Innholdsfortegnelse for 2024-10-03 i Star

Petrobras said in a statement on Tuesday that it had acquired a stake in the Deep Western Orange Basin (DWOB) block through a competitive bidding process conducted by TotalEnergies. The DWOB is located in deep waters offshore, between Port Nolloth and Hondeklip Bay, and significant discoveries have recently been made in the block by TotalEnergies, Shell, and Galp, a statement from the Brazilian and gas group said. Petrobras will have a 10% stake in the DWOB block, with the consortium now composed of: TotalEnergies, operator (40%), QatarEnergy (30%), Sezigyn Pty (20%), and Petrobras (10%). The operation aims to diversify the exploratory portfolio with value generation and is aligned with the company’s long-term strategy, which aims to replenish oil and gas reserves through the exploration of new frontiers, both in Brazil…

Nyati optimistic as he articulates a clear vision for future of Eskom Eskom chairperson Mteto Nyati has called on leaders of critical economic institutions to rise up to the daunting challenges in navigating South Africa’s energy trilemma: balancing energy security, sustainability, and affordability. In his address at the 12th Joburg Indaba yesterday, Nyati credited the company’s progress in stabilising energy supply, marking an end to load shedding since late March 2023. However, he underscored the pressing need to tackle affordability and sustainability as the next critical frontiers. Nyati articulated a clear vision for Eskom’s future, stroking a chord of optimism by advocating for tariff structures that were attractive to investors. He reminisced about the historically low tariffs Eskom provided, noting the importance of returning to such levels to spur investment…

As the world gears up for a likely moderation in rice prices, industry experts are keeping a watchful eye on the developments from India. With its looming potential to lift export restrictions, the global rice market could experience a further softening, bringing relief to importing nations, including South Africa. Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber (Agbiz), yesterday highlighted that recent weeks have seen a notable decline in global rice prices due to expectations of ample supplies. Notably, India began easing its stringent export restrictions at the end of September 2024, a move anticipated to enhance crop yields backed by favourable monsoon rains. Although a minimum export price of $490 per ton has been set, the shift signals a new chapter in the global rice supply dynamics. Currently,…

The rise of short-form video content has taken the digital marketing world by storm, and TikTok is at the forefront of this shift. With over a billion active users globally and close to 18 million in South Africa alone, the platform is no longer just a playground for teenagers – it has evolved into a powerful marketing tool for businesses of all sizes. Unlike more established platforms like Facebook or Instagram, TikTok offers a unique opportunity to reach a broad and engaged audience with minimal investment. The app’s algorithm is designed to display content from accounts with little to no following, making it easier for small businesses to gain visibility. This is perfect for smaller businesses that may not have large marketing budgets but still want to make an impact.…

In a year marked by operational challenges and postponed capital projects, South Africa's mining sector has seen an unexpected surge in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), particularly within the copper domain. According to PwC’s recently released 2024 SA Mine Report, the country recorded 32 significant M&A deals totalling around $10 billion (R174bn) between July 2023 and June 2024. BHP’s abandoned $42.7bn bid for Anglo American could have stirred up M&A activity in SA further. This striking development comes at a time when major investors were reconsidering new investments due to a variety of local and global factors. In its report released on Tuesday, PwC has attributed the revitalisation of M&A activity to the broader transformation of South Africa’s mining industry, which is increasingly leveraging its rich mineral resources and dynamic capabilities.…

In the face of unprecedented global challenges, African economies are demonstrating remarkable resilience, with projected growth rates anticipated to surpass the global average. According to the recently released 35th edition of the “Africa Cost Guide: Property & Construction 2024/25” by AECOM, Africa’s economies were set to grow by 3.7% in 2024, followed by 4.3% in 2025. While this progress is promising, various obstacles, including infrastructure deficits, the effects of climate change, and sociopolitical issues, pose significant hurdles for sustained long-term growth. Michell Bezuidenhout, the newly appointed PCC director at AECOM, affirmed that South Africa remains a leading destination for investment despite facing lower growth rates. “The public and private sectors can enhance this perception by improving transparency, governance, and investing in critical infrastructure projects,” she stated. The Africa Cost Guide,…

