Indholdsfortegnelse for 2025-08-23 i Weekend Argus Saturday

As Women’s Month continues to be commemorated in South Africa with colourful banners and applause, it is worth noting that for many women and girls, the struggle for equal opportunity is adaily lived experience. Efforts to empower women and girls in South Africa have not resulted in impactful shift in addressing historical disparities. The labour market The labour market continues to favour men and shows minimal signs of making real progress towards improving prospects for women. Stats SA’s latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey for the second quarter of 2025 reveals ongoing disparities in the labour market. A media statement by Stats SA notes that the unemployment rate for women in this period was 35,9% compared with 31,0% for men, a gap of 4,9 percentage points. “These differences reflect persistent gender…

Learners at Tuscany Glen High School in Blue Downs say they are fed up with the ongoing delays and excuses around their Matric Ball jackets which they have been waiting for since March. The learners, who each paid R1000 for the jackets, staged a protest inside the school, accusing the school of failing to provide answers. One learner said: “We were protesting because we didn’t get our matric jackets, only those wearing medium. They are not updating us, the supplier is saying that the school is the problem, they didn’t pay. We tried talking to the principal, but he did not answer us in the proper way. “All they say is that they are trying to get the matric jackets, and they can’t get hold of the supplier. The matric…

Liquidity Services South Africa has an exclusive opportunity for investors and business owners with the online auction of versatile industrial property in Brackenfell on August 26 at 1pm. Currently under provisional sequestration, the property is located at 6 Stork Street, Okavango Park. It is set on an irregular-shaped erf and boasts a Gross Lettable Area (GLA) of ±2 387m². Zoned General Industrial 1, it is ideally positioned just off Kenwil Drive, with direct access to Okavango Road, the N1 freeway, Old Paarl Road, and Frans Conradie Drive – making it a strategic hub for logistics, manufacturing, or distribution. The main building features a spacious open-plan factory floor with a large roller door for seamless operations. Mezzanine levels and ample storage enhance functionality. The two-storey office section, accessible internally or via…

Integrating coding into the early education years of South African students is an urgent necessity, not an option, as highlighted by education experts at a recent global EdTech conference. “Coding is not just about training the next generation of programmers; it equips students with critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration skills essential in a technology-driven world,” says Dr Mario Landman, head of education Technology and Innovation at ADvTECH, Africa’s leading private education provider. Landman’s remarks follow ADvTECH’s participation in the BETT EdTech conference in London, a premier global event showcasing best practices in education technology and the importance of integrating technology into learning. Darren Purdon, academic project manager at ADvTECH, noted that visits to top UK schools during the conference revealed innovative approaches to technology integration, including coding programmes…

In a groundbreaking partnership that promises to redefine the local music landscape, Bush Radio, the iconic community radio station, has teamed up with Big Little Music SA, a dynamic and innovative music collective. This collaboration is not just another synergy; it embodies the spirit of community, creativity, and change, leveraging over 30 years of Bush Radio’s legacy with the energetic, modern approach of Big Little Music. For decades, Bush Radio has been the heartbeat of Cape Town’s diverse communities, broadcasting since 1995 and championing the voices of the underrepresented. Their renowned ability to connect listeners from Langa to Gugulethu, Mitchells Plain to Khayelitsha, forms the foundation for this new venture targeted at enriching local artists’ opportunities. What’s in it for local artists? Everything! This partnership offers an unprecedented platform that…

In a unique collaboration between academia and community, Kyle Smith, a dedicated doctoral candidate at the University of Pretoria, is seeking assistance from the public to uncover the mysteries surrounding one of Southern Africa’s most elusive small carnivores, the African striped weasel. Smith’s call for citizen scientists is not simply an appeal for data, but a rallying cry to protect a species that remains shrouded in obscurity. The African striped weasel (Poecilogale albinucha) is characterised by its striking black-and-white fur and a secretive, nocturnal lifestyle. Experts believe that its stealthy nature and solitary habits contribute to its rarity in sightings, leading to a substantial gap in knowledge about its behaviour and ecological role. Smith is particularly keen to gather reports of the weasel’s presence in arid, desert-like areas, as well…

