Innholdsfortegnelse for 2025-05-25 i Sunday Tribune

In a world increasingly defined by immediacy, interconnectivity, and relentless information streams, traditional media – particularly newspapers – face existential questions. Yet, despite decades of predictions proclaiming the death of print, newspapers continue to persist. The question now is not whether newspapers will survive, but how they must evolve to remain relevant. As we stand at the intersection of digital fatigue and content abundance, there is a compelling case to reimagine the role of newspapers—not as relics of the past, but as curated, future-focused knowledge platforms that prioritise depth over speed, clarity over clutter, and insight over immediacy. Evolution of media: from press to platform To understand the future of newspapers, we must first revisit the evolution of media itself. Historically, newspapers were the gatekeepers of information. The printing press…

So, you’ve followed the recipe, simmered your ingredients, and dished out a steaming pot of curry, only to discover it tastes ... meh. Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us. Curry is an intricate dance of spices, and it’s easy to forget that achieving balanced flavour requires a harmonious blend of ingredients. Consider the core components of your curry. Was there enough seasoning? Did you use fresh spices, or were they past their prime? Understanding the building blocks of flavour is key to determining how best to enhance your dish. By applying these tips, even the most uninspired curry can be uplifted, making it a dish that dazzles rather than disappoints. Balance the flavours Sometimes, the key to a better-tasting curry lies in balancing its flavours. If it’s…

“Give us the services we pay for!” demanded Durban ratepayers during a placard protest on the Durban Beachfront yesterday. The North Beach Ratepayers Association (NBRA), in affiliation with the eThekwini Ratepayers Protest Movement (ERPM), voiced their concerns about poor service delivery. The ERPM members walked along the Durban Beachfront protesting against double-digit tariff increases and demanding a functioning Durban that works for all. They also protested against unsustainable tariff increases, poor service delivery and a lack of transparency and accountability. Asad Gaffar, chairperson of the ERPM, also spoke about the 50% rebate on offer and what the way forward was concerning the impending tariff increases. Rookaya Vawda, chairperson of NBRA, said residents, not only on the beachfront but also in the suburbs, needed to be proactive and join their local…

Tributes are pouring in for Gertrude Shope, a revered leader in the anti-apartheid movement and former president of the ANC Women’s League, who has passed away at the age of 99, leaving a lasting legacy of courage and dedication to women's rights and equality in South Africa. Shope died peacefully at her home in Gauteng on Thursday, a few months before her 100th birthday in August. National ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri said the stalwart of the liberation movement, also known as Ma Shope, was a pioneer of women’s emancipation and one of the most enduring symbols of revolutionary courage. Bhengu-Motsiri said Shope was a revolutionary intellectual who was often quoted as saying: “Every generation has got a responsibility to know what its mission is. Mine was to liberate the country,…

The Automobile Association (AA) has raised concern over Minister of Finance Enoch Gondongwana’a announcement of the General Fuel Levy (GFL) increase. Presenting his Budget speech on Wednesday, Gondongwana proposed an increase of 16 cents per litre for petrol and 15 cents per litre for diesel, which will come into effect on June 4. The minister described this adjustment – the first in three years – as the sole new tax proposal for the 2025/26 fiscal year, citing inflationary pressures as the reason for the hike. Eleanor Mavimbela, the AA Public Affairs spokesperson, while acknowledging the government’s fiscal constraints, warned that the increase would have immediate and far-reaching consequences for consumers and the economy. “This levy adjustment comes at a time when South Africans are already contending with high food…

The family of slain Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) lecturer said they would carry the grief of his brutal murder for the rest of their lives. This is after the Durban High Court sentenced his killers to life imprisonment. Engineering lecturer, Chanlall Dwarika, 61, was kidnapped on May 28, 2023, and his body was found in the bushes of Durban township, Inanda, on June 3, 2023. He had gone to his investment property in Sea Cow Lake to conduct maintenance as the property was being renovated when he was accosted. His killers, Thobani Mhlongo and Kwanele Makhaye, who he had provided with food, lived on this property. The agreement was that they would look after the building material used for the renovations as these were continuously being stolen. The killers’…

