Indholdsfortegnelse for 2025-06-28 i Weekend Argus Saturday

Every now and then, a property offering comes along that makes even seasoned investors sit up and take notice. Introducing KLEI Aparthotel – a boutique hotel-style investment in the heart of Devonbosch, just launched. Operated by Totalstay™, one of the country’s most dynamic hospitality groups, KLEI brings a new category to the Winelands: a full-service Aparthotel where ownership meets ease, and returns meet design. Buyers benefit from a rental guarantee for three years, zero transfer duty, and a hands-off model – all set within a rapidly evolving precinct that’s redefining what it means to live a life of convenience in the Cape Winelands. Devonbosch is already being recognised as the next frontier of Winelands lifestyle living. It’s a bold blend of the natural and the modern: outdoor trails, cafés, co-working…

Books by the beloved children’s author Jeff Kinney, author of the Wimpy Kid series, are the books that public library patrons tend to forget to hand in on time. Now City Libraries have announced a fine free week for patrons up to the age of 17 during the week of Monday, June 30 – Saturday, July 5, 2025. The amnesty applies at every City of Cape Town public library. Patrons may return the items to any library, regardless of where they were borrowed. “The Fine Free week during the school holiday is a wonderful opportunity for young readers to return books and to enjoy the many activities at libraries. “It is also an opportunity for learners to join and become a member at their nearest library. “Our libraries are popular…

If you are looking for a delightful movie to enjoy this weekend, look no further than Semi-Soeter. Directed by Joshua Rous, this Netflix romcom is bolstered by Mzansi’s crème de la crème of Anel Alexander, Nico Panagio, Sandra Vaughn, Louw Venter, Diaan Lawrenson, Neels van Jaarsveld and Hélène Truter bringing the script to life. And a rib-tickling one at that. Firstly, picturesque Cape Town shines in several of the frames. It evokes a European atmosphere. This sequel to the 2012 Semi-Soet kicks off with Jaci van Jaarsveld (Alexander) and JP Basson (Panagio) having their hands full babysitting the rambunctious brood of Hertjie Greyling (Louw Venter) and Karla (Vaughn). While they love their best friends' little ones, they are grateful to be able to give them back to their parents. The…

Ever notice how your pet dog has got you taped, knows how to get its way with those uber-cute approaches and dreamy expressions? Perhaps you've even pondered whether your faithful furbaby is taking you for a ride with its manipulative prompts, side-eyes and pitiful glances at the door, telling you it wants to go for a W.A.L.K? Well, according to scientists, this is because canines are continuing to evolve to take on the ever-changing demands placed on them as man’s best friend. They suggest that our canine companions are evolving in real-time right in front of our very eyes. We all know that today’s domesticated dogs are quite different from the wild wolves that first ventured into human settlements, where they were ultimately used to hunt, guard our homes and…

In his address at the 1993 ANC national conference, Pallo Jordan said: “The ANC is not the master of the people. It is the servant of the people.” Today, the portraiture of the ANC as a devoted and dutiful servant to its citizenry has all but collapsed. The party of the people has abandoned its scripture. ANC leaders rule over South Africa as if they are remote landlords. Many avoid ordinary citizens as much as possible and visit poor communities in fancy motorcades when there is a calling to collect electoral votes. Seventy years ago, in the dark days of apartheid, thousands of ordinary citizens gathered in Kliptown, Soweto, to adopt the Freedom Charter, a blueprint for a democratic and just South Africa. The ominous presence of armed policemen and…

The Department of Home Affairs is probing allegations that mothers are selling their children’s original birth certificates to foreigners after several instances came to lights where 18-year olds tried to apply for ID documents and couldn’t produce their original birth certificates. The first cases came to light when Mitchells Plain Home Affairs manager, Shereen Meyer, made the revelation during a public meeting attended by government stakeholders and residents. Meyer confirmed to Weekend Argus that an internal investigation was under way after the matter came to the department’s attention when several learners applying for their identity documents (IDs) in matric were unable to produce birth certificates. “Our citizenship is not to be sold,” said Meyer firmly during the meeting, warning of the seriousness of such offences. The Department of Home Affairs…

