Indholdsfortegnelse for 2025-07-05 i Weekend Argus Saturday

Even during his federal criminal trial in New York, the descriptions of Sean Combs were frequently those of awe: one former assistant called him “a god among men.” “Larger than life,” said witnesses over and over – his accusers included. And that he was, until it all came crashing down. The music and entertainment titan known for his legendary A-list “white parties” had multiple mansions, a private jet, a business empire and scores of accolades. Then, in September 2024, he was arrested on sweeping charges, including running a criminal ring that allowed him to commit harrowing sexual abuse. And after a two-month-long courtroom saga, a jury of 12 New Yorkers on Wednesday found him guilty of two prostitution-related counts – but acquitted him of more serious allegations of racketeering and…

David Dabede ‘DD’ Mabuza passed away in Johannesburg on 3 July 2025, at the age of 64. Quiet yet formidable, Mabuza’s journey from rural Mpumalanga to national power was as improbable as it was compelling. Mabuza’s political career was one of remarkable resilience, calculated manoeuvring, and a reputation for feline-like cunning that earned him the nickname “The Cat”. Through shrewd calculations, alliance-building, and opportunistic shifts, he not only secured provincial supremacy but also played a decisive role in the national political realignment that led to Cyril Ramaphosa’s rise to presidency in 2017. Mabuza’s political life began in earnest after his years as a teacher and school principal. Having served in the South African Democratic Teachers’ Union, he joined the ANC after its unbanning in 1990. By skillfully navigating factional terrain,…

SA Rugby chief executive Rian Oberholzer has defended the current ticket prices for Springbok matches following recent criticism from the public. South Africans have turned to social media in recent months to vent their frustrations, with many hesitant to spend their hard-earned money to watch the double world champion Springboks. The 2025 Test schedule is less glamorous than that of 2024, when Ireland visited for two high-profile Tests. This year, the Springboks hosted the Barbarians in Cape Town last Saturday, and will face Italy in Pretoria and Gqeberha, followed by Georgia in Mbombela in the coming weeks. There were many empty seats, especially behind the poles, during the Barbarians match on a bitterly cold and wet day in Cape Town. Thousands of unsold tickets also remain for today’s fixture against…

South Africa’s agricultural sector has emerged as a beacon of hope, recording a remarkable growth of 15.8% in the first quarter of 2025. This impressive performance has not only added 0.4 percentage points to the country’s overall GDP growth but has also starkly contrasted with declines in critical sectors such as manufacturing, mining, electricity, and construction. The surge in agricultural output is primarily driven by increased activity in the horticulture and animal products sectors. The National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) said as the agricultural sector flourishes, South African agricultural exports have also seen a significant uplift, climbing by 6% from the previous quarter and an impressive 10% year-on-year, culminating in a value of US$3.35 billion (R61bn). This growth has been significantly bolstered by the rising demand for horticultural and grain…

Detective Captain Wesley Lombard’s name has become synonymous with professionalism, diligence, and quiet heroism – particularly in two high-profile cases that have captured national attention and sparked widespread community engagement. As the lead investigating officer in the case of missing six-year-old Joshlin Smith, Captain Lombard played a pivotal role in steering the investigation and ultimately served as a key state witness in the kidnapping and human trafficking trial that followed. More recently, he and his team were at the forefront of another urgent and emotionally charged case – the safe recovery of nine-day-old baby Mogamat Imaad Shamar, who was abducted on Saturday, 28 June, from his mother at Middestad Mall in Bellville. In both instances, community members, local organisations, and civil society groups have praised Captain Lombard for his thorough,…

A doctor, believed to be a gastroenterologist, is lucky to be alive after an attempt was made on his life as he approached his workplace at Life Westville Hospital yesterday morning. Police are investigating a case of attempted murder after a gunman opened fire on the doctor. He sustained multiple gunshot wounds. KZN police spokesperson, Constable Thenjiswa Ngcobo, said a case of attempted murder was being investigated. “This follows an incident in which a 65-year-old man was attacked by unknown men, while on his way to work. He was able to escape but suffered multiple gunshot wounds. The motive for the attack is unknown,” said Constable Ngcobo. According to reports, the doctor was driving an SUV and was about to enter the hospital’s property when gunshots were fired directly into…