You recognise it the moment you see it; there aren’t any swooping lines or aerodynamic curves, and owners absolutely love them. No prizes for guessing it’s the Suzuki Jimny, which has burrowed into the hearts of South Africans unlike any other vehicle currently on sale. They wave at each other on the road, have massive Jimny gatherings, and there are Jimny clubs scattered throughout the country that gather at off-road tracks regularly. Five doors This was the first time I had the opportunity to test the five-door GLX version, having previously spent many thousands of kilometres in the three-door driving up the West Coast’s Diamond Route, as well as a memorable trip through Botswana. Purists initially said that adding an extra two doors would take some of the Jimny’s charm…

In the past few weeks, individuals identified as members of an organisation which calls itself March and March have stood at the entrance of public hospitals, particularly Addington Hospital in Durban, demanding to see the ID documents of all patients and visitors. They have prevented entry to the hospital of at least the following categories of persons: those who either do not possess a South African ID document, or refuse to show them one; SA ID holders whose ID documents have been lost or stolen; SA ID holders who were born outside SA, and the children/grandchildren of parents/grandparents who are SA citizens but were born outside SA; and a disabled SA-born child whose mother, the holder of a green bar-coded ID, was born outside South Africa but resident here for…

With alarmingly high levels of youth unemployment, at almost 50%, there is a very real concern that South Africa’s future generation can’t save at all, if retire comfortably. Salem Nyati, consumer financial education specialist at Momentum Group, says the clear reality is that “many young people have little or no income to save”. The low savings rate among youth has serious long-term consequences, says Nyati. “If today’s young people are unable to build even a small nest egg, we face a future where millions may reach retirement age without adequate resources,” she says. Nyati adds that the low savings rate, coupled with high unemployment, will place additional strain on the national fiscus and social support systems, which are already under pressure. “In 40 years, this could result in a generation…

AS someone who’s spent years immersed in the world of consumer advocacy and healthcare communication, I’ve come to appreciate the power of data, not just as numbers on a page, but as stories about real people navigating our health system. The latest Health Quality Assessment (HQA) results for 2024 offer exactly that: a snapshot of how South Africa’s private healthcare sector is performing when it comes to prevention, early detection, and chronic disease management. These findings aren’t just for policymakers or scheme executives. They’re for all of us, the parents booking vaccinations, the young professionals managing chronic conditions, the daughters urging their mothers to go for mammograms. Because behind every percentage point is a person, and behind every missed screening is a missed opportunity to intervene early. Let’s start with…

Liverpool boss Arne Slot said Thursday the Premier League champions will only sign the right player for the right price but refused to be drawn on the club's position regarding unsettled Newcastle striker Alexander Isak. Since Liverpool's reported £110 million bid for the 25-year-old Sweden international was rejected earlier this month, they have not held further talks but equally do not appear to have given up hope of bringing Isak to Anfield. Newcastle, for their part, are reported to be demanding a British record transfer fee of £150 million for Isak. The forward's decision to go public on Tuesday, accusing Newcastle of breaking promises and saying he “can't continue" and "change is in the best interests of everyone", has intensified speculation about Isak's future. Newcastle's response was to insist: “We…

Mamelodi Sundowns will host Orlando Pirates in the second leg of the MTN8 semi-final, with the match poised at 1-1 after the first leg last weekend. Here are a few pointers about this highly anticipated clash. Tightly contested tie The first leg saw Pirates equalise late in the game to end in a 1-1 stalemate. This sets the stage for a dramatic return match at the Lucas Moripe Stadium, where both teams will be looking to secure a spot in the 2025 final. Pirates’ strong recent record Pirates have been a tough opponent for Sundowns in their recent MTN8 meetings, remaining unbeaten in their last five clashes (one win and four draws). This includes a victorious penalty shootout in the 2023 final after a goalless draw in regulation time. Possible…

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has unveiled a dynamic 48-man preliminary squad, showcasing a blend of experienced stalwarts and promising newcomers ahead of two critical 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Nigeria. Set to take place at the Free State Stadium this September, these matches represent crucial steps in South Africa’s pursuit of World Cup glory. The squad packs a punch with several exciting new faces making the cut. Among them are young talents like Orlando Pirates defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Thabo Maloisane from Stellenbosch FC, and Sipho Mbule, also of Pirates. Additionally, midfielder Ime Okon, who currently plays for German club Hannover 96, joins the fray alongside Puso Dithejane from TS Galaxy and the exciting Pirates player Kamogelo Sebelebele. Mamelodi Sundowns captain Themba Zwane remains a pivotal…

