Innholdsfortegnelse for 2025-04-30 i Star

The announcement of substantial tariff hikes by the US administration marked a turning point in global economic outlook, as reflected in the latest Global Risk Survey conducted by Oxford Economics. Launched on April 3, just hours after the US declared 'Liberation Day,' the survey revealed a significant deterioration in business sentiment, continuing a trend of pessimism that lasted throughout the three-week sample period. The latest quarterly survey, completed by 125 clients across sectors, reveals a complex landscape driven by fears of imminent trade wars, economic sluggishness, and shifting global dynamics. The Global Business Sentiment Index, derived from these surveys, indicated a worrying forecast: global gross domestic product (GDP) growth is projected to decelerate to just 1.2% by late 2025. This is half the growth rate businesses anticipated in January and…

Phillipines-based shipping container lines conglomerate, International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI), has reaffirmed the legitimacy of its partnership with Transnet for the development of Durban's Pier 2 terminal. The dispute with Danish shipping giant Maersk, which returned to the KwaZulu-Natal High Court for two days of deliberation, could significantly impact one of South Africa’s crucial trade gateways. The High Court issued an interdict last year, temporarily halting the collaboration following Maersk's legal challenge. Despite ICTSI's bid being announced as the preferred option on 11 April 2023, the court's previous decision led to significant frustration regarding delays in critical upgrades to the terminal. ICTSI has since expressed concern that the ongoing legal disputes could further postpone necessary enhancements. In a statement on Tuesday, ICTSI emphasised their readiness to commence implementation of…

The recent tabling of the 2025/26 budget, with its proposed 2% increase in Value Added Tax (VAT) spread over two years, has ignited a firestorm of debate. While the National Treasury aims to bolster State coffers, the potential repercussions for South Africa's agricultural sector and, critically, our nation's food security warrant serious scrutiny. This VAT hike presents a significant threat that demands careful consideration. Agriculture, the bedrock of food security and a significant contributor to South Africa's economy, operates on tight margins. Input costs, ranging from fertilisers and pesticides to fuel and machinery, are already substantial and often volatile. A VAT increase directly inflates these costs. Farmers, particularly small-scale producers vulnerable to price fluctuations and lacking economies of scale, will face increased financial pressure. This could lead to reduced productivity,…

South Africa’s energy system is at a crossroads, facing a worsening electricity crisis, rising demand, and ambitious decarbonisation goals. While renewable energy is rightly heralded as a key solution, it is often misunderstood as the silver bullet to enable sustainable power generation. In truth, generation alone won’t solve the country’s energy woes. The real missing link in South Africa’s energy puzzle is storage. Despite steady progress in solar and wind adoption, these clean energy sources are, by nature, intermittent. Solar panels don’t generate power at night, and wind turbines are silent on still days. Yet our demand for electricity doesn’t follow the weather, but rather daily routines, industrial activity, and seasonal fluctuations. This mismatch between supply and demand is at the heart of South Africa’s ongoing energy instability. Load-shedding, now…

The latest Commodity Markets Outlook from the World Bank paints a worrying picture for the global economy, predicting that declining growth, abundant oil supply, and surging trade barriers will likely push global commodity prices to their lowest levels of the 2020s. As crisis looms for developing economies reliant on commodity exports, World Bank experts on Tuesday warned of an emerging economic landscape fraught with challenges. Forecasts indicate that global commodity prices are set to decrease by 12% in 2025, with an additional 5% drop expected in 2026, bringing prices down to levels unseen since 2020. While nominal prices may still surpass pre-pandemic figures, an inflation-adjusted evaluation reveals a stark reality: prices are likely to sink below the average levels maintained from 2015 through 2019, signalling the end of a commodity…

Controversial podcaster, Macgyver “Mac” Mukwevho is once again facing backlash for comments made on his show, this time regarding TV presenter Minnie Dlamini. In a recent episode on Podcast and Chill, MacG commented on Dlamini’s recent split from plastic surgeon, Dr Brian Monaisa. The couple is said to have officially called it quits on their romance earlier this month. Confirming the news, Monaisa shared a statement on social media stating that their relationship ended due to “purely personal” reasons. He went on to squash rumours that their relationship ended due to cheating. “While our romantic relationship has come to an end, there remains mutual respect between Ms Dlamini and I,” he said. During the back-and-forth banter, MacG went on to question Dlamini’s ability to keep a man. “Bro, I’m telling…

