Innholdsfortegnelse for 2025-11-27 i Star

Government weighing a national levy on gross gambling revenue from online betting and gambling South Africa is considering one of its most significant gambling policy shifts in decades, with the National Treasury proposing a new national tax on online and interactive gambling amid explosive growth in the digital betting industry and rising concerns about social harm. If adopted, the national tax would mark the most far-reaching reform of South Africa’s gambling tax framework since the mid-1990s. Treasury discussion paper titled "The Case for a National Online Gambling Tax" and released on Tuesday, reveals that government is weighing the introduction of a 20% national levy on gross gambling revenue (GGR) from online betting and any future interactive gambling activities. This would be imposed in addition to existing provincial gambling taxes, potentially…

Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen on Wednesday announced a sweeping national plan to vaccinate South Africa’s entire cattle herd against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) as the country battles one of its most severe outbreaks in decades. Addressing the African Farmers' Association of South Africa (AFASA) Leadership and Strategic Partnership Conference, Steenhuisen said the government will implement a comprehensive, phased national vaccination strategy, starting with the provinces hardest hit by the disease: KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Free State, Mpumalanga and North West. “The Department of Agriculture has resolved to implement a comprehensive strategy to vaccinate the entire national herd. This initiative will position us to apply to the World Organisation of Animal Health (WOAH) for recognition of freedom with vaccination status,” he said. “This plan, however, will rely on a consistent, high-quality…

South African households experienced modest financial relief in the first half of 2025, but their overall financial resilience remains under severe strain, according to the latest Altron FinTech Household Resilience Index (AFHRI). The index, released on Wednesday, shows a year-on-year improvement of 2.3% in the second quarter, supported largely by May’s interest rate cut and stabilising employment trends. However, despite this short-term uptick, the long-term picture is far less encouraging. Since the beginning of the South African Reserve Bank’s (Sarb) interest rate hiking cycle in late 2021, household financial resilience has improved by an annual average of just 0.2%, effectively stagnating. The AFHRI report underscores how deeply high borrowing costs have eroded household finances. With population growth averaging 1.4% annually since 2014, the index shows that the real financial position…

In the words of business magnate, Richard Branson, “Success in business is all about making connections”. While this remains inherently true, networking behaviours – like what draws people to in-person events, how they prefer to connect, and which formats foster the strongest engagement – continue to evolve. Today, business owners are networking with purpose – not just for handshakes, but for insights and innovation. This is according to the 2025 trends report by Freeman, a global leader in events, which reveals 61% of respondents network primarily to learn something new, while 58% do so to exchange ideas and 54%, to identify collaboration opportunities. Preparation is your secret weapon Walking into a networking event without preparation is a bit like pitching to an investor without a business plan – you might…

OPEC+ nations gathering this weekend are once again grappling with the thorny question of how much oil they’re physically able to pump. In May, the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies launched a new assessment of members’ “maximum sustainable capacity” to help set production quotas in 2027. With output levels for the months ahead already set, delegates say this longer-term review will likely be one area of focus at Sunday’s meeting. The process looks increasingly necessary, as the struggle by some OPEC+ members to increase supplies as much as agreed this year indicates they may be nearing output limits. Clarifying their full capacity would help align quotas more closely with reality - and make any future cutbacks more credible. OPEC’s readiness to make new curbs could be…

A judge entered the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court in Pretoria yesterday, but not to preside over a case but as an accused in a case of corruption and money laundering. Judge Portia Dipuo Phahlane and her son, Kagiso Phahlane, were released on bail, while church leader Michael Sandlana remained behind bars. The case, mired in bribery, long-standing fraud allegations, and claims of intimidation, continues to grip both the judiciary and the religious community. Phahlane was granted R50 000 bail, while Kagiso Phahlane and co-accused Vusi Ndala were released on smaller amounts after the State indicated it would not oppose their applications. Sandlana, however, failed to secure bail. Prosecutors argued that he posed a high risk, citing not only the gravity of corruption and money-laundering charges but also the reputation of…

