Innehållsförteckning för 2025-02-09 från Sunday Tribune

South African consumers wallets took another blow this past week as fuel prices were increased by the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources. Both grades of petrol now costs 82 cents per litre more, while diesel increased by between R1.01 in the case of 50ppm and R1.05 for 500ppm. This means that the price of 95 petrol is R21.62 at the coast and R22.45 in Gauteng, while 93 increased to R22.16. The wholesale price of 50ppm diesel is R18.68 at the coast and R19.44 inland. Retail prices, however, will be slightly higher than that. The increase translates to filling up a 30 litre petrol tank will cost R24.60 more, while 40 litres will set you back R32.80 and 50 litres, R41. A 70-litre diesel tank now costs R70.70 more than…

As Valentine’s Day approaches, many are on the lookout for ways to express love to those who matter most in their lives. While dinners and gifts often steal the spotlight, a truly heartfelt gesture can come from the music that sets the mood. There’s nothing quite like the nostalgia and warmth of classic love songs from the ’70s to ’90s to make this special day even more memorable. The decades of the ‘70s through the ’90s birthed an array of iconic love songs that have stood the test of time. Artists like Elton John, Whitney Houston and Air Supply, among others, crafted melodies that encase sweet sentiments in harmonious lyrics. These songs encapsulate the essence of romance, making them perfect for serenading your Valentine. Unforgettable ballads Picture this: a candlelit…

The third season of The Mommy Club is almost here, and fans are in for a real treat, with new stars joining the show, such as 35-year-old Noksie Khumalo. The show is set to return to Showmax screens on February 15, with this season promising more drama, fresh faces, and a deeper dive into the glamorous world of South Africa’s elite moms. Among the newcomers is Khumalo, a realtor and mother of one, who is ready to bring her mix of wisdom, ambition, and realness to the show. For her, joining The Mommy Club was more than just about fame, it was an opportunity to build connections, learn from other moms, and promote her thriving property business alongside her Scottish husband. “I joined The Mommy Club because I wanted to…

THE ill-informed rant by US President Donald Trump this week is not in a vacuum. It derives its oxygen from the DA, AfriForum, and their ilk, who have openly cried out to the West and the US in particular to intervene in democratic South Africa’s internal affairs. Like AfriForum, the DA has played a significant role in the concoction of lies that South Africa’s white population is under siege of the ANC’s tyrannical rule. To this effect, dubious statistics about farm killings of white farmers by blacks are an everyday, systematic, and orchestrated affair. Fierce opposition to the Bela Act – opposition aimed at the preservation of the undesirably racially skewed societal imbalances – has served to expose our nation’s propensity to pull in different directions. The DA and parties…

Parliamentarians want President Cyril Ramaphosa to clarify his remarks regarding “neutralising rebels in pursuit of peace” in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). They also want Ramaphosa to explain why he did not meet the stipulated deadline to inform Parliament on the extension of the deployment of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers in the conflict-ridden DRC. This emerged when the joint standing committee on defence met on Friday to consider a letter the president wrote to the presiding officers on the eve of Christmas last year. In his letter, Ramaphosa informed National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza and National Council of Provinces chairperson Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane that he had authorised the extension of employment of 2 900 SANDF soldiers for service in fulfilment of an international obligation of South…

Sindisiwe Mbatha, 48, is spreading love and hope through different acts of generosity. Mbatha is the Founder and Director of the Sacred Heart non-profit organisation (NPO). The organisation provides assistance to victims of gender based violence, and parolees to help ease their process of reintegration into society. Working alongside other organisations that are accredited by the Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA), they provide skills development to these individuals. These include baking, sewing, cooking, carpentry and welding. Drug addicts are assisted with their rehabilitation process and are taught farming skills, working alongside the Department of Agriculture, while awareness campaigns on teenage pregnancy, GBV, crime and drug addiction are hosted and different speakers are invited to share their experiences and motivation. They are currently working with individuals within Durban. Mbatha, 48,…

In our last edition, February 2, we published a response from Dr Petronell Kruger, Programmes Manager at the Healthy Living Alliance to an opinion piece with the headline, "Rational Discussion Needed about Sugar Tax" by Andrew Russell, the vice-chairperson of SA Canegrowers. The piece by Dr Kruger was titled: “Delay Does In Fact Mean Death”. Below is a response from Russell: A recent letter by the Healthy Living Alliance’s Dr Petronell Kruger—promoting the sugar tax—is filled with contradictions and claims that lack evidence. The letter claims that countries experiencing high levels of sugary-drink-related deaths enacted a sugar tax. However, blaming sugar for deaths is sensationalist and devoid of evidence. Millions of people consume sugar and do not suffer fatal consequences. The article further claims that sugar is linked to heart…

Old Johannesburg Warehouse (Old JW) Auctioneers’ Durban branch is off to an exciting start to the year with the sale of the contents of an old Durban mansion. The house in Sir Arthur Road is filled with a lifetime’s collection of antique furniture, artworks and treasures sure to delight collectors and decorators alike. There is also an established, formal garden and a variety of decorative pots and outdoor furniture will be up for sale. Artworks going under the hammer include oil paintings by Errol Boyley, Titta Fasciotti, and other accomplished South African artists. The property owners enjoyed travelling and there is a varied collection of items ranging from African tribal artworks to a vast array of designer Italian shoes from designers including Prada, Miu Miu, and more. Highlights from the…

