Indholdsfortegnelse for 2025-06-21 i Weekend Argus Saturday

There I was, minding my own business, music playing softly in the background while I tried to catch a moment of peace – when I felt a little tug at my leg. “Mommy,” he says sweetly, “can I please have R20 for school tomorrow?” A R20? My eyebrows nearly leapt off my face. “Yes, Mommy,” he continues without missing a beat. “I need money to pay for civvies day. And also… tuck shop money.” Right. Of course. Civvies and tuck money. Naturally. Now, I get it. We were all kids once, and this little conversation instantly transported me back to my own childhood — to the sound of my own mommy’s voice echoing in my ears: “Do you think money grow on trees? Or on my back?” Honestly, I…

I’ve been waiting years for a proper documentary on the Astroworld tragedy, one that strips away the headlines, the hashtags and the hype to finally give a voice to the people caught in the chaos. It’s been nearly five years since the deadly incident yet only now, through Netflix’s Trainwreck: The Astroworld Tragedy, are we truly beginning to grasp the horror of the music festival. You can practically feel the breathlessness, the panic, the suffocation that engulfed the crowd that night. It’s a grim reminder of what happens when chaos meets carelessness and no one takes responsibility. Astroworld was supposed to be a celebration. Born out of Travis Scott’s childhood nostalgia for the defunct Six Flags Astroworld amusement park in Houston,Texas, the festival was marketed as a surreal wonderland of…

Israel has gone completely rogue, making it the greatest threat to world peace. Having all but obliterated Gaza, it is now turning its aggression towards the Islamic Republic of Iran. Iran is defiantly responding with its Iron Dome penetrating Fattah-1 hypersonic missiles. Defiance is a characteristic of most in West Asia. Its people have paid dearly for daring to assert their political independence, safeguard their resources, and give their support to Palestine. The cost has been staggering: millions of lives lost – victims of Western-instigated wars cloaked in the language of human rights, democracy, and counterterrorism. Over the past few months, that same machinery of destruction has intensified its focus on Gaza. Israel, the US’ key proxy in the region, has unleashed devastation on a shocking scale. Tens of thousands…

As the rain fell steadily over Stellenbosch on Friday morning, a momentous occasion unfolded within the hallowed halls of Stellenbosch University (SU). The institution proudly celebrated the formal installation of its 16th Chancellor, Lesetja Kganyago, the esteemed Governor of the South African Reserve Bank. This significant ceremony, held in the iconic Endler Hall, was not merely a formality; it was a vibrant testament to the university’s rich heritage and its commitment to fostering a future of academic excellence. With stirring musical performances and a grand academic procession, the event encapsulated the spirit of transformation and leadership that Kganyago embodies, as he takes on the mantle of guiding SU through its next chapter of innovation and social responsibility. The ceremony, held in the Endler Hall, unfolded with stately precision, resounding music…

Cape Town is set to transform its shopping landscape with the upcoming GrandWest Mall, a sprawling 22000m² retail haven adjacent to the iconic Grandwest Casino. This ambitious project, spearheaded by developers Flanagan & Gerard in partnership with Sun International, promises to deliver a vibrant mix of retail outlets, restaurants, and health and fitness centres, catering to the diverse needs of the surrounding communities. With an investment of R600 million, the GrandWest Mall aims to create not just a shopping destination, but a comprehensive leisure experience that will invigorate the local economy and provide thousands of jobs for residents. As construction is slated to begin this September, excitement is building for what is poised to be a landmark development in Cape Town. The GrandWest Mall will be built on the grounds…

For his ordeal of being assaulted by police officers, wrongfully arrested, and then detained, a Mpumalanga man will be paid R110 000 after a court issued the order this week at the High Court of South Africa at the Mpumalanga Division in Mbombela. The Police Ministry has been ordered to pay R80 000 in respect of the plaintiff’s unlawful arrest and detention from January 28-30, 2023. The court further ordered that the Ministry pay R30 000 in respect of the plaintiff’s unlawful assault by police officers. The court heard that the man was travelling in his car with his wife and daughter when he was stopped by a police vehicle and told to alight from the vehicle. Whereafter, he was forced to touch a gun that was in police possession…