In a vibrant display of creativity and environmental consciousness, young fashionistas from Riverton Primary School, as well as Elswood and Bellville South High Schools, captivated audiences with their unique runway show, where discarded materials took centre stage. The event, themed #BeatPlasticPollution in honour of World Environment Day 2025, showcased the innovative designs crafted from what many would consider trash, advocating for a new perspective on waste management. Hosted at Riverton Primary School in Bishop Lavis, the runway event was a culmination of the hard work put in by members of the Eco-Club, which has been supported by GrandWest and the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) for the past three years. Each young designer illustrated how creativity can transform everyday waste into wearable art, sparking a dialogue about…

Animal shelter employees were enjoying a rare quiet moment in the lobby when a yell came from a room designated for small animals: “Shut the f--- up.” Four employees looked at one another in confusion. Then the shriek came again. The culprit? Hendrix, a blue-and-gold macaw who came to the shelter the prior month, surrendered by his longtime owner. The cursing only became louder after that late-May afternoon. Chantelle Rogers, administrative assistant at the Forever Paws Animal Shelter in Fall River, Massachusetts, was tasked with writing a blurb to help Hendrix get adopted. She opted for honesty. “If you adopt Hendrix, you’re basically adopting Samuel L. Jackson,” Rogers wrote on Facebook, referring to the actor who is known, in part, for his delivery of profanity-laced dialogue in movies. “This bird’s…

Volvo is of course synonymous with advanced safety features, and the new EX90 takes all that to the next level – it’s nothing short of a super-computer on wheels. That distinctive lump on its roof houses a Lidar system that can spot small objects hundreds of metres ahead. It pairs with eight cameras, five radars and 16 ultrasonic sensors to provide all the eyes and ears you might require to keep you safe if your own senses are out of order. Although superseding the XC90 as the Swedish brand’s new flagship SUV, the all-electric EX90 doesn’t directly replace its internal combustion sibling, which soldiers on in facelifted form. The EX90 is really expensive. It’s only available in the flagship “Twin Motor” guise, with all the trimmings, but at an…

The passing of a former head of state is invariably a profound and reflective moment for any nation. In Zambia, a country with a proud legacy of democratic governance, cultural reverence for elders and strong communal values, the death of a past president initiates a period of mourning, national reflection, and often, political reconciliation. Yet, as evidenced by the complex and contested death and burial of former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, such events also carry deep diplomatic, legal and emotional implications. They unveil fault lines within the state, raise questions about family rights, and underscore the challenges of balancing state authority with the wishes of grieving relatives. Importantly, these events remind us of the African philosophy of ubuntu, which emphasises our shared humanity and moral obligation to care for one…

THE Office of the Pension Funds Adjudicator (PFA) has set aside the allocation of a death benefit by a pension fund after finding it failed to adequately investigate the financial dependency of a claimant and her children on the deceased. The Adjudicator, Muvhango Lukhaimane, ordered the Private Security Sector Provident Fund to reassess the matter and make a fair allocation based on dependency. The dispute arose after the complainant, who claimed to be the life partner of the deceased, challenged the distribution of a R254,609.51 death benefit following his passing. The deceased was a member of the provident fund through his employer, Night Guard CC. The fund had distributed the benefit as follows: - 10% to the life partner (unemployed) - 23% to the deceased's employed adult son - 25%…

A recent deadline for relevant entities to submit their Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) Annual Returns by 30 June 2025 has raised the question of whether trusts are included among the entities covered by the PAIA. The PAIA’s primary aim is to grant individuals the right to access information held by both public and private bodies, thereby fostering a more transparent and accountable society. Section 32 of our Constitution states that “Everyone has a right of access to any information held by the state and any information held by another person that is required for the exercise or protection of any rights.” The PAIA, Regulations, ‘Professor Google’ and guidance by the Court cause more confusion than providing clarity, as it is blatantly clear that trusts, which are considered…