The City of Cape Town yesterday passed a major amendment to its Municipal Planning By-law, aimed at unlocking affordable rental housing in informal and lower-income neighbourhoods – a move Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis described as “a watershed moment”. The amendment introduces a new land-use right that allows homeowners in 194 designated communities to legally build affordable rental units on their properties. These areas have seen rapid densification over the past decade, particularly through backyarder dwellings and informal structures. While the Democratic Alliance (DA), which holds a majority in Council, voted in support of the amendment, it faced opposition from several parties, including the EFF, Al Jama-ah, the National Coloured Congress (NCC), GOOD, Cape Exit, the PAC, and the Freedom Front Plus. The ANC abstained. In his address to Council, Hill-Lewis stressed…

The case involving a Grade R teacher at Harvester Primary, accused of sending explicit videos to a Grade 7 learner, has brought renewed attention to the often-overlooked issue of female-perpetrated sexual abuse. Clinical Psychologist Dr Gérard Labuschagne explained that such crimes are underreported, especially when the offender is female. “Like many sex crimes we don’t know the true reporting stats, but also for female offenders I think society sees them differently compared to male sex offenders which contributes to less reporting compared to males.” He added that female-perpetrated violent and sexual crime is less common overall, though he has seen several cases involving women abusing children, either alone or in connection with male partners,while some of these women are coerced, others act independently. Labuschagne cited a study of 12 female…

This year, Rhodes University is reaffirming its commitment to cultural engagement by significantly enhancing its long-standing relationship with the National Arts Festival (NAF). Set against the vibrant backdrop of Makhanda, the university’s diverse offerings are rich in research, pedagogy, and performance, shaping a national dialogue on art’s role in reflecting and addressing pressing social justice issues. At the core of Rhodes’ 2025 programme lies a powerful theme of historical reflection, prominently featured in the stirring play A Childhood in Chalk. Crafted by the Drama and Education departments, this narrative entwines childhood memories with the unsettling realities of political resistance, recalling the school boycotts in Fingo Village from 1975 to 1985. Educators Thembela Madliki and Phemelo Hellemann lend emotional depth and scholarly rigor to the production, inviting audiences to confront the…

In celebration of World Environment Day, the Miss Earth South Africa programme made significant strides in community engagement with a hands-on tree planting and vegetable garden project at Zodiac Primary School in Lenasia. This vibrant initiative not only aimed to enhance the school environment but also sought to instil a sense of environmental responsibility among the Grade 3 learners, planting the seeds of sustainability in the hearts of the youth. Transforming a once-barren corner of the school grounds, the project flourished into a lush and educational space. With the collaborative efforts of partners such as Cathay Pacific, Skin Renewal SA, Samsonite, 9Five Fertilizers, Wild Route, 3Sixty Compost, and the Toyota Knights, the children engaged in a meaningful greening activity that left a tangible impact on their surroundings. According to Ella…

Recently I was on the N1 driving to Johannesburg when I passed three trucks carrying proudly made in South Africa vehicles. There’s a tinge of pride knowing that a load of Nissan Navaras, Ford Rangers and BMW X3s are on their way to foreign lands. I happened to be testing the BMW X3 20d xDrive M Sport at the time and knew that the new owners would be well pleased. The X3 is a crucial mid-sized SUV for the Munich-based company and remains one of its top sellers and is also the most popular model in South Africa. With its overall refinement, it’s not difficult to understand why. Exterior Now in its fourth iteration and first launched in 2003, it has aged well, and as the generations have progressed, it…

I’ve loathed the dictatorship of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei for as long as I can remember. As a kid, I’d roll my eyes every morning during the obligatory salute to our supreme leader in the schoolyard. I resented the strictures, the atmosphere of moral probity the man in robes presided over. In other words, you’d think I would be applauding Benjamin Netanyahu’s attack against the Iranian regime. And yet, I’m not sold. Since launching airstrikes against Iran on June 13, the Israeli prime minister has insisted that the bombs raining down on Tehran serve the interests of people like me. Framing his attack as a battle for liberation, he urges Iranians to rise up against Iran’s decades-long theocratic regime. He has even gone as far as to dub the Israeli operation…