Vance Boelter grew up in a sports-loving Lutheran family in a small Minnesota town where nobody locked their doors – a background that gave little hint of the zealotry to come or the deadly violence of which he is now accused. At 17, he had a religious conversion. As he recalled decades later during a passionate sermon overseas, what happened next shook his life. Waving a Bible and thundering from the podium, he spoke about meeting the Holy Spirit and running off pamphlets about Jesus to give to everyone he knew. “So often in the world today, everyone wants an excuse for not doing the right thing. We want to blame someone else,” he preached in the Democratic Republic of Congo, as seen in a video posted online. “God doesn’t…

The Tiger Brands Foundation (TBF) and the University of the Free State (UFS) will drive nutrition education at the 2025 Continuing Nutrition Education (CNE) Symposium, hosted at the Equitas Building, UFS Bloemfontein Campus. Themed “Nourishing from the Roots: Sustainable Diets for a Thriving Future,” the symposium brings together 120 dietitians, researchers, and advocates to address South Africa’s nutrition crisis, with over 50% of households with young learners facing food insecurity. Rooted in the Free State’s legacy of agricultural abundance and community resilience, this event builds on the success of last year’s Dietetics with Dignity symposium. It offers Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points accredited by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) for registered dietitians and nutrition professionals. Esteemed experts, including Dr Lucia Meko, Dr Elmine du Toit, and Ms…

With Matric exams approaching and applications for tertiary studies being submitted, many Grade 12 learners (and their families) are asking: What should I study? What if I fail? What if I don’t know what to do? To help, IIEVega, an educational brand of the Independent Institute of Education, recently hosted a candid online Q&A session titled “Finding your career path to passion and purpose”. The discussion featured Professor Zak Nel, a veteran Career Counsellor and Counselling Psychologist, and his son Zak Nel Junior, an Industrial Psychologist, Psychometrist and Doctoral candidate at the University of the Free State. The father and son duo gave practical, honest advice to help Grade 12 learners make informed choices about their future. Here are the 10 most common questions from Grade 12 learners and the…

In a significant artistic endeavour to honour the legacy of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, the Stellenbosch International Chamber Music Festival (SICMF) has announced the commission of a unique commemorative artwork. This year marks the festival’s 20th anniversary, and Artistic Director Nina Schumann has engaged renowned South African pointillist Gavin Rain to create a portrait of Tutu, a cherished late patron of the festival. Gavin Rain, celebrated for his innovative technique using small circles that blend light and dark to form images, aims to create a breathtaking tribute that embodies the spirit of community the SICMF has nurtured over the past two decades. Rain, whose exhibitions span across major cities including Cape Town, Johannesburg, Venice, and Miami, will be employing a new method for this commissioned piece unlike anything seen before…

In a landmark achievement for biodiversity conservation, Haarwegskloof has been officially designated as a provincial nature reserve, marking the last remaining connected expanse of renosterveld on the planet. This vital ecological haven, managed by the Overberg Renosterveld Trust (ORT) and overseen by WWF South Africa, spans an impressive 547 hectares of Critically Endangered Eastern Rûens Shale Renosterveld. Nestled between the charming towns of Swellendam and Bredasdorp in the picturesque Overberg region, this reserve plays a crucial role in protecting a unique ecosystem. The reserve is home to a staggering array of endemic and rare plant species, which flourish in this unique ecosystem. Moreover, it provides a critical habitat for threatened avian species, including the elusive Black Harrier and the majestic Cape Vulture. Notably, secretive mammals such as the Aardwolf and…