Tadej Pogacar and his great rival Jonas Vingegaard have won the past five editions of the Tour de France between them, and the chalk and cheese duo top the bill again at the 2025 Tour starting today. Here AFP takes a look at the strengths and weaknesses which could prove crucial in what should be another crowd-pleasing, see-saw struggle. Pogacar Ammunition box The opening 10 days of the 2025 route revisit the scene of the swashbuckling Slovenian's second triumph as it meanders along the narrow winding roads of Normandy and Brittany. That opening section must be survived. "Something will happen to somebody, it always does here," 2018 champion Geraint Thomas said at the time, and it ended up being the Welshman himself who fell foul of the section. Pogacar has…

Mohamed Salah said the death of Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota in a car crash had left him "frightened" to return to the club as the Premier League champions postponed the return of some players for pre-season training. The Portugal forward and his younger brother Andre Silva, died in the early hours of Thursday after their car veered off a motorway in Spain and burst into flames. Mourners gathered at a wake in Portugal yesterday ahead of the brothers' funeral today. Jota's Liverpool teammates have spoken of their struggle to comprehend his death, with captain Virgil van Dijk writing on Instagram that he was "absolutely devastated and in total disbelief". Liverpool manager Arne Slot said everyone associated with the club owed it to Jota to "stand together and be there for…

From charming nights spent in packed stadiums to sun-drenched afternoons on the Amalfi Coast, Dua Lipa is embracing the dual nature of a touring musician this summer. The pop superstar, now on her Radical Optimism Tour, has been seen indulging in some well-deserved relaxation following a string of exhilarating performances across Europe. Recent snapshots shared online reveal Lipa and her fiancé, Callum Turner, enjoying an idyllic getaway in Italy, where they seem to have found a beautiful balance between work and play. In a delightful video captured by Backgrid, the couple was spotted lounging on an inflatable float in the crystal-clear waters of the Amalfi Coast, unmistakably lost in each other’s company. The affectionate couple shared several moments of PDA, stealing kisses and playfully plunging into the inviting sea, epitomising…

The South African economy is bleeding jobs at an alarming rate and what was once a crisis is turning into a an unemployement emergency with experts warning of resultant civil instability. Nearly 75 000 formal sector jobs lost in the first quarter of 2025 alone, and 95 000 compared to the same time last year, according to Stats SA. Key sectors like trade, mining, construction, and community services were hardest hit, with only manufacturing showing slight growth. The figures have prompted alarm from economists, labour unions, and mental health experts, who warn that without urgent reform, the country faces entrenched unemployment and broader social fallout. Slow economic growth, policy uncertainty, skills mismatches, and restrictive labour regulations are all seen as major contributors. Abigail Moyo, spokesperson for the trade union UASA,…

Cape Town’s newly adopted 2025/2026 “Invested in Hope” budget has been met with strong criticism from civic organisations and residents, who warn that the latest increases could disproportionately burden low – and middle-income households. Sandra Dickson, chairperson of STOP COCT, said the City had “bluntly ignored” key objections raised during public participation. “STOP COCT is deeply disappointed with the Mayor’s flat refusal to address the homeowners' real concerns which is the rejection of the introduction of the Fixed Charges, the link to property values and the above inflation increases,” she said. “If one look at the increase in total municipal accounts, it is only properties up to the R1.5 million mark that will receive increases resembling the current inflation rate. From R1.5m properties upwards, the total increase is double inflation…

For nearly seven decades, the Maynardville Open-Air Festival has enchanted generations of Capetonians with its signature Shakespeare under the stars. Now, as it prepares to celebrate its 70th anniversary in 2026, the iconic cultural event is embracing its legacy while stepping confidently into a more inclusive, diverse, and dynamic future. The 2026 season – running from 13 January to 8 March – carries the theme: In Full Swing, a tribute to the golden eras of music, blending the classical, the contemporary, and the distinctly local. This milestone year also marks the debut of jazz at Maynardville, a genre deeply rooted in Cape Town’s cultural identity. “Jazz is part of the Cape Town soul,” said Jaco van Rensburg, Executive Producer of VR Theatrical, which took over custodianship of the festival in…