One of the other victims was identified as an administrative clerk at Lyttelton Police Station THE National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola, has confirmed that the three police officers who went missing last week are among the five bodies recovered from the Hennops River. Speaking during a media briefing at the river last night, Masemola said the bodies of Constable Keamogetswe Buys, Constable Boipelo Senoge, and Constable Cebekhulu Linda had been identified by their families at the Tshwane mortuary. “It has been a difficult six days for members of the South African Police Service and affected families, as we searched everywhere for our three missing police officers,” Masemola said. The trio was last seen in the early hours of Thursday at a…

A signed warranty is a contractual statement to which a person is bound, a judge found after the seller of a car sold the vehicle as being a 2013 model to a car dealership, while it later emerged that the vehicle was, in fact, a 2005 model The result was that the dealership paid the seller R60 000 more than what the vehicle was worth. When this was later discovered, the seller refused to pay the money back that he was overpaid with. The Magistrate’s Court in East London ruled against Eastern Cape Motors when it turned to court. The magistrate reasoned that the dealership should have established the model of the vehicle before entering into the sale agreement. On appeal, the Eastern Cape High Court sitting in Makhanda said…

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has issued a warning to vendors and consumers about the implications of the reversal of the planned 0.5% VAT rate increase. SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter noted that the decision by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana to reverse the VAT increase, initially set to take effect on May 1, 2025, has significant practical implications for VAT vendors and consumers. The warning comes after the Western Cape High Court’s full bench set aside the adopted 2025 Fiscal Framework and Revenue Proposals and suspended the implementation of the VAT increase from 15% to 15.5% recently. The EFF and the DA had approached the court to have the VAT increase announcement by Godongwana as well as the adoption of the finance committees' report by both Houses set aside. Kieswetter…

Hindus in South Africa have arranged a series of mass protests in reaction to the killing of 26 tourists in the India-administered part of Kashmir. The tragic incident happened last week, where gunmen, believed to be members of a terrorist group, opened fire on a holiday resort in Pahalgan, a town in the part of Kashmir that is under Indian control. The organiser of the protests in South Africa, Mervin Govender from Phoenix, north of Durban, said the protests began in Phoenix on Sunday and would continue during lunchtime until the massive one next Sunday, where they will burn an effigy of the leader of the terrorist group to vent their anger. He said the group’s target was Hindus, and as Hindus in South Africa, they felt they should protest…

This Freedom Month, Momentum hosted a special brunch dedicated to celebrating financial independence, with conversations centred around building financial literacy and empowerment. The event gathered leading experts to unpack what success and freedom truly mean for South Africans. The panel featured Prof. Carel van Aardt from the Bureau of Market Research; Hannes van den Berg, CEO of Consult and Executive Head of Momentum Advice; Therese Grobler, Head of Wealth Management at Momentum Financial Planning; and PR specialist Mamello Mosate, with seasoned journalist and broadcaster Dan Moyane as the host. Nontokozo Madonsela, Group Chief Marketing Officer at Momentum Group, explained that the event was held during Freedom Weekend to underscore the connection between financial independence and freedom. She stressed that financial stability is a key component of true freedom, as it…

In part two of The Star’s “Emfuleni Drowning in Sewage” series, we take a closer look at Sebokeng, a once-thriving suburban area now overwhelmed by sewage. What was once a vibrant community has been consumed by filth, with the stench of human waste hanging heavy in the air and seeping into every corner of their yards. Families in this area continue to endure an unrelenting nightmare, their desperate calls for help falling on deaf ears. As South Africa celebrated Freedom Day, these residents found no freedom — their hope is dwindling, their health is worsening, and with every new spillage, their dignity is being stripped away. Once a place of quiet routines and family life, Sebokeng Zone 10 Extension 2 has become unrecognisable. The ground squelches beneath every step, soaked…