British lawmakers made a historic decision this week by voting to decriminalise the termination of pregnancies after 24 weeks in England and Wales. This landmark amendment, which passed with a vote of 379 to 137, will prevent the criminal prosecution of individuals suspected of having unlawful abortions, marking a significant shift in abortion laws that have remained largely unchanged for decades. Abortion in England and Wales is illegal under the 1861 Offences against the Person Act – a Victorian-era law that makes abortion a criminal offense that carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. That bill was written at a time when women could not vote, own property after marriage, or access higher education. The vote followed an increase in recent years in investigations and prosecutions of people suspected of…

South Africa’s farming sector is under growing financial pressure, prompting many farmers to adopt innovative strategies to maintain profitability. These can include contract farming arrangements, leasing portions of land to third parties, or switching to higher-value crops and infrastructure investments. However, these changes can introduce new risks that may not be covered under their existing insurance policies. I urge farmers to prioritise full disclosure of any changes to their operations. When a farmer’s insurance policy is initially underwritten, it is based on specific farming-related activities, whether it’s cattle farming, crop production, or fruit farming. Alterations to operations — such as leasing farm space to outside contractors, installing solar energy systems, or engaging in third-party processing — change the risk profile. If these aren’t disclosed to the insurer, the policy may…

Paris Saint-Germain suffered a shock 1-0 Fifa Club World Cup defeat against Brazilian side Botafogo on Thursday night in a hard-fought battle between the reigning champions of Europe and South America. A first-half goal from Brazilian international Igor Jesus proved the difference as Botafogo all but sealed a place in the knockout rounds in front of a 53,699 crowd at the Pasadena Rose Bowl. French champions PSG are widely regarded as one of the favourites for Fifa’s 32-team tournament after a dazzling season which culminated with a scintillating 5-0 demolition of Inter Milan in the Champions League final last month. But their hopes of securing a victory which would have seen them become the first side to reach the last 16 were stymied by a resilient performance from their opponents…

Palmeiras drew first blood in Club World Cup Group A with a 2-0 victory over Al Ahly on Thursday in New Jersey. Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami beat FC Porto 2-1 in the group’s other clash on Thursday after two goalless draws in the first round of fixtures. The Al Ahly match was suspended in the 63rd minute because of a weather warning, with players and fans at the MetLife Stadium instructed to “take shelter” because of a nearby storm. Palmeiras were leading by two goals at the time, with a Wessam Abou Ali own goal sending the Brazilians ahead in the 49th minute, before Flaco Lopez doubled their lead on the Egyptians 10 minutes later. It was the third match at the tournament affected by adverse weather at the tournament.…

Mamelodi Sundowns will receive an impressive R174 million just for participating in the 2025 Fifa Club World Cup, as well as R36 million for each victory during the group stage. This substantial financial injection will enable Sundowns to easily maintain and enhance their stronghold in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), ensuring their ongoing dominance in domestic football. However, this development is rather ominous for the PSL’s two glamour teams, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates. Both clubs boast a rich history and monumental fan-bases, often highlighted by the ‘sold out’ Soweto Derbies, where passion and rivalry ignite stadiums. Chiefs and Pirates have also enjoyed the thrill of several capacity crowds over the past two seasons. Until recently, Chiefs have not won a trophy in a decade, but they continue to attract…

The 7th International Loving Peace Art Competition, organised by the South Africa branch of the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG), was a resounding success as it unfolded at the Sherwood Community Hall in Manenberg recently. Children and youth from 11 local schools gathered, bringing with them powerful artwork that voiced their innermost dreams of peace under the theme “Peace, Let’s Be Friends! What can we do to achieve peace?”. With creativity and hope flowing from their brushes, the young participants explored the nuances of peace, depicting scenes filled with empathy, cultural harmony, and a vision of a world free from conflict. Each piece was a heartfelt reflection of a generation yearning for a brighter, more peaceful future. The festivities commenced at 10am and began with an opening prayer and dua,…

