Indholdsfortegnelse for 2025-12-13 i Weekend Argus Saturday

If you thought the Sean "Diddy" Combs saga couldn’t get any worse, honey, think again. I just finished the latest Netflix docuseries, Sean Combs: The Reckoning, and let me tell you, I’m convinced he is the literal devil. From the get-go, we see him panicked, the kind of panic that makes your stomach knot. You see the fear in his eyes, but of course, he’s still trying to flex that “I’m the coolest, most powerful man in the room” energy. And that’s exactly what makes this whole thing terrifying. I mean, I’ve always known Hollywood is a little (okay, a lot) off. Humans aren’t supposed to be worshipped like gods. But this? This gave me a crystal-clear view of just how dark the story really is. And 50 Cent unlocked…

This past week, the ANC held its National General Council, still reeling from the bruising 2024 national elections. The election saw the ANC’s share of the vote plummet to 40%. This is a precipitous decline from 57%. Any self-respecting leader would have resigned. Any honest review would not only assess the ANC’s progress in implementing conference resolutions but would necessarily ask itself whether its cadres have the requisite skills and will to implement them. Leaders who are confident in their performance are likely to be threatened by any appraisal of their performance. For obvious reasons, the current crop of ANC leaders is too afraid to allow such a discussion. The winter of discontent is multidimensional. It cuts across, inside, and outside the party. The first relates to the…

EFF leader Julius Malema has warned that ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula is on course to become the party’s next president unless there is a serious intervention to stop him, and that the party’s deputy president, Paul Mashatile, was still “trying to catch up”. Speaking during a media briefing in Johannesburg, Malema said that without decisive action, Mbalula is going to be the party’s next president. “I warned you that there’s Mbalula. If they allow him to do what he’s doing, he’s going to lead them,” Malema said. He added that if the ANC’s succession battle were a marathon, “Mbalula is ahead, Paul (Mashatile) is trying to catch up, and I don’t know how he will get there”. Malema’s comments come amid intensifying speculation and behind-the-scenes discussions about the ANC’s future…

Today marks a significant step forward in the fight against HIV-related stigma as the National Association of People Living with HIV and AIDS (NAPWA) launched the HIV Stigma Index 2.0 report. This landmark study, led by individuals living with HIV, delves into the stigma, discrimination, and rights violations prevalent among People Living with HIV (PLHIV) in South Africa. In a country where the HIV prevalence rate remains alarmingly high, this first-of-its-kind initiative aligns with the Greater Involvement of People Living with HIV and AIDS (GIPA) principle, empowering communities to lead the way towards a stigma-free future. The report was developed in collaboration with various partners, including the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC), and international agencies like Johns Hopkins University. It builds upon the…

“What type of person does this to another person they are supposed to love? She didn’t deserve this, nobody does and especially not her.” The family of a four-month pregnant woman found buried in a shallow grave at Klip Road Cemetery in Grassy Park have been left devastated by her brutal killing. The body has been identified as 23-year-old Shanice “Niecey” Rudolph from Lavender Hill, who went missing on December 4 and was last seen alive in Ouboet Street, Cafda, Retreat. Her older sister, Rushaan Muller (35), said the family are struggling to cope with the loss. “She was a very bubbly person, always had a smile on her face, liked to laugh, always inside, she liked to eat, make jokes, en sy was baie sagte mens (and she was…

entrepreneur and CEO Keith Boyd, who completed a groundbreaking journey, running a staggering 11,000km from Cape Town to Cairo in just 301 days, has released book titled Running Africa. Boyd provides an intimate look into his experiences across nine African countries. The book serves as a blend of adventure and a candid examination of the continent’s challenges, all while capturing Boyd’s determination to inspire the next generation. He achieved this extraordinary accomplishment on May 22, 2024, securing a Guinness World Record for the fastest run along this iconic stretch of the African continent. Beyond the physical challenge, Boyd’s mission was deeply rooted in raising awareness for RainbowLeaders.org.za, a foundation dedicated to empowering South Africa’s youth and fostering democratic participation. “Poverty is overwhelmingly a country-specific problem,” Boyd remarked. “Its greatest contributor…

A recent karaoke evening at the Topeka Spur in Kenilworth delivered a truly unforgettable moment, as 13-year-old Connor Foster from Bonteheuwel stunned the audience by hitting high notes comparable to those of pop icon Beyoncé. Foster accomplished this by passionately belting out Listen from the movie Dreamgirls. Foster, a confident Grade Six pupil at Arcadia Primary School, took centre stage. In an almost commanding way, he walked around holding the mic and delivered a powerful performance that has since sent a video viral across social media. The clips, showing the young talent owning the floor, have garnered numerous comments celebrating his “pure talent”, with some viewers even hailing his voice as a “gift from God”. Speaking to the Weekend Argus, Foster said het to his talent from his mother. “I…