THE National Assembly’s portfolio committee on police has distanced itself from claims that it is behind alleged arrests of senior crime intelligence officers and dismissed the allegations as disinformation. A message doing the rounds on social media platforms claims the National Prosecuting Authority’s Investigative Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) issued arrest warrants against five senior police crime intelligence officers. However, Ian Cameron, the chairperson of the portfolio committee, said he spoke to one of the members of the SA Police Service (SAPS), who was with a general mentioned in the message, and was told there was no raid or arrest as claimed. “There is a very strong attempt at the moment to create extreme doubt and destabilisation in the SAPS and I know that there are a lot of very serious…

President Cyril Ramaphosa’s 2025 State of the Nation Address (Sona) attempts to paint a hopeful picture, but runs the significant risk of further eroding public trust. The speech, while acknowledging key challenges and setting out ambitious goals, feels disconnected from the immediate realities and frustrations felt by ordinary South Africans. After three decades of hearing promises, the overwhelming sentiment is “Show me, don’t tell me.” The Government of National Unity (GNU) risks a severe credibility crisis if these grand plans don’t translate into tangible, visible improvements, and fast. Mourning and the Freedom Charter: A disconnect The speech begins with the nation mourning the loss of soldiers in the DRC, a sobering start. However, the subsequent segue to the 70th anniversary of the Freedom Charter feels jarring. While the Charter represents…

THE Hawks on Friday confirmed they were investigating a case against the Sandton, Johannesburg, lawyer accused of swindling a widow of R2.6 million in proceeds of the sale of a property in the North West. Charges against Mohseen Mayet and his Sandton-based law firm, Mohseen Mayet Inc, were laid at the Zeerust police station in December after the co- and joint executors’ attempts to access the funds were unsuccessful. The house belonged to Abdullah Ellemdin, who died in 2021, and was sold the following year, with his widow the sole beneficiary of the estate. Colonel Tinyiko Mathebula, spokesperson for the Hawks in the North West, said the matter was still under investigation. Documents, including court papers and correspondence, detail how the sale of the late husband’s property has turned into…

ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba plans to take the government to court next week to grant him permission to retrieve the container that is thought to contain the remains of three Mpumalanga mineworkers. This was revealed by one of the party’s leaders in Mpumalanga, Harry Mazibuko – former colleague of Pretty Nkambule, Yvonne Mnisi, and Solomon Nyirenda – who were swallowed by the earth in February 2016 at Lily Mine in Barberton. According to Mazibuko, last year, Mashaba wrote to President Cyril Ramaphosa requesting that his government grant him permission and for the state to recommend an accredited company to retrieve the container and he (Mashaba) would pay. However, he said the government never acknowledged Mashaba’s offer or even responded to him. That is why they (Mashaba and ActionSA) are going…

Blood continues to spill on the Cape Flats, as 17 people were shot in less than 48 hours. In the latest shooting, five people were killed in Philippi East. The five men were shot and set alight in a vehicle on Friday evening. Brigadier Novela Potelwa said reports from the scene indicate that the victims were in a vehicle in the Better Life area when four armed suspects emerged and shot the occupants. “The suspects subsequently set the occupants alight. The identities of the deceased persons are yet to be determined. The ages of the deceased persons are estimated to be between 20 and 30.“ The other incident happened in Lotus River where eight people were shot and wounded at a memorial service of a gang leader. Police spokesperson Captain…

In a disappointing turn for Royal AM, the urgent high court bid to compel the Premier Soccer League (PSL) to allow the club to participate in outstanding league and Nedbank Cup fixtures has been rejected. The ruling adds to the turmoil enveloping the team, which is currently under the curatorship of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) due to significant tax liabilities exceeding R40 million owed by businesswoman Shauwn Mkhize and her son, Andile Mpisane. The club's financial struggles have been a well-documented saga this season. Following extensive discussions about its viability for the upcoming 2024/25 season, the financial position of Royal AM escalated to the National Soccer League (NSL). On January 22, 2025, the NSL made the monumental decision to suspend all future fixtures for the club citing these…

It hasn’t sunk in yet for rugby fans that rugby’s biggest rugby road show is rolling into South Africa next year. SA Rugby has confirmed that the All Blacks will play eight matches in a traditional tour in 2026 and the Springboks will reciprocate in New Zealand in 2030. A British and Irish Lions tour is special — disregard the pandemic-wracked visit in 2021 — but a full-scale All Blacks tour takes the cake. They are the Boks’ greatest foes and the 104-year rivalry has never been stronger. The Kiwis will play three Tests and matches against each United Rugby Championship side. The eighth match will be against the SA A side. The last time the New Zealanders played a series in South Africa was in 1996 and I was…