Economist Azar Jammine did a little bit of investigative work recently, reviewing a life insurance policy. What he found was rather astonishing: it would pay more for the policy owner to die now because, in about a decade, the premiums paid would amount to more than the value of the policyholder’s life in terms of the policy – the sum insured. Jammine, director and chief economist at Econometrix, tells Personal Finance that, in the case of this policy taken out in 2002, this is because the cost of the monthly debit order increases each month, yet the amount someone has insured their life for doesn’t. Denise Gabriels, Lead Ombud at the Life Insurance Division in the National Financial Ombud Scheme, said that her office had received some complaints that mirror…

During a recent speech, Edward Kieswetter, the Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (Sars), stated that the total amount of tax collected from retirement fund members who made Savings Pot withdrawals amounted to around R15 billion. Put differently, Sars on average received about R25 of each R100 withdrawn, and members only received R75 or less of their own money. Our collective retirement savings pool has been robbed of R57 billion that will never grow tax-free to provide a future tax-free lump sum benefit or a higher monthly pension amount after retirement. In the whole Two Pots debate, the negative effect that income tax has on early withdrawals from our Savings Pots does not seem to be high on the agenda. As a result, fund members make ill-informed…

“Retirement at its Best” is not just an adage here at PlumRus, it is a lifestyle enjoyed daily by our 216 residents. At PlumRus, in Plumstead, we celebrate the golden years with warmth, dignity, and community. From cosy independent living to compassionate assisted living and frail care, our beautiful accommodations are designed to make every resident feel truly at home, because here, life doesn’t slow down, it blossoms. Whether it’s sharing hearty, nutritious meals around the table, joining in soul-enriching activities that bring purpose and joy, or forming meaningful new friendships that feel like family, every resident has an opportunity to experience and enjoy purposeful living, in a safe and secure environment. We have embraced technology, from a paperless application process and digital resident records to emergency alert systems, all…

To see the hitherto erratic, if not underrated, World No 30, Alexander Bublik showcase his brilliance, in carving through both World No 1, Jannik Sinner and former No 1, Daniil Medvedev, to lift the Halle trophy for the second time, was tantamount to watching a dark horse, pip a favourite at Ascot. In his current form, the Kazakhstani poses a real threat at Wimbledon; as his co Finalist, Medvedev, drolly put it in his post match interview: “I hope you’re in Alcaraz’s side of the Draw!” World No 2, Carlos Alcaraz, the Defending champion on this hallowed turf, stands to reach another historic milestone should he win this Major for a third year in a row. The Spaniard, would join GOAT Bjorn Borg, as the only male in…

Kaizer Chiefs director of marketing and commercial affairs Jessica Motaung has moved to address growing concerns around the club’s inability to attract top-tier talent in recent seasons, saying efforts are ongoing despite a highly competitive market. Speaking at Thursday’s launch of the Toyota Cup – which will see Amakhosi face Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko at Moses Mabhida Stadium on July 26 – Motaung was confronted with more pressing matters. While the exhibition match is a marketing success, the bigger issue for supporters remains the lack of elite signings to lift the footballing side. Chiefs are coming off a bittersweet campaign – they lifted the Nedbank Cup, ending a decade-long trophy drought, but still slumped to ninth place in the league, underlining the inconsistency that has plagued the club for years.…

The advent of a unique guided jogging tour through Khayelitsha, Cape Town’s largest township, has sparked a debate among netizens about the ethics and value of such an experience. Local tour operator ABCD Travel is at the centre of this controversy, offering both local and international tourists a chance to lace up their running shoes and jog through the township’s streets for R1 050 via Webtickets. The tour, which includes an introduction to Khayelitsha’s history and community, promises more than just a run – it offers insights into the growth of informal communities, the current population size of the township and its cultural dynamics. The experience also includes stops at a local school, a co-working space and a coffee shop. “This experience is perfect if you want to explore…

