Indholdsfortegnelse for 2025-12-20 i Weekend Argus Saturday

My Secret Santa is peak festive behaviour. It’s awkward, it’s forced fun, and it only exists because Christmas tells us to participate. So yes, from the title alone, Netflix understood the assignment. The film feels warm and safe in the way only a Christmas romcom can. It made me crave a white Christmas I have never experienced, complete with ice-skating rinks, fireplaces, eggnog and those checked pyjamas people only wear in December and nowhere else. The aesthetic is doing most of the emotional labour here, and I respect that. Even vinyl records make an appearance, because nostalgia is a paid actor in these films. Visually, it works. From the very start, we’re dropped into a classic festive meet-cute. Two strangers meet unexpectedly, exchange cheeky remarks, and you already know how…

As the festive season shopping ramps up, many South Africans are thinking a little more carefully about what they put under the tree. This year, global animal welfare organisation Four Paws is encouraging shoppers to make kindness part of their style choices by choosing fashion that does not harm animals. To help make that easier, Four Paws has updated its Wear It Kind brand directory, a go-to guide for cruelty-free fashion. The latest update includes more than 300 fashion brands, with 60 new additions now rated for their commitment to animal welfare. Among the newly listed brands are big international names such as Diesel, Fendi, J Crew and Dior. The directory assesses brands based on clear criteria. These include banning fur, replacing wool and down, adhering to credible animal welfare…

After 30 years of single-party rule, South Africa has moved into a period where coalitions seem unavoidable. In the 2024 national elections, the African National Congress won just 40 percent of the vote, leading to a Government of National Unity comprised of ten political parties. This shift marks a significant change in how the country is governed, establishing a multiparty system that will shape politics and governance for years to come. With local government elections coming up in 2026, reflections on coalition governance are particularly pertinent, since experiences at both national and local spheres will shape what voters expect and how parties plan. South Africa’s experience with coalitions has been marked by instability within local government. Since 2016, hung councils have produced fragile administrations characterised by frequent leadership changes and…

What started as a simple way to entertain themselves and celebrate the festive season has, over the years, transformed 16 Dennegeur Road in Brackenfell into one of the Cape’s most magical Christmas destinations. While many may not know their names, Rick van der Galien and his partner, Paulo Rodrigues, have turned their home into a household name for evening family outings after 8pm, drawing visitors from across the city. Outside the property, spectators are greeted by a spectacular Christmas display featuring Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and a Christmas tree towering above the house itself. The magic does not stop at the gate. Inside, the home is equally enchanting, with an elves’ tea party, Santa Claus in the lounge and several beautifully decorated Christmas trees filling the space.…

In a significant step forward for luxury hospitality in Africa, Marriott International, has partnered with V&A Waterfront Holdings to announce the opening of The Cape Town Edition hotel scheduled to launch in 2026. This landmark agreement heralds the debut of Edition Hotels on the African continent, bringing a new wave of innovative and exquisite design, along with Marriott’s esteemed service to the bustling city of Cape Town. Karim Cheltout, senior vice president of Development for the Middle East & Africa at Marriott International, expressed enthusiasm about the project. “The signing of our first Edition Hotel in Africa marks a significant milestone for the company’s growth strategy in the continent. Cape Town is a city that embodies creativity, diversity, and a dynamic spirit – qualities that align perfectly with the brand’s…

As the festive season approaches, South African celebrities are opening up about how they plan to spend Christmas, their traditions, and their wishes for the season. Artscape Theatre Centre CEO Marlene Le Roux reflected on the deeper meaning of Christmas. “Advent is a period of hope, serving as a season for reflection, renewal, and the promise of a brighter future. While tradition calls for joyful gatherings with family and loved ones around the Christmas table, the festive season is not universally joyous. “For many, it is marked by deep personal loss, personally I remember the passing of my mother on Christmas Day. “This complexity serves as a poignant reminder to look beyond our own celebrations and remember the less fortunate and those in mourning. Ultimately, the season’s significance lies in…