Actor, filmmaker and politician Kangana Ranaut has added another feather to her cap as she turns restaurateur. She said that it is one of the most special projects of her life and is an extension of herself. Ranaut took to her social media to announce her cafe, The Mountain Story, and shared a video, where the actress-filmmaker proudly showcased her Himachali roots. The video was captioned: “A childhood dream comes alive, my little cafe in the lap of Himalayas. The Mountain Story, it’s a love story. #TheMountainStory Opening 14th February.” Ranaut said: “It is undoubtedly among the most special projects of my life, it is an extension of myself, something that is not only close to my heart but also my roots and I’m extremely proud of having the opportunity…

Renowned Egyptian-American comedian, Bassem Youssef, known for his razor-sharp political satire, is set to enthral his South African fans with his The Middle Beast tour. Having performed at the Durban International Convention Centre on Friday and in Cape Town yesterday, he will take on the stage at Emperors Palace tonight. A unique voice in the realm of comedy, Youssef is set to take fans on a captivating journey that reflects his personal and professional evolution, from heart surgeon to the host of the most watched political satire show in the Arab world, Al Bernameg. The award-winning entertainer, often referred to as “The Egyptian Jon Stewart”, has a knack for intertwining humour with significant social and political commentary, a feat that has resonated with millions of people globally. However, his rise…

As we step into 2025, a noticeable shift is occurring in the travel habits of adventurers worldwide. According to travel experts, there is a burgeoning trend towards slow travel – a philosophy that encourages holiday-makers to travel mindfully and responsibly, relishing the journey as much as the destination. This trend is accompanied by a rise in “detour travel”, where travellers intentionally stray from the crowded beaten paths of traditional hotspots to explore lesser-known destinations and hidden gems. Sue Garrett, the general manager for supply, pricing & marketing at Flight Centre South Africa, said people are spending longer in a destination to really relax and immerse themselves in their holiday. “Extra time allows you to embrace the journey and potentially encounter a detour that could become the highlight of your trip.”…

As wanderlust continues to surge among South African travellers, a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, vibrant landscapes and a breadth of adventures beckon across the globe. Europe is filled with diverse countries, cultures, cuisines, history and languages making a trip to Europe educational, inspiring and just plain fun. Each place stands out as a trove of diversions catering to eclectic interests, and they have proven to be immensely popular with South African tourists eager for unique experiences. For those seeking to explore the contours of history and contemporary life, here are five places that emerged as the leading destinations in 2025. Amsterdam, The Netherlands The Dutch capital of Amsterdam remains a perennial favourite among South African travellers. The city’s enchanting canals, historic architecture and vibrant art scene create a…

From stockbroking and psychology to asset management Human Capital, it’s about honing human potential for Kim Howard, Chief People Officer at Ashburton Investments With more than 100 high-performing employees under her wing, Kim Howard, Chief People Officer at Ashburton Investments, has the dual task of creating an environment that drives strong team performance in a high-stakes knowledge industry, while encouraging resilience and a sense of value in individuals who chose a career in the asset management industry. Her unique qualifications, as a Chartered Accountant (CA) with a PhD in Social Psychology, provide her with a unique understanding of the human needs within the industry environment. Howard told Business Report that it was important to enable people to play to their strengths, which often involves “removing obstacles and noise”. “It’s important…

The fitness industry has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past few years, with the global Covid-19 pandemic acting as a major catalyst. As gyms closed and social distancing became the norm, many people turned to home workouts to stay fit and healthy. What began as a necessity has now evolved into a lifestyle choice, with millions embracing the convenience, flexibility and affordability of home fitness. As we settle into 2025, many of us are revisiting our New Year’s resolutions, with getting fit and staying active often topping the list. January and February are the perfect months to refocus on healthier habits, and home fitness offers a practical and cost-effective way to achieve these goals, no matter your schedule or fitness level. Here are some of the key reasons why…

Netizens have expressed their lack of enthusiasm for Mzansi Magic's new dating show, The Catch, following the release of its trailer on X. Hosted by Kat Sinivasan, the show’s debut during the Month of Love seems to reinforce its romantic theme, yet this timing has only dampened viewers’ excitement. There are eight single women on a mission to find a suitor and the twist is that eight impostors are posing as eligible bachelors. These impostors are ready to break hearts and steal the prize money. However, the trailer didn’t get people hyped as viewers are tired of dating shows, which makes one wonder if we really need another one. The fatigue is real, as dating shows continue to dominate the airwaves while social media feeds overflow with relationship discussions. It’s…

LEADERS of the Afrikaner community, including farmers, have flatly rejected US President Donald Trump’s call for their members who are aggrieved with South African government policies to move to his country on refugee status. The international society woke up to shocking news yesterday that Trump had acted on his threats to punish South Africa for what he called “South Africa is confiscating land, and treating certain classes of people (Afrikaners) VERY BADLY”. Trump had on Friday signed an executive order which stated that his country would promote the resettlement of Afrikaner refugees escaping government-sponsored race-based discrimination, including racially discriminatory property confiscation. “The Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall take appropriate steps, consistent with law, to prioritise humanitarian relief, including admission and resettlement through the United States…