In a candid conversation on BBC’s 1Xtra with host Remi Burgz, Will Smith opened up about the profound transformation he has undergone since the infamous incident at the 2022 Oscars, where he slapped comedian Chris Rock. Smith described the introspective journey as “brutal but beautiful” or “brutiful”, ultimately leading to a new era of creativity and self-awareness. Reflecting on the shocking moment, which was televised worldwide, the actor acknowledged that it forced him to take a “big, strong, honest look at myself”. In the aftermath of the incident, which occurred after Rock made a joke about his wife Jada Pinkett Smith’s hair loss, Smith decided to take a step back and engage in deep self-reflection. “After the Oscars I shut it down for a minute and really went into the…

A man who gunned down two police officers during a patrol in Kraaifontein has been sentenced to two life terms and 47 years in prison. Mxoleleni Sikhahla, 36, was convicted in the Western Cape High Court for the February 2021 killings of Sergeant Mnakwazo Mdoko and Constable Mninawa Breakfast. The sentence was handed down on Wednesday, June 19, 2025, following Sikhahla’s conviction on nine of 10 charges. The murders took place in the early hours of February 28, 2021, when Sergeant Mdoko, 44, and Constable Breakfast, 32, were ambushed while on patrol in Nondakuthini Street, Bloekombos. Warrant Officer Zinzi Hani, spokesperson for the Hawks, said the officers were seated in their patrol vehicle when they were attacked. “They were fatally shot while in their patrol vehicle,” Hani said. “It was…

Cats of South Africa, a coalition dedicated to cat welfare across the nation, is taking a significant leap towards advancing the wellbeing of community felines through the participation of veterinarians in the Feral Fix Challenge. This global initiative, spearheaded by Alley Cat Rescue, calls upon veterinary professionals to offer low-cost or free spay/neuter surgeries and rabies vaccinations for free-roaming cats. The underlying aim is to ensure humane management of feral cat populations, reducing risks of shelter euthanasia, starvation, and disease. As a testament to the Challenge's impact, over 470 000 cats have been spayed or neutered since its inception, highlighting the substantial progress made in managing feral cat populations worldwide. Cats of South Africa has specifically chosen July as “Feral Fix Month,” aligning this campaign with Mandela Day, celebrated on…

In recognition of her unparalleled dedication to children’s wellbeing and public health, Professor Lucie Cluver has been appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours List. An honorary professor at the University of Cape Town (UCT) and a professor of Child and Family Social Work at the University of Oxford, Cluver’s groundbreaking research over the past 14 years has made significant strides in improving the lives of children and adolescents across sub-Saharan Africa. Professor Cluver, in collaboration with Associate Professor Elona Toska, director of UCT’s Accelerate Research Hub, and Professor Cathy Ward, director of UCT’s Safety and Violence Initiative and the Centre for Social Science Research, has been a leading force in interdisciplinary studies that address the multifaceted challenges facing vulnerable…

Nothing quite gets the adrenaline pumping like the thought of careering around a track in a car that’s specially designed for maximum power and performance. It’s also pretty impressive to see close to R60 million lined front to back at the Zwartkops raceway in Pretoria. It’s where the Mercedes-Benz AMG Driving Academy is situated and we had the rare opportunity to throw a horde of them around the track with wild abandon. Brad Pitt It was also a precursor to the Apex F1 movie which is due to be released shortly. Naturally, the Mercedes F1 livery features strongly in the film that stars Brad Pitt, Damson Idris, Kerry Condon, Tobias Menzies and Javier Bardem. There’s also a couple of cameos by multiple world champion Lewis Hamilton (now racing for…

Every year on 16 June, South Africans commemorate Youth Day, a moment that honours the bravery of young people who stood up against injustice in 1976. But beyond remembering the past, Youth Day is a powerful reminder that the fight for a better future continues—and this generation has a critical role to play. For young South Africans, the challenge isn’t just political. It’s about economic empowerment, financial literacy, and securing a sustainable future. In today’s world, financial independence is one of the most valuable forms of freedom, yet it remains elusive for many. The truth is, financial stability isn’t built in a day—it’s about the small, consistent steps taken over time. Inspired by Zihaad Israfil, CEO of CFI Financial Group South Africa’s advice, here are six steps young South Africans…

