s Steven Sawyer took top place in the Open Ladies and Open Men’s divisions at the final showdown. The event saw five days of world-class longboarding, competitors across 17 divisions – from Under 14 to Over 75 – were treated to flawless J-Bay walls, glowing sunrises, and daily dolphin sightings, setting the perfect stage for what is being hailed as one of the most successful editions of the event to date. This epic contest is proudly presented by Billabong – one of the world’s most iconic surf…

Following its critically acclaimed run in London, the powerful drama Moffie is set to make its South African debut at the Baxter Theatre’s Flipside, running from September 2 to 27. The production, presented by The Common Humanity Arts Trust in association with the Baxter, promises to deliver a poignant exploration of love, survival, and identity during the apartheid era. Based on the compelling novel by André Carl van der Merwe, Moffie has been expertly adapted for the stage by award-winning playwright Philip Rademeyer, with direction and production led by Greg Karvellas, known for works like Dear Evan Hansen. The compelling narrative follows Nicholas van der Swart, a closeted conscript, as he grapples with societal expectations and his quest for self-identity amidst the oppressive backdrop of South Africa’s 1980s border war.…

Think you know vultures? Think again. The Cape Vulture, an awe-inspiring and critically endangered giant of South African skies, offers a fascinating glimpse into the marvels of our natural world. These majestic birds play a crucial role in the ecosystem by scavenging on carrion, yet many remain unaware of their significance. Fortunately, the Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve provides one of the premier locations to observe these magnificent creatures in action, thanks to its unique Vulture Café and a secluded hide, where guests can witness these birds’ dramatic behaviours as they gather after predator feedings. “Cape Vultures are absolutely fascinating once you get to know them,” said Didi Mahlo, field ranger at the Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve. “They’re misunderstood and under-appreciated, but watching them in the wild…

Of all the creatures associated with Florida – alligators, flamingos, manatees – possibly the most consequential doesn’t show up in tourism ads or on travel websites. Did you know that the mosquito prompted the invention of air conditioning? For that reason alone, it deserves some kind of special recognition. A statue, maybe? A proclamation? How about a museum? St. Johns County in northeast Florida has seen fit to acknowledge the noxious insect with all three. And now an eight-foot tall bronze statue of a fierce looking Aedes aegypti stands watch at the entrance to the Disease Vector Education Center – a.k.a. the mosquito museum, the only one of its kind in the US. The museum sparked some outcry about public funding, but the community has become more accepting of it.…

A wave of generosity swept the West Coast, as Cape Town teacher and sports personality Irafaan Abrahams and his outreach group, Hakuna Matata and Friends, delivered the largest school shoe distribution in the organisation’s history. More than 1 000 pairs of brand-new shoes were given to learners at two of the region’s most under-resourced schools – P.W. De Bruin Primary in Lambert’s Bay and Leipoldtville Primary in the surrounding rural community – along with food, gifts, and hope. “For years, we’ve raised funds through sport to support learners in need,” said Abrahams. “But this distribution was something else. We fed about 1 800 people, including families from the surrounding farms. We handed out stationery, treats, and so much love. The response from the community was overwhelming – emotional, humbling, and…

Defender is well on the way in its preparations for entering the World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC), having finished prototype testing in Morocco with the Defender Dakar D7X-R. They have also signed 14-time Dakar Rally winner Stéphane Peterhansel alongside emerging talent Rokas Baciuška. Peterhansel joined the Defender Rally team in Morocco, completing early testing with the prototype of the Defender Dakar D7X-R as they began preparations for competing at the Dakar Rally in January 2026. Dakar success Peterhansel, 59, the most successful Dakar Rally driver of all time, has competed in the Dakar Rally 35 times on both bike and car, and has won the ultimate off-road race 14 times. In 2026, he will race for Defender in all rounds of the W2RC to help pave the way for Defender’s future…