South African singer and songwriter Danny K will release a new album tomorrow, celebrating 25 years of making music. Titled Kollection, the album will feature his greatest hits digitally remastered and a few new surprises. Leading up to the release of Kollection, Danny K, real name Daniel Koppel, has been sharing memories from working on the previously released songs, reflecting on what they mean to him. Danny K reflected on how his 2005 song Unfrozen came together, thanks to his producer Pete Martin, who found a Thomas Newman sample from the gangster film Road To Perdition featuring Tom Hanks. “We were instantly drawn to it – and wanted to try use it as the base for a haunting pop song. By the end we realised that unbelievably we had achieved…

Gauteng police have denied registering a case involving two Brazilian pilots who found themselves having to walk to Kempton Park from Sandton after an argument with sex workers at the weekend. Reports indicate that the pilots were linked to the G20 summit, where about 42 countries and institutions were represented at the meeting that started on Saturday. The delegations included countries like Brazil, France, Australia and Germany. On Tuesday, while addressing the media, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, in the company of Provincial Police Commissioner Tommy Mthombeni, briefly mentioned the incident. He said the police were called to intervene after they stumbled upon the two gentlemen who were walking in the area of Sandton towards Kempton Park. “We had two pilots from Brazil, who were in an Uber with two ladies…

Civil society organisations advocating for equitable access to healthcare in public facilities have launched an urgent application at the Gauteng High Court, Johannesburg, to end vigilante obstruction at public clinics when individuals seeking access cannot provide their South African identity documents. The organisations are seeking immediate intervention to end the obstruction that has left vulnerable patients unable to access essential medical services. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Treatment Action Campaign (TAC), and Kopanang Africa Against Xenophobia (KAAX) – represented by Section27- have brought this application against several state respondents, including the City of Johannesburg, the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH), and the South African Police Service (SAPS). They are asking for an order compelling the state to ensure safe and unhindered access and to remove any unauthorised persons who obstruct or…

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has commended the South African Police Services (SAPS) and other law enforcement agencies for acting swiftly in apprehending a suspect who attempted to hijack an official G20 Mercedes Benz at the weekend. On Saturday, just as the summit was getting underway, the police reported that a suspect attempted to hijack a G20 vehicle, which at the time was carrying members of the police's elite National Intervention Unit (NIU). The police confirmed the incident in a statement, saying the suspected hijacker had last Friday evening attempted to steal a vehicle assigned to the G20 Leaders’ Summit, while using a toy gun. Reacting to the post-G20 crime report, Lesufi condemned those who did their best to disrupt the successful hosting of the recently concluded summit. Lesufi commended the…

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has blamed the ongoing failure of municipalities across the country to supply water to communities on poor governance and infrastructure, corruption and criminal activity linked to water-tanker operations Mashatile made the remarks on Tuesday while responding to oral questions in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) in Cape Town. He was answering a question from NCOP ANC chief whip Kenneth Mosimanegape Mmoiemang about expanding public–private partnership investment. Mashatile acknowledged that communities in numerous municipalities are experiencing an ongoing water-supply crisis. He attributed the continued challenges, which have persisted for several years, to poor governance and inadequate infrastructure. “Indeed, many of our municipalities are grappling with challenges related to the provision of water and sanitation due to a combination of factors, including poor governance, lack of technical…

A pensioner who played the Lotto with numbers based on a combination of his loved ones’ birthdays has won just over R13 million in the Lotto Plus 2 Draw today. The father and husband, from Cape Town, purchased his manually selected R70 wager at a retailer in Bergvliet. “I usually play my numbers based on a combination of my loved ones’ birthdates, at least twice a week, and now I’m a multi-millionaire. My favourite game is Lotto. I often win small amounts, but I’ve never won such a significant amount. It is truly life-changing. “I am excited to buy a car to make getting around easier. As a pensioner, I plan to be responsible with my winnings, investing them wisely to secure our retirement. I also want to spoil my…

Deputy Police Minister, Cassel Mathale, is leading a delegation of senior officers to the 93rd Interpol General Assembly taking place in Morocco this week. The annual Interpol General Assembly is a platform for member countries to strengthen multilateral partnerships and to adopt collective strategies aimed at enhancing global safety and security. Deputy Minister Mathale said the South African Police Service (SAPS) delegation will utilise this opportunity to focus its efforts on strengthening relations with member countries to prevent and combat the country’s challenges which include border security, human trafficking and vehicle smuggling cases, drug trafficking and the flow of illegal firearms between countries. Joining the Deputy Minister is a number of senior officers including the Provincial Commissioner of KwaZulu Natal, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the Head of Specialised units in…