The sun has set on another year, and in South Africa, it’s time to embrace the joyous spirit of “Dezemba”. With the holiday season upon us, Cape Town transforms into a vibrant hub for friends and family to connect and unwind. Among the many festive activities, The Galileo Open Air Cinema stands out, offering a captivating blend of nostalgia, fun, and the great outdoors. From Monday, December 15, until Thursday, December 25, The Galileo welcomes audiences to indulge in 10 days of festive-themed films, featuring classic titles that are sure to ignite holiday cheer. Film aficionados can look forward to beloved classics such as The Holiday, Home Alone, Die Hard, and Elf, while basking in the charming ambiance of Cape Town’s finest locales. Special Christmas screenings For those looking to…

In a heartwarming celebration of academic achievement, Stellenbosch University (SU) witnessed a remarkable moment during graduation week as two members of the Pietersen triplets crossed the stage to receive their degrees, following in the footsteps of their sibling, Ivan, who graduated last year. In a strikingly individualistic display of talent, all three siblings excelled in unrelated fields, proving that distinct paths can lead to shared success. Kirsten Pietersen graduated with top honours in Food Science, where she topped her class and earning recognition in her New Product Development project. Her brother, Liam, graduated in International Business with distinction and is set to embark on an honours degree next year. The third sibling, Ivan, was celebrated after graduating cum laude with a BSc Human Life Sciences degree and is now pursuing…

Mercedes-Benz is keen to take advantage of the legendary status that its iconic G-Class off-roader enjoys, and in product planning terms, that means expanding the family. The range has already been expanded to include an electric model, and a smaller version of the G is also in the works. Now the German firm has also confirmed that a Cabriolet version of the current G-Class is on the horizon. Judging by the disguised prototypes we see here, it appears to have a similar body format to the previous Maybach G-Class Landaulet of 2017. But while the latter was an ultra-exclusive and ultra-expensive model, the new Cabriolet will be aligned with the regular G-Class model range. According to Mercedes, the first prototypes of the new model are currently completing their first test…

The recent peaceful sit-in at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, organised by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) Cape Town and Mothers4Gaza, was not merely a protest against a concert – it was an urgent intervention into the very meaning of free expression and public accountability in South Africa. The action calls for the cancellation of a performance at the Botanical Gardens, later this month, by musician David Scott, known as The Kiffness, citing his long record of inflammatory and defamatory statements described as divisive, racially charged, Islamophobic and apartheid and genocide denial. The inevitable pushback against such protests often portrays them as a moral drama of “censorship” and “persecution”, a narrative that fundamentally misunderstands the true nature of free speech in a constitutional democracy. Framing the criticism as an “attack on…

The financial backdrop in 2025 is unusual: international and local stock markets are booming simultaneously. With US and local markets rallying, gold prices at all-time highs, and reaching new peaks, there's even talk of an AI bubble. This confluence of factors creates a powerful sense of financial confidence, yet it can also be seen as a classic setup. It's the kind of exuberance that has historically preceded sharp market corrections. The concern is simple and sobering: taking on new debt right now might become a heavy burden for consumers come 2026 if these global market dynamics shift. Experience from past economic cycles resonates deeply. If this perceived “bubble” does indeed burst, we could be looking at a global recession as severe as the early 2000s or the 2008 housing market…

South Africa’s left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj has been named as captain of Pretoria Capitals for the upcoming SA20 season four, the franchise said yesterday. Maharaj, who led Durban Super Giants in the previous edition of the competition, will take over from Rilee Rossouw at the Capitals. “One of South Africa’s most experienced and respected leaders, Maharaj brings a wealth of international pedigree across formats, along with a proven track record of guiding teams with composure, clarity and intent. “Having captained South Africa in white-ball cricket and served as a senior figure within the national setup for several years, Maharaj’s leadership experience, tactical understanding and consistency make him an invaluable addition in this role. “His presence strengthens the balance and direction of the Pretoria Capitals squad as the team heads into…