On May 21, Parliament finally adopted the national Budget after months of contention, heated debates and public pushback. The initial two drafts, presented on February 19 and March 12, did not gain the requisite political backing, resulting in an unprecedented Budget crisis for the country. The most controversial proposal involved increasing the Value Added Tax (VAT) by half a percentage point on May 1 this year and another half percentage point on April 1, 2026. The proposed increase in VAT sparked strong protests from civil society, labour unions and political parties. In response to this widespread opposition, the government had to rethink its approach and revise the national Budget. When comparing the original budget presented in March to the updated version adopted in May, some significant changes stood out. The…

The occasion of the 62nd anniversary of the birth of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) and the adoption of the OAU Charter in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, provides an opportunity to reflect and introspect. Probing how and why Africa has dismally failed to live up to the promises of the OAU Charter six decades after its proclamation is a pertinent undertaking. Africa remains trapped in the neo-colonial structures of the global political economy that continue to undermine the continent’s development potential. The continent is struggling to shake off the colonial legacy of occupying a dependent and very vulnerable position in the global economy. Between 2% and 3%, Africa’s share of the world trade is disappointingly paltry despite its population making up 17% of the global population. The content and quality…

In a gripping testament to the struggles faced by South Africa’s most storied football club, Kaizer Chiefs’ failure to clinch a top-eight spot for the second consecutive year has reverberated through the country’s football community. This catastrophe is not merely an incidental occurrence for Chiefs; it raises critical questions about the team’s future direction and competency at management levels. Their goalless draw with Polokwane City at the FNB Stadium on Saturday was their final game of the season. The outcome condemned the Amakhosi, with their ninth-place log position, to top-eight obscurity. Their lesser-fancied opponents, Polokwane, eased into seventh place to earn a top-eight ticket, and they will likely face Orlando Pirates in the first round of the MTN8 next season. Chiefs showcased their dominance from the first whistle to control…

A dejected Miguel Cardoso dragged his almost lifeless body to the Loftus Versfeld auditorium, needing to sip on water before taking his seat. The Mamelodi Sundowns coach was down in spirits after his team were held to a 1-1 draw by Pyramids FC in the CAF Champions League final first leg in Pretoria. The draw means that the Brazilians have to score in the return leg at 30 June Stadium in Cairo next Sunday to keep their chances of winning their second crown alive. It has been nine years since Sundowns ruled Africa as they won their maiden title under then-coach Pitso Mosimane in their second final attempt. That dream of getting back to the pinnacle of African football took a huge knock at home, reflecting why the Portugal-born coach…

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has not closed the door on players who were not invited to the alignment camp held in Cape Town this week. Notable omissions from the 54-man camp included Stormers No 8 Evan Roos, Bulls hookers Johan Grobbelaar and Akker van der Merwe, Stormers hookers André-Hugo Venter and Joseph Dweba, and Sharks loose forward Phepsi Buthelezi. “There are some guys we did not pick because we know them already. They know the way we want to play and what we are trying to do,” Erasmus said after the camp. There will be guys outside this group that will play for the Boks this year.” Those words will be a reprieve for the uninvited after Erasmus invited 84 players to the March camp before culling 30 for the…

In a world where many find solace behind the digital curtain, Riona Maharaj stands out as a vibrant force in the South African arts and entertainment scene. With over eight years of experience and a dedication to impactful storytelling, the 41-year-old social media marketing strategist and travel blogger has cultivated an engaging platform that resonates with many. “I wanted to share my highs and lows with the intent that it could help and inspire others in similar places in their lives,” Maharaj explains. “I aim to encourage a more unapologetic life lived with purpose.” In her quest to raise awareness around tourism in South Africa, Maharaj has showcased over 20 destinations, cultures, and communities through her vivid travel content, aiming to inspire her followers to embrace the beauty of their…

Riteish Deshmukh has officially announced the release date of his much-anticipated film Raja Shivaji, based on the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Taking to social media, the Masti actor shared the poster from his directorial and wrote: “Presenting cinematic greetings to Maharashtra’s adorable deity, the great mighty Rajadhiraj Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj #Raja Shivaji May 1, 2026 Marathi, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam.” Speaking about the film, Deshmukh, who is also the lead actor, said: “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is not just a historical figure – he is an emotion that lives in the hearts of millions. “To be able to tell a part of his extraordinary story is both an honour and a great responsibility. I’m deeply grateful to Jyoti Deshpande and Jio Studios for placing their faith in this vision.…