The shocking revelations which have shaken up the entertainment industry continue as Sean “Diddy” Combs’ legal battle intensifies. This comes after the embattled rapper is being accused of sexually assaulting 25 minors – including a nine-year-old. The Bad Boy Records founder, 54, who is jailed in New York awaiting trial on sex trafficking and racketeering charges, was hit with a raft of new allegations at a shocking press conference. Texas-based lawyer Tony Buzbee said during a live-streamed event that he is representing 120-plus individuals in civil lawsuits for allegations spanning the last three decades against the rapper. He said: “I want to focus on the ages of these victims. When we talk about the ages of these victims when the conduct occurred, it’s shocking.” Buzbee claimed Diddy’s youngest apparent victim…

Demands a public apology following false claims of receiving a VBS loan EFF president Julius Malema is facing court action over alleged defamatory statements made against the chairperson of the Nelson Mandela Foundation board, Dr Naledi Pandor, on a live TV programme last month. Malema is alleged to have falsely claimed that Pandor received a VBS loan, “damaging” her reputation and dignity. Malema’s lawyers have responded, denying intentional defamation and claiming his remarks were meant to contribute to the public conversation around the VBS scandal. However, they acknowledge the statements may have been perceived as harsh. The former international relations and co-operation minister has instructed her attorneys to demand a retraction and public apology from the Red Berets leader. This is not the first time Malema has faced defamation allegations.…

Minister of Employment and Labour, Nomakhosazana Meth, has raised concerns about South Africa’s alarming unemployment rate, which currently stands at 33.5%. This stark statistic is compounded by the manipulation of labour practices, where some employers favour hiring undocumented immigrants, raising serious ethical and legal questions. “We remain deeply concerned about the high unemployment rate among South Africans, particularly affecting our youth,” Meth stated, addressing a myriad of challenges plaguing the labour sector on Tuesday. In a country grappling with a staggering 33.5% unemployment rate, Meth’s announcement of a comprehensive strategy to tackle labour violations and support fairness in employment practices hopes to pave the way for a more equitable future. Her remarks painted a bleak picture of the current job landscape, pointing to the pressing need for urgent intervention. Meth’s…

Entrepreneurship is not just a business venture for those living in South Africa’s townships; it is critical for survival. This stark reality was articulated by Bongani Chinkanda, executive director of HDI Youth Marketeers, during the Township Retail Investment Summit held yesterday morning in Alexandra. Chinkanda underscored the urgent need for entrepreneurial initiatives, stating bluntly, “Entrepreneurship is not an option, it’s about survival… there is no option to fail”. Chinkanda added that, when it comes to investment, bankers should sit and listen to entrepreneurs’ stories because “in there are the nuances that will determine your return”. Stacy Saggers, commercial growth director at marketing data, insights and consultancy company Kantar South Africa, shared findings from the company’s latest research, which for the first time included insights derived from township demographics. The survey…

Professors Salim Abdool Karim and his wife Quarraisha Abdool Karim have been recognised for their pioneering work in the medical field and were awarded with the prestigious Lasker- Bloomber Award for their public service. Married for 36 years, the epidemiologists – both aged 64 – are internationally respected for their work on stopping deadly infections such as HIV/Aids, TB and the coronavirus. In a statement, the Lasker foundation said the award recognises the couple for illuminating key drivers of heterosexual HIV transmission and introducing life-saving approaches to prevent and treat HIV. “The prize further recognises them for their statesmanship in public health policy and their advocacy. The Abdool Karims have influenced Aids programmes across the globe and they have played pivotal roles in developing South Africa’s scientific capacity. Throughout…