THIS festive Cango Wildlife is experiencing an exhilarating baby boom that epitomises the spirit of renewal and hope. With each new arrival, the facility is reminded that the best kind of holiday celebration is one marked by new life erupting from the hearts of those who call it home. Among the most significant arrivals is the stunning Uzuri, a six-year-old cheetah who, on November 18, gave birth to three healthy cubs. This noteworthy birth is critical, as Uzuri's lineage is part of an internationally managed breeding programme aimed at preserving genetic diversity in cheetahs, a species in peril. The cubs, named Afrika, Aston, and Amandla, are beginning to showcase their distinct personalities that reflect their beauty and potential. Afrika, the spirited female cub, is already making waves. Her confident and…

In a significant stride towards enhancing hospitality education in South Africa, the Franschhoek Hospitality Academy & Learning Centre (FHA) has announced a formal partnership with the Prince Albert Community Trust (PACT). This collaboration will give rise to the Prince Albert Community Trust Hospitality Academy (PACTHA), a new campus set to operate in Prince Albert, mirroring the high educational standards of the FHA. The establishment of PACTHA signals not just an educational milestone, but a pivotal moment for the local community aimed at uplifting the lives of historically disadvantaged youth. By bringing premium hospitality training to rural areas, this initiative is poised to change lives, create job opportunities, and strengthen local economies – a vision echoed fervently by PACT’s founder, Ingrid Wolfaardt. “PACT and the community of Prince Albert believe that…

For a while last year, scientists offered a glimmer of hope that artificial intelligence (AI) would make a positive contribution to democracy. They showed that chatbots could address conspiracy theories racing across social media, challenging misinformation around beliefs in issues such as chemtrails and the flat Earth with a stream of reasonable facts in conversation. But two new studies suggest a disturbing flipside – the latest AI models are getting even better at persuading people at the expense of the truth. The trick is using a debating tactic known as Gish galloping, named after American creationist Duane Gish. It refers to rapid-style speech where one interlocutor bombards the other with a stream of facts and stats that become increasingly difficult to pick apart. When language models like GPT-4 were told…

Drinking and driving, leaving your home unattended, and leaving valuables visible in your car could see your insurance claims rejected this festive season, as a quarter of South Africans prepare to hit the road. Online lender Wonga's Summer Spending Survey of more than 10,000 South Africans found that 26% plan to travel, with KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, and Gauteng topping the list. Although this is a time for celebration, it also brings higher risks, including increased crime levels, says Tarina Vlok, MD of Elite Risk Acceptances, a high-net-worth insurer and a subsidiary of Old Mutual Insure. When one drink costs you everything Beyond the increased crime risk, the festive season brings another major insurance pitfall. The non-life Insurance Division of the National Financial Ombud Scheme has already seen a surge…

MI Cape Town batter Rassie van der Dussen says they are going into the season with a weight lifted off their shoulders having won the competition last season. MI Cape Town are heading into the season as defending champions, having beat Sunrisers Eastern Cape in the final at the Wanderers in Johannesburg last season. One would assume that the side would head into the upcoming season with added pressure to defend their title, however, Van der Dussen believes they have very little pressure going into the season. In fact, the 36-year-old told Independent Media that they actually felt more pressure in seasons one, two and three, as they finished last place in the opening two seasons, despite having a strong squad. “I think we actually play with little bit less…

The District Netball League (DNL) has announced the launch of its Netball Development Programme in February 2026. This initiative, a transformative step for grassroots sport, aims to harness netball’s significant potential to drive youth empowerment, women’s engagement, and community uplift, and is officially endorsed by the Cape Town Netball Federation. It stands as a robust platform for youth development, women’s empowerment, education, and community uplift, utilising the transformative power of sport. Officially endorsed by the Cape Town Netball Federation, the programme is a significant leap towards nurturing and professionalising netball at both grassroots and elite levels across the region. With support from GEA, a renowned global technology supplier listed on the German DAX, the DNL programme is expected to make significant strides in promoting netball. In addition, Stadio University has…