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca said he was “completely relaxed” about his side’s dip in form as he seeks greater consistency ahead of today’s home match against Everton. The Blues thumped Barcelona 3-0 in the Champions League on November 25 and earned an impressive 1-1 draw against Premier League leaders Arsenal days later. But they have not won since, losing at Leeds and Atalanta and drawing with Bournemouth. Chelsea boss Maresca was yesterday named Premier League manager of the month for November, in recognition of his side’s unbeaten record. “We are in December now,” he said, laughing, at his press conference. “This kind of thing is because you do the right things in terms of performance and results,” he added. “For us November was fantastic. December, we didn’t start in the…

Young Lions flyhalf Sam Francis returns to the starting line-up to face the Newcastle Red Bulls in the second Challenge Cup group match at Kingston Park Stadium in Newcastle on Saturday (7.30pm kick-off) after a long absence, with the pivot's stronger kicking game likely the deciding factor. Utlity back Lubabalo Dobela, who excels at attacking the line and probing for gaps, will provide flyhalf backup on the bench for coach Ivan van Rooyen's heavily rotated side. Richard Kriel and Manuel Rass will combine at centre and will look to give the Lions backline some striking power in the midfield. On the wing Rabz Maxwane will make his return after a lengthy injury, forming a back-three with fellow speedster Angelo Davids and Gianni Lombard, who will dictate play from fullback in…

Former Australia batter David Warner has backed his ex-opening partner Usman Khawaja to return to the top of the order for the third Ashes Test in Adelaide, suggesting that sliding Travis Head at No. 5 can pose more threat for England. In the series opener in Perth, Khawaja was unable to open in Australia’s first innings after spending extended time off the field with a back complaint during England’s batting. Marnus Labuschagne stepped in initially, but on day two Travis Head capitalised on the opportunity, producing a match-winning Ashes century for the ages. But Khawaja is fit again and has been named in the 15-man squad for the Adelaide Test. His most probable return would see him slot back into the opening role, pushing Travis Head down to No. 5,…

FIFA’s recent decision to postpone the release of players ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has sparked a wave of anger and frustration across the ‘Mother Continent’. Scheduled to begin on December 21 and end on January 18 in Morocco, national teams were to have access to their players starting from December 8. However, in a surprising move last week, FIFA announced that clubs would now have until December 15 to release their selected players, catching many teams off guard. The shift away from the long-established policy of earlier player releases has raised critical questions around fairness and preparation for Africa’s premier football tournament. Coaches, players, and fans alike have voiced their discontent, asserting that FIFA’s last-minute ruling undermines the integrity of the tournament and disrespects African football.…

All eyes are on Mohamed Salah’s uncertain future at Liverpool as Arne Slot tries to shut out the noise and prepare his men to face Brighton this weekend. The Egyptian superstar has hinted today’s match at Anfield could be his last for the Premier League champions, taking aim at manager Slot and the club hierarchy in an explosive interview. Leaders Arsenal host winless Wolves, who have lost their past eight games and are already 13 points from safety. Manchester City, now just two points behind the Gunners, face a tricky trip to London to face Oliver Glasner’s in-form Crystal Palace. Here we look at three talking points ahead of the action: Salah in the spotlight It is difficult to see a way back for Mohamed Salah at Anfield unless he…

I recently found myself binge-watching Playing Gracie Darling, a six-part Netflix series which blurs the line between a psychological thriller and a supernatural mystery. It is a compelling watch that flits between past and present. Joni Grey (Morgana O’Reilly), the protagonist, is a child psychologist and single mother to two daughters. The story begins with her returning to her hometown following the disappearance of Frankie Darling (Ariel Donoghue), who is the daughter of Ruth (Celia Pacquol). This development hits a nerve with Joni as it’s tied to her childhood. Joni’s best friend, Gracie Darling (Kristina Bogic), who is Ruth’s cousin, went missing shortly after a group of them held a seance. She was 14 at the time. Twenty-seven years later, the turn of events becomes a trigger for Joni. Assisted…

In a significant step towards combating human trafficking, over 300 traffic law enforcement officers in the Western Cape have received specialised training focused on Trafficking in Persons (TIP). This initiative, spearheaded by the Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD) in collaboration with the Western Cape Mobility Department (WCMD) and A21 South Africa – a non-profit organisation dedicated to combatting human trafficking – aims to enhance the region's response to this pressing social issue. Since November, a total of 334 law enforcement officers have participated in comprehensive training sessions across various modules, specifically designed to equip them with necessary skills and knowledge. The training includes understanding trafficking in persons, unpacking relevant legislation, identifying and reporting suspicious cases, and employing trauma-informed approaches when working with potential victims. Western Cape Minister of…