A large portion of the expenses of personal income goes towards education, for those people lucky enough to have an income. Momentum Investo did extensive research into what it costs to raise a child. “At inflation-related sums, it can cost R550 000 for the first six years, between R640 000 and R880 000 for primary school, and up to R1 million for high school. A three-year degree at a South African university may cost R660,000. These numbers add up to R3 million.” Standard Bank’s estimate is much the same. “Conservative estimates indicate that it can cost around R10,000 per month in today’s economy to raise a child, which means that over an 18-year period, factoring price increases, you can expect to spend over R2.5 million.” That is without considering sending…

With the next instalment of the United Rugby Championship starting in a couple of months, the Lions have added some exciting players to their arsenal in a bid to strengthen their squad to challenge for a first playoff berth. The latest addition is former Bulls general Chris Smith, who returns from a two-season stint overseas at French club Oyonnax, crossing the Jukskei from the Pretoria side where he last played before leaving the country. Smith, a consistent kicker, had some strong performances in the blue jersey. So, the Johannesburg side will hope he can take his game to another level as they look for a flyhalf who can spearhead the team to the quarter-finals in the coming season. They have struggled for consistency in the No 10 jersey for the…

Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano admitted he is surprised at Lionel Messi’s desire to win after the MLS side shocked Porto at the Club World Cup on Thursday. Veteran playmaker Messi curled home a fine free-kick in a Player-of-the-Match performance at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, the winning goal in Miami’s 2-1 Group A victory over their Portuguese opponents. Mascherano said his Argentine compatriot’s competitive spirit at 37 was more surprising to him than the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner’s quality. “Beyond his goal... he’s a player who shows us how to compete, his hunger, his desire to continue competing at whatever level it is,” Mascherano told reporters. “In a footballing sense, what else is there to say? He’s the best player that has played this sport in its history, but…

Australia dropped Marnus Labuschagne yesterday for the opening match of their three-Test tour of the West Indies after a poor run of form, while Steve Smith is out injured. Teenager Sam Konstas and Josh Inglis come into the starting XI for the opening match in Barbados starting next Wednesday. Labuschagne opened the batting in the World Test Championship final loss to South Africa last week, but managed scores of only 17 and 22 on a challenging Lord’s pitch. His last hundred for Australia in Test matches was in July 2023, against England at Manchester. Since then, the South African-born right-hander has averaged 24.7 with the bat in 16 matches. “Marnus at his best can be a really important member of this team,” chair of selectors George Bailey said. “He understands…

World No 1 Jannik Sinner is looking forward to a bit of unexpected down-time after his second-round loss at Halle in order to prepare better for Wimbledon. The Italian defending champion went down 6-3 3-6 6-4 to the 45th-ranked Kazakh Alexander Bublik in Thursday’s second round in the German grass-court Wimbledon warm-up. “I have to accept what happened. I’m now going to have a few days rest before Wimbledon, which are going to do me good,” said Sinner. Bublik claimed his second victory in six encounters against Sinner. “We are tennis players and we try to win every match we play, but it is a special one,” Bublik said. “I had never beaten a number one in the world. It is an accomplishment. “I had an amazing forehand to break…

The Covid-19 pandemic has reshaped the way we operate, with scores of people embracing the freedom of remote work. This shift has given rise to a lifestyle known as digital nomadism, where individuals can work from anywhere in the world while exploring new cultures and environments. Although the concept of digital nomadism gained traction in the 2010s, its roots can be traced back to the early 2000s and even earlier. The term itself emerged in the 1990s, referring to those who leveraged technology to work remotely while travelling. Today, the digital nomad lifestyle is more popular than ever, and numerous destinations around the globe cater to this growing community. Here are some of the best places for digital nomads to consider. European gem: Portugal Portugal has become a favourite for…