While the constant weight of expectations at Kaizer Chiefs can be unbearable at times, the Soweto Giants already have a squad strong enough to compete with the best in the land. This is according to former Chiefs goalkeeper William Shongwe. Chiefs head into the festive break well-placed in fourth position on the Betway Premiership table, with 24 points from 13 games. Ahead of Chiefs are Sekhukhune United on 25 points, Mamelodi Sundowns on 26, and Orlando Pirates whop top the table with 28 from 12 matches. It means despite all the challenges Chiefs have faced this season, including Nasreddine Nabi leaving his position as head coach, they are still in the hunt with the majority of the matches still lying ahead. Shongwe Urges Chiefs to Focus on Squad Utilisation Before…

The Africa Cup of Nations’ Group F, referred to as the ‘group of death,’ features a compelling mix of reigning champions, established contenders, emerging challengers, and motivated underdogs. The matches for Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Gabon, and Mozambique in Marrakech and Agadir are likely to provide significant competition, showcasing high-level play and compelling narratives. IVORY COAST (holders) CAF Ranking: 7 Coach: Emerse Faé Player to watch: Amad Diallo Best AFCON performance: Three-time champions: Tournament prediction: Semi-finals Ivory Coast enter the tournament not just as the reigning champions but also on a wave of optimism after securing their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The team displayed a style marked by tenacity rather than flair during last year’s continental showdown, but they emerged on top, showcasing their effectiveness when it mattered…

So we’ve all heard it growing up: “Santa lives at the North Pole!” Like some epic VIP address that makes every other “world famous” spot look sad by comparison. But how did this icy little point on the globe become the festive hot spot in our imaginations? It all starts with a guy named Saint Nicholas, a fourth-century bishop from what’s now Türkiye. Known for secretly gifting the needy, he became the OG Santa. That kindness turned into legend, and the legend kept shifting, like a really dramatic Snapchat filter, until someone decided he should have a permanent mailing address far, far away from the sun. So how did the North Pole become Santa’s postcode? Surprisingly, it wasn’t a Google Maps moment. In 1866, American cartoon genius Thomas Nast drew…

December in Mzansi is a time filled with festivities and celebrations, coinciding with the summer season. During the holidays, many couples seize the relaxed atmosphere as the perfect time to tie the knot. Getting married in December is particularly popular among South African couples, as it aligns with the annual festive holiday period, making it easier for guests to attend and creating a joyful atmosphere. Planning a honeymoon is a crucial next step for newlyweds. Whether they opt to discover local gems or travel internationally, countless destinations await, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience. Here are some ideal honeymoon spots. Cape Town and the Winelands: This stands out as a premier choice for honeymooners, offering breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture. Imagine waking up to the majestic Table Mountain and enjoying a leisurely…

Popular South African YouTuber and influencer Lasizwe Dambuza has checked himself into a mental wellness retreat, opening up candidly about his struggles with burnout and depression. “This year has been mentally challenging. I’m burnt out. I’m depressed,” Dambuza told fans in a social media post this week after arriving at the facility. He shared that he will be spending a few weeks at the retreat, which means he will be offline and unable to interact with his followers over the festive season, including wishing them a Merry Christmas, as he will not have access to his phone during his stay. “I wish people could take mental health seriously. And to you watching this, please find someone in your community, in your family, your friendship, to speak to regarding your feelings,…

Think about the last time you felt truly happy. Not a polite smile. Not a “this is nice” moment. But a full-body kind of joy, the kind that feels sun-drenched and effervescent, where laughter spills out easily and time softens around you. Now think about how you felt when it ended. That quiet, hollow feeling that creeps in afterwards, the heaviness, the wistful ache has a name. Psychologists call it a post-event low, but in everyday language, it’s often described as a “happiness hangover”. And during the festive season, it shows up with surprising intensity. December and early January are drenched in anticipation. We plan trips, curate outfits, book tables, host dinners, and reconnect with old friends. Our calendars fill up, our phones buzz and our dopamine rises. Then, suddenly,…

Since the dawn of democracy, the ANC has controlled the country’s education lever with an iron-fisted transformative approach committed to bringing about redress and ensuring access without apparent focus on the return on investment for South Africa. Gone was the racist apartheid-era spending on children according to the colour of one’s skin. In its place was an amalgamated single education system for all. That is well and good, but missing has been any reflection on whether the nation has been adequately served in terms of getting value for money spent. Education was chief among the bedrock of the ANC’s promise of “a better life for all”, along with social welfare, housing, health, and other competing priorities. But the slow economic growth and high unemployment rate counter the transformative good. South…