FORMER Tshwane mayor, Randall Williams, has broken his silence on the circumstances that saw him resigning in a huff in February 2023, claiming he was forced out by the DA leadership and criticising their handling of the city's governance. Speaking to journalists at his Pretoria home, Williams recounted how he was called into an online meeting with DA national leader John Steenhuisen and party Gauteng leader Solly Msimanga who fired him on the instruction of the DA Federal executive. He said his axing was executed despite that it was not supported by other members in the multiparty coalition, who wanted him to stay on as mayor. Williams recalled a meeting of leaders of a multiparty coalition bloc where he was asked to present a recovery plan following an adverse audit…

Team South Africa brought home gold at the First Global Challenge held at the Peace and Friendship Stadium in Athens, Greece. Four of the five South African winners are from schools around Pretoria. Athens hosted the event, which saw students gathered from more than 190 countries around the world. The event aims to inspire and promote engagement in science, technology, engineering and mathematics among young innovators. The Dr Mae Jemison Award for International Unity at the 2024 First Global Challenge was awarded to the South African Springbots, a team that demonstrated exceptional collaboration, breaking down cultural and international barriers to foster unity and cooperation among the participants. The First Global Challenge is an Olympics-style, international robotics competition that takes place in a different country each year. First Global invites…

The all-new Suzuki Swift will soon be finding its way into local showrooms and now we can put a price tag on the latest remake of one of South Africa’s favourite hatchbacks. Suzuki Auto South Africa has released pricing ahead of launch, with the entry-level 1.2 GL, available only as a five-speed manual, pegged at R219 900. That’s not a huge jump over the current GA base model’s R213 900 sticker, particularly given the additional features fitted to the new base version. Moving to the middle of the range, the new Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL+ is priced at R239 900 in manual guise and R259 900 with the new CVT gearbox option, while the range-topping 1.2 GLX now commands R264 900 (manual) and R284 900 (CVT). As mentioned, the list…

The corridors of Doornfontein will seem far removed from the pageantry of Test rugby this week, but Lions scrumhalf Morné van den Berg knows that if he wants more Springbok rugby, he will have to apply recent experiences and lessons in the United Rugby Championship. Now returned from Bok duty, Van den Berg – with two Test caps to his name – could make his URC season debut for the Lions against Edinburgh at Ellis Park on Saturday (1.45pm kick-off). It was not an easy peregrination for the 27-year-old. His performance against Australia in the Rugby Championship, particularly, was received with mixed reviews as he battled tough conditions and a desperate Wallaby outfit. Nevertheless, Van den Berg should arrive back home a better player, and with the personal goal of…

Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs guided South Africa to a 139-run win in the first One-Day International against Ireland at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi last night. South Africa bowled Ireland out for 132, with 28.1 overs still remaining in their innings, having scored 271/9 in their 50 overs. Both Rickelton and Stubbs had to survive an early spell of pressure and tight bowling by Ireland, and cashed in at the end to score half-centuries that helped the Proteas take a 1-0 series lead with two matches still to come. Rickelton (91 off 102 balls, 7x4, 3x6) scored his maiden ODI half-ton, and his 152-run fifth-wicket partnership with Stubbs (79 off 86 balls, 2x4, 4x6) ensured that South Africa recovered from 39/3 to set the hosts a competitive…

Stellenbosch FC’s hierarchy was greatly relieved after Gauteng’s big-spending clubs baulked at the high asking prices of their match-winners, Jayden Adams and Fawaaz Basadien. The two players, who were major transfer targets during the recent window, will be the team’s trump cards in Saturday’s MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. After the loss of skipper Deano van Rooyen (Pirates) and talismanic striker Iqraam Rayners (Sundowns), Basadien has raised his level of play. Last week, he captured the imagination of the soccer fraternity after he scored a goal from about 60 metres against Cape Town City in a derby at Athlone Stadium. Basadien, an excellent defender, has been used more in a midfield role this season. On occasions, he stalks up in the striking zone.…