While South Africans sat watching in disbelief as a devastating fire blazed through the Tokai, Silvermine, and Kalk Bay areas earlier this year, brave men and women were on the frontlines – risking their lives and leaving their families behind to protect the city’s residents, infrastructure, and natural heritage. In late April, the wildfire tore through approximately 3 000 hectares of land, prompting an all-hands-on-deck response from firefighting units across Cape Town. Among them was the SA Navy Fire Fighting Team, whose members were deployed to battle the flames threatening key areas, including the Upper Antenna Farm and naval establishments in the Silvermine region. Their actions were instrumental in containing the inferno and preventing further destruction. By holding the line in these critical zones, the SA Navy firefighters safeguarded vital…

As South Africa prepares to celebrate Nelson Mandela’s legacy on July 18, Ladles of Love has launched its latest Mandela Day campaign, urging people around the world to “Make Every Day a Mandela Day and Feed the Future”. This year, the NPO has partnered with acclaimed Australian street artist Hans Bruechle – also known as Handbrake – to deliver an inspiring art installation that highlights community spirit and support for early childhood development (ECD). Bruechle, a muralist known for his bold black outlines, tattoo-style aesthetic and vibrant cartoon energy, has worked with major global brands such as Porsche, Mercedes, Tesla, Harley Davidson, and Jack Daniel’s. Now, he brings his unique style to Cape Town. For the Mandela Day 2025 project, Hans will create a single cohesive mural design spread across…

Europe continued to bake in an intense heat wave and cooler conditions in the coming days may bring only short-lived relief. Health authorities in France and Germany issued red alerts as a lingering high-pressure system – known as a heat dome – keeps much of the continent in the grip of dangerously hot weather. Daytime highs in central France may reach 39C (102F) Wednesday, according to forecaster Météo-France. That’s down from a peak of 41.3C in Nimes on Tuesday, but still far above seasonal norms. The country has suffered searing heat since mid-June, and the top of the Eiffel Tower remains shut to visitors. In Germany, the Upper Rhine Valley and the Kraichgau region could also reach 39C, according to forecaster Deutscher Wetterdienst. The extreme weather has triggered amber and…

At just 14-years old, Imkhitha Joya from Old Crossroads, Nyanga, is quietly redefining what’s possible for young South African girls with big dreams and the discipline to match. A rising star on the national chess circuit, Imkhitha has earned top honours at home and the attention of international federations — but the next step in her journey hinges on financial support. Earlier this year, she was crowned South African U14 Girls Chess Champion after an undefeated run at the Junior Closed Chess Championships. She also dominated the Western Cape High Schools U15 Girls section, winning all six of her games. Her current CHESSA rating of 1811 places her as the highest-ranked U14 girl in the country and sixth overall among South Africa’s female players. But even brilliance can come…

When Sir Alec Issigonis famously first sketched a small car on a napkin, little did he know how popular the Mini would become, and he definitely didn’t have a clue what an Electric Vehicle was either. Fast-forward 65 years or so, and you struggle to read a vehicle review without the words New Energy Vehicle (NEV). This is one of those reviews, and it is the Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) Mini Aceman. In the Mini hierarchy, the Aceman sits between the Cooper and the Countryman and is the result of a joint venture with Chinese manufacturer Great Wall Motors using the Spotlight EV architecture. It’s also not a small car by the original brief, standing at just over four metres long with a boot capacity of 300 litres that expands…

Mozambique’s government, led by the Frelimo party, has long been planning celebrations for 2025. It is 50 years since independence, won after an anti-colonial war against Portugal led by the same party. Something has gone wrong, however, especially in the past two years. Since the country’s space has opened up for the establishment of a social movement of young people. This has since turned into a political movement, taking on the name “Povo no Poder” (“People in Power”). At its head is a brilliant politician, Venâncio Mondlane. Povo no Poder was also the name of Azagaia’s hit song, which had been the soundtrack to 2008 protests against rising energy costs. The demonstrations in March 2023 marked a turning point for Mozambique. It was as if all the energy and indignation…