Copper cable theft has become a blight on South Africa’s infrastructure, affecting essential services that millions rely on. With losses running into billions, the country’s rail and electricity sectors are experiencing significant setbacks, leading to frustration among citizens and businesses alike. The thriving illicit market exploits this situation, resulting in the sale of stolen copper to scrap metal dealers both locally and internationally. Recent statistics revealed by Transnet reported an astonishing 1 121km of stolen cable within a single year. Meanwhile, Eskom, the country’s power utility, incurs colossal losses totalling R5.7 billion annually due to copper theft, along with an additional R2 billion to replace the stolen cables. However, recent developments have provided a glimmer of hope. Last week, the Pinetown Magistrate’s Court delivered a significant ruling that may restore…

Inter Milan head into the Uefa Champions League semi-finals at risk of finishing the season empty-handed after a late-season slump killed their treble hopes and left them wondering where the next win will come from. Wednesday’s daunting clash at Barcelona could hardly have come at a worse time for Inter who, since reaching the last four, have lost three consecutive matches without scoring a goal. Those three defeats handed Napoli a three-point lead at the top of Serie A with four matches remaining and saw Inter crash out of the Italian Cup following a dismal 3–0 derby defeat to AC Milan last week. Simone Inzaghi’s team look tired and bereft of ideas up-front. Sunday’s 1–0 home loss to Roma was played in front of a soporific San Siro crowd —…

With two fierce Soweto derbies looming, former Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs striker Lehlohonolo Majoro has warned both clubs of the intensity and emotion of these back-to-back clashes. The Buccaneers and Amakhosi are set to meet twice in just 10 days — first in a league encounter that could decide Chiefs’ Top 8 hopes and Pirates’ title ambitions, and again in the Nedbank Cup final where silverware and bragging rights will be on the line. For Majoro, who donned both jerseys during his playing days, these are the games that define players’ careers and shift the trajectory of a club’s season. “Knowing that you’re going to play a derby, automatically, every player wants to avail themselves, everyone wants to play that game,” he said. “And perhaps that’s a plus for…

Minister expected to host a media briefing to explain Budget 2025 technical process Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana could be preparing for an unprecedented third budget speech after the reversal of a 0.5 percentage points increase in value-added tax (VAT) last week. This comes as Godongwana on Wednesday will host a media briefing to explain the technical process that must now be undertaken regarding the 2025 Budget. This decision follows a court challenge brought forward by the Democratic Alliance and the Economic Freedom Fighters regarding the proposed VAT hike in the 2025 Budget. The Western Cape High Court ratified an agreement reached out of court on April 27, allowing Godongwana to rescind the increase, which was initially set to take effect on May 1. Waldo Krugell, an economics professor at the…

Johannesburg is set to host the World Union of Wholesale Markets (WUWM) Conference from May 14-16, 2025, at the Sandton Convention Centre. The event aims to highlight Africa’s growing significance in the global fresh produce industry while addressing critical issues such as food security, climate change, and the modernisation of markets. The conference, themed “The African Edition: Shaping the Future of Fresh Produce through Sustainability, Innovation and Inclusivity,” is being organised by Joburg Market, the largest fresh produce market on the African continent. It is expected to draw industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators from over 200 member countries. Discussions will focus on global agriculture value chains, Africa’s potential for exports and imports, and the integration of advanced technologies to improve market efficiency. Joburg Market plays a central role in South…

Every year, Freedom Day enables us to reflect on and pay tribute to the day South Africa initiated an irreversible transition grounded in the principles of inclusivity, equality, and justice through the country’s first democratic elections. That momentous occasion 31 years ago elected 490 able South Africans to constitute the Constitutional Assembly and entrusted them with the responsivity of drafting our democratic Constitution which would serve as the supreme law and a blueprint for a just and equal society. Transitions have long been a part of South Africa’s journey, and now, the crucial shift toward a low-carbon future presents an extraordinary opportunity to transform our nation. The transition is not just an environmental necessity to ward off the climate crisis; it is a pivotal moment for nation-building that we cannot…