Steve Barker and Eric Tinkler will put their friendship aside when they face off in a crunch MTN8 semi-final second leg at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday. Stellenbosch coach Barker heads into this decider with the advantage after his team beat Tinkler’s Sekhukhune United 2-0 at home in the first leg. However, Barker knows their job is far from done, given his familiarity with Tinkler both as a coach and as a person. The two are friends off the pitch, having crossed paths several times – including in the classroom during a CAF coaching course last season. Moreover, their rivalry as coaches – which has featured spells in the iKapa Derby between Stellies and the now-relegated Cape Town City – has fostered mutual respect for each other’s abilities.…

My F*k, Marelize went from being a 20-second viral video to a feature-length movie. This is certainly an unprecedented move. However, after watching the clip, Brett Michael Innes, who directed Sink, Fiela se Kind, Catch Me A Killer, and Unseen 2, found his curiosity piqued. And so he reached out to Marelize Horn, and after they spoke, that’s when he realised he had a gem of a story on his hands. Initially announced at the 12th Silwerskerm Film Festival a year ago, the project premiered as this year’s opening night movie. The excitement surrounding the film was infectious, from the blue carpet moments to the screening at The Rotunda at The Bay Hotel. Those expecting a typical comedy about an accident-prone teenager will be pleasantly surprised, as this goes far…

“Eat less and move more.” We hear this often, as if obesity were that simple to solve. But science reveals otherwise. Obesity isn’t about willpower; it’s a chronic disease recognised by the World Health Organization (WHO) and impacts far more than the number on the scale. For women, the dangers of obesity go beyond appearance or stigma. Excess abdominal weight is linked to hormonal imbalances, pregnancy complications and even changes to a baby’s DNA, called epigenetic programming. Why does the WHO call obesity a chronic disease The WHO now classifies obesity as a chronic disease because it is complex, long-term, and relapsing. It involves a mix of genetic, biological, psychological, social and environmental factors that go beyond personal choice. Research published in The Lancet shows that 40-70% of obesity has…

The battle lines have been drawn with the City of Cape Town pitted against ratepayer and homeowners organisations over its tariffs and budget structures. This week the Cape Town Community Ratepayers Association (CTCRA), announced that it has submitted an application to join the high court case brought by the South African Property Owners Association (SAPOA) against the City of Cape Town (CoCT) over its proposed tariff structures. The City is currently facing legal action from SAPOA regarding the it’s 2025/26 budget and its proposed tariff structures, specifically the city-wide cleaning levy. SAPOA argues the levy is unlawful and unconstitutional, while the City maintains it is necessary to fund infrastructure development. On Thursday the CTCRA said that it has applied to participate as Amicus Curiae a “friend of the court”.…

A convicted murderer will continue serving his 12-year sentence for the shooting and killing of a rival gang member after the appeal against his conviction failed in the Western Cape High Court this week. Jonathan Lotter, one of three accused, was jailed by the Wynberg Regional Court but was aggrieved by the magistrate’s finding and took his conviction on appeal to the high court. Lotter was accused of murdering Marcelino Maart in Manenberg on April 4, 2017, by shooting him in the pelvis. He and his co-accused pleaded not guilty to the charges. Lotter’s co-accused were acquitted of the charges against them, while the State proved that he was the one who pulled the trigger and killed Maart with a single shot. During trial, two rival gang members Marlin Frazenberg…

As Women’s Month continues to be commemorated in South Africa with colourful banners and applause, it is worth noting that for many women and girls, the struggle for equal opportunity is a daily lived experience. Efforts to empower women and girls in South Africa have not resulted in an impactful shift in addressing historical disparities. The labour market continues to favour men and shows minimal signs of making real progress towards improving prospects for women. Stats SA’s latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey for the second quarter of 2025 reveals ongoing disparities in the labour market. A media statement by Stats SA notes that the unemployment rate for women in this period was 35,9% compared with 31,0% for men, a gap of 4,9 percentage points. “These differences reflect persistent gender imbalances…