For many South Africans, offshore investing is a strategic move—one that provides access to global markets, reduces reliance on the local economy, and protects against currency volatility. While some investors pursue offshore exposure to meet specific future liabilities, others seek broader diversification across industries and jurisdictions that are not available locally. Whether driven by rational planning or a desire to mitigate domestic risks, investing offshore can be an essential component of a well-structured portfolio. A primary reason to consider offshore investing is diversification, keeping in mind that South Africa currently accounts for less than 1% of global GDP. As such, a portfolio fully concentrated in local markets is subject to significant country-specific risk. By investing offshore, one gains access to a broader universe of global industries, more stable economies, and…

South Africans are feeling the financial squeeze, and car ownership is no exception. With over 80% of households concerned about the rising cost of living, the difference between securing a good deal and falling into a financial trap often lies in the fine print. One of the most common pitfalls is opting for an “affordable” car, only to realise later that it comes with significant hidden costs. “A vehicle should offer freedom, not financial strain, but too often what looks affordable upfront ends up costing far more over time,” says Heide de Lange, spokesperson for Motor Plan Direct. From long-term financing traps to unexpected maintenance costs, de Lange shares seven key strategies to help South Africans reduce financial risk and make smarter long-term car-buying decisions: Beware the 84-month trap Long…

After a lengthy indoor season, a few Diamond League wins and World Relays gold medal, you would think Akani Simbine would take a breather back home. But instead of enjoying the celebrations with the Team South Africa relay squad at the OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg this week, Simbine travelled in another direction. The 31-year-old SA sprint star left China and headed to the United States to take part in Saturday’s adidas Atlanta City Games. Simbine has been in red-hot form, earning a bronze medal at the 60m indoor world championships in China in March in his first ever campaign in that arena. Then he ran a 2025 100m world-lead of 9.90 seconds at the Botswana Grand Prix in Gaborone, before winning consecutive Diamond League races in China. He…

Proceedings on Court Pietrangeli this past week have put a smile on the face of every statuesque Roman god and gladiator lining the perimeter of Foro Italico – indeed it has been a monumental week for Italian tennis. Not only has World No 1 Jannik Sinner re-entered the ATP fray and surpassed expectation after three months of not competing, but his younger compatriots have been inspired to simultaneously excel. Matteo Arnaldi sent GOAT Novak Djokovic prematurely packing 6-3 6-4 in Madrid, precipitated the Serb’s withdrawal from Rome, while Lorenzo Musetti felled defending champion Alexander Zverev 7-6(2) 6-4 in the Rome quarters in arguably the match of the tournament with mercurial shot-making, eclipsing even the mighty Carlos Alcaraz, as the “drop-shot king”. As a result, it will be the first time…

With summer approaching in Europe, Greece offers an appealing escape for global travellers, particularly South Africans who are looking to avoid the winter cold. Renowned for its pristine beaches, rich cultural artefacts, and vibrant culinary delights, Greece offers a diverse range of experiences set against the backdrop of its Mediterranean climate. Millions flock to Greece yearly, with a notable influx of visitors from South Africa. While the larger islands, such as Santorini and Mykonos, often steal the spotlight, a treasure trove of hidden gems beckons those in search of a more intimate connection with Greek culture and landscapes. Here are a few islands that promise authenticity and tranquillity, away from the bustling tourist hotspots. Syros: a blend of culture and relaxation Syros, the capital of the Cyclades, offers a delightful…

We live in a time where scrolling through Instagram or TikTok is like flipping through a modern-day beauty magazine. Flawless skin, perfect bodies and “ageless” faces seem almost ordinary, especially when celebrities like Khanyi Mbau openly share their cosmetic journeys online. But as the allure of cosmetic procedures grows, so do questions around self-worth, societal pressure and the gap between expectation and reality. For many South Africans, it’s easy to relate when public figures discuss hair loss (traction alopecia, anyone?), pigmentation or the desire to age gracefully. Yet, as cosmetic surgery becomes more mainstream, the line between empowerment and insecurity gets blurry. Mbau, a household name in Mzansi, has become synonymous with transformation, sometimes controversially so. Her openness about skin lightening, fillers, Botox and a range of surgeries (from blepharoplasty…