The holiday spirit is palpable at Canal Walk, Cape Town’s premier shopping destination, where a plethora of festive experiences await families looking to create cherished memories together. With the much-anticipated return of the Holiday Slides, inspired by Disney’s beloved characters, alongside philanthropic initiatives, Canal Walk is set to shine brighter than ever this season. Two slides, endless smiles The annual Canal Walk Holiday Slides have returned, offering a blend of thrilling fun and joyful smiles for all who visit. This year, in partnership with Pep, the slides are themed around the playful world of Disney’s Lilo and Stitch. The two impressive slides promise endless excitement – Slide 626 delivers the rush of a dual-lane ice race, while the Akatoo-kee Slide provides a swift descent culminating in a gentle landing. For…

After a challenging period marked by affordability woes and sluggish sales in 2024, South Africa’s residential property landscape has shown remarkable resilience, defying forecasts with a steady recovery in 2025. This resurgence has been underpinned by a significant drop in the prime lending rate, now at 10.25%, setting an optimistic tone for potential investors eyeing 2026. “We end 2025 with the prime lending rate a full percentage point lower than January,” explains Grant Smee, CEO of Only Realty Property Group. “With economists anticipating two further 25-basis-point cuts by mid-2026, the outlook for property investors is becoming increasingly promising. However, challenges remain, particularly due to ongoing diplomatic tensions affecting the rand’s strength. Fortunately, the currency has rebounded impressively, enhancing consumer spending power and opening up more opportunities in the property market.…

Unity on the Square (UOTS) is set to return to Greenmarket Square on December 16, marking its fifth edition since being launched in 2021. The event features a line-up that includes Loukmaan and Emo Adams, Mafikizolo, Keanu Harker, Verd, Mujahid George and Faghrie Isaacs, who are expected to perform on the day. This year’s festival will pay tribute to Cape Town performer Loukmaan Adams, who turned 50 in September. While fans called for a birthday concert, Adams and his wife and business partner, Shaakirah Adams, opted to centre the celebration around a public community event focused on music, culture and shared experiences. “Reaching 50 years and reflecting on over four decades in the arts, it’s amazing to see young talent, women, and communities sharing the stage, telling their stories, and…

On a recent afternoon in a New York City subway carriage, a white dog with brown patches peered out of a man’s rucksack. The dog, named Bertha, gave him constant licks. Bertha was found on the streets in October, and was taken in by Animal Care Centres of NYC. Although she had a rough start in life, on this day, she seemed overjoyed. She welcomed neck scratches from dozens of strangers, picked out a new toy, devoured a “pup cup” (an ice-cream treat) and enjoyed a long walk. The outing led to her adoption a few days later. The man carrying her was not her owner, but a volunteer of sorts. Bryan Reisberg spends one day a week taking shelter dogs like Bertha out of their kennels, lifting them into…

In the vibrant yet vulnerable landscape of South Africa, nearly 10 million adolescents grapple with the weight of survival amid systemic neglect. A new study from the University of Pretoria’s Department of Psychology lays bare the harsh truths of adolescent girls navigating poverty, food insecurity, and the life-altering consequences of transactional relationships. As these young women seek to fill their stomachs, they are often compelled to trade their safety for fleeting sustenance. Across communities where resources are minimal, the pressures faced by adolescent girls become unbearable. pressures faced by adolescent girls become unbearable. Professor Eugene Lee Davids sheds light on the pervasive issue, stating, “Food insecurity doesn’t just mean going to bed hungry – it reverberates through every aspect of life, especially for girls in impoverished areas.” Within these confines,…

Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) are seen as an ideal bridge between internal combustion and electric motoring, particularly for countries such as South Africa, where long-distance driving is the norm and range anxiety is a real concern. Although they do have smaller and cheaper batteries than traditional electric vehicles, the cost of incorporating electric and petrol engines means they aren’t necessarily cheap to produce, and until now, all PHEVs have cost more than R600 000 in South Africa. That changes with the BYD Sealion 5, which is launching in South Africa this week. Pricing starts at R499 900 for the Comfort version, rising to R569 900 for the Dynamic variant, in both cases significantly undercutting the larger Sealion 6, which costs from R639 900. The Sealion 5 also undercuts the newly…