With its affordable price tag, Nissan’s Indian-built Magnite has become one of South Africa’s most popular compact SUVs, and soon the carmaker will aim to emulate that success in the segment above that. At the recent Red Sea drive event held in Egypt, Nissan Africa president Jordi Vila confirmed that the all-new Nissan Tekton would be launched in South Africa in 2026. Set to be built in India, the new model will slot above the Magnite, serving as a (likely) more affordable replacement for the Qashqai, and going up against vehicles such as the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. The new vehicle has yet to be fully revealed, but the teaser images you see here do give us a strong indication of how it will look on the outside. Created…

Proteas spinner Simon Harmer showed gratitude to Test captain Temba Bavuma and coach Shukri Conrad for affording him the opportunity to play Test cricket again. About seven to eight years ago, South African cricket found itself losing key talents to lucrative deals in the United Kingdom. One of those talents was Simon Harmer, who signed a Kolpak deal with Essex, essentially ruling out the idea of playing international cricket for the duration of the contract. Harmer signed the deal after being dropped from the Test squad in the 2015-16 season, as his hopes of playing Test cricket looked grim with spinners Dane Piedt and Keshav Maharaj having taken up space in the Proteas Test team at the time. Harmer wasn't alone, as former Proteas fast bowlers Kyle Abbott and Duan…

Lions captain Francke Horn believes his side’s season may finally be turning after a stuttering start to their United Rugby Championship campaign, but insists none of their recent progress will matter if they can’t back it up in this weekend’s derby against the Bulls at Loftus. The Lions return from the international break chasing a third win in a row, after losing their opening three fixtures of the URC season. A convincing 49-31 victory over Ulster before the break injected renewed belief into Ivan van Rooyen’s team, and Horn said the two-week pause offered a crucial chance to reset. “Obviously, everybody knows the first three games didn’t go our way. But this break came at a very good time for us after a very good win to reassess, regroup, see…

The long-running R60 billion class action bid against South Africa’s major banks reaches a critical procedural stage today as the Gauteng High Court will hear an interlocutory application that could determine how much evidence will ultimately be allowed before the court. This comes as major banks will next year defend themselves in court over claims that they repossessed hundreds, if not thousands, of people’s homes and sold them far below market value, cheating them of the earned interest on those properties over years. The evidentiary battle comes ahead of the main certification hearing scheduled for the last week of February 2026, where the court will decide whether the matter can proceed as a national class action on behalf of affected homeowners, nearly a decade after it was launched in 2017.…

Net salaries remained unchanged in October, according to the PayInc Net Salary Index, which tracks the average nominal net salaries of around 2.1 million South African earners. The index moved sideways during the month but remained higher year-on-year, signalling stronger spending ahead of the year-end shopping period. However, companies continue to face pressure as productivity fails to keep pace, strengthening the case for greater technology adoption. “The PayInc Net Salary Index held steady at R21 414 in October, maintaining a 1.8% year-on-year increase,” said Shergeran Naidoo, the head of Stakeholder Engagements at PayInc. The upward trend in net salaries continued through 2025, with the average nominal net salary rising 4% in the first ten months, compared to 4.6% in the corresponding period in 2024. In real terms, the PayInc Net…

The Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice and Dignity Group’s (PMBEJD) Household Affordability Index for November shows a slight month-on-month decline in food costs, but civil society groups warn that nutritious food remains out of reach for millions of South Africans as the festive season begins. The index, released on Wednesday, shows that the average household food basket cost R5 413.53 in November, down R27.07 (-0.5%) from October. However, the basket is still R52.49 (1.0%) more expensive than it was a year ago. PMBEJD director Mervyn Abrahams said 17 of the 44 tracked foods increased in price during November, while 27 items became cheaper. Using Pietermaritzburg-based transport and electricity costs, PMBEJD estimates that these two necessities consume 60.4% of a worker’s wage (R2 781.85 of R4 606.40). That leaves only R1 824.55 for…