Rising costs and fewer troupes are threating the traditional Tweede Nuwejaar Klopse Carnival, with the organisers announcing a drastic route change and change in format. The traditional gathering at the Grand Parade and people lining Darling, Adderley and Wale streets to catch a glimpse of the Klopse will be no more. It will be especially devastating for the people of Bo-Kaap, who for years came with their chairs and umbrellas from early in the morning to book their seats along Wale Street up until Rose Street in Bo-Kaap to get the best view. Kaapse Klopse Karnival Association (KKKA) director Muneeb Gambino told the Weekend Argus that the adjustments were made to protect the minstrel parade and safeguard its future. “If we don’t make these changes, the carnival could die out…

Cape Town has once again solidified its reputation as a premier travel destination. It won the title of Best City – Editor’s Choice – in the International Category at the prestigious Travel + Leisure India’s Best Awards 2025. This accolade not only underscores the city’s allure but also positions it firmly on the radar of Indian travellers who seek unique experiences and vibrant cultures around the globe. This recognition is a testament to Cape Town’s exceptional offerings, which range from breathtaking landscapes and rich history to diverse culinary experiences. Notably, the winners in the International Hotels categories further highlight the local hospitality industry’s commitment to quality, with the President Hotel being crowned Best Leisure Hotel and Ellerman House named Best Luxury Boutique Hotel. Additionally, the Grootbos Private Nature Reserve near…

Disney Africa kicked off ‘Unleash The Holidays’, its largest festive campaign to date. Throughout the season, fans can experience the holiday magic with Disney, with delightful Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star WarsTM products that bring beloved stories to life, holiday classics streaming on Disney+, festive programming across Disney Channel and Disney Junior, and the brand-new animated adventure film Disney’s Zootropolis 2. Subscribe to Weekend Argus for six months at just R812 and stand a chance to win one of these hampers: Hamper 1 – Valued at R2 850 n Disney LEGO Princess Castle and Pets and Stitch Hugmees Plush Hamper 2 – Valued at R2 350 n Star Wars Power Crystal Lightsaber, Marvel Monster Jam Cats and Stitch Light and Headphones Combo How to enter: SMS ‘Disney’ to 33258 (SMS…

Nearly five years after her rescue dog disappeared, Patricia Orozco still thought about Choco every day. “I still talked about him all the time,” she said. “I wondered what he’s doing; I wondered how he is … When you have a pet disappear, everything races through your mind. Is he alive? Is he okay? Is he being treated well?” Then, unexpectedly, Orozco – who lives in Sacramento – received a text from a microchip company. Choco had been found – 3 700km away in Lincoln, Michigan “I never thought in a million years this would happen,” said Orozco, 29, who adopted Choco, a wirehaired Dachshund mix, from her local shelter in 2016. Choco was found tied to a fence outside Lincoln Park Animal Shelter in late November. Orozco quickly contacted…

In the heart of Limpopo, Roossenekal is a tiny town that embodies aspiration and community spirit, where residents hold the belief that even the smallest places can produce giants. This week, Reuben Lefa Masia embodies that belief as he graduates from Stellenbosch University (SU) with an MBChB – fulfilling a lifelong dream of becoming a doctor. Masia’s journey began in kindergarten, where he boldly declared his ambition to don the white coat of a physician. “I never grew out of that conviction,” he said, reflecting on how his desire matured through experiences that deepened his passion for helping others. “Serving people at their most vulnerable and fighting the diseases that burden our communities is a calling that I hold dear.” His formative years at Roossenekal Primary School played a significant…

2025 was a brutal teacher. Over the first three quarters alone, South Africa lost on average 63 people a day to murder. At the same time, women’s unemployment remains at 35.9%, compared with 31.0% for men even as labour-market statistics show modest gains later in the year. These are not distant headlines; they are households' lives cut short, dreams deferred, dignity under assault. Yet some of the loudest voices arguing over violence are fixated on rural tragedies and sensational farm murders. Those are real. They must be heard. But they are only a fraction of a far larger crisis ravaging the urban townships, informal settlements, the overlooked neighbourhoods and everyday communities. That imbalance in public attention, what gets airtime, what draws outrage, what yields policy reaction, is not harmless. It…