The validity period for driving licences in South Africa is set to increase from five years to eight, in a long-mooted move that has been welcomed by motorists and lobby groups alike. Transport Department Director- General Mathabatha Mokonyama confirmed this last week while briefing Parliament’s Select Committee on Public Infrastructure. “We have just concluded, although it took a little bit of time, the issue around extending the validity period of the driver’s licence card from five to eight years,” he told the committee. The decision was made following a detailed assessment, which found that South Africans favour a longer validity period. “They don’t want to come back to us every five years. So we definitely will be moving to eight years soon,” he added. While the Department of Transport has…

South Africa’s localised water crises are no longer looming threats but lived realities in many parts of the country. They are measurable, widespread and visible – destroying ecosystems, threatening public health and disrupting daily life in ways that can no longer be dismissed as isolated failures. The recent briefing to Parliament by the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA), drawing on the country’s first fully consolidated audit of the entire water value chain, lays bare a system in deep distress. For the first time, audits of national departments, water boards and 135 Water Services Authorities (WSAs) were consolidated to present a single, coherent picture. What emerged was not merely one of financial mismanagement, but of weakened governance, failing infrastructure and escalating risks to human and environmental health – failures long warned…

The holiday season is a time for family, friends, sunshine, and outdoor time, and the urge and opportunity to do as little as possible. In short, it’s a much‑needed break from the daily grind. But it’s also the perfect moment to start having conversations with your children and loved ones about money. Nasia Seyuba, head of people at Finchoice, explains that introducing kids to healthy financial habits early sets them up for a lifetime of good money management: “Children learn about money in two ways. Firstly, by watching how their parents handle everyday finances, and then through intentional teaching. The holiday season is ideal for both.” She says parents don’t need to dive straight into adult‑level financial discussions. Instead, focus on practical, age‑appropriate lessons. For younger children, having R100 to…

There are few life experiences quite as exciting and nerve-wracking as starting a new job. Whether you have just landed your first job ever or whether you are an experienced professional taking on your next big challenge, the early days and weeks in your new role will set the stage for long-term success. Here are some steps you can take to set the tone for a positive experience with your new employer: Prepare for your first day Before you even step into your new workplace, there are a few things you can do to prepare. Re-read your job description, the job offer, and other documents the company has provided. Refresh your knowledge about the company, its culture, and any recent news. You can then think about any questions you might…

Ruben Amorim says Manchester United are still unsure about whether Bryan Mbeumo, Noussair Mazraoui and Amad Diallo can face Bournemouth on Monday before they depart for the Africa Cup of Nations. World governing body FIFA announced last week that the release period for the biennial championship “will be reduced by seven days and start on Monday.” United host Bournemouth that day and manager Amorim said he was still in the dark over the availability of his three players heading to the tournament in Morocco. Cameroon winger Mbeumo is United’s top-scorer in the Premier League this season, with six goals, while Diallo, who plays for Ivory Coast, has been a regular. Morocco defender Mazraoui has struggled with injuries but started the games against West Ham and Wolves. “We are still in…

Lucknow Super Giants head coach Justin Langer is expected to focus on acquiring Australian talent at the upcoming IPL auction, according to former India selector Saba Karim. LSG will enter the upcoming IPL 2026 auction, to be held in Abu Dhabi on December 16, with a purse of Rs22.95 crore (R42.7 million) and have to fill six slots, four of which are for overseas players. “I think Justin Langer and LSG will target the Australian players in the auction. They need to be strong at the auction and target players like Cameron Green and Aaron Hardie.” “Both are handy all-rounders who can bat and bowl. Australians have a winning mentality, which LSG wants. “In their bowling attack, they brought in Mohammed Shami. I think their bowling coach, Bharat Arun, believes…

The Hollywoodbets Cape Guineas takes centre stage today at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, where a top-class field will offer an exhilarating contest steeped in rich tradition and history. Over the decades, the Cape Guineas has served as a launchpad for numerous champions, each horse contributing its own chapter to the event’s rich honour roll. Among the distinguished trainers participating this year are Dean Kannemeyer and Vaughan Marshall, who have each celebrated success in this classic race six times. Marshall, a neighbour of Kannemeyer in Milnerton, aims to build on last year’s win with One Stripe. This time, he fields Vapour Trail, an Erik the Red colt, with jockey Gavin Lerena aboard. Although Vapour Trail may not be the front-line contender, he remains a worthy competitor capable of defying the odds with a…