Recent reports of an uptick in business liquidations in South Africa, 145 in October alone, may have understandably set off alarm bells about the health of the country’s small business sector, but while closures have a profound impact on communities and livelihoods, they don’t tell the full story. A sector under pressure, but still standing Beneath the surface, the reality is more nuanced. South Africa’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are showing remarkable resilience, adaptability, and even growth, often fuelled by digital transformation and an entrepreneurial spirit that refuses to be extinguished. Despite the uptick in liquidations, SMEs remain a driving force in South Africa’s economy. According to the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Sacci), the country is home to approximately 2.67 million small, medium, and micro-enterprises (SMMEs).…

Vukile Property Fund has upgraded its full year guidance and has a strong pipeline of potential new property deals that may see it spend R5 billion of cash over the next six months of its 2026 financial year, CEO Laurence Rapp said Wednesday. The group, which holds 53 assets between South Africa, Portugal and Spain, on Wednesday reported a 9% increase in half-year dividend per share (DPS), while guidance for the 2026 year was now at least 9% growth in dividend per share and funds from operations (FFO). Previously the forecast was for around 6% growth in the two metrics. About two-thirds of Vukile's assets and net property income are generated in two of Europe's major economic drivers, Spain and Portugal, through its 99.6%-held subsidiary, Castellana Properties. The countries are…

In a heated session before the Ad Hoc Committee investigating corruption and crime syndicate infiltration within the South African Police Service (SAPS), businessman Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala denied personal responsibility for a contentious R360 million tender awarded to his company, Medicare24. The committee, established in October 2023, was tasked with investigating allegations of corruption, political interference, and infiltration by criminal syndicates within SAPS. Matlala appeared shackled from the Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre, where he is detained, facing intense scrutiny over the large healthcare services contract Medicare24 secured from SAPS – a deal that has ignited widespread alarm due to reported irregularities and an internal SAPS audit. During his testimony, Matlala provided a candid account of his background. “I grew up in Mamelodi East and started an informal business after matric. It…

There’s a special kind of chaos that happens when a character humiliates themselves, pauses mid-mess and looks straight into the camera like, “Please confirm I’m not the only one seeing this madness.” That, dear reader, is the mockumentary, where fiction pretends to be reality and comedy lives in uncomfortable silence. When characters break the fourth wall to speak directly to us, it’s called direct address or the talking head style, and frankly, it’s one of television’s finest inventions. Shows like The Office and Modern Family turned awkward stares, dry pauses and brutally honest mini interviews into pure comedic art. And let’s be honest, it’s hilarious. This format has slowly become a favourite because it feels dangerously real. The messy energy, the side eyes, the exaggerated politeness hiding pure irritation. It’s…

In a heated session before the Ad Hoc Committee investigating corruption and crime syndicate infiltration within the South African Police Service (SAPS), businessman Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala denied personal responsibility for a contentious R360 million tender awarded to his company, Medicare24. The committee, established in October 2023, was tasked with investigating allegations of corruption, political interference, and infiltration by criminal syndicates within SAPS. Matlala appeared shackled from the Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre, where he is detained, facing intense scrutiny over the large healthcare services contract Medicare24 secured from SAPS – a deal that has ignited widespread alarm due to reported irregularities and an internal SAPS audit. During his testimony, Matlala provided a candid account of his background. “I grew up in Mamelodi East and started an informal business after matric. It…

Former president Jacob Zuma’s MK Party heads back to the Pretoria High Court today, insisting that President Cyril Ramaphosa’s appointment of Prof. Firoz Cachalia as police minister without removing Minister Senzo Mchunu was unconstitutional The case, dismissed twice previously on technical grounds, returns to the Pretoria High Court for a third attempt, with the party demanding that the merits finally be tested. In a statement yesterday, MKP spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela said Ramaphosa’s conduct amounted to an abuse of executive power. Ndhlela cited three core complaints: the decision to place the then-Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on “leave” rather than formally removing him; the appointment of Prof. Firoz Cachalia as Acting Police Minister despite his not being a Cabinet member; and the choice to appoint a sitting judge to oversee an inquiry…