JULY is Savings Month in South Africa, so I thought I would revisit some basic concepts associated with taking a chunk of money you have earned and putting it into a financial product or instrument with a particular goal in mind. The terms we use, “saving” and “investing”, are often used interchangeably. But “investing” is also used interchangeably with another term, “trading”, further adding to the confusion for the layperson. So let’s clear up the confusion: • Saving: The act of putting away money – either a lump sum or, more practically, small amounts on a recurring basis – so as to accumulate an amount to be used in the future. • Investing: Buying assets such as company shares, bonds, or property that you believe have the potential to grow…

What is the impact of leaving your loved ones to navigate your passing without a will? According to Sanlam Legacy, the cost of goodbye spans emotional, financial, and time-related burdens, and these can be overwhelming without proper planning in place. Your nearest and dearest will be left to deal with far more than their grief. The costs will span funeral expenses, executor fees, estate taxes, and administrative delays. And perhaps most sadly, their relationships may be compromised as family disputes unfortunately arise all too often if a deceased’s wishes are not clearly and legally spelt out. Master’s Office records show that more than 70% of South Africans pass away without a valid will. Based on South African population numbers, that means around 5 million single mothers and 8.8 million homeowners…

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) is on the verge of entering a new chapter, as the winds of change are poised to sweep through the corridors of franchise ownership in South African football. This impending evolution not only heralds significant shifts within the league but also raises questions about the future direction and competitiveness of SA football. However, with the spectre of Royal AM’s tumultuous tenure looming large, the league must approach this critical juncture with caution and diligence. The fiasco surrounding Royal AM serves as a stark reminder of the potential pitfalls that can arise when ownership is not adequately scrutinised. Royal AM’s journey in the PSL was marred by financial mismanagement and allegations of irregularities, ultimately culminating in their expulsion from the league. This incident has raised pressing…

The sale of SuperSport United to Siwelele Football Club, pending PSL Executive Committee approval, has reignited an uncomfortable reality in South African football — one that has quietly unfolded over the past decade. Clubs are no longer preserved for legacy, community, or youth development. They are bought and sold like stock — and for fans, that’s deeply worrying. SuperSport’s decision to offload United after 30 years is not an isolated event. It joins a growing list of high-profile sales and disappearances that have reshaped the domestic football landscape. Bloemfontein Celtic was sold and rebranded. Bidvest Wits was bought out and vanished with 99 years of South African football history overnight. Highlands Park? Gone! Platinum Stars? Disbanded! Free State Stars? History! And now, even one of the most professionally run clubs…

Mental health has ascended to a priority in our increasingly chaotic lives. It is crucial for overall well-being, enabling us to cope with stress, build meaningful relationships, and contribute positively to society. One of the simplest yet most effective ways to promote mental well-being is through a daily ritual of sunset walks – an activity that intertwines physical fitness with nature’s restorative beauty. Imagine stepping outside as daylight begins to fade, a palette of vibrant hues blooming across the sky. The calming effect of watching the sun dip below the horizon offers a unique opportunity to unwind and reflect after a busy day. Moreover, the gentle exercise of walking alongside the breathtaking backdrop of a sunset induces relaxation, reduces stress levels and enhances overall mood, nurturing mindfulness and an appreciation…

Paris, the City of Lights, has long been a beacon for global wanderers seeking a blend of history, art, culture and romance. With iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum, combined with charming cafés and exceptional cuisine, the allure of Paris is undeniable. In 2024 alone, France welcomed an estimated 89.4 million international tourists, solidifying its position as the world’s most visited country and underscoring its tourism sector’s hefty contribution of about 9% to the national GDP. However, amid the glitz and glamour lies a stark truth that some visitors face upon their arrival – the overwhelming feeling of disappointment that can follow immersion in the reality of Paris. This phenomenon, aptly dubbed “Paris Syndrome”, particularly affects those who have crafted an idealised vision of…