ALMOST THREE decades have passed since Bafana Bafana reached the summit of African football, yet for Mark Williams – a hero of the 1996 Africa Cup of Nations triumph – the memories still echo powerfully whenever he steps into the FNB Stadium. “It was all 29 years ago, which next (year) will be 30 years ago,” he reflects, almost in disbelief at how time has marched on. We are at the national soccer stadium, venue of that glorious afternoon when Williams came off the bench to send South Africa into delirium. Of course, the nostalgia is not where his mind lingers. Instead, Williams remains fixated on one thing: the hope that the current generation of Bafana players can finally reclaim the glory that made them continental kings. And if anyone…

Kaizer Chiefs DStv Diski Challenge assistant coach Dillon Sheppard has praised the character and development of rising stars Mfundo Vilakazi and Mduduzi Shabalala as they continue to establish themselves within the senior setup. The two academy-bred midfielders – firm favourites among the club’s supporters – have been entrusted with significant responsibility this season as Amakhosi aim to re-establish themselves as one of the country’s leading teams. Chiefs have exceeded their early-season expectations and head into the Africa Cup of Nations break sitting fourth on the log, a position that reflects the progress they have made during a period of rebuilding. Shabalala and Vilakazi, both products of the club’s development system, have been central to navigating this transitional phase, during which Chiefs have undergone considerable changes in both coaching staff and…

As summer graces the southern hemisphere and winter blankets the northern hemisphere, travel opportunities abound in both regions. In South Africa, long summer days invite blissful beach outings, where the beach is not merely a destination but a cherished way of life. For Mzansi, the beach is where we breathe, bond and bask in the sun. From sunrise jogs along Durban’s promenade to sunset braais in Jeffreys Bay, the ocean is intricately woven into our identity. Conversely, winter wonderlands beckon with their promise of snow adventures. The same sense of adventure, family bonding and joy that characterise a seaside holiday can also be found halfway across the world on the slopes of the Alps or in Japan’s snow-dusted villages. If you are still grappling with the decision between a beach…

This is an edited version of Professor Brian Figaji’s acceptance speech after he was installed as Chancellor of Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT). I am deeply honoured by your presence here this evening. I owe many people a great debt of gratitude for helping me to become the person that this institution saw fit to electas their Chancellor. However, there is one person that I am really missing tonight and that is my mentor and friend Dr Franklin Sonn who passed away recently. I know that from where he is now, he is looking down on us with great pride and a sense of fulfillment. I would like to be so bold as to ask you to join me in a short moment of silence in honour of…

Rape survivors in the Western Cape will find it difficult to prove their cases in court after several police stations across the province ran out of rape kits, essential in collecting evidence, a claim denied by police. Reports of rape kit shortages across the Western Cape have ignited a fierce debate between police authorities and organisations working at the frontline of gender-based violence (GBV), with claims and counterclaims painting sharply contrasting versions of reality. While the South African Police Service (SAPS) insists that the province has thousands of Adult and Paediatric Sexual Assault Evidence Kits in stock, on-the-ground accounts paint a far more troubling picture. The controversy escalated after a highly placed source revealed that more than 20 police stations and FCS units were currently without D1 kits, used…

South Africa’s tourism sector is heading into the festive period on a significant high, with the latest statistics painting a rosy picture of sustained post-pandemic recovery. At the forefront of this resurgence is the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company (TMACC), which is gearing up for a major influx of visitors and is on the cusp of welcoming a crucial passenger milestone. Figures released by the Department of Tourism on November 3, confirm a strong rebound in international arrivals, with a staggering 7,634,261 tourists recorded in the first nine months of the year – over a million more than the corresponding period last year. This impressive uptick signals renewed global confidence in South Africa as a premier destination. Recovery surpasses expectations The enthusiastic forecast is further bolstered by Wesgro, the Western…

The Mitchells Plain Magistrate’s Court this week ruled that it would not be in the interest of justice to release the second accused in the sisters killing case, Nazmie Lekay on bail, finding that the applicant failed to present compelling or exceptional circumstances to justify his release. The court heard that the 33-year-old Lekay is married, has three minor children and is the breadwinner for his family. Despite this, the magistrate found that personal circumstances could not outweigh the seriousness of the allegations. The ruling follows the deadly shooting on November 6 in Portlands, Mitchells Plain, when Zainap Smith Jacobs and Gouwah Smith Newman were shot and killed while waiting outside a school for children to be dismissed. An innocent adult bystander and a scholar leaving school were also injured…