With year-end bonuses soon to be paid out, South Africans are being advised to exercise caution amid a rise in fraudulent vehicle auctions targeting festive season buyers. Industry figures from late 2024 indicate that almost 70% of South Africans were targeted by fraud, with victims losing an average of more than R12 500. Digital banking fraud increased by 86%, costing the industry R1.888 billion, and vehicle auction scams have become a growing contributor. WesBank has warned that increased buyer activity in December creates an opportunity for fraudsters operating online and in person. “Vehicle auctions can provide excellent opportunities for South Africans to access quality vehicles at competitive prices. However, it is important to be vigilant. Understanding the common tactics used by scammers is your first line of defence,” said Lebogang…

A stark warning from UNAIDS has illuminated a grave crisis in the global response to HIV, signalling a long-fought battle for public health at risk of unraveling. In its newly released report, Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response, ahead of World AIDS Day 2025, UNAIDS highlights the alarming decline in international funding, with potential repercussions that could resonate through low- and middle-income countries significantly burdened by the epidemic. As the OECD predicts reductions in external health assistance of up to 40% by 2025 compared to 2023 levels, the repercussions are immediate and profound. Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of UNAIDS, poignantly articulated the human impact of these statistics. Prevention services, already under siege prior to the financial disruptions, have sustained the most significant blow. Abrupt cuts to access to preventive medications…

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) confirmed receipt of an enquiry opened at the Sandton Police Station by Nkosazana Zuma-Mncube relating to the 17 South African men reportedly trapped in the Ukraine-Russia conflict. The unit also confirmed second enquiry docket against MK Party MP, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla registered on Sunday, November 23, 2025. This comes after the daughter of former President Jacob Zuma, Zuma-Mncube, opened a criminal case against her sister, Zuma-Sambudla, as well as Siphokazi Xuma and Blessing Khoza, in relation to this alleged recruitment. Zuma-Mncube has accused all three of contravening the law; she claims that the men were lured to Russia under false pretences and were handed to a Russian mercenary group to fight in the Ukraine-Russia war. Hawks spokesperson Brigadier Thandi Mbambo said the matter will…

Toyota’s humble seven-seater Rumion people carrier has received a number of safety, exterior and interior updates for the new year. Exterior enhancements The Rumion’s roof has been extended by 120mm, the pillars are now 22mm wider and the rear overhang grows by 40mm, to refine the silhouette and also enhance practicality. A new rear bumper and redesigned rear combination lamps complete the refreshed look, while a roof-end spoiler and roof-side spoiler are now standard across the range. The updates build on the already black mesh grille introduced previously. Safety There’s a significant step forward safety-wise as it now comes with side and curtain airbags, and the third row receives three headrests instead of two. The second-row centre seatbelt has also been upgraded to a full three-point configuration. Interior Inside, the…

World Rugby’s annual failure to recognise the Springboks’ global supremacy by acknowledging Rassie Erasmus as Coach of the Year is farcical. The manner in which the blazered denizens of the World Rugby boardroom go out of their way to give the award to anyone but Erasmus would be amusing if it weren’t offensive. Indeed, South Africans are sometimes accused of having a persecution complex, but this reminds me of the old saying: “Just because I’m paranoid, that doesn’t mean they’re not out to get me.” This year, the award went to England Women’s coach John Mitchell. Mitch is a fine coach. He has my utmost respect for what he achieved with the All Blacks, the Lions, the Bulls, the Chiefs and the Western Force. But the much-travelled Kiwi has hardly…

Former Mamelodi Sundowns star Bennet Mnguni believes the South African giants are up against a demanding CAF Champions League group and must tackle each match with maximum intensity to stand a chance of securing a historic second continental title. Sundowns are set to play their second group-stage fixture away from home against Algerian Ligue 1 side MC Alger tomorrow. They began this phase of the tournament with a solid, yet hard-earned, 3-1 victory over DR Congo’s Saint Eloi Lupopo last Saturday. While that win provided a good start, the upcoming clash in Algeria promises to be far tougher and could play a pivotal role in Sundowns’ pursuit of the knockout rounds. The Brazilians have been impressive in this stage of the competition, converting all six of their recent attempts successfully,…