The airport – a bustling nexus of dreams and departures – can also be the site of emotional turmoil when luggage goes missing. For countless passengers, the excitement of travel is often laced with anxiety about their bags. While some stories celebrate joyous reunions, others reflect the heartbreak of lost belongings, highlighting the human experience that can easily get overlooked in the hustle and bustle of air travel. According to recent findings from SITA, the world’s leading specialist in air transport communications and information technology, 5.3 billion passengers travelled by air in 2024, marking an 8.2% increase from 2023. As passenger numbers rose, so did the volume of checked luggage. However, the global rate of mishandled luggage has seen significant improvement, dropping to 6.3 bags per 1 000 passengers, down…

Children are embracing technology more and more and are engaging with artificial intelligence powered chatbots, the viral phenomenon of Italian brainrot memes, and a fresh interest in rhythm-based gaming. According to a report, children aged 8 to 10 spend approximately six hours a day glued to screens, while preteens – those aged 11 to 14 – average even more at about nine hours. As a significant portion of their lives unfolds online, understanding their digital interests is paramount for parents hoping to foster healthy online habits. This year’s findings indicate a striking rise in interest surrounding AI tools. Notably, while AI applications didn’t feature in the top 20 most-used apps in the previous year, Character.AI has recently entered the list. Children are increasingly not only curious about AI but actively…

Call South African politics and politicians many things but predictable is not one of them. Fresh from Liam Jacobs crossing over from the Democratic Alliance to his political nemesis, The Patriotic Alliance, South Africans were treated to another bombshell this week. Former EFF founder turned former uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) Secretary General, Floyd Shivambu announced he was mulling the idea of forming a new party of his own – but not yet. He will remain a member of MK for now. Confused? Don’t be. Its the chess game of politics. Shivambu is pulling off the same stunt as that of former president Jacob Zuma, now MK leader. Remember how Zuma made the shocking announcement he was leading MK while still a member of the ANC in 2023? He was later…

As the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran intensifies thousands of kilometres away, South African consumers are bracing for increased financial pressure stemming from a surge in global oil prices. With the Israeli bombardment of Iranian military targets escalating hostilities, the ripple effects of this geopolitical strife are expected to dampen household budgets, leading to higher inflation and rising costs of living. The war erupted over a week ago as Israeli airstrikes targeted Iranian military infrastructure, including pivotal oil and gas facilities such as the South Pars gas field and the Shahr Rey oil refinery, provoking retaliatory missile attacks by Iran on major Israeli cities. This has raised alarm bells among market watchers, particularly given Iran's critical role as the third-largest oil producer within the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting…

Families living at Irene Grootboom House in central Cape Town are once again facing uncertainty after an urgent eviction case brought against them by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure was postponed for the second time. The case, which was meant to be heard in the Western Cape High Court this week, was delayed to July 29, 2025 following a request by the department. The wait continues for the more than 30 residents of the state-owned building at 104 Darling Street, some of whom have lived there for over 20 years. A resident, who asked not to be named, said: “We were ready for court. Now we’re told we must wait again. We’ve lived here since before many of our children were born.” Legal representatives from the Ndifuna Ukwazi…

A man who had brutally assaulted and murdered his new girlfriend, will serve a life sentence behind bars for the heinous deed, to which he pleaded guilty. This week, the Polokwane High Court sentenced 32-year-old Nhlanhla Gift Mathye from Dennilton to life imprisonment for the brutal murder of his 54-year-old girlfriend. He was also sentenced to an additional 15 years for robbery with aggravating circumstances and 10 years for defeating the ends of justice. The sentences will run concurrently. National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson, Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi, said when pleading to the charges he faced, Mathye said in his statement, made in terms of Section 112(2) of the Criminal Procedure Act, that he and the deceased had been in a romantic relationship for only two months. “On 24 September (last year),…