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana yesterday acknowledged the resignation of Bajabulile Swazi Tshabalala from her position as senior vice-president of the African Development Bank (AfDB), on October 1, after the South African Cabinet and he endorsed her bid as president of the regional development finance institution. Tshabalala voluntarily relinquished her role, which she had held since 2020, in line with the AfDB’s rules. These require that any executive employees intending to pursue the position of the AfDB’s presidency or any other elected role in the organisation, must step down from any current role in the bank to prevent conflicts of interest, among other considerations. In a statement, Godongwana said Tshabalala played a vital role, alongside incumbent president Dr Akinwumi Adesina of Nigeria, in ensuring that the bank met and even exceeded…

Cash is still king in South Africa, but digital payments are growing and the SA Reserve Bank (SARB) plans to drive this transition further with a Payments Ecosystem Modernisation Programme (PEMP), SARB Governor Lesetja Kganyago announced yesterday. In an address to the 2024 Payments Conference, Kganyago said that this was “the largest and most ambitious initiative by the SARB, in the payments space, since the launch of the South African Multiple Option Settlement system, or SAMOS, more than 30 years ago.” At the heart of the programme was the development of a public payments utility that provides digital payments infrastructure. South Africans can make payments with their phones or even smart watches, but as the SARB payments survey showed recently, cash was still the most commonly used payment method, and…

Leading agricultural associations have united to voice their deep alarm over the potential for increased sugar tax rates or lowered thresholds in a warning for the future of South Africa’s sugarcane industry. In a joint statement issued yesterday, SA Canegrowers and the South African Farmers Development Association (SAFDA) highlighted that such measures could lead to the collapse of the sector, jeopardising the livelihoods of 25 000 cane farmers and plunging countless families into destitution. This warning follows years of turmoil faced by the industry since the introduction of the Health Promotion Levy (HPL) in April 2018, which has already prompted significant job losses and economic strain. The associations cited an alarming multi-billion rand revenue loss, which has already led to the closure of two mills in KwaZulu-Natal. A study commissioned…

Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of South Africa's economy, playing an important role in job creation, economic growth, and innovation. The contribution of SMEs extends far beyond their size, making them indispensable to the nation's economic health. According to the International Council for Small Business, SMEs constitute nearly 90 percent of all businesses, generate over two-thirds of employment opportunities and are becoming hubs of innovation across the African continent. SMEs offer significant present value to the South African economy. The Small Business Institute of South Africa reports that 90% of businesses in the country are classified as SMEs, highlighting the sector's significant role in the economy due to its substantial contribution to the GDP and employment of millions. The institute says that SMEs in South Africa employ…

Newly discovered oil and gas reserves in Sub-Saharan Africa are set to reshape the economic landscape of the region, providing a substantial boost to fiscal revenues and foreign currency earnings. This optimistic outlook comes from a recent study by Moody’s Investor Services, which highlights the increased exploration and investment activities by both established and new players in the hydrocarbon sector. South Africa stands on the cusp of reaping the benefits from these developments. However, analysts caution that the Government of National Unity (GNU) led by President Cyril Ramaphosa must act swiftly to incentivise investors to re-enter the sector. While Shell Offshore Upstream South Africa said in July that its plans to drill five wells off the West Coast will be game-changing for, TotalEnergies confirmed exiting SA offshore of Mossel Bay…

A story of hope, unconditional love and resilience plays out in the newly released local movie, Greytown Girl. Written and co-produced by Rani Sitaram and Asgar Mahomed and directed by the Oscar-nominated Darrell Roodt, the real-life story follows Meena, a girl living with a disability who, despite her limitations, builds her life, creating a love story that crosses continents through letters. It stars Sanam Sitaram as Meena alongside veteran actor Jack Devnarain as her father, Veer. Emmanuel Castis and Linda Sokhulu are also a part of the star-studded cast. Veer teaches Meena how to read, using glossy magazines, where she discovers pen pals. Meena writes to friends all over the world, but just one writes back, Eddie. Eddie is so deeply affected by Meena’s letters that he changes his superficial…