British actor Orlando Bloom recently took to social media to talk about healing through quotes following his separation from pop singer Katy Perry. Bloom, who shares a daughter with Perry, took to Instagram on June 30, sharing cryptic messages with many speculating that the quotes are about his recent split. First shared a quote from Buddha that said: “Each day is a new beginning. What we do today is what matters most.” The Instagram post was from a Japanese author, Daisaku Ikeda, who said, “The important thing is to take that first step. Bravely overcoming one small fear gives you the courage to take on the next.” According to Page Six, a source disclosed that their romance had come to an end early in June. “It’s over. They are waiting…

The exit of Anna Wintour from the helm of Vogue US is, in the eyes of many, long overdue. Her departure as editor-in-chief of Vogue US, after 37 years, may be framed as a transition, but for those who have endured her wrath, it feels more like the lifting of a long, dark shadow. Her departure comes not as a graceful retirement, but as a calculated pivot – still clinging tightly to power while offering a token gesture to the next generation. Wintour’s legacy in the fashion world is one of ice-cold precision, iron-fisted control and ruthless ambition. Far from being simply a powerful editor, she has become synonymous with fear. Often described as bullying, racist and emotionally void, Wintour has broken spirits, stunted careers and discarded people with unnerving…

The late former deputy president, David “The Cat” Mabuza, was strict when it came to instilling unity among his ANC comrades, but would also throw jokes to ease tensions, said ANC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) member, Dakota Legoete. Many who paid tribute after hearing of Mabuza’s death following a short illness, described him as an icon in the Struggle against apartheid and a workers’ rights activist. His activism dates back to when he was the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) chairperson between 1988 and 1991, the Azanian Student Organisation (AZASO) in the mid-1980s, and the National Education Crisis Committee coordinator and chairperson of the National Education Union of South Africa in the late 1980s. Describing his funny side of life, Legoete, who interacted with Mabuza in the NEC, said…

What began as a way for influencers to connect with their fans has evolved into a new trend among South African youth – self-organised “meet and greets” or pop-up social gatherings, sometimes filled with violence, coordinated entirely through social media. These informal events, often planned via Instagram stories, TikTok videos, and WhatsApp broadcasts, see hundreds – sometimes thousands – of teenagers and young adults descending on malls, parks, or other public venues to meet people they’ve connected with online. Originally inspired by content creators who would schedule pre-approved, branded meet-and-greets with their followers, the trend has since shifted into a grassroots movement. Now, everyday users with a few thousand followers – or simply the right kind of digital influence – are pulling crowds simply by announcing a time and place.…

Former Mpumalanga premier, Dr Mathews Phosa, has paid tribute to former deputy President David Dabede Mabuza who also hailed from Mpumalanga and also previously served as premier of the province from 2009 to 2018. Mabuza died in hospital at the age of 64. He served as deputy president during President Cyril Ramaphosa’s first term at the Union Buildings. On Friday, as tributes continue to pour for the man nicknamed “The Cat” in South African politics due to his survival instinct, Phosa described Mabuza as a shrewd politician who contributed significantly to South Africa. “He was a very shrewd politician. They call him the cat, not for nothing, he had many political tricks which entertained people. It got him where he got at the end of the day,” Phosa reportedly said.…

Three men will serve lengthy prison sentences for a violent farm attack which occurred at Lorain Farm in Bluewater, near East London, last year. In committing the crime, the trio had assaulted and attacked a farm owner and four employees, and made off with items to the value R2.2 million. A former co-accused was acquitted after the court accepted his version that he was a contracted e-hailing driver who merely transported the men, unaware of their criminal intentions. At the High Court of South Africa, Eastern Cape Division in East London, Odwa Dyabana, 26, Luthando Ngangelizwe, 29, and Siseko Qhayiso, 31, were convicted and sentenced, having faced charges of kidnapping, robbery with aggravating circumstances, attempted murder, and multiple firearm-related offences. National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson, Luxolo Tyali, said Ngangelizwe and…