Bo-kaap philanthropist, businesswoman, activist, and poet Abdeyah da Costa is a living legend who celebrated her centenary birthday on Sunday, December 7. Da Costa said her secret to longevity was the prayers she had made to live a long life in the service of Allah (God). “Being close to Islam, not for the material joys and material beauties, but for spiritualism, insha’Allah. All praise is due to God who has granted me this” she said. Da Costa lives in Dorp Street, doors away from the Auwal Masjid, the first mosque of South Africa, and in the home of the man known to be a foundational figure for Cape Muslim heritage – Tuan Guru, Imam Abdullah ibn Qadi Abdus Salaam. The Muslim scholar was a prince from Tidore, in Indonesia, and…

For more than 20 years, Warren Lieberman has travelled across Southern Africa collecting rare instruments and preserving the rhythms that hold the continent’s oldest stories. His life’s work has evolved into “Drumstruck at Silvermist” – an immersive African music, food, wine and storytelling experience set on Silvermist Organic Wine Estate in Constantia. Now emerging as one of Cape Town’s top cultural attractions, Drumstruck invites visitors of all ages to feel the heartbeat of South Africa through hands-on drumming, world-class performers and a powerful celebration of African heritage. Here are seven reasons “Drumstruck” at Silvermist should be on every Cape Town bucket list: n It is the only experience that combines South African wine, food, music and culture. No other attraction blends incredible organic wines, a traditional South African braai, world-class…

It was a sunny Sunday on San Diego’s Ocean Beach when lifeguards noticed surfers in a panic. They were waving their boards from a jetty, desperately trying to get the lifeguards’ attention. There was a dog in the water in distress. About five surfers tried to help the dog onto the jetty, but she got spooked and jumped back into the water, where she was pulled out by a powerful rip current and was fighting to keep her head above water, said Marine Safety Lt. Ryan Foster with San Diego Fire-Rescue. The dog, Sadie, a Labrador retriever mix, had gotten out of an Airbnb nearby and bolted to the beach. “This was very out of character for her,” said Alexis Barcellos, 30, one of Sadie’s owners, explaining that the dog’s…

In an inspiring culmination of perseverance and dedication, Dyan Buis, the former Paralympic gold medallist and world champion athlete, graduated with a Master’s degree in education policy studies from Stellenbosch University. This milestone underscores a journey marked by resilience, driven by a personal philosophy of excellence that has guided him not only in sport but throughout his academic pursuits. Buis, from Riversdale, had to overcome many challenges in his youth. Diagnosed with mild cerebral palsy at a young age – a condition affecting movement and muscle control – he has consistently defied the odds, transforming what could have been a limitation into a launching pad for success. Through sheer determination, he has proven that disability is not a barrier but an opportunity for growth and achievement. “My motivation was to…

You may remember the Yellow Land Rover Defenders adorned with Camel stickers and teams from around the world pushing themselves physically and mentally to the absolute limit as they vied for top honours in the world’s toughest endurance race to become the Camel Trophy winners. January sees the revival of that iconic event, this time called the Defender Trophy, where teams will still be pushed to the limit, only in new Defenders. I’ll be there. There’s a twist this time around with a handful of journalists also competing, and I don’t know whether to laugh or cry, but I’m one of them. I’m a huge fan of the green oval and despite driving some of the world’s latest and greatest cars for Independent Newspapers and IOL, every time I get…

Of all the ways to understand US President Donald Trump’s belligerence toward Venezuela – as a campaign against “narco-terrorists”, a play for its oil reserves, a desire to control the Western Hemisphere – the most overlooked is the outcome he covets more than all those things combined: greatness. For Trump, Venezuela is not just a geopolitical question. It is an opportunity to lead in war, a hallmark of presidents considered the nation’s best. No one runs for the White House to be pedestrian. Every president has a theory of greatness. For some, it’s decisiveness in transformative moments – the mix of judgment, personality and courage brought to bear in times of profound uncertainty. For others, it’s reflected in how much the nation bends, or bows, to the presidency. And for…

The private healthcare system in South Africa is failing consumers, and the medical scheme industry is unsustainable. The latest Industry Report for 2024 by the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), released last week, confirmed for me these unpleasant truths. Medical scheme membership has been growing more slowly than the South African population for some years now, and the average age of membership is rising. Long-term prospects are looking poor unless the government and private sector can put their differences aside for the sake of the consumer. From my viewpoint, each is as bad as the other. Healthcare providers should not be able to charge what they like. There is virtually zero control over the pricing of medicines, treatments and specialist consultation fees. Efforts by the government over the years to…