Limpopo pig farmer Zachariah Johannes Olivier, farm supervisor Andrian Rudolph de Wet and farm employee William Musora appeared in the Polokwane Regional Court yesterday. They were remanded in custody. The bail application did not take place as expected; the Polokwane Regional Court cited a pending decision on an application made by the accused men to the high court in Polokwane. Polokwane Regional Court Magistrate Ntilane Felleng referred the trio’s bail application to the Mankweng Magistrate’s Court. Limpopo spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority Mashudu Malabi-Dzangi said the matter was postponed. “The trio, accused of killing two women and throwing their bodies into a pigsty, remain in custody for now, as the matter has been postponed to November 6, 2024, in the Mankweng Magistrate’s Court, pending the appeal outcome,” said Malabi-Dzangi.…

South African singer and record producer Sello “Chicco” Twala has opened up about Senzo Meyiwa’s death, stating that he didn’t know why his name was involved in the case. Meyiwa was a South African professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper and captain for Orlando Pirates. He was shot and killed during an apparent home invasion at the home of his girlfriend and singer Kelly Khumalo in Vosloorus, Ekurhuleni, on October 26, 2014. In an interview with David Mashabela on the King David Studio podcast recently, Twala stated that the person who killed Meyiwa was one of the individuals who were in the house, not him. “I don’t know who killed Senzo,” said Twala. “How would I know? I was not there. My son will know who killed Senzo, Kelly…

The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) has announced increases in the social grant amounts effective from October. These are the new grant amounts: Old age grant (below 75 years): Increase from R2 180 to R2 190 Old age grant (above 75 years): Increase from R2 200 to R2 210 War veterans grant: increase from R2 200 to R2 210 Disability grant: Increase from R2 180 to R2 190 Care dependency grant: Increase from R2 180 to R2 190 Sassa has also reminded social grant beneficiaries of the October payment dates. The payment took place from yesterday to tomorrow. The grants for older persons were paid yesterday and the disability grant beneficiaries will be paid today. The grant for children will be paid tomorrow. “There is no need to rush…

PRETORIA was transformed into a vibrant cultural melting pot on Saturday as the Korean Cultural Centre South Africa hosted an event celebrating the rich dance traditions of Korea and the Zulu nation. This captivating showcase, held in honour of Heritage Month, underscored the unifying power of the arts. The diverse audience that gathered was treated to a dazzling display of Korea’s Unesco-listed Talchum mask dance, seamlessly interwoven with the dynamic rhythms of traditional Zulu dances. The event epitomised cultural diplomacy, highlighting how diverse art forms can connect people across continents. Prince Buzabazi kaZwelithini, who attended as the guest of honour, praised the event’s ability to bring cultures together. “It is through events like these that we can truly appreciate the richness of our own heritage while learning from others,”…

The Audi Q3 SUV range is now available with diesel power, with Audi South Africa having announced a quartet of 110kW TDI variants. The new oil burners are available exclusively in Urban Edition and Black Edition trim guises, with a choice between the conventional Q3 body style and the more coupe-like Sportback. The Q3 35 TDI Urban Edition is priced at R832 270, with the Sportback equivalent coming in at R857 870, while the Black Edition variants are priced at R908 450 for the Q3 TDI and R934 050 for the Q3 Sportback TDI. The 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine produces 110kW and 340Nm, with power going to the front wheels via Audi’s seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch gearbox. The carmaker claims a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of 4.9 litres per…

In a world where reason and logic are often seen as the epicentre of human achievement, it’s easy to forget the transformative power of magic. Yet, magic is not just the realm of fantasy and fiction, it’s a real force that can shape our lives, relationships and destinies. But, have you ever wondered why some of your most heartfelt desires seem to elude you despite your best efforts? Or why do your most carefully crafted strategies and practices seem to fall flat? Perhaps, it is because we have forgotten to align the two most powerful inner forces: our intellect rooted in our analytical minds (head) and our emotions anchored in our inner knowing (heart). What if the secret to mastering magical manifestation lies not in elaborate practices or exotic ingredients…