The Cape of Good Hope SPCA is warning of an escalating pet overpopulation crisis that is stretching resources to breaking point and forcing painful decisions about animal welfare. Kennels meant for temporary housing are now full, forcing staff to work tirelessly to care for hundreds of animals awaiting adoption. Belinda Abraham, a spokesperson for the SPCA, said the surge is driven by financial hardship, irresponsible breeding, and pet owners relocating without making arrangements for their animals. The organisation is appealing to the public for adoptions, donations, and responsible pet ownership to ease the crisis. Without urgent help, many animals face an uncertain future. Abraham, said the organisation is grappling with overwhelming numbers. “We are facing a pet population crisis on an unprecedented scale. In 2024, 23,621 unwanted and unloved animals…

After more than four decades of unbroken service to education, Lorinda Rinkwest of Kasselsvlei Primary School has been awarded the prestigious Kader Asmal Lifetime Achievement Award at the recent Provincial Teaching Awards. The award recognises educators who embody the values of the late Professor Kader Asmal, activism, social justice, intellectual rigour, and inspired delivery and celebrates Rinkwest’s 43-year career dedicated to shaping young lives in Bellville South. “I didn’t choose teaching, it chose me,” Rinkwest said. “From the moment I stepped into a classroom, I felt a deep sense of purpose. Education has always been more than content for me, it’s about sparking curiosity, shaping character, and building confidence.” Her approach has always extended beyond the classroom. “What set my approach apart was a simple but powerful principle: be present,…

Kia South Africa has revealed its facelifted people carrier Carnival with an upgraded interior and a new-look exterior. They’ve done away with the mid-spec SX variant and now offer the still well-specced entry-level EX and the range-topping SXL. Exterior Designed with the company’s new SUV-inspired design language, it gets sculpted bonnet lines, a bold new character line that connects the front and rear lights and more pronounced wheel arches. In addition, it gets a new Tiger Nose grille, two-tone side mirrors, black-and-chrome rocker panel mouldings and a rear skid plate garnish. Depending on the model variant, it stands on either 18 or 19-inch alloy wheels. Interior In the two-tone leather upgraded interior, the central fascia of the Kia Carnival comes with a high-gloss black finish with a chrome strip that…

Volvo’s new South African managing director, Grant Locke, has returned from Sweden after 18 months with a clear mission: to restore customer confidence, strengthen dealer networks and guide the brand through South Africa’s cautious transition to electric mobility. Speaking on the sidelines at the launch of the new Volvo EX 30 Cross Country, Locke said: “As a South African, I understand the unique culture and mindset here. That gives me an advantage in helping ensure trust in the Volvo brand locally. Right now, my biggest challenge is rebuilding that trust.” Dealership restructure Earlier this year, Volvo embarked on a significant dealership restructure, to improve profitability and align the network with market realities, but the move created uncertainty among customers. “When a dealership closes, people worry about servicing their cars. Marketing…

Instead of investing haphazardly in whatever tickles their fancy, professional fund managers invest according to a carefully thought-out process or strategy that aims to beat a predetermined benchmark over the long term. Before they look at individual shares (for the purpose of this article I’ll stick to equities as an asset class), they are likely to consider the broader, so-called “macroeconomic” environment in which the market operates, although some so-called “bottom-up” managers pay little attention to macroeconomic influences. At share-picking level, there is a range of well-tested investment strategies or styles. Once a manager has established the criteria for determining not only which shares to buy but when to buy and when to sell them, the manager needs to stick to that process through good times and bad. This applies…

In June 2025, President Ramaphosa announced the concept of having a national Dialogue. He stated that the National Dialogue is a chance for all South Africans, from all walks of life, to come together and help shape the next chapter of our democracy. Dialogue: It can also refer to formal talks aimed at reaching an agreement. He stated that the objective was to seek a shared vision of what it means to be a South African and develop a new national ethos and common value system. This exercise would be an opportunity to forge a new social compact for the development of our country, a compact that will unite all South Africans, with clear responsibilities for different stakeholders, government, business, labour, civil society, men and women, communities, and citizens. In…