The Raging Bull Awards, widely regarded as the Oscars of the investment industry, will this year be sponsored by the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) and DRDGOLD. The prestigious ceremony, which will take place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre on 13 February 2026, marks a significant milestone as the awards celebrate their 30th anniversary. For three decades, the Raging Bull Awards have honoured excellence in the collective investment schemes industry, recognising funds and managers who consistently outperform their peers and providing South African consumers with a trusted benchmark for choosing investments with confidence. The keynote address will be delivered by Dr Leila Fourie, Group CEO of the JSE, a position she has held since 2019. With more than 30 years of international experience in banking, capital markets, and payments,…

South African insurers across the board typically see a rise in claims over the festive season, due to an increase in lifestyle and safety risks. According to the South African Insurance Association (SAIA), the Easter and Christmas periods remain the two annual peak periods for motor insurance claims, while the latest data from Stats SA (2024/25) shows that about 1.5 million incidents of housebreaking occurred in the period (representing roughly 5.7% of all households in the country). But really, it should come as no surprise that December and January carry a higher-than-usual level of risk. Roads are busier as families clock long distances, often in hot weather, which increases the likelihood of accidents and breakdowns. Alcohol-related accidents also tend to increase. Necessities like a tyre pressure check and stopping to…

The Stormers are confident that the replacements for Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Ruhan Nel will stand their ground in the team’s first local United Rugby Championship (URC) derby against the Lions today in Cape Town. Feinberg-Mngomezulu picked up a groin injury, but the talented flyhalf is expected to be fit in time for the Stormers’ first clash of 2026 against the Bulls in a couple of weeks. Nel’s injury is more serious, however, and the centre is likely to spend the entire month of January on the sidelines. Both players are instrumental to the Cape side’s backline. Feinberg-Mngomezulu has taken huge strides this season with commanding performances at flyhalf in the couple of games he started. His composure, kicking game and decision-making have been central to the Stormers’ attacking structure. Nel,…

De Kock’s half-ton not enough, as India thrash Proteas in Ahmedabad and win the series 3-1. Proteas batter Quinton de Kock’s impressive half-century at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad during the fifth and final T20I against India was not enough as the Proteas suffered 30-run defeat and 1-3-series loss. In engagements with the media, De Kock has consistently emphasised that his break from international cricket reignited the fire in him to reverse his retirement in the white ball formats. The 32-year-old has reiterated that he missed playing for South Africa and being out in the field and fighting for the country. Yesterday, he continued to display his hunger and determination in the green and gold, as he smashed 65 off 35 deliveries, a knock which saw the left-hander hit…

Oscar Piastri’s rapid rise in Formula 1 has positioned him as one of the sport’s most valuable long-term assets, but with success has come scrutiny. Following a breakout season at McLaren, the Australian has found himself at the centre of speculation about his future, and, more pointedly, about the influence of his manager, former F1 race winner Mark Webber. The warning has come from ex-F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya, who believes Piastri must be careful not to allow Webber’s own unresolved history in the sport to shape critical career decisions. Webber, famously endured a complicated tenure at Red Bull, where team dynamics and internal politics often left him overshadowed during Sebastian Vettel’s championship years. Montoya’s concern is that those experiences could subconsciously colour the advice Piastri receives today. On track,…

If things go as planned for MLS side Chicago Fire, South Africa’s very own Mbekezeli Mbokazi could be playing alongside one of world football’s biggest names next season. According to reports, the Major League Soccer outfit is reported to have held positive talks with the Polish legend Robert Lewandowski, who has fired Barcelona to the top of La Liga with eight goals from 12 matches. The BBC reports that the 37-year-old Lewandowski is open to the transfer, and his wages are not expected to be a stumbling block for the American club, which is under the tutelage of former US men’s national team head coach Gregg Berhalter. Lewandowski’s move to Chicago Fire is sure to be music to Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos’ ears. Last week, the Belgian voiced…