While South Africa huddles in the grip of winter and short, grey days, Dubai promises something entirely different – sunshine, adventure and unforgettable family fun. Just an overnight flight from Johannesburg or Cape Town, Dubai is a blend of glamour and cultural experience, offering families a warm escape during the South African winter. Whether you’re looking to relax on warm beaches, explore the magic of desert landscapes or entertain the kids in world-class theme parks, Dubai ticks every box for an unforgettable winter getaway. Here are six compelling reasons to make Dubai your next family holiday destination: 1. Perfect winter weather: Dubai’s winter weather is nothing short of glorious, with daytime temperatures averaging a comfortable 25°C. It’s the ideal time to explore the city without the intense summer heat –…

On the back of The Four Seasons being given the green light for a second instalment, I decided to check out the series, which has been delighting streamers with its relatable themes. Adapted from the 1981 film of the same name, directed by Alan Alda, the eight-part series is created by Tina Fey, Lang Fisher, and Tracey Wigfield. Alda makes a cameo in it. Whether you are married, in a long-term relationship or divorced, the story arcs in the eight-part series will strike a chord. Heck, even if you are single, watch it as a cautionary tale. The first episode sees six close-knit friends reconnecting for a weekend break. Kate (Fey) and Jack (Will Forte) are college sweethearts. Danny (Colman Domingo), who is Kate’s longtime friend, is married to Claude…

South Africa stands at a crossroads, haunted by the ghosts of its apartheid past and battered by the failures of its democratic present. Into this breach, a dangerous and persistent myth has taken root and spread, one that not only distorts reality but weaponises white fear and global ignorance for political gain. The so-called “white genocide” narrative, parroted by the likes of US President Donald Trump and South African-born, US-based billionaire Elon Musk, did not originate in the White House or Silicon Valley. It was born in the fevered imaginations of white South Africans unwilling to relinquish the privileges and power they amassed during apartheid, and it is now exported to the world as a grotesque justification for racism and reactionary politics. This is not just a lie. It…

Solly Malatsi to appear before parliamentary committee to explain his proposal to relax terms to favour Starlink Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi has been accused of siding with wealthy US-based businessman Elon Musk by proposing an amendment that would weaken a black empowerment policy in the digital communication sector. The accusation followed Malatsi’s communique on Friday proposing an amendment to the government policy that required multinational companies to sell 30% or more of their stake to previously disadvantaged black people in South Africa. Malatsi wants the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa), which regulates the electronic communication space, to go easy on the multinational companies by implementing “certain amendments to regulations promulgated by it to meet the imperatives of other national laws”. “The focus of this policy…

Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau will on Wednesday announce a new company to operate the National Lottery, after the Gauteng High Court, Johannesburg, rejected his attempt to extend Ithuba Holding’s contract to May 31 next year under a temporary licence. Tau wanted to extend Ithuba’s contract even though it was due to expire on May 31. Delivering judgment on the case brought before him by one of the bidders, Wina Njalo Proprietary Limited, Judge Sulet Potterill said this pastt Wednesday that Tau was acting unconstitutionally and unlawfully in delaying choosing a new company to succeed Ithuba in the operation of the National Lottery. Ithuba’s contract started in June 2015. “The minister is ordered to determine a successful applicant for the fourth National Lottery Licence by no later than…

The 2025/26 Budget presented by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana on Wednesday has sparked a wave of mixed reactions from South African experts. While the reversal of the VAT hike provides relief to citizens facing mounting living costs, the introduction of fuel levy increases has raised concerns about the impact on household budgets. With global economic forecasts dimming due to rising geopolitical tensions and trade barriers, the International Monetary Fund recently adjusted its growth projections for 2025, lowering them by 0.5 percentage points since January. “This precarious backdrop puts immense pressure on local fiscal policies,” said Boipelo Ndimande, chief financial officer at Consult by Momentum. “The importance of having a well-diversified, long-term financial plan cannot be overstated.” Ndimande cautioned investors against making hasty decisions in response to the changing economy, urging…

KwaZulu-Natal police are searching for suspects who robbed a cash-in-transit (CIT) vehicle on the N2 in Durban on Friday. Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said police were searching for an unknown number of suspects who robbed the vehicle on the N2 southbound near the KwaMashu off-ramp. Netshiunda said it was reported that the vehicle was attacked by suspects who were travelling in at least two vehicles. “The suspects forced the cash vehicle to stop and robbed three security guards of their firearms before stealing an undisclosed amount of money from the vehicle.” Ensure Security spokesperson Kyle van Reenan reported that just after 6pm, they received multiple alerts for a shooting in progress and explosions. He said the remains of an armoured cash van lay littered across the highway after…