WeBuyCars Holdings’ core headline earnings per share would likely increase only between 0% and 4% in the six months to March 31 after double-digit earnings growth was diluted by more shares in issue, the motor retail group said in a trading statement on Tuesday. The share price fell 2.7% to R42.70 by midday, but the price is still more than double the R19.19 it traded at a year ago. Although WeBuyCars trades in used vehicles, the 10.5% year-on-year increase in new car sales in the first quarter to 144 426 units sold indicates a recovering vehicle market, overall. The company said in the trading statement that its core headline earnings per share for the interim period was expected to be between 119.4 cents and 124.2 cents. Core headline earnings were…

Combined Motor Holdings’ (CMH) headline earnings a share fell 25.6% in the year to February 28 as vehicle affordability continues to wane among South African consumers. The dividend declared fell 22.3% to 171 cents a share from 220 cents last year. Revenue increased 3.2% to R13.25 billion. Total profit fell 26.2% to R301.49 million, marking the second year in a row of decline. CMH operates in the motor retail and distribution, car hire, and financial services segments in South Africa, employing 2,666 people. It has 43 retail motor dealerships representing 29 brands in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape. Its Mandarin Parts Distributors business imports aftermarket vehicle parts. CEO Jebb McIntosh said in the results that while a mild resurgence in new vehicle sales in the last quarter was encouraging,…

The annual Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) transformed the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) into a vibrant hub of rhythm and harmony on Friday and Saturday. As renowned artists from across the globe graced the numerous stages, festival-goers revelled in a weekend filled with unparalleled musical experiences. For 22 years, CTIJF has solidified its status as Africa’s premier showcase of world-class music, ambiance, and hospitality – a celebration that goes beyond mere performances to create unforgettable experiences. As attendees arrived, they were drawn into a realm where every detail had been meticulously curated, offering luxury hospitality that combined exquisite gourmet dining, premium beverages, and unparalleled service. The ambiance resonated with a sophisticated charm, turning the event into a blissful escape that mesmerised both local and international visitors. Day…

Eastern Cape artist, Thembani Hastings Mqhayi, has expressed his disappointment at the government’s failure to resolve the ongoing dispute over the national flag. Mqhayi, who claimed that the flag had his design, said the country flew a questionable flag to celebrate Freedom Day. He claimed that his work was erroneously credited to Fredericks Brownell, who served at the National Archives of South Africa as State Herald between 1982 and 2002. Mqhayi, who is the manager for Cultural Affairs in Amathole District, East London, claimed that the flag is one of the five different original designs he submitted in early 1994 to the office of the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture. This was after the late former president Nelson Mandela, in 1993, made a call that artists and citizens submit…

A POLICE crackdown in Port Nolloth netted a major haul after six suspected illegal miners were caught with unpolished diamonds and cash hidden at a residence in Sizamile. Northern Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Timothy Sam said that the arrest, made on Monday, April 28, came after the Operation Vala Umgodi team received a tip-off while conducting community outreach activities in nearby Komaggas. Armed with intelligence, officers moved quickly to raid the identified property, uncovering the precious stones and an undisclosed sum of money during their search. The six men, aged between 18 and 33, were unable to produce valid immigration documents and were taken into custody. They now face charges related to the possession of unpolished diamonds and violations of immigration laws. Authorities hailed the operation as a “major breakthrough”…

The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) has joined the growing list of organisations calling for Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s resignation. The party has also formally tabled a motion of no confidence against Godongwana in Parliament, citing his tenure marked by fiscal mismanagement, contempt for the poor, and loyalty to discredited neoliberal dogma. ‘‘South Africans deserve leadership that rejects austerity and market fundamentalism. They deserve a bold, caring, and people-driven economic future, one led by the MK Party,’’ it stated. The party’s call comes after the Western Cape High Court's decision to suspend the “unlawful” VAT increase announced by the ANC and DA-led Government of National Unity (GNU). The MK Party is the latest party to call for his resignation after the EFF and the DA. It described the GNU's economic…