This June, Canal Walk will once again transform its Centre Court into a dazzling theatrical wonderland, debuting a spectacular new adaptation of the beloved winter classic, Aladdin. For over 23 years, this enchanting production has captivated families in Cape Town, weaving together heartwarming stories, vibrant costumes, and unforgettable performances. As audiences prepare for yet another magical live theatre experience, this year’s rendition promises to reignite the wonder and joy that have made it a cherished holiday tradition. This year’s rendition of Aladdin is set against the vibrant backdrop of ancient Baghdad, unfolding a tale of a young dreamer whose life changes forever when he discovers a magical lamp. The narrative, drawn from The Arabian Nights, is rich with themes of wit, heart, and redemption, promising an enchanting experience filled with…

In this segment of Raising Tracy, I must admit – this one stretched me. Bent me emotionally. I got the call. The kind no parent wants to get. My son’s teacher, calm and kind as always, rang to inform me about an incident he’d been involved in at school. Now, I won’t go into the details here – the internet has a long memory, and my child deserves the dignity of growing up without his missteps catalogued online. One day he might read this and I want him to know: I understand. And more importantly, I support him in learning from his mistakes. The teacher and I were both a little puzzled. Whatever had happened, it didn’t sound like him. Yes, he’s the king of chatter – Mr 100 words…

Celebrity couple Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom have reportedly split after being together for nearly a decade. The news of their separation comes after Bloom was spotted attending the high-profile wedding celebrations of billionaire Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez in Venice as a “single man”. According to TMZ, Bloom is reportedly embracing his newly single life following his rumoured split from the Roar hit-maker, while the singer is on her LifeTimes Tour in Australia and will not attend the star-studded wedding. The separation rumours have been making the rounds for the past few weeks after Perry was spotted without her engagement ring while on tour. The 40-year-old was also spotted without the ring in her latest Instagram post. To add fuel to the fire, while performing, the singer made a…

As the cost of living steadily climbs, many South Africans find themselves grappling with the daunting task of stretching their budgets while still enjoying nutritious meals. The sharp increase in food prices has left many singletons wondering how to maintain a balanced diet without straining their finances. However, creative culinary approaches and mindful shopping can transform mealtime into a satisfying, budget-friendly experience. Understanding the market dynamics is the first step. According to recent reports, inflation rates have significantly impacted staple foods, making fresh produce a luxury for some. With a little creativity, anyone can become a master in the kitchen, even with limited resources. Here are some tips to help navigate the complexities of cooking for one while keeping expenses low. Plan, shop and prepare One of the most effective…

In a society that has long associated sexual crimes predominantly with men, a troubling shift is unfolding – female-perpetrated sexual abuse is gaining heightened attention. A recent case from Harvester Primary School in Mitchells Plain has sent shockwaves through the community; a female teacher was arrested after sending pornographic videos to a Grade 7 learner, spotlighting the distressing reality of sexual crimes in South African schools. The Education Labour Relations Council revealed alarming statistics, reporting that 111 cases of sexual harassment and abuse of learners by teachers were referred to them in the 2024/25 financial year – a significant jump from 82 cases the previous year. While it remains uncertain how many of these allegations involved female teachers, experts warn that incidents of sexual crimes committed by women are notoriously…

At the screening of the Legacy of Hope documentary premiere, Executive Chairman of the Sekunjalo Group, and guest of honour, Dr Iqbal Survé, highlighted the importance of solidarity among the Global South, and building solidarity amongst South Africans at home. The issues of inclusivity, unity and global solidarity was among the top points highlighted by panelists at the premiere of the Legacy of Hope documentary, which took place on Thursday, at The Wave Theatre Café in Cape Town. Organised by Zoetic Management, in collaboration with Moja Multimedia, Legacy of Hope, Freedom Through Solidarity: The Russia, Cuba, South African Chapter, is a new documentary exploring the crucial role of international support in ending apartheid. This 43-minute pilot episode is the first instalment of a six-part series examining the interwoven histories of…

It looked like a bobbing rubbish bag, dragged along the raging flood water in the street, with the torrential rain pelting down Cape Town streets. But what was inside would change lives forever and unleashed the heroes of a poverty-stricken community. Parkwood grandmother Francis Fick, saw a video of a woman carring a child in a black rubbish bag that she moments earlier rescued from a flooded street and thought that the child must be dead. Then as she was wondering, the woman carried the child to her front door, it was her grandchild Tyler, whom she was waiting for to return from school. Fick, 60, said the incident – which unfolded in Moosa Walk – could have been prevented if the stormwater system had been cleared in time. The…