For decades, football clubs have enjoyed a near-monopoly over the careers of their players. Contracts were binding instruments that granted employers the upper hand, often leaving players with little say over their professional futures. But as the game has grown into a global business, the balance of power has shifted steadily toward the players themselves. The ongoing Lucas Ribeiro saga at Mamelodi Sundowns is the latest reminder of this transformation. Ribeiro, a Brazilian forward instrumental in the Tshwane giants’ domestic dominance last season, stunned the local football scene on Thursday by revealing he had resigned from Sundowns. His claim of “just cause” for termination, and his decision to escalate the matter to FIFA’s Football Tribunal, illustrates just how emboldened modern footballers have become. For all their financial muscle and trophy…

Japan’s ability to reimagine the ordinary is what makes it such a compelling destination for curious travellers. From futuristic cafés to silent protests, Japan’s approach to everyday life reflects a society that values order, beauty, empathy and innovation. Here’s a look at six remarkable aspects of life in Japan that make it unlike anywhere else on earth. 1. A café where robots serve as waiters, controlled by people who are physically disabled: In Tokyo’s bustling district of Nihonbashi is Dawn Avatar Robot Café, a place where coffee, compassion and cutting-edge technology intersect. Here, the servers are robots – humanoid machines that glide smoothly between tables. But what makes this café truly revolutionary is that the robots are remotely operated by individuals with physical disabilities, including those with conditions such as…

While romantic couple getaways and action-packed family holidays have their charms, nothing compares to the soul-nourishing joy of travelling with the women who mean the most to you. Whether it’s with your mom, your daughter, your favourite aunt or your ride-or-die bestie, an overseas trip can bring endless laughs, shared inside jokes, heartfelt chats and the simple pleasure of doing what you love with people who just get you. Even better, exploring a new culture together – from sampling its food and soaking up its scenery to meeting new people and embracing its traditions – creates a special kind of bond that lasts long after you return home. If you’re planning a girls-only trip abroad, booking an organised tour can make the experience even more enjoyable. With safety, logistics and…

When will our public leaders begin to understand that persons with disabilities are not a homogeneous group? Different disabilities require different aids and resources including public transport that can ensure proper and safe access to places of work, health facilities and recreation for those who are differently abled. The City of Cape Town’s recent announcement to downscale its Dial-a-Ride services for persons with disabilities has serious negative implications for this already vulnerable group who do not have their own transport and rely specifically on Dial-a-ride for their daily commute to their workplaces and visits to clinics and hospitals. Dial-a-Ride will from next month on only be available for wheelchair users and people with severe walking impairments and will exclude persons with visual and cognitive impairments, elderly people and organisations using…

South Africa is gearing up for a bumper shoulder tourism season starting on September 1, with tourism bodies across the country preparing for a surge in both domestic and international visitors. Despite recent negative media coverage around crime and tensions between South Africa and the US, economists and industry leaders say the outlook for the sector remains positive. Economist Dawie Roodt said the spotlight on South Africa could even help tourism. “The tension between South Africa and the United States, if that will affect our tourism, I don’t think it will have much impact. In fact, it could even be positive, because by putting the spotlight on South Africa might actually contribute to marketing the country as a tourist destination. I think tourism will remain more or less the same,…

The City of Cape Town has confirmed it will enter a public participation process on the proposed sale of its majority 72,7% shareholding in the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). The move, which could redirect nearly R885 million into municipal services, has opened a new can of controversy, with critics warning of “asset stripping” and others arguing it could ease pressure on ratepayers. The City said private sector investment would unlock greater commercial growth for the CTICC, while the proceeds would bolster service delivery and infrastructure. Councillor Siseko Mbandezi, Mayoral Committee Member for Finance, explained: “We believe that this municipal asset shareholding of 72,7%, with an estimated desktop valuation of approximately R885 million (excluding VAT) is ripe for private sector investment to unlock the great commercial potential for this…

The community of Bonteheuwel has been left outraged after a three-month-old baby was shot yesterday morning. The baby boy was shot in Yellowwood Street when gunmen entered a home and opened fire. While the child was rushed to the hospital for medical care, he was declared dead hours later due to the injuries sustained. Police have confirmed they are now investigating a case of murder and attempted murder. Ward Councillor, Angus McKenzie, praised brave residents who immediately jumped in and rushed the child to the hospital. He also thanked those who phoned the City’s emergency number and informed him. “Because of you, Metro Police and Law Enforcement have already launched a manhunt for the two suspects identified in this senseless attack,” McKenzie said. He said that on Thursday, political parties…