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has welcomed the Pietermaritzburg High Court’s decision to strike down Shauwn Mkhize’s urgent application seeking an order that its curator issues a letter assuring the National Soccer League (NSL) that her soccer club was financially sound to play its games. The Royal AM FC has on several occasions, since the beginning of the soccer season, been unable to participate in the Betway Premiership and Nedbank Cup tournaments. On January 29, it launched an urgent application at the North Gauteng High Court against the curator, SARS, and the NSL by way of an urgent application, but the court had on February 5 struck the application from the roll for lack of urgency, with costs. Commissioner Edward Kieswetter welcomed the court decision as a lesson that…

Neighbourhood Watches and Community Policing Forums (CPFs) can assist the police in reducing crime if they are funded, equipped, and trained. Durban crime activist Imtiaz Syed, and Aidan David, the eThekwini district policing board chairperson, were providing their views on the two-day Provincial Council Against Crime (CAC) strategic planning session held in Durban on yesterday. The CAC, launched in November, intends to consolidate interventions, chart a way forward in the fight against crime, and build trust between the police and the communities. Among the topics for discussion were: Shifting Realities: Understanding public perceptions of crime in KwaZulu-Natal. Crime survey study highlighting hotspot areas: Victims of crime report. KZN Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli, said KZN, like so many parts of the country, is grappling with crime that threatens the fabric of communities.…

Today, the stunning backdrop of Midmar Dam in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands plays host to the climactic elite races of the 52nd aQuellé Midmar Mile, the world's largest open water swimming event. Thousands of swimmers have converged at Midmar Dam since the event began on Thursday. Each year the event attracts thousands of entrants and supports numerous charitable organisations. The thousands of competitors range from serious international athletes and Olympic medallists to recreational swimmers. A strong contingent of South African swimmers will line up on the starting pontoon today, the final day, together with international competitiors. Eighteen-year-old Callan Lotter and 20-year-old Connor Albertyn, will head into the race as the top-seeded local swimmers. The will be up against New Zealand’s 5km open water champions – Ruby Heath and Louis Clark. Albertyn…

A 70-year-old La Lucia resident is under duress after receiving a utility bill of R554 448 from the eThekwini Municipality in January 2025. The resident, who did not want to be named, had her water supply disconnected last Friday, causing her more misery. The resident had filed a dispute with the city in July 2024 regarding her bill but received no disclosure. When she contacted the municipality on Friday, she was told that they would reconnect her water supply in 48 hours. “My consolidated billing account is extremely exorbitant. Under no circumstances did I make use of this amount of water. “There are only two of us staying on the property. My husband died recently. I enclosed letters in support of my dispute and requested to put the account on…

Two of the five men accused of killing South African rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes and chef Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane are set to appear in the Durban High Court for the murder of a taxi owner and kidnapping. Siyanda Eddie Myeza and Lindani Zenzele Ndimande are charged with the murder of Siyabonga Ngcobo, who was killed on March 6, 2023. Ngcobo was in the taxi industry with the Lamontville Taxi Association. The duo is accused together with Siphamandla Ngcobo and Mduduzi Comfort Ngubeni. They are also charged with conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, unlawful possession of ammunition, and possession of a prohibited firearm. The State alleges that on January 7, 2023, the accused assaulted Sizwe Goodman Ndlovu and took his Mercedes-Benz in North Beach. “Ndlovu was…

The 2025 State of the Nation Address (Sona), delivered by President Cyril Ramaphosa on February 6, was yet another exercise in rhetoric rather than action. While the president spoke at length about various national issues, his words rang hollow in the face of a deeply troubling reality – the treatment of our soldiers, particularly those deployed to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). South Africa recently suffered a tragic loss when 14 of our soldiers were brutally killed by the M23 rebel group, backed by Rwandan President Paul Kagame. It is important to remember that these soldiers did not go to the DRC of their own accord. They were deployed by the South African state, under the direct orders of Ramaphosa, as part of a peacekeeping mission. The very government…

PRESIDENT Cyril Ramaphosa’s commitments made in his State of the Nation Address (Sona) this week has continued to draw mixed reactions. Ramaphosa made an array of promises that ranged from reforms, growing the economy and fighting corruption, among other things. He said as part of the government reform agenda, they would continue to enhance the visa system to make it easier for skilled people to invest in our country and to grow tourism. “This year, we will launch an Electronic Travel Authorisation system to enable a secure, fully digital visa application process.” Ramaphosa said the government would also ensure that the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption is fully resourced and has access to the information that it needed to prosecute state capture cases and hold those responsible to account. The Department…

While an agreement has been reached between Tiger Brands and Richard Spoor Inc and LHL Attorneys for advance payments to be made to the first of a number of people who are seeking interim assistance to address urgent medical needs over the 2018 listeriosis outbreak, the class action continues. Tiger Brands and the plaintiffs’ attorneys this week had agreed on relief for qualifying individuals who have urgent medical needs, regardless of the fact that liability has not yet been determined. The listeriosis outbreak claimed more than 200 lives and infected more than 1 000 people in 2018. Listeriosis is a foodborne disease caused by listeria bacteria. It can lead to serious illness in high-risk groups, including the elderly, infants and pregnant women. In March 2018, South African health officials linked…