Cue the goema drums and turn the speakers up – Cape Town has a brand new soundtrack, and it’s echoing with love, rhythm, and local pride. Singer and hometown favourite Fagrie Isaacs has just released his latest track, The Cape Town Song – A Musical Love Letter to the Mother City, and it’s already being hailed as the Mother City’s new anthem. Even Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has thrown his support behind it, praising it as a tribute that captures the city’s heart and soul. “I’ve always had a love for my city like no other,” Isaacs said. “I’ve travelled the world, but there’s no place like Cape Town.” What began as a simple request to create a podcast jingle for Cape Flats Stories, a community-focused platform led by…

In a significant leap forward in the battle against tuberculosis (TB), Stellenbosch University (SU) researchers are spearheading a pivotal global trial aimed at revolutionising TB diagnosis through the innovative use of artificial intelligence (AI). The project seeks to create and validate an algorithm designed to empower healthcare workers at primary care facilities to identify potential TB cases swiftly and accurately, utilising a handheld ultrasound device that connects to a smartphone. “TB remains the world’s deadliest infectious disease, yet it is massively underdiagnosed,” explained Prof Grant Theron, a leading expert in Clinical Mycobacteriology and Epidemiology at SU and the trial coordinator. He said the critical challenges faced in diagnosing TB, where many patients undergo unnecessary testing, while others who desperately require screening are overlooked. “There’s an urgent need for accessible, affordable,…

The Trump administration has announced plans to rescind a decades-old rule that protects nearly 59 million acres of pristine national forest land, including 9 million acres in Alaska’s Tongass National Forest. This controversial move, revealed during a meeting of Western governors in New Mexico, has ignited a fierce debate over environmental conservation and the future of logging in the US. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins stated that the administration would begin the process of rolling back protections for these roadless areas, which have been safeguarded since the late 1990s. If the rollback survives potential court challenges, it could open vast swaths of untouched land to logging and road construction. According to the Agriculture Department, this would affect approximately 30 percent of the land in the National Forest System, including 92 percent…

While reviewing the Ford Wildtrak Supercab, the question most people asked me is: “Can you sit in the back?” The short answer is: “No, and it should not be used as such.” That said, if it is raining or cold or driven by need, I would sit in the back, but it is squashed and uncomfortable. And if you are just a bit taller than I am (1.74m), then it will be far too tight with limited leg room. It was certainly not suited for the road trip we were venturing out on. There are no seats, no backrest and no safety belts. It is a safe, dust-free and spacious space to pack and store goods in, with two secure compartments, one of them housing the vehicle’s jack equipment and…

Donald Trump’s decision to bomb Iran’s hard-to-reach nuclear site at Fordow couldn’t have worked out better. Operationally, it was flawless, and the response it drew from Iran was the best that US President Donald Trump could have hoped for – bloodless and de- escalatory by design. Most important of all, Trump then tried to bounce Israel and Tehran into a ceasefire. Kudos where it’s due. And yet, this is not over. There will be more tough decisions for the White House to make, with profound implications for the cause of nuclear non-proliferation. The problem here isn’t that the ceasefire announced on Monday night was breached within hours. That’s hardly unusual and, in this case, there’s a good chance it takes hold over the coming days. Israel has run through most,…

South Africa’s short-term insurer, Santam, has released its 2025 Insurance Barometer, which paints a sobering picture of the risks confronting local households and businesses. Economic strain, infrastructure decay, crime, and increasingly erratic weather patterns tied to climate change have emerged as key concerns. Now in its fourth edition, the biennial report offers a detailed pulse check on global and local risk trends. Drawing insights from nearly 900 consumers, businesses, and brokers across the country, the report captures shifts in public perception alongside expert industry analysis. Atang Matebesi, CEO of Santam client solutions, said the short-term insurance sector must remain agile. “Once again, weather volatility, infrastructure concerns, and socio-economic challenges have created a tough environment for local insurers. This has been exacerbated by ongoing geopolitical turmoil... threatening the affordability of the…