African Vaccination Week 2025 highlighted the plight South Africa was in to reach its target in vaccination programmes and fighting off misconceptions around vaccines. African Vaccination Week is simultaneously celebrated with other World Health Organisation (WHO) regions under the banner of World Immunisation Week (WIW). It aims to strengthen advocacy for better access to vaccination. South Africa was in the top 20 countries in 2023 based on the number of zero-dose children. The Department of Health (DOH) spokesperson Foster Mohale urged parents and caregivers to ensure that their children are up-to-date with their vaccinations to protect people of all ages against vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, polio, diphtheria, etc. The DOH will use the 2025 campaign to intensify vaccination and surveillance activities to close immunity gaps in…

Coca-Cola has revived its iconic “Share a Coke” campaign, reintroducing the beloved personalised bottles that captured hearts worldwide. The latest edition brings a fresh twist, offering new brand experiences designed to connect with a new generation of consumers while celebrating the magic of seeing your name on a Coke bottle. Launched in 2011, Coca-Cola’s groundbreaking ‘‘Share a Coke’’ campaign was the first of its kind, replacing the iconic logo with people’s names, setting a new standard for personalisation in the industry. Now, the campaign is back with a renewed call to action: share a Coke with your friends, celebrate your connections, and create memories that will last a lifetime. To celebrate the relaunch, Coca-Cola is merging real-world and digital experiences through the Coke Memory Maker — an interactive online platform…

As we approach Workers’ Day, a time meant to honour the struggles and sacrifices of workers, we are reminded of the tragedy that unfolded on 16 August 2012 at Marikana. The DA demands the immediate tabling of a detailed, costed plan for the Marikana monument, including clear timelines and accountability mechanisms from the Departments of Arts and Culture as well as DEDECT, and a formal apology from the North West Provincial Government for years of delay, dishonesty, and disregard. This was after MEC Madoda Sambatha, who was delegated by Premier Lazarus Mokgosi to respond to a question posed by the DA, during a Question and Answer session in the North West Provincial Legislature, blatantly admitted that the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) failed to secure funding…

April is Autism Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about autism, promoting understanding, and advocating for the inclusion of individuals on the spectrum. Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects an individual’s ability to communicate, interact socially, and engage in typical behaviours. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 1 in 100 children worldwide are affected by autism, but local studies in South Africa show a prevalence rate of between 0.08% to 2%. It is a spectrum disorder, meaning its symptoms can vary widely, from mild to severe, and each child with autism experiences it uniquely. Despite its prevalence, autism remains widely misunderstood, and many children, especially in underprivileged communities, struggle to access the support and resources they need. Autism Awareness Month serves as an opportunity to…

It is the last stop on their redemption tour for the Springbok Women's Sevens, who can't afford to leave anything out on the field at the HSBC SVNS Play-off in Los Angeles. Any stumble is likely to be pounced on by their rivals, and could consign SA to another year in the lower tier of international sevens rugby. One player determined not to let that happen is versatile 27-year-old playmaker Alicia Willemse, even though she is new to the international rugby stage. It has been a breakthrough year on a number of fronts for the diminutive Western Province star. She is still riding high after her maiden Test match. She came off the bench as a replacement scrumhalf for the Springbok Women in a one-off international against Spain in Alicante…

Orlando Pirates host Sekhukhune United on Wednesday night at Orlando Stadium at 7.30 pm, looking to shake off their CAF Champions League disappointment and keep their league title hopes alive. The Buccaneers, currently second on the Betway Premiership table, return to domestic action just five days after their semi-final exit at the hands of Pyramids FC. While the loss in Cairo was a blow to their continental ambitions, the focus now shifts to closing the gap on leaders Mamelodi Sundowns and securing a strong league finish. With 46 points from 20 games, Pirates trail Sundowns by nine points but have two games in hand. A win over Sekhukhune would restore belief ahead of Saturday’s crucial Soweto derby against Kaizer Chiefs—an encounter that could further define their season. However, standing in…

The Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz) has expressed optimism over China's intentions to bolster its imports of South African agricultural products. This development comes on the heels of a recent statement from Wu Peng, the current Chinese Ambassador to South Africa, who emphasised the need for enhanced bilateral trade and economic cooperation through social media platform X. Peng further said that the Chinese government welcomes more South African agricultural and industrial products to enter the huge Chinese market. Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist at Agbiz, underscored the significance of such statements from Chinese officials, particularly regarding trade matters. “China has profound importance in global agriculture. In 2023, China was a leading importer, accounting for 11% of global agricultural imports, with imports valued at $218 billion," he said. Sihlobo noted…