This August, the picturesque town of Prince Albert will transform into a vibrant hub of creativity and culture as the Kaleidoscope Festival 2025 invites locals and visitors to immerse themselves in a unique three-day experience from August 22 to August 24. This year’s festival promises an extraordinary showcase of South African talent, featuring new commissions and world premieres that reflect the rich musical tapestry of the nation. The Kaleidoscope Festival is not merely a series of concerts; it is an immersive cultural journey that marries world-class classical and chamber music with gastronomy inspired by the heritage of the Karoo. Attendees can expect not only captivating performances but also a symphony of flavours, where intimate concerts unfold in historic venues and gourmet food pairings delight the senses under the expansive Karoo…

South Africa is poised to make significant strides in combating climate change, thanks to a landmark grant of R700 million (USD 40.1 million) from the Green Climate Fund (GCF). This financial boost will facilitate the launch of the “Scaling up ecosystem-based approaches to managing climate intensified disaster risks in vulnerable regions of South Africa” project, better known as the Eco-DRR project. Approved by the GCF Board during its recent meeting in Papua New Guinea on July 1, 2025, the Eco-DRR project is set to span eight years with an extensive 20-year impact projected on local communities. This innovative initiative is expected to directly benefit approximately 366 000 individuals, with a further reach of more than 5.1 million South Africans, particularly those residing in areas prone to devastating floods, prolonged…

South Africa is reinforcing its leadership role in global pandemic preparedness through a major expansion of its genomic surveillance partnership with Germany and the European Union. The next phase of the Genomic Surveillance Project was officially launched on 24 June at the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI), Stellenbosch University’s premier epidemic response institute based at its Tygerberg campus. The project is a collaboration between CERI and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), under the broader SAVax Programme. SAVax is co-funded by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the European Union (EU), and is implemented in partnership with South Africa’s Department of Health and Department of Science, Technology and Innovation. The new phase brings an additional R9 million in funding, bringing the total investment…

In a significant move highlighting his unwavering commitment to safety and the integrity of ocean exploration, renowned South African adventurer, author, and ocean conservationist Chris Bertish has officially announced the postponement of his highly anticipated TransCat Expedition - Oceans Without Borders to 2026. Initially scheduled to set sail on June 24, 2025, Bertish's team faced a stark reality after navigating 100 nautical miles into the Pacific Ocean, only to turn back due to pressing safety concerns that arose ahead of this daring journey. The TransCat Expedition aims to achieve a historic milestone by completing the first-ever solo, unsupported Pacific Ocean crossing in a production beach catamaran without a cabin – a perilous 2,800-nautical-mile feat from Mission Bay, California, to Oahu, Hawaii. However, the challenges became increasingly evident as Bertish grappled…

There’s no denying that the Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance is a technological masterpiece, but it falls short in one critical area: its soundtrack simply isn’t soulful enough for those accustomed to six- and eight-cylinder engines. It is rumoured that the facelifted version of the C63 will adopt a six- cylinder hybrid powertrain, and a senior insider has now confirmed that the current four-cylinder plug-in hybrid (PHEV) will be phased out. Speaking with Autocar in Germany recently, the unnamed source said that the four-cylinder powertrain would remain in production for the time being, but would eventually be replaced. The source also admitted that the four-pot motor has not resonated with customers. “Technically, the four-cylinder is one of the most advanced drivetrains available in a production car. It’s also right up…

How corruption and vandalism drain SA’s water system In a country where access to water is a constitutional right, South Africans are increasingly finding themselves at the mercy of dry taps, leaking and bursting pipes and failing infrastructure – creating localised water crises. Behind these crises lies a story of growing deliberate sabotage, entrenched corruption and systemic neglect. The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) paints a grim picture of how “water mafias”, vandalism and institutional failures have combined to erode the country’s water systems and public trust. Profits are made through the sabotaging of water infrastructure, vandalism, theft, leaving residents high and dry with buckets and container, while money overflows in theirs. According to the latest statistics, 77.1% of households have access to an improved water source (2024) –…