Mitchells Plain man wins medical negligence case After his left kidney was removed following a life-saving surgery, a man won his medical negligence case this week at the Western Cape High Court. The 55-year-old man was rushed to Mitchells Plain District Hospital (MPH) after he attended a New Year’s Eve party to celebrate the beginning of 2020. As he was leaving the celebration, he was shot in the back by an unknown assailant in which the bullet entered his lower back on the left-hand side and exited through his upper abdomen. He was admitted to the emergency unit at MPH, where he underwent emergency, life-saving surgery. However, the administering doctor, at first instance, could not establish whether there was an injury to the plaintiff’s kidney. The court heard that the…

MAMELODI SUNDOWNS (2)(4) Kekana 13’, Ribeiro 27’, 59’, Mokoena 77’ ORLANDO PIRATES (0)(1) Hotto 57’ Deep in the bowels of their parliament, Mamelodi Sundowns delivered a ‘state of the nation address’ that intensified their aim to ‘rule the land’ yet again! The Brazilians’ cracked their rivals Orlando Pirates with ‘a chief whip’ that saw them lead the Betway Premiership standings with a nine-point advantage. This was a huge win for Sundowns’ ‘leader’ Miguel Cardoso as he continued his fine start at the club, having won all seven games in the league since…

MICT: 181/8 (Esterhuizen 39, Brevis 38, Gleeson 2/22, Jansen 2/39) Sunrisers Eastern Cape: 105 all out (Abell 30, De Zorzi 26, Rabada 4/25, Linde 2/29) MI Cape Town won by 76 runs Like a runaway train there was no stopping MI Cape Town as they dethroned the Sunrisers Eastern Cape to win their maiden Betway SA20 title at rousing Wanderers on Saturday evening. Robin Peterson’s team had been the dominant team throughout the competition, topping the log with a record 35 points, and now they have inflicted a first-ever playoff defeat on the Sunrisers. MI Cape Town had played a fearless brand of cricket up to the final, and they continued with that aggressive brand of cricket to set Sunrisers a target of 182. Throughout the competition the focus has…

Manchester City's January spending was not a precautionary measure for a future transfer embargo, manager Pep Guardiola said, adding the club would learn the verdict of a hearing into their alleged violations of Premier League regulations in "one month". Reigning Premier League champions City, who spent over $224 million in the January window to sign Omar Marmoush, Nico Gonzalez, Abdukodir Khusanov, Vitor Reis and Juma Bah, were charged with 115 violations of financial regulations in 2023. An independent commission held a hearing from Sept. 16-Dec. 6 into the charges, which cover a period starting from 2009 and continuing into the 2022-23 season. City have always denied any wrongdoing. If City are found guilty of some or all of the charges they could face penalties or huge fines, points deductions, transfers…

Bulls coach Jake White admitted that his team “got out of jail” a few times in their dramatic 33-32 United Rugby Championship victory over the Stormers on Saturday. In front of over 47 000 spectators at the Cape Town Stadium, the two arch-rivals dished up a spicy affair that went virtually to the final whistle to decide the winner. Stormers replacement back Clayton Blommetjies was unable to clinch a victory for the hosts when he missed the conversion of Ben-Jason Dixon’s 79th-minute try. But Stormers flyhalf Jurie Matthee and Bulls centre David Kriel also missed a couple of shots at goal that proved to be costly. In the end, though – with exciting No 8 Cameron Hanekom leading the charge as the Player of the Match – the Bulls secured…

Arjun Kapoor, Rakul Preet, and Bhumi Pednekar’s Mere Husband Ki Biwi is one of the most awaited Bollywood movies at the time. Increasing the hype, the makers have now dropped the film’s situational comedy track, titled Gori Hai Kalaiyan. Kapoor, Pednekar and Preet set the dance floor on fire in the song crooned by Badshah and Kanika Kapoor. Gori Hai Kalaiyan has been scored by the composer duo, Akshay and IP. Speaking about the song, Mere Husband Ki Biwi director Mudassar Aziz said: “The idea was to try and transport our audiences to the feeling of those memorable ‘filmy’ songs that are the identity of Hindi cinema. I have always loved them and had the opportunity to attempt this because Mere Husband Ki Biwi is a film in that very…

Singer A R Rahman has shared his inspiration behind composing the electrifying anthem Aaya Re Toofan from Chhaava, calling it a powerful tribute to the indomitable spirit of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Recently, the makers released the second track, Aaya Re Toofan, from the upcoming historical epic. The song is composed and sung by the Academy Award-winning Rahman. The National Award-winning singer described the song as an invocation of an era, crafted to bring forth the Maratha roar in its grandest form. He said that every beat, note, and war cry in the composition is designed to stir something primal and celebratory, resonating deeply with the soul. Rahman said the song captures the essence of strength and valor in the epic’s portrayal of the Maratha king. In a statement, Rahman…