It is generally agreed that Morocco and Senegal go into the Africa Cup of Nations finals starting on Sunday as hot favourites, their recent impressive form giving good reason to expect them to shine brightest at the biennial continental showpiece. Football though, is pretty fickle at the top and surprises are part and parcel of this beautiful game and thus cannot be ruled out. Here, senior soccer writer Matshelane Mamabolo chooses the countries he believes can pull the rug from underneath the favourites’ feet. BURKINA FASO Twice the Stallions have reached the semi-finals and they’ve been to the ultimate stage on one occasion when they lost to Nigeria in the 2013 edition hosted by South Africa. While they are unlikely to repeat that feat attained thanks to the genius of…

During a recent cinema trip to see the romantic drama Regretting You, I was left fascinated by the trailer for The Housemaid, which was shown before it started. This psychological thriller is an adaptation of Freida McFadden’s 2022 novel of the same title. However, what amplified my excitement was the stellar cast, led by Sydney Sweeney, Amanda Seyfried, Brandon Sklenar and Michele Morrone, with Paul Feig in the director's chair. By the way, Sweeney and Seyfriend also share the executive producer credits. The premise centres on Millie Calloway (Sweeney), the new housemaid for the influential Winchester family, comprising Nina (Seyfried) and her husband, Andrew (Sklenar). In case you are wondering, Morrone is cast as Enzo, a groundskeeper. The plot centres on Millie’s new role within this household, where that familiar…

Honey, 2025 was a full-on season of identity shifts, beauty debates, and jaw-dropping transformations from some of the biggest names on the planet. From bold style overhauls to cosmetic tweaks that had us all whispering, “How are they spending their coins like this?” These seven stars reminded us that reinvention is always in style. Kris Jenner’s new face The Kardashian‑Jenner matriarch surprised (well, maybe not that surprised) everyone with a deep‑plane facelift that literally had her looking like a Hollywood Benjamin Button. Her face now has that natural lift without the “too-tight” vibe of old-school surgery, and social media went wild, with comments about defying gravity and fans demanding to know which surgeon is turning Hollywood into a time machine. Cardi B The rapper refuses to do anything quietly, and…

Santa arrived in Touws River to spread festive cheer, laughter and hope as one of the largest humanitarian distributions in the town’s history brought Christmas joy to hundreds of struggling families. With the sound of excited children filling the streets, Gift of the Givers teams distributed 520 food parcels alongside 1,200 Christmas presents and party packs. In total, 419 families received hampers packed with non-perishable food items designed to last beyond the festive season, as well as 2kg of chicken per household, a vital lifeline for families who would otherwise not have been able to afford meat at Christmas. Touws River has faced ongoing hardship since the Covid-19 pandemic, with record levels of unemployment and many residents still struggling to recover financially. The ongoing economic strain has forced extended families…

While the festive season is traditionally associated with celebration and joy, a new survey shows that many South Africans experience the period very differently, with some struggling to cope emotionally, financially and psychologically. The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) has released the findings of its 2025 Festive Feelings Study, highlighting widespread stress, anxiety and emotional exhaustion during the holiday season. The study gathered 2 095 valid responses from South Africans aged 18 to 65 and older, with most participants based in Gauteng, the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. Respondents came from diverse backgrounds, including employed, unemployed and self-employed individuals and students. According to SADAG, the festive period often intensifies existing pressures, including financial strain, family conflict, loneliness and the emotional burden of an exceptionally demanding year. Dr Bronwyn Dworzanowski-Venter,…

A joint operation between the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the City of Cape Town’s law enforcement officials has prevented a possible suspected gang-related attack outside the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court, leading to the arrest of seven suspects and the seizure of illegal firearms and ammunition. Integrated police teams acted on intelligence indicating that an attack was being planned in the vicinity of the court. Officers moved swiftly and descended on an identified vehicle parked outside the Wynberg court precinct, where three illegal firearms and approximately 60 rounds of ammunition were seized. Seven suspects, aged between 18 and 64, were arrested at the scene. “All the suspects were apprehended before any harm could be caused, and the illegal firearms were taken off the streets,” said SAPS Western Cape spokesperson Brigadier…