IN THE leafy heart of Newlands, where the mountain meets the mist and time seems to stand still, something extraordinary is taking shape. Cannon Brewery is not just a development – it’s a thoughtful reimagining of retirement living, where history, elegance, and peace coalesce into a rare and refined lifestyle opportunity. A boutique collection Developed by the team behind the highly sought-after Wytham Estate, Cannon Brewery offers a boutique collection of just 19 exclusive homes, thoughtfully designed for those looking to downscale without compromising on location, comfort, or beauty. Each residence is a sanctuary of light, privacy, and effortless flow – crafted with discerning retirees in mind. Heritage buildings Built on the site of the original Cannon Brewery, this unique development retains the charm and architectural character of its heritage…

As South Africa's champion trainer, Justin Snaith, chases his sixth July win, one of his entries Eight On Eighteen, has secured a promising stall eleven draw, something that could significantly influence the horse's chances of claiming victory in this prestigious event. Eight On Eighteen, the Drakenstein-bred son of the late War Front champion, Lancaster Bomber, features prominently in a competitive 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July field of 18 horses for Hollywoodbets Greyville on Saturday, July 5. The anticipation surrounding the Hollywoodbets Durban July is palpable as the big day on Saturday, July 5, draws nearer. Featured prominently among the top contenders is the Justin Snaith-trained Eight On Eighteen, who has secured a promising stall eleven draw—something that could significantly influence the horse's chances of claiming victory in this prestigious event. However,…

South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns may have exited the FIFA Club World Cup at the end of the group stage with heads held high after showcasing an exhilarating style of play that resonated with fans and football pundits alike. In an interview aired on several social media platforms, renowned football icon Thierry Henry expressed his admiration for the South African club, acknowledging their spirited performances in a fiercely competitive Group F that included notable teams like Borussia Dortmund and Fluminense. Henry noted, “Looking at Group F, I must say, Mamelodi Sundowns were the one team that truly brought excitement to the game. “Their style of football kept you on the edge of your seat.” While they faced challenges in securing advancement with just four points, Henry emphasised that their exit was…

After a year filled with exploration and adventure, American expat couple Kourtney and Kenzo, known as “4K Family TV” on YouTube and TikTok, find themselves grappling with a dilemma. Should they call Durban or Cape Town home? Leaving behind their life in Las Vegas, Nevada, to pursue “The American Dream” in South Africa, they are neck-deep in the charms and challenges of their new life. When Kourtney and Kenzo first arrived, the choice seemed simple, with the picturesque coastal metropolis of Cape Town and the vibrant hub of Johannesburg leading as top contenders. However, as they ventured across the breathtaking landscapes and diverse cultures of South Africa, their recent getaway to KwaZulu-Natal showcased the allure of Durban and nearby Ballito, reshaping their decision-making process. “After I saw South Africa, we…

This documentary is not for the faint-hearted, and when I say that, I mean it. If you're easily grossed out, then maybe stick to a cooking show, because Trainwreck: Poop Cruise is exactly what it sounds like, a holiday that turned into a s***show. What starts as a luxury cruise turns into a stinking, sewage-filled disaster that unlocks a fear I didn’t even know I had. When most people think of cruise holidays, they picture cocktails on sun loungers, that corny Titanic pose with your partner at the bow, and overly friendly staff offering you a smile at every turn. It’s supposed to be endless sunshine, buffets big enough to feed a small country, lots of sex apparently and just the right amount of chaos at the karaoke bar. Cruises…

What began as a long-awaited upgrade to one of Cape Town’s busiest roads has now left residents and road users seething. Months of delays, disrupted routines, gridlocked traffic, and increased criminal activity have turned the rehabilitation of Jakes Gerwel Drive – a major arterial route – into a mounting source of anger for those living and commuting through Goodwood and surrounding suburbs. The roadworks, which stretch between Viking Way and Voortrekker Road, were initially met with optimism. According to residents, construction began in December 2024, but by February, workers had all but disappeared from the site, these residents say – with no clear answers and little progress to show. “We were so excited when they started. Finally, the road was going to get sorted,” said Ryno Palm, Chairperson of the…

tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za Youth Month is rooted in honouring the bravery and sacrifice of young South Africans who helped dismantle apartheid – a legacy that continues to inspire. That same spirit pulsed through Artscape, where the spotlight shone not only on remembrance, but also on rhythm, mentorship, and the boundless promise of tomorrow. The iconic Cape Town arts centre came alive with new energy, as dozens of young musicians and creatives filled its spaces with song, storytelling, and purpose, honouring the legacy of the youth of 1976. At the heart of it all was the Artscape Youth Jazz Series (AYJ) – a vibrant celebration of talent, growth, and opportunity, backed by the Western Cape Education Department and committed partners. The excitement kicked off when the Youth Jazz Soloists Concert gave 14 handpicked…

At a recent adoption event, Sienna – a three-year-old lab and pit bull mix – made a beeline for a man she’d never met and gently placed her paw on his leg. “She saw him, and she started pulling on the leash very hard, which is not normal for her,” said Jackie Poppe, a volunteer with Friends of Campbell County Animal Control in Rustburg, Virginia. The adoption event was held at a church yard sale, and there were several booths with different vendors. Sienna, who needed a permanent home, was going from booth to booth greeting attendees – until she locked eyes with one man and headed directly for him. Poppe tried to pull Sienna away, but she would not leave the man’s side. That is when the man’s wife…

In a lush field of tall grass and poison ivy, Sam Droege, a dedicated wildlife biologist, embarks on his daily commute to the government lab he has managed for over 23 years. However, the future of this vital institution hangs in the balance as the Trump administration’s 2026 budget proposal threatens to defund the lab, jeopardising crucial research on native bees and their role in maintaining biodiversity. As Droege reflects on his decades of work, he faces an uncertain future, one that could have dire consequences for the environment and food production. Droege, a slender 66-year-old with long white hair styled in neat French braids, is one of the world’s leading experts on native bees. These pollinators, which thrive in the wild, differ significantly from honeybees, which are farmed for…

The Camel Trophy is back! Well, it’s not called that anymore, obviously, but the ethos of those gruelling and epic challenges in yellow Land Rovers returns with the new Defender Trophy. Inspired by Trophy and Challenge events of the past, this Defender Trophy will create its own legacy across three demanding rounds of training and competition. Defender says only those who embrace the impossible, with a passion for global conservation, need apply, as well as individuals who embody the values of the original British adventure brand. They are inviting entries from more than 50 countries. Local selections will begin this year, before national finals early next year to determine who will make it to the global final hosted with Defender conservation partner Tusk – in Africa – in 2026. New…

AI deepfakes, video game footage passed off as real combat, and chatbot-generated falsehoods – such tech-enabled misinformation – is distorting the Israel-Iran conflict, fuelling a war of narratives across social media. The information warfare that unfolded alongside ground combat – sparked by Israel’s strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities and military leadership – underscores a digital crisis in the age of rapidly advancing artificial intelligence (AI tools) that have blurred the lines between truth and fabrication. The surge in wartime misinformation has exposed an urgent need for stronger detection tools, experts say, as major tech platforms have largely weakened safeguards by scaling back content moderation and reducing reliance on human fact-checkers. After Iran struck Israel with barrages of missiles last week, AI-generated videos falsely claimed to show damage inflicted on Tel…

The National Financial Ombud Ombud Scheme (NFO) has been operating for just over a year, and last week it released its first annual report, for 2024. The scheme incorporated the ombuds offices for insurance, banking and non-bank credit providers under an overarching Chief Ombud, with separate divisions for the different industries. Thus the annual report covers, among other things, consumer complaints across these financial services industries, with each division presenting its own statistics and case studies. (The report is available to download at nfosa.co.za – see QR) What struck me in the case studies for the banking and credit divisions was the number of cases that were decided in the complainant’s favour because of administrative failures on the part of the product provider, including the absence of transaction records. These…