The family of Simthande Myeza, a well-known digital content creator, has confirmed that he was abducted on Tuesday evening, June 17, 2025, while using a ride-hailing service in the Umbilo area of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. According to a statement issued by family spokesperson Lomsongaka Myeza, Simthande was taken shortly after boarding an e-hailing service vehicle. KZN police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda confirmed a case of kidnapping was being probed. “The victim requested services of an e-hailing vehicle, however, the driver drove towards a different direction and along the way, two other men got into the vehicle and the three men took the victim to a house where he was reportedly made to withdraw an undisclosed amount of money, and was also forced to solicit money from family and friends,” said Netshiunda.…

Liberty Midlands Mall announced the launch of the ARTopia School Arts Project, a creative and eco-themed initiative aimed at encouraging primary school learners in Pietermaritzburg to explore environmental issues through visual art. The 2025 edition, themed "Sustainable Strokes," features learners from Grades 1–7 who will express their thoughts on sustainability, climate change, conservation and renewable energy through art. This exciting project is designed to raise environmental awareness, foster creativity in young minds and to reward creative expression. Three schools will each win a R 10 000 cash prize, with a total of R 30 000 in cash to be won, with additional prizes to be won. The ARTopia School Arts Project offers primary school learners an opportunity to showcase their talent and explore the importance of sustainable living. Students are…

For years, Barry Hilton has been the beloved comedic voice of South Africa, effortlessly blending sharp wit with self-deprecating humour. But beneath the laughter lies a profound truth: for Hilton, comedy has not just been a performance; it has been a survival mechanism. Now, with his latest project, Barry Hilton in 3D (depression, dyslexia, ADHD), Hilton invites audiences on a deeply personal journey – one that transcends his trademark punchlines. In recent times, Hilton has taken a big step forward to address the complexities of mental health through humour. After enduring silent years of battling Depression, Dyslexia, and ADHD, he experienced a pivotal moment. “I broke down,” he recalls, “and that breakdown turned into a breakthrough”. What followed was a newfound commitment to connection and honesty, propelling him on a…

The US Fish and Wildlife Service announced that it plans to declare seven species of pangolin endangered, a move meant to stiffen penalties for those who poach and smuggle “the world’s most heavily trafficked mammal”. The pangolin, which looks like a cross between an anteater and an armadillo, holds the distinction of being the only mammal on Earth covered head to tail in scales. But that scaly shield, and people’s quest for it, has led to the undoing of pangolin populations. Demand for both pangolin scales and meat has driven the animal to the edge of extinction – and may have played a role in instigating the coronavirus pandemic. The Fish and Wildlife Service posted a Federal Register notice this week proposing to add all species of pangolins to the…

This week, a pivotal moment for wildlife conservation unfolded as 10 critically endangered black rhinos were successfully translocated from South Africa to Zinave National Park in Mozambique. This marks a significant step in restoring the black rhino population, which has been locally extinct in the region for over fifty years. The initiative was made possible through the generous donation of these rhinos by South Africa’s provincial conservation entity, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, in collaboration with Mozambique’s National Administration for Conservation Areas (ANAC) and the Peace Parks Foundation. Financial support from players of the UK People’s Postcode Lottery has also played a crucial role in this undertaking. The 10 rhinos — comprising of five males and five females — were carefully sourced from the Ithala Game Reserve and Ezemvelo’s three Black Rhino…

In a heartwarming celebration of love and community, the Amy Foundation, in collaboration with Uthando South Africa, Gildedge Travel, and Bradley Bailey of the Kind Heart Bench Project, has unveiled the Kind Heart Bench at the Foundation's headquarters in Sybrand Park. This new installation is far more than just a structure; it stands as a powerful symbol of kindness, connection, and emotional support. Located at 2 Dagbreek Street, the Kind Heart Bench is envisioned as a sacred space for reflection and togetherness. It serves as a vivid reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can create profound waves of change. “The greatest impact often doesn’t come from grand gestures, but from consistent compassion,” said Aaishah Samsodien, marketing and communications assistant at the Amy Foundation. “This bench reminds us that…