Boeta Chamberlain has had to deal with some tough moments in his professional career, but was on the other, happier side in last week’s United Rugby Championship clash against Edinburgh. The 25-year-old utility back – who is a flyhalf, but can do a job at fullback too – replaced Jaco van der Walt at No 10 on the hour mark at Loftus Versfeld with the Bulls trailing 13-12. They had also just lost prop Simphiwe Matanzima to a yellow card, and it looked like the Pretoria side were going to suffer an opening-round defeat. But flank Marcell Coetzee produced a superb rip in the tackle near his own tryline, and the counter-attack saw wing Sebastian de Klerk put in a 50-22 kick. Chamberlain was alert to the possibility of catching…

Stellenbosch FC have played so often in Durban over the past few weeks that coach Steve Barker has even reacquainted himself with his local curry shop. Barker, a KwaZulu-Natal native, has been back in his home province of late due to Stellies being forced to play at the Moses Mabhida Stadium while the Danie Craven Stadium undergoes a rehabilitation process after the rugby season. Barker and Stellies will be back at the 2010 Fifa World Cup venue this weekend, though, when they face Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 final (6pm kick-off) as he certainly feels familiarity breeds success. “Yeah, when I go back home, it’s a bunny chow from Ganey Road, Britannia Hotel,” Barker joked at the pre-final media conference at Stellenbosch’s Lentelus training ground yesterday. “But seriously, I think…

Nasdaq and JSE-listed Lesaka Technologies, which provides financial services to underserved consumers and merchants, said yesterday it has completed the R1.67 billion cash and share acquisition of Adumo RF, which it says should cement its position as “the leading independent fintech in southern Africa”. The transaction, first announced in May, was settled through the issue of 17.28 million Lesaka shares and R232.2 million cash, implying a total purchase price of R1.67bn using Lesaka’s October 1 closing price on the JSE of R83.05 a share. Shares were unchanged yesterday afternoon. “The Adumo transaction … significantly enhances our technology platform, adding customers, solutions, and meaningful scale. Lesaka’s full-service fintech platform will serve 1.7 million active consumers, 120 000 merchants, and process over R270bn in throughput per year in our connected ecosystem as…

In the ever-evolving world of South African hedge funds, where political drama rivals Hollywood and the Rand lives up to its nickname “The Rattler”, it is time to ask: is AI the slick financial genius we’ve been waiting for, or nothing more than this year’s buzzword? Technological advancements are transforming industries globally, and the hedge fund sector is no exception. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and fintech innovations is redefining how hedge funds operate, invest, and manage risk. In a complex and often volatile market environment like South Africa, the adoption of these cutting-edge strategies, presents several significant advantages. A Fast Track to Smarter Decisions One of the most significant advantages of machine learning in hedge funds, is its ability to analyse vast datasets, uncovering trends…

The Deputy President (DP) of South Africa, His Excellency Paul Mashatile, is in London this week with high level government officials, which included eight South African Ministers and Deputy Ministers, Senior Executives of big corporates and 40 SMMEs and startups. Under the leadership of Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams from the Department of Small Business Development supported by Edna Montse from African Bank and Steven Zwane from Absa, 22 On Sloane entrepreneurship campus partnered with the Department of Small Business Development, Small Enterprise Development Agency, African Bank, Absa, Telkom and W&R Seta to give the 40 businesses an opportunity to be part of the investor roadshow in London. The week-long activity started with Absa hosting a UK/SA investor dinner under a Heritage Day theme. This was followed by the Deputy President, supported…