In a world where public service often faces scrutiny, Dr Vish Govender stands out as a beacon of dedication and commitment. With over 25 years of experience in the public sector, Dr. Govender has risen from humble beginnings as a general worker to a prominent leader focused on uplifting communities in KwaZulu-Natal. Born and raised in Durban, he has cultivated a strong sense of responsibility and service, which has been the driving force behind his career. Dr Govender’s academic achievements, including a Master's in Public Administration and a Doctorate in Public Management, reflect his deep commitment to ethical governance and community development. Beyond his professional life, he is a devoted family man, married to a medical practitioner and a proud father of two children, aged 16 and 12. His family…

As Valentine’s Day approaches, love birds across Mzansi are searching for enchanting ways to shower their partners with affection – without breaking the bank. While the allure of jet-setting to far-off romantic destinations is tempting, the budget and time constraints make local escapes a more feasible choice. Fortunately, South Africa, a rich tapestry of cultural influences, offers an array of hidden gems that capture the essence of global romance. From picturesque landscapes to exquisite culinary experiences, here are some affordable local dupes that promise to make this Valentine’s Day special. A French corner on our doorstep: Franschhoek For those who appreciate fine food and wine, Franschhoek, known as the “Valley of Dreams,” is a must-visit. Renowned as the culinary capital of South Africa, this picturesque town boasts 45 wineries, each…

It’s time to rediscover Mzansi and immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes, rich heritage and vibrant culture of South Africa. This journey has inspired a closer look at the roots of two illustrious homegrown talents: Thebe Magugu and Thuso Mbedu. Despite their global acclaim, both have remained deeply connected to their South African origins, illuminating the enduring link between local heritage and international success. Hailed as one of fashion’s brightest stars, Magugu transformed his childhood experiences, watching international fashion shows in his mother’s living room in Kimberley’s Ipopeng Township, into a thriving career. Ultimately becoming the first African designer to win the prestigious LVMH Prize, Magugu’s trajectory from Kimberley to global fashion acclaim mirrors the intricate paths of the diamonds that signify his hometown. His latest venture, Magugu House,…

In a world where new gold mines have become few and far between, Montage Gold’s Koné project in Côte d’Ivoire, the biggest new gold project in Africa at present, is on track for first production in the second quarter of 2027, CEO Martino De Ciccio said. He stated in an interview at the Investing in African Mining Indaba this week that the company is now fully funded with $955 million (R17.74 billion) in financing and equity, and construction has started at the mine. He noted that they also have sufficient financing headroom for further exploration of 50 targets, excluding the two ore bodies where production is set to begin. Other gold mines being developed at present include Kibali Gold Mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo, commissioned last year by…

when it comes to food content creation, a new name is rising to the forefront: Nzila Miyoba. With a captivating blend of cooking and fashion content, Miyoba has rapidly become a social media sensation, pulling focus away from established cooks like Nara Smith. Based in Germany, this vibrant content creator has garnered a staggering following, boasting over a million fans on TikTok and more than 400,000 devoted followers on Instagram. It wasn’t until recently that many South Africans, myself included, caught on to the magic of her culinary creations. Miyoba’s charm and creativity have resulted in cooking videos that frequently draw in thousands and, at times, millions of views. What’s particularly engaging about her approach is the narrative she weaves around each recipe, providing viewers with a rich historical context…

After taking a two-year break to focus on raising her daughter, actress Asavela Mqokiyana née Mngqithi is stepping back into the limelight with a refined perspective on the roles she chooses and the industry she loves. In an interview with IOL, Mqokiyana opened up about her return to the entertainment industry, the impact of motherhood on her career choices, and her vision for the future. Mqokiyana clarified that her time away from the screen was not a complete departure but a necessary break to focus on her new role as a mother. “I took time to raise my daughter. “I’ve been out for two years because I didn’t do anything in 2024. That’s why people see this as a return,” she explained. Motherhood has reshaped her approach to acting, making…

IT is far too often the case that exceptionally fine people – who are often outstanding South Africans in their own right – do not get the recognition they deserve. As an admirer of Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, I wish to ensure that this does not happen with him. Sooliman’s humility, modesty, and generosity should not prevent him from being more widely celebrated. One cannot begin at the beginning with Sooliman because there isn't. One cannot just tick the usual boxes because Sooliman is everything, all at the same time. That is what one must know about him; it is the only way he can be understood. A “list” is inevitable but only adds up to half the person. He is an exceptionally friendly, courteous person and one of the most…

THE families of the 14 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members who died in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) were still waiting for the remains of their loved ones late yesterday. The soldiers died in the eastern part of the DRC last month during an escalation of fighting between rebel group M23 and the Rwanda Defence Force militia against the Armed Forces of the DRC. This led to attacks on the Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission peacekeepers, of which the SANDF is part. The deployment has been costly to the SANDF, which has faced significant budget cuts. Defence and Military Veterans Minister Angie Motshekga has revealed that the DRC deployment is budgeted to cost R2.3 billion. “Although funds must, out of necessity, be prioritised in accordance…