In the decades since apartheid ended, one of the lingering questions that continues to quietly shape conversations – often behind closed doors – is this: what really happened to white people in South Africa and Namibia? It is a question loaded with discomfort, political risk, and emotional complexity. But it must be confronted, not to divide, but to understand, to heal, and ultimately, to move forward as a country still scarred by a deliberately engineered racial order. Let us begin with a difficult truth: “whiteness” itself is a construct, one built for power, not for identity. It is not a culture. It is not ancestry. It is not a shared language or history. Whiteness was invented to justify hierarchy, exclusion, and economic dominance under colonialism and apartheid. Today, that very…

A group of 49 South African Afrikaners has officially been granted asylum in the US and arrived on American soil this past week, prompting concern and condemnation from the South African government. The US cited ongoing racial discrimination, farm attacks, and threats of expropriation without compensation as the basis for offering refugee protection, calling it a humanitarian response to the “persecution of Afrikaners”. In a statement, the US government said: “This tremendous accomplishment, at the direction of Secretary Rubio, responds to President Trump’s call to prioritise US refugee resettlement of this vulnerable group facing unjust racial discrimination in South Africa. We stand with these refugees as they build a better future for themselves and their children in the US.” The US added that “no one should have to fear having…

A stalled housing development in Elsies River has become the subject of a legal dispute and growing frustration among residents, as court documents reveal a messy fallout between a Cape Town contractor and a developer over an incomplete R126 million project. According to the documents, Good Hope Plasterers CC, trading as Good Hope Construction (GHC), entered into an agreement with E-Junction Property Developers (EJPD) to construct the Stay Junction development – a 276-unit mixed-use residential project in Elsies River. But years later, the site remains abandoned and partially built, as the two parties battle over financial guarantees and allegations of fraud and non-performance. GHC approached the Western Cape High Court in an attempt to stop EJPD from calling up two guarantees, arguing that they were tied to a 2020 contract…

Home and Hectare Real Estate are hosting the onsite auction of a spacious industrial building, along with bakery equipment, in Athlone Industrial on June 24 at 11am. The 3348m² property, Biscuits R Us CC – in liquidation – is on a large plot at 2 Carbon Street, on the corner of Carbon Street and Fillies Road with easy access from Jakes Gerwel Drive. The property also features 11 adjacent industrial units, two of which are occupied by the landlord. The other nine are rented out on a month-to-month basis. The bakery equipment comprises: Stainless steel biscuit packaging machine Nine industrial ovens Stainless steel tables Three biscuit cutting machines Six dough trolleys Industrial mixers Mimac melting machine Industrial shelves 45 oven trolleys Three sealers Digital scales Two trolley jacks Manual stacker…

The much-anticipated programme for the Stellenbosch International Chamber Music Festival (SICMF) 2025 has been unveiled, promising an exquisite blend of talent, artistry, and celebration of classical music. From July 4 to 13, the Endler Hall will resonate with the sounds of both established composers and contemporary works, celebrating the festival's 20-year legacy. Kicking off the festivities, a unique alumni orchestra composed of past SICMF participants will perform a special pre-festival concert on Thursday, July 3. This extraordinary ensemble, showcasing talents from the very first festival in 2004 to the present, will feature a programme highlighted by Mahler’s powerful Fifth Symphony, a new piece by Matthijs van Dijk, and Gershwin’s vibrant Concerto in F. Young South African conductor Jacobus de Jager will lead this celebration, with Ian Watson, a distinguished participant…