AmaZulu could climb to third in the Betway Premiership standings if they beat Richards Bay in the KZN derby on tomorrow night (7.30pm kick-off). AmaZulu are currently fifth on the log with 22 points, three behind second-placed Orlando Pirates, who are level on 25 points with champions and log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns. With the third- and fourth-placed teams not competing in domestic football for various reasons, Usuthu have a chance to leapfrog them to third if all goes well against the Natal Rich Boys at Richards Bay Stadium. It should. Usuthu head into the clash as favourites. They’ve been on an impressive run this season, winning six games, drawing three, and losing three. That form shows that coach Arthur Zwane has managed to find the right balance between youngsters and…

Pepkor, the JSE-listed discount retailer fast expanding into the financial services sector, has received approval from the Prudential Authority to establish a "fully fledged bank" in South Africa over "the next couple years", said the CFO Riaan Hanekom. He said in an online presentation the group had been working on plans to form a bank for about two years, and an important step toward this was the acquisition of Cloudbadger in October 2023, a company that provides modern banking software platforms, and which he said represented a cost effective way for the group to obtain this technology. The move signals further crowding of the traditional banking market - Old Mutual launched its own bank this year, while in the retail space where Pepkor operates, Pick n Pay offers in-store banking…

South Africa’s First National Bank (FNB) expects Black Friday spending to exceed R3.3 billion this year, supported by sustained growth in digital payments, rising online shopping activity and steady consumer demand across the retail sector. The bank said early 2025 spending trends show continued uptake of secure digital payment tools, positioning this year’s event for “solid activity” both in-store and online. In 2024, FNB processed more than R5.4bn in transactions on its Speedpoint devices over the Black Friday weekend. E-commerce remained a major tailwind, with online transaction values rising 37% and volumes up 76%. Virtual Card usage climbed 59% year-on-year, contributing over R600 million to Black Friday spend. FNB said it expects similar patterns in 2025, with digital wallets and virtual cards among the fastest-growing payment options, while cash usage…

South Africa has officially done the unthinkable: pulled off the first-ever G20 Summit on African soil, smoothly, stylishly, and with enough gravitas to make global leaders nod thoughtfully while sipping rooibos tea. Under the theme “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability,” Africa didn’t just host the summit. It owned it. And yes, while Donald Trump’s on-again, off-again relationship with attendance (“I’m coming. I’m not coming. Actually, where is South Africa again?”) gave international journalists enough drama to last the week, the real winners quietly stepped into the spotlight, the African MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises). Besides the political ping-pong caused by the US, the summit ended on a high note. The G20 declaration noted that never-ending wars, terrorism threats, and ongoing attacks on civilians are the real enemies of economic growth and…

The commercial property market in South Africa is witnessing a significant resurgence, as demand now surpasses supply across industrial, office, and retail sectors. According to the FNB Commercial Property Finance’s latest Q3 2025 Property Broker Survey, this was so for the first time since the survey began in 2019. Demand outstrips supply According to the National Market Balance Survey, brokers report: n Industrial property remains the strongest segment, showing the most acute undersupply. n Office property shows a positive demand-supply balance for the first time, supported by repurposing activity, improving affordability, and lower vacancies in key metros. n Retail property also reflects a modest undersupply, indicating steady improvement in the sector. Decrease in average time on market Average time on the market has decreased across all property classes, giving further…

Tiger Brands' share price leapt 7.95% on Wednesday after it announced it plans to pay out a special dividend of 2 710 cents per share, or R4 billion, for the year ended September 30 off the back of strong financial performance. The South Africa packaged food company said the special final dividend, together with the interim special dividend of 1 216 cents per share declared in May, brought the total special dividend for the year to 3 926 cents per share or R5.8bn. This was on top of a final ordinary dividend of 1 229 cents per share, which was 79% higher than last year's as a result of a decision to reduce dividend cover, which with the interim dividend of 415 cents per share, brought the total ordinary dividend…