Hyundai Motor Company celebrated an extraordinary milestone on 30 September, marking 100 million units of global cumulative production, an accomplishment that positions the automaker among the fastest players in the industry. The company’s journey, spanning 57 years since its inception, is a testament to its relentless drive towards manufacturing excellence and innovation. The celebration unfolded during a special ceremony at the Ulsan Plant in South Korea, the cornerstone of Hyundai's manufacturing prowess since it began operations in 1968. Jaehoon Chang, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, spoke about the significance of this landmark, stating, “Reaching global cumulative production of 100 million vehicles is a meaningful milestone that was possible thanks to our customers around the world who have chosen and supported Hyundai Motor since the very beginning.” His words…

Controversial music producer Nota Baloyi has found himself in a social media storm after being accused of rape by actress Itumeleng Bokaba. The controversial music producer has defended himself, claiming the encounter was consensual. The former Rhythm City and YoTv star said that Baloyi allegedly forced himself onto her at his home earlier this month. Bokaba has since opened up a case of rape against Baloyi. A bunch of edited conversations between the two have now gone viral on social media. In the messages, Bokaba said that she felt uncomfortable and pressured during the encounter with Baloyi. She indicated that she said “no” several times and felt that the situation went “too far too quick”. She also told Baloyi that she was not ovulating but that he needed to send…

This month, there are plenty of television shows, movies and documentaries to enjoy. From Hollywood blockbusters to local productions, here are some to look out for. Brasse Vannie Kaap This nostalgic feature documentary centres around the iconic 90s group of the same name who were instrumental in shaping the South African hip hop industry. It features renowned figures from the Afrikaans entertainment world who pay tribute to Brasse Vannie Kaap’s undeniable impact. They include David Isaacs and Oscar Petersen of Joe Barber fame as well as Karen Zoid, Kurt Darren, Francois van Coke and Valiant Swart. The documentary also reflects on the Brasse Vannie Kaap’s remarkable journey from the Cape Flats to Pukkelpop in Belgium – a rise that was cut short by the untimely death of their frontman, Mr…

Two men are set to appear in court, after they were arrested by police in Limpopo following a high-speed chase and a shoot-out on the N1 freeway. Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, provincial police spokesperson, said police officers from the Musina police station in Vhembe District responded to reports of gunfire at local shops on Tuesday morning. “Upon arrival, they (police officers) encountered a white Toyota Corolla Quest with Gauteng registration carrying unidentified suspects. The officers attempted to stop the vehicle, but the suspects fled towards the N1 road,” said Mashaba. During the chase, Mashaba stated that the suspects fired at police, who returned fire and hit the vehicle’s right rear tyre. Despite the damage, the Toyota kept going. “The suspects continued travelling until the driver lost control near a farm on…

Individuals looking for housing are becoming increasingly vulnerable to online rental scams. In recent weeks, Harcourts South Africa has noticed a surge in fraudulent schemes where scammers pose as real estate professionals to defraud naïve tenants. “This is not a new problem; it has been going on for years. Recently, we have noted an increase in scams where fraudsters advertise properties pretending to work for Harcourts. They often use platforms that do not verify the legitimacy of listings, like Facebook Marketplace and RentUncle,” said COO of Harcourts South Africa, Anton Jansen van Vuuren. Too good to be true prices: If a rental price is much lower than comparable houses in the neighbourhood, it could be a scam. Urgent payment requests: Beware of any pressure to pay deposits or fees urgently,…

There were no winners in Tuesday night’s Powerball and Plus jackpot draw. However, one person did get five correct numbers in the Powerball jackpot and walked away with R402 326. The Powerball jackpot was estimated at R24 million and the rollover amount for tomorrow is R31m. The Powerball Plus jackpot, which was estimated at R40m, was also not won. The rollover amount is estimated at R46m for the next draw. The jackpot has rolled over 17 consecutive times. One person had five correct numbers in the Powerball Plus jackpot and walked away with R182 592.50.…