Thousands of people of all ages, religions, and backgrounds flocked to Greenmarket Square this week for the Unity on the Square festival, and the event proved to be a resounding success. The gathering of communities not only celebrated music and culture but also helped spread early festive cheer across the city. The square came alive with music and dancing as festival-goers enjoyed performances from young talent, including the bands of Pinelands High School and The Settlers, as well as the high-energy XO Empire dance crew. A highlight of the day was the 50th birthday celebration of Loukmaan Adams. Sharing the stage with long-time collaborators such as his brother Emo, Verd, Mujahid George, Alistair Izobell, and Faghrie Isaacs, Adams was surprised with a cake from Chateau Gateaux bakery as the crowd…

Nicki Minaj, who was once a staunch critic of President Donald Trump’s immigration policies, called Melania Trump “brainless” and celebrated the LGBTQ+ community through her music, has dramatically changed her tune. Now, the Trinidadian-born rapper can be found trading compliments and memes on social media with Vice President JD Vance, ranting against transgender kids, and representing the administration at the United Nations. Sociopolitical commentary has been ingrained in hip-hop from the genre’s beginning. Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallion, Lizzo and Quavo all supported Kamala Harris’s presidential run in 2024, with prominent rappers overwhelmingly backing Democrats over the years. Contrast that with Trump-loving rappers like Lil Wayne and Kodak Black, who were both granted presidential pardons for criminal convictions. But Minaj joins a special category of hip-hop performers, including Ye (formerly…

In an inspiring display of environmental stewardship and community spirit, five schools in Mitchells Plain competed in the Petco’s Get In The Loop Schools Recycling Competition. This dynamic initiative aimed not only to uplift local communities but also to foster a long-term recycling culture among young learners. Supported by Petco and renowned local artist Grandmaster Ready D through his programme G-CAP, the competition held in September, encouraged students to take ownership of their environmental impact while engaging in healthy rivalry. Crowned the overall winner, Liesbeeck Primary School distinguished itself with an impressive recycling total of 674.80kg. Their exceptional commitment to environmental responsibility, consistent participation, and strong community mobilisation not only reflected their dedication but also the power of youth. The competition also had driven action in leading meaningful transformation within…

The 1000 Women Trust, a women-led organisation dedicated to combating gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in South Africa, has launched its new initiative, “Beyond 16 Days”. The initiative seeks to hold the government, the judiciary, and law enforcement accountable while supporting women disproportionately affected by escalating violence during the summer holiday period, according to co-founder Tina Thiart. During the annual 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence and femicide, awareness is heightened about these issues nationwide. However, Thiart emphasised that the true challenge lies beyond this period. “In the holiday season, there is a significant spike in gender-based violence and femicide, exacerbated by factors including alcohol abuse and increased stress, alongside insufficient service delivery from police and judicial authorities,” she said. The organisation has highlighted alarming shortcomings in the system.…

South Africa’s social fabric is frayed, and we cannot cloak that truth in euphemism. The 2024 Social Cohesion Index, measuring interpersonal trust, institutional confidence, attitudes to diversity, civic participation and respect for social rules, offers a picture that is at once sobering and insistently instructive – small gains in isolated pockets, yet large failures in the structural core. While the index registers modest improvements in neighbourhood solidarity and interpersonal trust, its deeper pillars, confidence in institutions, acceptance of diversity and adherence to shared norms continue to deteriorate. This is not a statistical quibble – it is the slow unravelling of the civic glue at a moment when the country most needs the adhesive of mutual obligation and shared purpose. Coming out of the unstable post-2024 coalition landscape, with governance fractured…

A year or so ago I suggested in this column that cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin, may be stabilising and becoming more respectable in investment circles. There were a couple of reasons for this: large institutional asset managers such as Blackrock had been unable to resist the tantalising profits that could be made and had climbed aboard the crypto rollercoaster; and regulators, including the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) in South Africa, were tightening regulation. I couldn’t have been more wrong. Bitcoin is as tumultuous as ever, and 2025 proved another crazy ride for the crypto industry in general. Newly installed US President Donald Trump and his circle unashamedly embraced the razzle-dazzle crypto culture (or should that be cult?), with Trump launching a meme coin in his name. $Trump launched at US$1.2…