Marlene Matthew, chairperson of Amanzimtoti Community Police Forum (ACPF) which received the CPF of the Year Award, attributed their success to collaborating and working with people who can add value to their community. The ACPF, which boasts eight sub-forums and five neighbourhood watches across three sectors (churches, NPOs and government departments), received the CPF of the Year Award at the South African Police Services National Excellence Awards recently. At the awards, her CPF was described as the envy of every police station. Matthew, who is credited with expanding the CPF to sub-forums and neighbourhood watches, said their CPF is successful because they collaborate with everyone who can add value to their community and is willing to work with the mandated structures. “We are humble, we are respectful and the rule…

Businesses and organisations in and around Durban have stepped in to answer the desperate call for assistance from residents in eThekwini, who have endured severe water shortages. For many households, the struggle to secure water has lasted days, weeks, and in some cases, months. The issues plaguing eThekwini Municipality range from damage caused by recent floods to an aging infrastructure and rampant vandalism, which have disrupted the essential service of water distribution, leaving communities such as oThongathi and Verulam particularly vulnerable. Ricky Naidoo, owner of the Verulam-based packaging company Venk-Pac, has emerged as a beacon of hope for residents in and around Durban grappling with severe water shortages. Naidoo has dedicated millions of rand to address the plight of local communities suffering from ongoing water outage. Venk-Pac distributes between 120…

Ian Wyles would like to feature two properties that will go under the hammer during their auction on February 27 at 11am. The first is a newly renovated four-bedroom home at 80 Gail Road, Sheffield Beach. Sheffield Beach is 48km north of Durban’s attractions and just 10km from the bustling town of Ballito. It features sheltered coves and rock pools and is perfect for those seeking a slower pace of life, while still enjoying access to shops and restaurants. The freehold four-bedroom, four-bathroom property is elegant and luxurious, with a design that blends modern aesthetics with classic charm. There are four generously-sized bedrooms and bathrooms. The master suite features an en-suite bathroom with a shower and bath, along with a walk-in closet. The property features high-quality finishes throughout. The kitchen…

The Durban Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on Friday sentenced Mlungisi Brian Khumalo, 46, to 15 years in jail after he pleaded guilty to defrauding the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture Environmental Affairs and Rural Development (DOA) of almost R1.5 million. According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Natasha Kara, Khumalo pleaded guilty to eight counts of fraud and 14 counts of money laundering. “Khumalo was sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment for eight counts of fraud and 10 years’ imprisonment for 14 counts of money laundering. Since the sentences will run concurrently,” she said. Kara said Khumalo used companies he was affiliated with, namely Khumzi Business Solutions (Khumzi) and Ubhaqa Lwethu Services Resources Development (Ubhaqa), to receive and move the funds. In his plea, Khumalo said that he met his…

The Ntuzuma Magistrate’s Court earlier this week granted R5 000 bail to each of the 12 men accused of hacking five people with a bush knife in the Bhambayi area, in iNanda in January. The accused allegedly took the law into their own hands by killing Ayabongwa Maduna, Buhle Dweshu, Nhlakanipho Ngubane, Yongema Zingwe and Senze Lemese for being troublemakers in the community. The accused are Aphelele Nhlanganiso, Qondokwakhe Jama, Linda Mthembu, Sibonelo Ntshangase, Mmeli Makhubalo, Sandiso Godagoba, Aphelele Hlengwa, Sipho Manqele, Zanemvula Mlotshwa, Nkululeko Mhlabezulu, Zolani Zwide and Bongani Nkabinde. The accused were allegedly at the forefront when the community on January 16, killed the five men. The victims were alleged to have raped women in the community, committed burglary and assaulted people. After they were killed, their bodies…

HE SPOKE for just under an hour – a speech of about 7 000 words. But what was most important about President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation (Sona) address was not what he said. It was what he did not say. The 21-gun salute has become integral to the pomp and splendour associated with the event – the first shot going off as the first strings of the national anthem are played. But this time you couldn’t help but wonder whether South Africa’s guns would have better served our soldiers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). As the president stood to attention, television news crawlers broke the news that there were delays in getting the bodies of our fallen soldiers back home. Fourteen of them died in…

The NSPCA was forced to humanely euthanise thousands of chickens due to injuries resulting from cannibalistic behaviour at a Johannesburg farm. NSPCA spokesperson Jacques Peacock said on the morning of February 3, their inspectors received an anonymous complaint alleging that chickens had been left without food for at least three days, possibly even five, resulting in the birds cannibalising each other and mortalities due to starvation. He said that upon inquiry to the farm, which is a contract grower, no conclusive evidence was provided as to when the birds were last fed. However, it was divulged that the farm received only half of the scheduled delivery of chicken feed. “The NSPCA and Springs SPCA were forced to intervene to prevent further suffering at two broiler farms in Delmas, where starving…

Once again, South African banks stand accused of discrimination and duplicity. This week, the banking sector came under scrutiny in Parliament. Questions around the lack of meaningful transformation, inadequate funding for black owned businesses, racial profiling and politically motivated de-banking practices were raised. If South African banks are prejudicing and disadvantaging black South Africans by not affording equal access to funding and financial capital, it would be a serious contravention of the South African Constitution. And it would be a terrible betrayal of the spirit of democracy that is the precious and priceless currency of a free and just South Africa. If South African banks are debanking and jeopardising the financial wellbeing of certain individuals and organisations for simply holding a political view that deviates from the…