The Two-Pot system, designed to offer South Africans a lifeline in the event of a serious rainy day, has seen such high demand for withdrawals that experts are concerned that people will have only two-thirds of their savings left. Changes in the law, which came into effect last September, made it possible for people who have retirement savings to access a portion of them now, with the rest remaining invested until they stop working. Under the changes to the law, one-third of retirement savings went into a pot from which withdrawals could be made, and that allows people to pull out money once a year in an amount between R2 000 and R30 000. But there are drawbacks. In addition to the fact that the cash that is taken is…

The South African Revenue Service (Sars) has appointed 32 of the country’s leading tax, forensic, risk management, and business advisory firms to a panel of experts who will bring specialised skills to enhance tax compliance and support Sars in achieving the 2025/26 revenue target of R1.986 trillion. The panel’s expertise will be utilised across the three key areas of Forensic Investigations, Valuation Advice, and Debt Management. This development is a clear signal that Sars is intensifying its efforts to enhance efficient revenue collection, clamp down on tax non-compliance, and close the tax gap by leveraging the technical and legal expertise available in the private sector. Among the firms appointed to the panel are: Bowman Gilfillan BDO Tax Consulting South Africa PwC Sizwe Ntsaluba Gobodo Grant Thornton Advisory Services Deloitte Forvis…

SAFA KZN President Mazwi Mkhize has defended Danny Jordaan’s decision not to disclose sponsorship figures, saying revealing them would only expose how little South African football is actually receiving. The comments come a month after SAFA’s appearance before Parliament, where the governing body faced tough questions about its finances and overall administration. Jordaan also hinted he may run for a fourth term in 2026. The most heated moment during the session came when Rise Mzansi MP Makashule Gana demanded SAFA reveal how much it receives from headline sponsors Hollywoodbets and 10Bet — both betting companies with a visible footprint in local football. SAFA Chief Financial Officer Gronie Hluyo responded by saying the association could not reveal the details due to confidentiality clauses in the contracts it signed with the sponsors.…

Real Madrid paid extra to bring defender Trent Alexander-Arnold in early from Liverpool to compete in the Club World Cup and it is paying off as they prepare to face Borussia Dortmund in the quarter-finals. The England international created the only goal of the game for Gonzalo Garcia as Xabi Alonso's side beat Italian giants Juventus 1-0 in the last 16. With Alonso moving to a back three as soon as he had the personnel available, Alexander-Arnold has benefitted from playing as a right wing-back in their last two matches. That is where he is set to continue against German outfit Dortmund in New Jersey tonight at the MetLife Stadium. Alexander-Arnold's floated cross for Gonzalo against Juventus was the precise kind of attacking output that led Madrid to bring him…

Orlando Pirates’ new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says the team has reached the end of a “process”, hence they’ll have to fight for honours next season. Ouaddou recently took over the reins at Pirates after his predecessor Jose Riveiro left the club amid the expiry of his contract to join Al Ahly. The Moroccan-born coach has bigger shoes to fill as he builds on a concrete foundation that Riveiro laid and takes the team to dizzy heights. Ouaddou must continue to ensure that Pirates are still the “Cup Kings”, while returning them to the pinnacle of SA football for the first time since 2012. The former Marumo Gallants’ coach, speaking in an exclusive interview with Pirates TV yesterday, said he’s ready for the task that lies ahead. Ouaddou is not naive,…

Greece on Tuesday began charging a tax on island cruise ships, the latest European effort to tackle soaring visitor numbers to the continent's most popular destinations. Cruise ships docking at the popular islands of Santorini and Mykonos will pay e20 euros (R413) per passenger. “In accordance with the law, the tax will be applied in Santorini, Mykonos and other islands in lesser measures,” said a finance ministry spokesperson. Cruise ships to smaller islands will pay a tax of e5 per passenger, according to the new regulations. Greece hopes to bring in up to e50m a year with the tax, which will apply during the high tourism season, from June 1 to September 30. Greece adopted the legislation last year to curb soaring tourist numbers to often-overcrowded destinations, the latest country…