On December 15, 2025, the South African Revenue Service (Sars) issued a media release reminding trustees and provisional taxpayers of the trust and provisional tax filing season, confirming that the filing deadline for trust income tax and provisional tax returns is January 19, 2026. While framed as a filing-season reminder, the release reflects more than a routine administrative notice. A clear emphasis on preparation for the trust tax filing season and trust compliance The communication focuses on preparation for the trust tax filing season, the use of Sars’ systems and guidance, and voluntary compliance by trusts with their tax filing obligations. Trustees are encouraged to ensure that supporting documentation is in order, beneficiary information is verified, and available tools such as eFiling are used to facilitate accurate and complete submissions.…

TO WIN the Africa Cup of Nations title is the dream of every African country, every footballer and every coach. It is a dream many die without realising. And anyone who does it more than once is worthy of being feted and afforded legendary status. Hugo Broos could add his name to a very short list of coaches who have been crowned African champions on more than one occasion when he leads Bafana Bafana at the 2025 edition in Morocco, as it kicks off kicks off from tomorrow to January 18. The silver-haired Belgian is going to retire from coaching after the FIFA World Cup in north America next year and how grand it would be were he to cement his standings as one of the best coaches to have…

Proteas Women captain Laura Wolvaardt capped off a historic year for South African cricket with a sublime, unbeaten century to lead the Proteas Women to a six-wicket victory over Ireland at the Wanderers last night. The win confirms a 3-0 ODI series whitewash and serves as a formidable statement of intent ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup. Chasing a target of 206, the South African innings was defined by Wolvaardt’s technical excellence and ice-cold composure. While the top and middle order struggled to maintain momentum against a disciplined Irish attack, the skipper remained immovable. The chase wasn’t entirely smooth sailing. Tasmin Brits (26) and Sune Luus (25) provided starts but failed to convert, while young Karabo Meso contributed a valuable 17 before falling to Aimee Maguire. The Irish bowlers,…

Pep Guardiola said yesterday that his departure from Manchester City is “not on the table” at the moment as he focuses on trying to wrestle back the Premier League title. Guardiola, 54, is contracted at the Etihad until the end of the 2026/27 season but reports this week said City’s hierarchy were eyeing up potential replacements should the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich coach step away at the end of the current campaign. Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, a former assistant of Guardiola’s, is reportedly among the leading candidates for the City job. However, Guardiola, speaking to reporters yesterday, gave no indication that his reign at City was coming to a close, with his side back in the mix for major trophies after a dismal campaign last season. City can go…

When the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 kicks off in Morocco on Sunday, eyes across the continent will turn to a new generation of startling talents. The tournament will serve as a grand stage for a vibrant group of young players who have already shown glimpses of brilliance. They are ready to write their own stories and reshape the competition’s narrative as they don the national colours of their respective countries. Here are five standout youngsters who have aspirations of becoming household names in football. 1 Carlos Baleba (Cameroon) The 21-year-old Carlos Baleba, a product of Cameroon’s rich footballing tradition, is regarded as a modern midfielder with a unique blend of physicality and technical prowess. Baleba highlights his gameplay with remarkable stamina and an impressive ability to connect with…

MOROCCO are topping all the charts as firm favourites to end their 50-year Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) drought with all the stars seemingly aligned in their favour, but the likes of Senegal and Algeria hold the line as title contenders with South Africa not lagging far behind the top four finishers. Below are some predictions from the Independent Newspapers football journalists, ahead of the tournament kick-off on Sunday with Morocco hosting Comoros at 9pm. Champions: Morocco Runners-up: Senegal Semi-finalists: South Africa and Mali Where will Bafana finish: Fourth Surprise Package: Mali – The Eagles have flattered to deceive in many tournaments in the past, but this time around they have a squad that will shine brightly and take home a medal. Best Player: Sadio Mane Coach of the Tournament:…