Bidders Choice is hosting the online liquidation auction of 41 residential dwellings within a social housing development in Melkbosstrand. The properties are situated along Olive Close and they comprise two-bedroom homes with erf extents ranging between ±102m² and ±168m². The units will be sold individually or together as one lot. Please contact the agent for viewing information. Bids will open on September 2 at 8am and close on September 3 from 11am. For more information, please visit www.bidderschoice.co.za or call Catherine on 079 170 3611. |…

Atarah Goodheart, an exceptionally talented eight-year-old footballer from Ocean View in Cape Town, has been awarded a full sponsorship to join the Real Madrid Foundation Educational Football Programme and continue her formal schooling at Generation Schools Imhoff. Atarah has distinguished herself as the only girl in her club’s under-8 football A-team. She is consistently selected for the starting line-up and recognised for her technical ability, composure, and determination. She is also currently one of the top academic performers in her grade at her school in Ocean View. This opportunity will allow her to access both high-quality education and advanced football training – a rare and significant step forward for a young girl in South African sport. This life-changing opportunity was made possible through Kensio House Therapeutic Academy, a school whose…

The Western Cape High Court has overturned an approval for offshore oil drilling along the Western Cape coast, citing serious flaws in the environmental assessment. The ruling, handed down by Judge Mangcu-Lockwood on August 13, comes after legal challenges by The Green Connection and Natural Justice, which argued that the potential impacts of oil spills, climate change, and socio-economic risks on coastal communities along Block 5/6/7 were inadequately considered The court has now referred the matter back to the Department of Minerals and Petroleum. In addition to setting aside the environmental authorisation, the court ordered that a fresh decision be made. Before any approval can be reconsidered, Total must submit new or amended assessments that fully examine the socio-economic impacts of a well blowout on coastal communities, the project’s full…

Well-known nature conservationist John Hume, 83, is among six people accused of running a rhino horn smuggling syndicate. The accused, Hume, Clive Melville, Izak Du Toit, Elizabeth van Niekerk, Mattheus Poggenpoel, and Johannes Hennop appeared in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court this week. According to the National Prosecuting Authority, Hume was granted R100,000 bail. “Melville and van Niekerk were each granted R10,000 bail while du Toit, Poggenpoel and Hennop were granted R20,000 bail,” said NPA spokesperson, Lumka Mahanjana. Mahanjana said the six face 55 charges for racketeering, fraud, contravention of the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act (NAMBA), contravention of Riotous Assemblies Act, theft and money laundering. She said between 2017 and 2024, the accused allegedly operated an international rhino horn trafficking syndicate and defrauded the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the…

When one walks into a funeral home, the expectation is often hushed voices, sombre music and a cloud of grief. But stepping into the Goodall and Bourne Funeral Undertakers, Athlone offices of sisters Candice Austin, 37, and Lynn Truter, 42, you’re met instead with laughter, warmth and an unmistakable sense of ease. Austin, with a quick, infectious laugh, makes visitors feel instantly at home, even though bodies rest just metres away. Truter, the elder sister, reassures with calm authority, her stylish glasses framing a face that radiates compassion. Together, they’ve breathed new life into a 90-year-old family business, proving that dignity and empathy can live side by side with humanity and humour. Austin reflected on their journey after their parents’ passing: “When our parents died, we both knew what…

On August 18, a proclamation signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa to double the disclosure threshold and annual donation limit in the Political Funding Act (PFA) was published in the Government Gazette (No. 53182). The proclamation is dated August 6 but was only published recently. The new annual donation limit will be R30 million, up from R15m, and the new disclosure threshold will be R200 000, up from R100 000. This will deepen secrecy in political funding and make it easier for private interests to influence our politics and for corruption to occur. Politics requires funding and the role parties play in a democratic system is vital. But there needs to be a balance between ensuring that parties are adequately funded, and that such funding is regulated and mitigates the risk…