The City of Gold’s vibrant cultural scene welcomes the return of the 28th Poetry Africa Festival, a three-day celebration of rhythm, rhyme, and raw emotion. From yesterday until Saturday, the festival, hosted by UJ Arts and Culture, promises an unforgettable celebration of words, paying homage to one of South Africa’s literary giants, Keorapetse Kgositsile. The festival will kick off with a memorial lecture in honour of Kgositsile, a renowned poet and literary icon who died in 2018. The Keorapetse Kgositsile Memorial Lecture, presented by Dr Uhuru Phalafala and hosted by Siphindile Hlongwa, will delve into the profound influence Kgositsile had on the world of poetry, and his lasting legacy in the literary world. Poetry enthusiasts will be treated to an array of performances and discussions from some of the globe’s…

Leonie O’Connell, a financial adviser at Momentum Financial Planning, offers valuable insights to help individuals stay on track with their financial goals amidst the chaos of divorce. According to data reported annually by Statistics South Africa through its Marriages and Divorces report, both male and female divorcees over the age of 50 have steadily increased over the last decade. It is revealed that the global trend of “grey divorce”, characterised by devastating financial implications, is a growing concern, particularly for women, suggesting that financial advice can help individuals stay on track with their financial goals. While divorce later in life brings unique challenges for both genders, she says that it tends to have a more significant impact on women. Gender inequalities play a major role in why this occurs; women…

Hyundai has thrown the cat among the pigeons in the extremely competitive compact SUV market, with the launch of the Exter. It faces off with the Suzuki Ignis, Renault Kiger, Suzuki Fronx, Toyota Starlet and, Hyundai says, possibly its biggest competitor – Nissan Magnite. Five derivatives are available in five-speed manual or five-speed automated manual (AMT) with three trim grades: Premium, Executive and Elite. Built in India, the Exter shares the same platform as the Grand i10 sedan and hatchback and, at first glance, looks a bit like something you would find in a Lego store. From the front, it sticks to Hyundai’s crossover design elements – the front grille design and its signature H-shape LED daytime running lights above the halogen headlights. From the side, the bold wheel…

Mercedes could be culling more coupe models from its line-up, with the sloping-roofed versions of the GLC and GLE SUV said to be on the chopping block. Multiple media sources abroad are reporting that these two models will be victims of the company’s product consolidation plan as it shifts towards EVs. The original report, from the Handelsblatt publication, cites insider information, but nothing is official at this stage. In any case, the smaller GLC Coupe would likely still remain on the market for many years to come, as the current version was only launched in 2023. This would seem to correlate with insider information that Car and Driver received in early 2023, stating that the German brand’s line-up of 33 different body styles (at the time) could be reduced to…

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos could grow more grey hair when he announces his final squad for the coming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers this afternoon. Bafana are set to face Congo in back-to-back matches, starting with a clash at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha next Friday (7pm kick-off). Soon thereafter, Bafana will visit Congo at the Alphonse Massamba-Debat Stadium on October 15 (6pm). Broos’ men are second in Group K, after a decent start in the qualifiers, drawing 2-2 with Uganda at home before beating South Sudan 3-2 away from home. Broos’ character is set to be tested this afternoon, though, when he trims his preliminary squad to the final 23 as some of his regulars haven’t been getting a lot of game time at their clubs.…

THE ICC Women’s T20 World Cup gets under way today in the United Arab Emirates, with hosts Bangladesh set to play the opener against Scotland in Sharjah. South Africa will be in action tomorrow as they take on a very dangerous West Indies side at Dubai International Cricket Stadium (12pm start). The Proteas Women head into the tournament with a squad that has a balanced mix of youngsters who are in their maiden World Cup campaigns, and senior players who know about tournament pressure very well. In the back-room staff, the side are missing coach Hilton Moreeng, who’s contract was not renewed earlier this year. However, Dillon du Preez – Moreeng’s long-serving assistant coach – has assumed the interim head coach role. South Africa have also added a batting and…