Nickelodeon is about to experience the charm and sass of the “Pretty Girl from Jo’burg” as Tyla gears up to host the 2025 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards. The 23-year-old South African sensation is breaking barriers, left, right and centre, continuing to dominate 2025. Nickelodeon has announced that the Grammy-award-winning superstar will host the 2025 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Award, which will take place on June 21 at Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California. The Water hitmaker is also nominated for Favourite Global Music Star and Favourite Music Collaboration for WizTheMc and bees & honey’s Show Me Love, on which Tyla is featured. The singer is no stranger to the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards; in 2024, she was nominated for Favourite Global Music Star, Favourite Breakout Artist and Favourite Viral Song (Water).…

The Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) recently concluded its annual Eco-Schools Programme provincial awards, celebrating the achievements of over 350 schools nationwide that are actively championing sustainability, climate action, and environmental education. This year’s awards serve not only as a commendation but also as an inspiration for learners to engage in and address pressing environmental challenges. According to Nomfundo Ndlovu, the Senior Programme Manager for Schools and Youth at WESSA, “These awards are a testament to the power of climate change education in building informed, proactive, and resilient communities. Through the Eco-Schools programme, learners across South Africa are addressing environmental challenges and driving change within their school communities that create sustainable impact. It is an honour to support and celebrate the leadership of our youth in shaping…

Two Cape Town friends will embark on a 270km journey from Porto in Portugal to Santiago de Compostela in Spain to raise R1.2million for life-saving pediatric medical equipment at Tygerberg Hospital. Louise Theron, CEO of Tygerberg Hospital Children’s Trust and entrepreneur Leone Malan will start their two week journey on May 20 in aid of Blisters for Babies, an initiative which is aimed at addressing the dire need for highly-specialised equipment used in the neonatal and pediatric wards. Tygerberg Hospital treats the most babies weighing less than 1500 grams across South Africa. As the largest pediatric unit in the Western Cape, with 210 pediatric beds and 90 neonatal beds, it treats about half of the 2.4 million children living in the province who require specialist medical care. Theron said while…

It has been 16 years since the Western Cape provincial cabinet decided to rebuild Tygerberg Hospital, but the site remains untouched. The project, first announced in 2009, is still stuck in paperwork and planning, with the health department only now moving into the procurement stage. Frustrated residents and critics say it’s a clear sign of failure to deliver. Dwayne Evans, spokesperson for the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness, confirmed this week that the project has not yet reached the construction phase. “The Tygerberg Public Private Partnership (PPP) has progressed through feasibility and Treasury approval and is currently preparing its PPP tender documentation for the procurement stage. “This stage involves refining the service brief and market-engaging potential partners; it does not involve construction on site yet,” he said.…

Just over 74% of South Africa’s electricity still comes from burning coal. In 2021, the country negotiated the Just Energy Transition Partnership with Germany, the UK, France, the US and the EU. They committed to providing South Africa with $8.5 billion (R157bn) to move away from coal to renewable energy. (In March 2025, US President Donald Trump withdrew the US and its share of the funding, about $1.5bn, or R27.7bn, from the arrangement.) Researcher Nqobile Xaba talks to The Conversation Africa about how the partnership is going. What has the partnership done so far? After its launch in 2021, the Just Energy Transition Partnership attracted additional pledges from the Netherlands, Denmark, Canada, Spain and Switzerland. The total amount pledged is now $11.8 billion (R218bn). Although the US has pulled out,…

As consumers continue to battle with making ends meet, income is being eroded by inflation, and jobs are being lost, one solution is to start a side gig. Research indicates that between 14% and 16% of middle-income households earn additional income from one or more side hustles, according to loan provider DirectAxis. This comes as debt is increasing, with DebtBusters stating that, as of the first quarter of this year, 91% of consumers who applied for debt counselling had a personal loan – a record since it started compiling its regular Debt Index. “Personal loans, especially one-month loans, remain a lifeline for many, because income has not kept pace with rising expenses,” says Benay Sager, executive head of DebtBusters. Inflation has had a serious compounding effect on people’s ability to…