In a hard-hitting joint media statement released on December 9, 2025, the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC), in collaboration with Sars, and other law-enforcement agencies, announced a significant legal victory: a six-year direct prison sentence (with two years suspended) for Tshepo Khoza, director of Grey Apple Trading Enterprise (Pty) Ltd, on multiple counts of fraud and tax evasion amounting to roughly R3.6 million. Khoza’s company had received tenders from the South African Police Service (SAPS) under the DNA-project for its forensic science laboratory (FSL), tenders allegedly awarded because of his family ties to a senior SAPS official. Yet, between 2015 and 2018, despite earning substantial income from these contracts, Khoza declared his company dormant and failed to register for VAT or declare the revenue to Sars. This verdict comes after…

Forwards and former CAF player of the year award winners Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman headline the 28-man Nigeria squad named on Thursday for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The Super Eagles open their Group C campaign on December 23 against Tanzania, then face Tunisia four days later and Uganda on December 30. Group winners and runners-up qualify automatically for the knockout stage, and the best four third-placed teams from six mini-leagues also advance to the round of 16. Nigeria and Tunisia are favoured to occupy the top two places, with the east African sides battling for third spot and possible survival. Turkey-based Osimhen was voted the outstanding African player in 2023 and Lookman from Italian outfit Atalanta succeeded him. Morocco captain and defender Achraf Hakimi topped…

For the first time in AFCON’s history, each team will reside in its own exclusive camp throughout the tournament in Morocco, allowing them to focus on their performance without the disruption of constant travel. This landmark will transform the experience of the 24 teams who will benefit from dedicated Team Base Camps. South Africa’s national squad, Bafana Bafana, will take advantage of this unprecedented arrangement by staying at the luxurious Four Seasons hotel in Marrakech. Nestled in a verdant 40-acre expanse, the hotel is known as “a garden sanctuary in the heart of the red city.” It is strategically located between the ancient medina and the bustling, cosmopolitan neighbourhoods, offering players a tranquil yet vibrant environment to prepare for their matches. The dedicated facilities assigned to each team include high-performance…

It’s been an enthralling year of drag racing in sunny South Africa, filled with incredibly fast cars and some big crashes. South Africa’s three major drag racing provinces, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape saw competitors travel back and forth, competing for bragging rights and new personal bests. While there may be dozens of classes to go through, the 4 Cylinder rear-wheel-drive turbo and 6 Cylinder naturally-aspirated front-wheel drive classes have been the most competitive. South Africa’s naturally-aspirated front-wheel drive Nissan SR20 class has also seen some major developments, with Capetonian drag racer Jode Cupido shooting to the top of the class with his Nissan Langley. Pretoria drag racing team Murbros, led by Lucky Tladi, has traversed the country to finally seal a 10 second pass at Dezzi Raceway this…

Fans’ group Football Supporters Europe (FSE) called on Thursday for FIFA to stop the sale of tickets for next year’s World Cup due to their “extortionate” cost. According to FSE, the tickets for the competition in the United States, Canada and Mexico, running between June 11 and July 19, will cost almost five times more than the 2022 edition in Qatar. “Football Supporters Europe is astonished by the extortionate ticket prices imposed by FIFA on the most dedicated supporters for next year’s FIFA World Cup,” umbrella lobby group FSE said. It said that tickets allocated to national associations – typically distributed through official supporters’ groups or loyalty programmes to their most dedicated fans – were reaching “astronomical” levels. “Based on the information currently available to FSE, if a supporter were…

Travelling across South Africa can be an exciting way to explore new places, meet people and experience different cultures. For teenagers, it is important to plan carefully and stay safe while enjoying the adventure. With the right preparation, a trip can be both fun and secure. The first step in planning any trip is research: Learn about the places you want to visit, including local customs, transport options and popular attractions. South Africa offers a wide range of experiences, from beaches along the Garden Route to wildlife safaris in the Kruger National Park and cultural tours in cities like Cape Town and Durban. Knowing what to expect can help you plan better and avoid surprises. Safety comes next: Always keep your belongings secure and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.…

When summer arrives, many people think of beach holidays and relaxing by the pool. However, if you want to escape the heat and crowds, a mountain getaway can be the perfect choice. South Africa is home to stunning mountain destinations that offer cooler climates, breathtaking scenery, and a chance to recharge in nature. From the lush landscapes of Champagne Valley to the unique beauty of Richtersveld National Park, these retreats provide a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of city life. South Africa’s mountains offer diverse experiences, whether you’re seeking the thrill of adventure through hiking and outdoor pursuits or simply yearning to unwind in peaceful, serene environments. A lush oasis in the Drakensberg – Champagne Valley: This is a beautiful spot to visit during the summer months. The…