The global economy showed resilience in 2024, but signs of weakness are emerging against a backdrop of slower growth, persistent inflation, and an uncertain policy environment, according to the OECD’s latest Interim Economic Outlook. The report highlights risks, notably that further tradefragmentation could harm global growth prospects.The outlook projects global growth slowing to 3.1% in 2025 and 3.0% in 2026, with significant regional variation. Inflation is expected to remain higher than previously forecast, though still moderating asgrowth slows. The US economy entered 2025 in good shape, marked by cooling inflation, solid growth, andexpectations of rate cuts. However, US consumer sentiment dipped in January for the first time in six months, hitting a three-month low, driven by growing concerns about unemployment and the inflationary effects of the new tariffs. The escalation…

In Uganda’s remote Buheesi village, a school once disconnected from the world now accesses digital textbooks and submits reports in real time, thanks to a pilot program merging rural electrification with fibre-optic deployment. This transformation underscores the power of digital inclusion, a force that can reshape economies and empower millions. At its core, financial technology (fintech), the use of digital platforms like mobile apps and blockchain to deliver banking, payments and investment services, drives this change by making financial systems accessible to the underserved. For Africa, with 18% of the global population but less than 1% of the world’s data centre capacity, digital inclusion is not just about connectivity; it is about economic sovereignty and global competitiveness. South Africa, with its industrial strength and technological promise, is poised to lead…

Novus Holding, the printing, packaging and tissue manufacturer, has won a High Court appeal to overturn a decision taken by the Takeover Regulation Panel (TRP), to withdraw its approval of the takeover of ICT distributor company Mustek. On March 28, 2025, the TRP had ruled that it had “unilaterally withdrawn” its approval of Novus’ announcement on November 15, 2024, to acquire Mustek, and it had asked that Novus publish a revised offer. Novus had originally made a mandatory offer to Mustek shareholders for shares it did not already own, of R13 cash per share, or R7 in cash plus one Novus share, or two Novus shares per Mustek share. Novus has pursued Mustek as part of a strategic diversification strategy. Novus “strongly disagreed” with the TRP ruling and appealed the…

As we look forward to another public holiday at the start of May, let’s look at the theatre offerings being ushered in. l Swingin’ Las Vegas For theatregoers who’ve attended past shows of a similar ilk and were serenaded to their heart’s delight, this is a popular drawcard. Once again, familiar names like Craig Urbani, Nadine, Timothy Moloi and Harry Sideropoulos will be belting out the hits, backed by the 18-piece Johannesburg Big Band led by Adam Howard. Attendees can expect an exceptional mix of tracks throughout several eras, from classic songs to modern hits. As the title suggests, it lives up to the showmanship of a Las Vegas show. The cast had a few things to say about the limited run of eight performances below: On the song he…

Despite the cooler temperatures and windless conditions that have brought reprieve to the ongoing blaze at Tokai, fire crews are concerned that the fire lines are threatening Chapman’s Peak. Several road closures remain in place while two helicopters are airborne as the crews go into their fifth day of battling the fire. The City of Cape Town’s Fire and Rescue Services spokesperson, Jermaine Carelse, said donations are currently closed because the frontline workers have enough provisions to sustain the teams. On Monday evening, Carelse said while the fire was not yet contained, the various fire services have made significant progress in subduing the blaze that started on Friday. Two aerial support choppers were grounded by 6pm on Monday evening due to bad light, but have resumed duty at first light…

To bridge the gender gap in technology, HONOR Technologies celebrated Girls in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Day by hosting 40 schoolgirls, giving them a rare opportunity to engage with mentorship, innovation, and real-world tech experiences. The initiative was designed to address the gender disparity in South Africa’s ICT sector, where women currently make up only 23% of the workforce. By hosting this empowering event, HONOR Technologies is taking a bold step toward its broader mission of increasing female representation in the ICT industry and encouraging young women to pursue careers in technology, ultimately helping to reshape the future of the sector. The event was held at HONOR Technologies' Johannesburg office on April 24, bringing together young girls from local communities to inspire and spark their interest in pursuing careers…