When entering the Palm Garden Retreat no one would blame you for thinking you are in a charming five-star hotel. We offer a luxurious lifestyle in the heart of Sea Point, where you are independent yet secure in the knowledge that a comprehensive safety net exists (whether you require care, catering or housekeeping) and your physical safety is of utmost importance at all times. Undoubtedly this is one of the premier retirement destinations in the Western Cape. The retreat features 37 apartments and an eight-bed care facility which includes a well-equipped treatment room. The care facility is registered by the Department of Health and Social Development and managed by a top-class nursing manager. The care facility is manned by nurses and carers around the clock and each resident has their…

To be the best, you have to beat the best. That logic has now put a target on the backs of the Proteas following their victory in the World Test Championship final. As they embark on their first series as World Champions of the Test format, stand in captain Captain Keshav Maharaj said it is important that they defend their honour against neighbours Zimbabwe. The first Test will commence this morning in Bulawayo, where the Proteas have taken with them a mix of youth and experience. There’s also a few young guns on the Zimbabwe bench that have prompted a shift in preparations on the part of the Proteas, Maharaj explained. Today’s test against Zimbabwe will be Maharaj’s first time as Proteas captain in a Test match. “I’m very fortunate…

Wimbledon is guaranteed to be picture-perfect when it gets under way next week but the courts will never look the same again after the demise of line judges. For the first time in the tournament's storied 148-year history, the men and women stationed at the back of the courts, calling "out" and "fault", will be missing. The Grand Slam announced in October that it was scrapping its smartly dressed officials in favour of electronic line-calling (ELC) from 2025, following the general trend in tennis. The Australian Open and the US Open have already gone down this route, leaving the French Open as the only one of the four Grand Slams still to use humans in the role. Wimbledon is cherished for its traditions, from the white kit worn by players…

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Grant Kekana believes their second appearance at the FIFA Club World Cup was a vital learning experience – and clear proof that African clubs can match global footballing standards. Sundowns, who previously featured in the tournament in 2016, earned their place this time through continued domestic and continental dominance. And while their campaign ended in the group stages, Kekana insists the Brazilians showed enough resilience and structure to believe they belong on the biggest stage. “It was a good learning experience,” said the 32-year-old. “It’s a tournament that shows we are capable and have the talent to compete. We weren’t humiliated or overrun – we just ran out of time in most games.” One of the standout moments of the campaign came in the 4-3 loss to…

The Luxury Travel Report 2025 has unveiled a notable shift in traveller preferences, revealing that holidaymakers are increasingly rejecting what is termed “beigeification” – the unnerving sameness that has pervaded hotels globally. Stepping into hotel rooms across the globe, from Bangkok to Birmingham, one may encounter a strikingly uniform aesthetic characterised by neutral colours, predictable artwork and standardised amenities. While this homogeneity once promised reliability, today’s luxury travellers crave vibrant, unique environments that reflect character and context. According to the report, about 70% of premium travellers feel that modern hotels have “lost their soul”, and nearly three-quarters say they are unwilling to pay for what they describe as “generic luxury”. With plans to embark on eight leisure trips in 2025, these discerning guests are ready to spend significantly, but…

As part of efforts to diversify tourism offerings and promote rural tourism development, Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille is set to launch a dinosaur interpretation centre in the Free State. The Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre will provide a state-of-the-art visitor experience, nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. This initiative is a collaborative effort involving the Department of Tourism, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), South African National Parks (SANParks) and the Free State provincial government. This R120 million investment, funded by the EU through the South African National Treasury, represents a significant step forward in the country’s mission to create inclusive, educational and globally compelling tourism experiences. The new centre will celebrate Africa’s ancient history, highlighting one of the world’s oldest…

In a world increasingly defined by wealth and capital mobility, understanding the epicentres of affluence is crucial. The World’s Wealthiest Cities Report 2025, published by wealth migration specialists Henley & Partners, in partnership with the data intelligence firm New World Wealth, sheds light on where the globe’s millionaires are congregating. With 10 cities clamouring for recognition on the Top 50 Cities for Millionaires list, the US maintains its stronghold, led by New York City, boasting the highest concentration of high-net-worth individuals. Here are the world’s 10 wealthiest cities and what makes each one unique. New York City: The unrivalled financial capital: New York City tops the list, housing an astounding 384 500 high net-worth individuals, including 818 resident centi-millionaires and 66 billionaires. The city’s wealth stems from a diverse economic…