The kooky fraud played by Jeff Goldblum in Wicked: For Good has a ditty explaining how he maintains his wizardly dominance: once people believe in something, he shrugs, they’ll keep on believing no matter what. Given its already record-breaking box office, the same appears likely to hold true for the less marvelous second half of director Jon M Chu’s behemoth adaptation of the Broadway musical. Even after a year-long intermission, anyone whose jaw hung open during the final moments of Wicked: Part 1, as Cynthia Erivo obliterates “Defying Gravity” while tearing through the night sky, would have to be insane (or dead) not to return. Unfortunately, the laws of physics are back in effect and the second film is a letdown. How could it not be? The kids are grown…

A judge entered the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court in Pretoria yesterday, but not to preside over a case but as an accused in a case of corruption and money laundering. Judge Portia Dipuo Phahlane and her son, Kagiso Phahlane, were released on bail, while church leader Michael Sandlana remained behind bars. The case, mired in bribery, long-standing fraud allegations, and claims of intimidation, continues to grip both the judiciary and the religious community. Phahlane was granted R50 000 bail, while Kagiso Phahlane and co-accused Vusi Ndala were released on smaller amounts after the State indicated it would not oppose their applications. Sandlana, however, failed to secure bail. Prosecutors argued that he posed a high risk, citing not only the gravity of corruption and money-laundering charges but also the reputation of…

The issue of DNA testing came under the juristic spotlight in the Limpopo High Court with a man and a woman being embroiled in legal proceedings regarding maintenance for the child. The husband denies being the father of the girl, arguing that it is impossible as he had a vasectomy years ago. He turned to court in a bid to force the mother to present the child for DNA testing before the maintenance dispute proceeded. The judge, in ruling in favour of the husband, commented that it is the constitutional and statutory rights to identity and parental care. Another court earlier ordered the mother to submit the child to DNA testing, but the mother never did this. In this recent application, forcing the mother once again to do so, the…

After years of neglected infrastructure that left 10% of police stations in “inhabitable” conditions, the government has finally set aside R305.7 million for urgent upgrades, a move described as long overdue and critical to restoring public trust. Minister of Police Firoz Cachalia revealed this alarming picture in a written response to Rise Mzansi, confirming that 118 of the country’s 1 165 police stations fail to meet basic operational standards. Cachalia stated that these facilities “have been found to be inhabitable and/or unsuitable for a productive working environment”. The worst-affected provinces are the North West, Limpopo, and KwaZulu-Natal, regions already battling high levels of illegal mining, sexual offences, stock theft, and housebreaking, where functional policing infrastructure is most urgently needed. Rise Mzansi National Assembly Whip Makashule Gana said the numbers expose…

The Smart Girl’s Guide to Revenge Jessica May Harper Narrated by Kaya Scodelario Audible Originals LOOKING for your next bold, binge-worthy listen? Jessica May Harper’s The Smart Girl’s Guide to Revenge, brought to life by Kaya Scodelario’s gripping narration, delivers a roller-coaster of emotion, drama, and just the right dose of chaos. Released in September as part of Audible Originals, this nearly seven-hour audiobook dives into the high-stakes world of betrayal, payback, and the kind of personal reinvention that only comes after hitting absolute rock bottom. We meet Jessica fresh out of prison, having served time for her husband Jimmy’s shady insurance fraud scheme. That’s right – she took the fall for love. But now? Love’s not exactly on the agenda. Revenge, however, is. Jessica sets out on a mission…

Gold is having a moment in the sun and the billionaire Muthoot clan of India is reaping the benefits. Their family-run firm that’s doled out gold loans for almost nine decades is on a roll as consumers take advantage of surging bullion prices to swap jewelry for short-term cash. The boom has pushed the company’s stock to a record, boosting the Muthoots’ combined fortune above $13 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. “The market is exploding,” said George Alexander Muthoot, 70, the managing director of his eponymous firm and third-generation executive of the business. “Even for rich people, it’s fashionable today to take gold loans.” Muthoot Finance Ltd.’s rise speaks to the growing clout of India’s shadow banking sector, which is helping fuel the country’s economic growth. Gold lending…