Riverlands flood victims are finally able to start rebuilding their lives after 14 residents received the keys to their new structures this week. During August last year, devastation struck at Riverlands community in the Swartland Municipality where three farm dams located near Malmesbury breached, resulting in flooding that caused severe property and infrastructure damage to the affected area. And tragedy kept knocking when the same residents, who were temporarily housed in two community centres, received an eviction notice, which would allow a much-needed community scheme to continue services over the festive period. However, the residents’ glimmer of hope arrived this week when 14 families received the keys to their temporary relocation unit, handed over by the national Department of Human Settlements, which they could now move into and start calling…

A Cape Town father who was in mourning was gunned down at his murdered son’s funeral. Soon after the killing on Saturday morning, the shooter was beaten to death by the community members in Ravensmead. The suspect and the victim lay adjacent to each other as the police and forensic experts combed the scene for clues. The father had been at Beverly Court, standing next to the coffin that carried his son only known as Brampie. The 26-year-old son was murdered last Wednesday. A community member said two shooters approached the 54-year-old man and shot him. “One of them went back to make sure that the father was dead, and that is when he was caught by the community members. “He was beaten with stanchion steel posts and also pelted…

The Stormers just don’t know when to say die when they play the Bulls at the DHL Stadium. But yesterday evening, a late missed conversion kick by replacement Clayton Blommetjies dampened the late drama in the North-South derby for the home side as they lost 33-32 to their visitors. The Bulls, with their scrum on the front foot, made the crucial scores at the start of the game and when the second half kicked off to seal things. Blommetjies and flyhalf Jurie Matthee missed some regulation kicks in front of goal that should’ve seen the Stormers clinch the match. It was the visitors, though, that broke their long drought in Cape Town, winning their first-ever match in the United Rugby Championship in the Mother City. It was also only their…

Kagiso Rabada Having been in good touch with the new ball throughout the season, Kagiso Rabada produced his best performance of the season in the final. Right from the first ball, the 29-year-old found his rhythm, was bowling good pace and looked in total control with ball in hand. The fast bowler returned figures of 4/25 and led MI Cape Town to their first-ever SA20 trophy at his home ground at the Wanderers Stadium. Game-changer Having reduced the Sunrisers Eastern Cape to 68/4 by the 11th over, MI Cape Town was clearly ahead of the game. However, with Aiden Markram and Tristan Stubbs at the crease, 114 runs in the last nine overs was still a possibility. That made Markram's wicket the most prized on the night. Slow left-arm orthodox…

At Cape Town Stadium PHEW... What a sensational finish that was in what turned out to be a thrilling encounter between the Stormers and Bulls. A lot of the blame for the Stormers’ defeat will go to replacement back Clayton Blommetjies for missing that relatively easy late conversion of Ben-Jason Dixon’s try – and had he slotted it, the Capetonians probably would’ve won the game. But both teams’ first-choice kickers, Jurie Matthee and David Kriel, missed a few fairly straightforward shots at goal, so it’s a bit unfair to single out Blommetjies alone. In the end, it was a terrific game of rugby, and while the Bulls emerged 33-32 winners at a packed Cape Town Stadium on Saturday, the Stormers can feel delighted about the fighting spirit that they showed…

South African motoGP World Champion Brad Binder said he was happy with the pre-season progress at Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, despite it being a jam-packed three days in Malaysia. Binder drove in his first season as the season rider on a factory team with Pedro Acosta joining him at the Factory team. Acosta finished ahead of Binder during the shakedown session at Sepang Racetrack. Binder recorded a fastest lap time of 1:57:614 and finished 13th fastest overall on Friday. Acosta was sixth overall, with a fastest lap of 1:57:175. “Busy 3 days complete. Today was a bit demanding but that’s what tests are for. Overall happy with our progress and findings before going to Buriram next week to keep working on refining our 2025 package. First though…we’re headed to…

The nightingale of India, Lata Mangeshkar delivered numerous timeless melodies. It was three years since the singer passed away on February 6. Celebrating her glorious journey, Jabalpur artist Ramkripal Namdev depicted various events related to Mangeshkar’s life on canvas. He created a beautiful painting compiling approximately 1 436 images of the singer. This painting has also made it into the Limca Book of Records. Not just that, the painting has also found a place in the Asia Book and India Book of Records. Namdev revealed that he used to listen to Mangeshkar’s songs, and found her voice so beautiful that he got the idea to create a painting of her. Namdev further mentioned that he also took one of his paintings to the songstress. Although he could not meet the…

Actor Akshay Oberoi has marked a significant milestone by purchasing the luxurious Volvo C40. A source revealed that this special purchase comes after a decade, during which the actor had previously showcased his creative flair by customising and designing his own car – a testament to his passion for automobiles. The Volvo C40 purchase isn’t just about the car – it’s a celebration of Akshay’s recent professional success and the steady rise in his career. “Buying the Volvo C40 is a dream come true for me. It’s been 10 years since I last bought a car, and back then, I put my creativity into designing it myself. But this time, I decided to treat myself to this incredible luxury car as a reward for the hard work and progress in…