The National Union of Public Service and Allied Workers (NUPSAW), together with the country’s working class, commemorates Freedom Day. It was on this day, 31 years ago, that South Africans from all walks of life participated in the first democratic elections in our country. We honour the sacrifices made in the struggle against the brutal apartheid regime, and we will remain indebted to the freedom fighters for their sacrifices in the liberation of our country. Despite our hard-earned freedom in our country, the levels of unemployment, poverty and inequality remain prevalent to date. It is a dismay that 31 years into democracy, we remain a conquered nation with the minority owning the majority of the land in the country while the majority have no access to land and are languishing…

In mid-April, at a typical South African braai (barbeque), I found myself in a heated conversation with someone highly educated, yet passionately defending a piece of Russian propaganda that had already been widely debunked. It was unsettling. The conversation quickly became irrational, emotional, and very uncomfortable. That moment crystallised something for me: we’re no longer just approaching an era where truth is under threat – we’re already living in it. A reality where falsity feels familiar, and information is weaponised to polarise societies and manipulate our belief systems. And now, with the democratisation of AI tools like deepfakes, anyone with enough intent can impersonate authority, generate convincing narratives, and erode trust – at scale. Evolution of disinformation The 2024 KnowBe4 Political Disinformation in Africa Survey revealed a striking contradiction: 84%…

The Proteas Women’s team were left to rue a couple of dropped catches and fielding mishaps with opener Tazmin Brits’ 109 not enough to get them over the line in the Tri-Series opener against India in Colombo. Although Brits was also dropped on 51 by Deepti Sharma off her own bowling and 67 by captain Harmanpreet Kaur at mid-off, India’s overall ground fielding in diving to save boundaries particularly during the death overs proved to be the difference in claiming a 15-run win. India had totalled 276/6 - which would have been a record chase for the Proteas - courtesy of opener Pratika Rawal's 78 - her fifth successive fifty-plus ODI score - and Laura Wolvaardt’s team leaking 82 runs in the last 10 overs. This was partially due to…

Having secured their place in the CAF Champions League final, Mamelodi Sundowns now shift their focus back to the Betway Premiership, where another step toward the title awaits. Richards Bay FC stand as the next obstacle at Loftus Versfeld on Wednesday night (kick-off 7.30pm). In their last outing, the Brazilians suffered a 2-1 loss against rivals Orlando Pirates, who are still in hot pursuit of the defending league champions' crown. Heading into the contest, Sundowns still maintain a nine-point gap over the second-placed Buccaneers, who have two games in hand and will also be in action against Sekhukhune United at the Orlando Stadium on the same night. Sundowns have lost the fewest matches of all teams this season, and goals from Arthur Sales and Lucas Ribeiro Costa handed them a…

Defending Telkom Netball League (TNL) champions the Free State Crinums outclassed traditional rivals the Gauteng Jaguars at the Sun City Superbowl in a repeat of last season's final. The comprehensive 59-37 victory was a third dominant win in the first round of the tournament in Rustenburg, North West, for the defending champs. None of their rivals have been able to live with their intensity and execution on court, and it was no different against the Jaguars. The Crinums put their foot on the pedal from the first centre pass and refused to let up. They were firmly in control, leading 46-25 by the end of the third quarter. They refused to rest on the lead, the 22-point margin was by no means flattering. As is usually the case, skipper Refiloe…

South African cruiserweight champion Thabiso “The Rock” Mchunu returns to the ring on Thursday night for an eight-round bout against the DRC’s Amador Kalonji at the SunBet Arena at Times Square Casino in Pretoria. Mchunu, 37, enters the fight with a record of 23-8-0, with 13 knockouts. Despite his extensive experience, he admits Kalonji is an unknown quantity. “I don’t know much about my opponent, Mchunu told Independent Newspapers. “So, I have to prepare for everything and make the necessary adjustments in the fight. “It’s risky for me because I have nothing much to gain but a lot to lose if I don’t perform. “This fight is very serious — I have to win convincingly.” Although Mchunu has fought on major international stages, he heads into Thursday’s clash on the…