Looking for a right-hand drive American pickup or muscle car, fancy a Dodge Challenger or Charger, perhaps a Chevy Camaro or Toyota Tundra? Like America, there’s nothing small about them, and thanks to a venture between Rospa International and Autogroup International (AGI), South African American car fans can now legally register and own them. Classics Durban-based Rospa International has built a reputation for importing classic and sports cars into the local market. Until now they have mainly been sourced from Japan for local enthusiasts and include Nissan GT-Rs, Honda NSXs, Toyota AE86s and Mazda RX-7s. AGI was founded in Australia more than 30 years ago. They started off by converting a 1993 GMC Sierra pickup truck from left to right-hand drive. That started a worldwide business that converts American-made SUVs,…

GIVEN the poverty, inequality and unemployment young people perpetually face in this country, what is it that an increasingly impoverished and disenfranchised youth should celebrate this Youth Month? Are we paying lip service to the legacy of the class of 1976, or are we genuinely committed to addressing the systemic challenges young people face, while acknowledging the failures of the present? It’s been 49 years since the students of 1976 stood up against the apartheid regime. Their determination and sacrifice sparked a national movement that would impact South African history. Seth Mazibuko, one of those who co-ordinated the June 16 uprising, said: “What is now heartbreaking to witness in 2025 is how many of the struggles we fought for, which claimed thousands of lives, still plague today’s youth. How is…

The Financial Services Conduct Authority (FSCA) is considering “regulatory action” against the South African Local Authorities Pension Fund (SALA) because it isn’t providing the required information on members’ contributions. That the FSCA is considering regulatory action is the result of yet another referral from the Office of the Pension Funds Adjudicator (OPFA) regarding the pension fund and its failure to address several issues. The FSCA has, Corlia Buitendag, departmental head of retirement fund conduct supervision at the FSCA, previously engaged the Fund to address issues. Buitendag told Personal Finance that “it is deeply concerning that, despite these interventions, the Fund has shown no meaningful improvement. Regulatory action is being considered.” The Office of the Pension Funds Adjudicator’s most recent referral of SALA to the FSCA came after the Pension Funds…

While the long-term benefits of investing through a retirement annuity should not be underestimated, there’s a lot more to this retirement funding vehicle that investors should be aware of. In this article, we explore the many benefits of a retirement annuity (RA) and how to maximise these benefits in your investment portfolio. Understanding the basics of an RA While employer-sponsored pensions and provident funds remain the default retirement vehicles for many South Africans, a retirement annuity (RA) is a powerful individual investment option with distinct advantages. Available to anyone earning taxable income, a Registered Account (RA) offers a structured and tax-efficient way to save for retirement. It is particularly well-suited to the self-employed, contract workers, or those without access to a workplace fund. Investors can contribute up to 27.5% of…

Should his plans fall in place, Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus wants to use at least seven of the 14 rugby matches this year to keep his older guard fit and ready to continue playing at the highest level. With the other seven, he will be able to give the younger players more experience at the highest level ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, helping them achieve a target of at least 14 or 15 Test caps ahead of the tournament. The Boks are set to play 13 Tests this year, and will start the season with a friendly match against the Barbarians, next Saturday in Cape Town. An additional Test for later this year must still be confirmed by SA Rugby. Erasmus has said keeping his experienced guys fit…

The grass-court season is in full swing, with top players spread between Halle, Germany and Queens Club, England – and even before Wimbledon starts, we’ve seen a handful of inspired cameos worthy of any major. Tatjana Maria, a German veteran and mother of two, was crowned ‘Queen of Queens’ in winning this inaugural WTA tournament as a qualifier, in front of a packed crowd, with her husband and coach, Charles Edouard, and daughters, Charlotte and Cecilia (asleep in a pram) courtside. This was a classic, in that Maria employed old-school tactics reminiscent of GOAT Martina Navratilova, slicing and dicing her way through a formidable line-up – which included both former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina and Australian Open winner Madison Keys – before trumping Amanda Anisimova, half her age, 6-3 6-4…