The value of having a trusted financial adviser is not to be underestimated. Research in the US shows that advisers can boost clients’ returns by about 3% a year, on average. That’s not necessarily by putting clients into better-performing investments; it’s mainly about influencing their financial behaviour. A recent report from Momentum states that 9% of South Africans use a financial adviser. A more interesting statistic might be the percentage of South Africans who have an established relationship with their adviser, as someone would have with a family doctor, for example. I would estimate that to be below one percent. The best advisers are professionals with the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation, who adhere to high ethical standards and belong to the Financial Planning Institute of South Africa (FPI). Unfortunately,…

When Mandla Ncikazi joined Orlando Pirates four seasons ago, he was tipped to become the head coach of the club in the near future. But that’s yet to take shape. The closest he came to calling the shots was when he was a co-coach alongside Fadlu Davids. His influence in the team alongside Davids didn’t bear fruit during the 2021/22 season as he was deployed as an assistant when Jose Riveiro arrived the next season. Ncikazi didn’t sulk or moan around under the Spaniard. Instead, he welcomed Riveiro with open arms, supported him and learned from him. The duo did incredibly well at Pirates together - they won five trophies, finished as runners-up in the league three times in a row and reached the CAF Champions League semi-final. And so…

Fresh off their Nedbank Cup triumph, Kaizer Chiefs are riding a wave of optimism, but Sekhukhune United are determined to be the storm cloud that threatens to rain on their parade in today’s Premiership clash at the FNB Stadium. The teams enter the match with contrasting Premiership scenarios. Sekhukhune are on a five-match unbeaten run, which includes a win over highly fancied Orlando Pirates, while Chiefs are seeking to recover from a five-match winless streak. Currently seated third on the standings, Sekhukhune hold a one-point cushion over fourth-placed Stellenbosch FC. The pressure is on as they vie for a coveted CAF Confederation Cup spot with only two matches remaining. Chiefs recently found their winning touch, edging out Pirates in the Nedbank Cup final last week, but their dreadful league form…

Kevin de Bruyne can add another honour to his haul as Manchester City’s most decorated player of all time with a fitting farewell in today’s FA Cup final against Crystal Palace (5.30pm SA time start). The Belgian’s trophy-littered decade in Manchester will come to an end at the conclusion of the Premier League season. But Wembley’s showpiece is the 33-year-old’s final chance to lift silverware at the club where he grew into one of world’s best players. A six-time Premier League winner, De Bruyne could add a third FA Cup to his five League Cups and 2023 Champions League win with City. He has expressed his “surprise” that City did not seek to extend his stay, filled with the belief that he can still perform at the highest level. De…

The Bulls have done a great job of honouring Cornal Hendricks this week after his sudden death on Wednesday night. The Pretoria side will continue to do so in the coming weeks, and indeed in today’s United Rugby Championship clash against the Dragons at Loftus Versfeld (3pm start). There will be a round of applause in the 14th minute to acknowledge Hendricks’ No 14 jersey for the Bulls and Springboks over the years. But the best way coach Jake White and his team can pay tribute to Hendricks is by producing a stellar performance and grabbing five log points against the Dragons. That won’t be as easy as it sounds, even though the Welsh club are at the bottom of the log. White spoke at his team-announcement press conference yesterday…

In an era dominated by fast-paced connectivity and the ever-present buzz of social media, South African DJ and producer Fistaz Mixwell has taken a daring plunge into the soothing sanctuary of solitude. Striding away from the vibrant night- life that typically characterises his profession, Mixwell has embraced an unexpected adventure: solo camping. As a testament to his hard work and commitment, he recently unveiled a self-built camper, a project he described as a true “labour of love”. Sharing glimpses of his journey on social media, he captioned a video of his completed project with the phrase, “Solo camping. Solitude. One man. No music.” This declaration echoed deeply with fans, reflecting a newfound appreciation for quietude and introspection in an industry often characterised by relentless noise. The path to creating his…