Economically active women often carry a double burden as breadwinners and primary caregivers, according to Wendy Myers, head of securities at PSG Wealth. She says this limits their ability to rise to senior roles, impacting income potential and causing financial strain. According to Myers, despite significant strides in representation and empowerment, South African women continue to shoulder a disproportionately heavy burden of financial stress. DebtBusters’ latest Money Stress Tracker found that nearly 75% of female respondents reported high levels of financial anxiety, 10% more than men. She says the drivers behind this imbalance are deeply rooted in both societal dynamics and systemic barriers. Ané Craig, head of fixed income at PSG Asset Management, adds that financial literacy also plays a role. “Another key reason that women experience higher levels of…

Sekhukhune United will need nothing short of a remontada if they are to overturn a two-goal deficit against Stellenbosch FC and reach their first MTN8 final. The two teams will meet again in the decider on Saturday at 6pm. Babina Noko were undone in Cape Town two weeks ago, Stellies punishing their defensive lapses to claim a 2-0 advantage in the first leg. Head coach coach Eric Tinkler admitted afterwards that his side had failed to follow instructions, a lapse that has left them with a mountain to climb in Saturday’s decisive clash in Polokwane. But comebacks are not foreign territory in football. From Real Madrid’s dramatic Champions League fightbacks (remontanda) to Sekhukhune’s own ability to turn games around, belief remains central to knockout football. Former Bafana Bafana striker Lehlohonolo…

To say “Cincinnati heat was precipitating defeat” was no exaggeration, and the final furlong became even more frazzled: World No. 3, Alexander Zverev, stoically succumbed to World No. 2, Carlos Alcaraz, in the semis, 6-4, 6-3, clearly under the weather on account of it, and World No. 1, Jannik Sinner, uncharacteristically lost the first set of the final 6-0 to Alcaraz, before being feverishly forced to retire. This was a pyrrhic victory, and the Spaniard made it crystal clear, in post-match speeches, his title should be attributed to existentialism rather than any hard-fought battle. That said, he earned himself more Masters 1000 ranking points, not to mention fan brownie points for his self-effacing sympathy. A day later, the Cincinnati champion could comfortably bounce onto Arthur Ashe Stadium, alongside partner, former…

We owe Larry Brookstone an apology! When the former Highlands Park chairperson claimed in 2020 that Peter Shalulile was worth R30 million, we laughed in his face and said he was smoking his socks. Granted, Shalulile was one of the hottest properties in the top flight then–following 12 goals in 24 matches–but his price tag seemed simply unfathomable. Brookstone, at the time, also made bold claims that his marksman was even more highly rated than Percy Tau, who was dazzling for champions Mamelodi Sundowns. But fast-forward five years, and it seems only fair to concede that Brookstone was right all along, as Shalulile has lived up to that tag over the years in the PSL. The Sundowns striker recently added another feather to his cap, matching Siyabonga Nomvethe’s PSL all-time…

Hotel launches pet sleep buddy service the Biguiyuan Phoenix Hotel in Wuhan, in China’s Hubei province, has launched a “pet sleep-accompanying” service. Since its inception in July, this allows guests to share their stay with a friendly dog for just 499 yuan (R1 220). With an array of adorable canine companions available, the hotel taps into a growing trend that acknowledges the emotional benefits of pet companionship while travelling. The service lets guests select from 10 dogs, featuring friendly breeds such as Golden Retrievers, Huskies, and West Highland White Terriers. Each canine companion is either raised by the hotel or sourced professional trainers and certified to be vaccinated and health-checked. On booking, guests must sign an agreement to ensure safety and responsibility during their furry encounter. Guests…

People travel for various reasons, often searching for joy and meaningful experiences. Scientists from Cornell University have found that travelling offers lasting happiness, surpassing the temporary joy from material wealth. The emotions tied to purchases fade over time, while travel memories pump enduring happiness into everyday life. In a society increasingly focused on meaningful moments, travel and happiness share a profound connection. Experiences gained through travel, such as improved mental well-being, new perspectives and personal growth, often result in a greater sense of happiness. Taking a break from life’s stresses allows individuals to rejuvenate, promoting calm and well-being. Exposure to diverse cultures, environments and lifestyles broadens horizons and fosters personal growth. Interactions with locals and cultural immersion enhance appreciation for one’s own life. Travel, therefore, significantly contributes to happiness If…