As the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams enter its final days, attention is shifting from the difficulty and stress of exams to the more complex issue that follows: the marking of nearly a million scripts nationwide. Marking is expected to begin across all provinces this week. Still, questions arise about whether centres are fully staffed, how prepared markers are, and how securely the remaining exam papers are being stored. The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has repeatedly said it is “on track” for the national marking period. The marking period typically runs for three weeks and involves more than 40 000 markers. Provinces including Gauteng, Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal, which handle the bulk of the exam load, have confirmed that their major centres are ready, with venues secured and…

South Africans connect online more than ever, to laugh, debate, share achievements, build businesses, or simply feel seen. A swipe can offer validation, friendship, and a place to belong. But in the same spaces where comfort is sought, cruelty has found a home. One angry post, one mocking meme, one hateful thread can unravel a person’s confidence in seconds. Cyberbullying doesn’t discriminate. It targets schoolchildren and university students, parents juggling life’s pressures, celebrities in the spotlight, and workers trying to protect their livelihoods. These attacks leave no visible scars, only sleepless nights, panic before opening an app, and the suffocating fear of being humiliated before the world. Online harassment follows its victims everywhere: into classrooms, boardrooms, taxis, and dinner tables. It can destroy reputations faster than they can be rebuilt…

The Standing Committee on Public Accounts (Scopa) has taken decisive action against Collins Letsoalo, the former Chief Executive Officer of the Road Accident Fund (RAF), planning to lay criminal charges for his failure to respond to a lawful summons to appear before the committee. Earlier this month, Scopa formally summoned Letsoalo to appear on November 25 and 26 as part of its Oversight Enquiry into the Road Accident Fund. Despite these explicit instructions, attempts to deliver the summons to Letsoalo at his known addresses were unsuccessful. The situation prompted Parliament to resort to a substituted service, which included dissemination through social media, email, and even affixing the summons to the door of his residence. The Powers, Privileges and Immunities of Parliament and Provincial Legislatures Act empowers Parliament to require individuals…

With everything to play for and only the narrowest of margins separating the two top competitors in the 2025 SA Rally-Raid Championship before the final round at the Northam Zondereinde Bushveld 400, it turned out to be a memorable weekend for Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa (TGRSA). It’s not often that one team takes all three podium places and in the process, clinches the title. Saood Variawa and his French navigator, Francois Cazalet, took both the Overall and Ultimate FIA T1+ Championships after a dramatic and fiercely contested final round, making the 20-year-old the youngest race winner in the history of the SARRC and also the youngest champion – a record previously also held by former teammate Henk Lategan. Tough track The season decider unfolded across Limpopo’s rugged bushveld, with…

The Springbok team to play Wales on Saturday in Cardiff will be announced by coach Rassie Erasmus today, and it will be a combination patched together from those remaining on tour. This match falls outside the international Test window, with various domestic competitions around the world resuming this weekend and, in the case of Japan League One, kicking off. When the tour began at the start of November, Erasmus said he would have all 33 players available for the five matches, barring a couple based in the English Premiership and in the Irish and Scottish URC teams. However, after the match against Ireland, Erasmus revealed he was down to 25 players. Erasmus has agreed to requests from Japanese clubs to have some of their players back. Originally, the Japanese clubs…

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has warned their counterparts not to predict their starting line-up or match-day squad, as they have enough depth at their disposal to tweak and change the team. Pirates have been the most consistent side domestically. They are the record-extending four-time MTN8 champions, and have reached the Carling Knockout final for the first time since its inception two seasons ago. But that’s not all. They are making strides where it matters most: the Betway Premiership. Pirates haven’t won the league since 2012, and they know that the greatest honour they can achieve is being crowned kings of the land. Given the fact that they are level with reigning champions and log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns on 25 points — following their 2–0 win over Chippa United on…

Tijjani Reijnders has insisted there will be no loss of nerve at Manchester City following their surprise defeat by Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League. City manager Pep Guardiola felt confident enough to make 10 changes to his team, only for the side to lose 2-0 at home to the Bundesliga outfit on Tuesday. The defeat ended City's unbeaten start to the league phase of European club football's elite competition ahead of a tie with Spanish giants Real Madrid, and came just days after their loss to Newcastle in the Premier League last weekend. "Of course it's a bummer (but) we should not lose our confidence because we did great before and we have to get back on that winning streak, and that's by being ready for the next game…