Ian Wyles Auctioneers is featuring three properties that will go under the hammer during their multi-property auction on Wednesday at 11am at the Oyster Box Hotel, 2 Lighthouse Road, uMhlanga Rocks. The first property is a pristine family home at 67 Edmonds Road, Glenwood. The property is located in a sought-after school district. Glenwood also boasts an active UIP with private security patrols. The main house features a modern kitchen with granite tops, a centre island and ample cupboard space, adjacent to a large lounge and dining area. There are four bedrooms and two bathrooms – the main bedroom is en-suite – plus a guest toilet. There is a spacious multi-functional room, which could be used as a fifth bedroom or a study. The property has a swimming pool surrounded…

Metaphorical Orwellian allegories have become commonplace in contemporary international relations as never before. All animals are equal, but some are more equal than others. With the UN Security Council and General Assembly resolutions and domestic legislation, the Cambodian War Crimes Tribunal was established. So too, the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia read in culpability arising from superior command responsibility, finding that subordinates have a duty of diligence and application of mind when acting on superior commands. When the Khmer Rouge regime did not bow to Western ideologies, the US began bombing in the 1950s and 60s, the subsequent genocide was more directly attributed to external northern influences. Vietnam demonstrated the US’s capacity to declare war on a nation that refused conformity to Western-dominated political ideals. When the genocide…

AmaZulu sealed their place in next season’s MTN8 after holding Orlando Pirates to a 1-1 draw at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Saturday. Usuthu confirmed their place amongst the best eight clubs in the country for the first time in three years, while the Buccaneers failed to win for the second time in three games. Just as the match seemed to be heading towards a goalless draw, the game came to life after 60 minutes, Usuthu’s marksman Tshepang Moremi providing a moment of brilliance halfway through the second half to set up the goal for the hosts. The 24-year-old attacker dribbled his way past numerous Pirates defenders before firing a shot towards Sipho Chaine’s goal, one that was in turn guided towards his own goal, much to the…

When Wayde van Niekerk set his astonishing 400m world record at the 2016 Rio Olympics, he had just turned 24. Van Niekerk was 24 years and 30 days old on August 14, the day of the final, when he rewrote the history books from lane eight in that unforgettable run of 43.03 seconds at the Olympic Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The man whose record he broke, American legend Michael Johnson, was all of 31 years and 11 months old when he ran 43.18 at the 1999 world championships in Sevilla, Spain. Now there is another South African trying to force his way into the 43-second world: Zakithi Nene. The national champion produced a new personal best of 44.22 at the SA championships in Potchefstroom in April to announce…

Richards Bay FC piled more misery onto Supersport United’s already troubled season with a clinical 2-0 victory at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on Saturday – a result that keeps their hopes of a top-eight finish alive with a few matches still to settle. The win saw the KwaZulu-Natal outfit climb into eighth place, bolstered by a favourable goal difference that could see them retain that position if results go their way. In contrast, Matsatsantsa a Pitori slumped to 15th place on the Premiership table, one point behind Cape Town City, with the threat of relegation now looming large over them. For Richards Bay, the turnaround is significant. After narrowly avoiding relegation through the PSL promotion play-offs last season, they not only secured their top-flight status early, but…

Vastu Shastra has become an integral aspect for planning everything. Right from building a home or office, to matters concerning money, health and married life, Vastu Shastra seems to be omnipresent. Seeing the ample benefits of the architectural practice, more people are following and reaping the fruits of it. Its mention has been found in the days of Ramayana, Mahabharata and even in Indus Valley civilisation. The practice is imperial in bringing harmony between man and nature. Vastu for love: Marriage is a sacred institution and everyone longs for a happy and peaceful married life. However, nowadays divorce cases have increased as a result of changing lifestyle and independent thinking. Believe it or not, one of the major causes of hampered married life can be negligence of Vastu principles. Conflict…

Legacy of Sri Swami Nischalananda in SA The Ramakrishna Centre of South Africa hosted a grand celebration at the Kendra Hall in Durban last Sunday to commemorate the centenary of the birth of its revered founder and first president, Sri Swami Nischalananda. The event drew over a thousand guests, including prominent Hindu dignitaries, including swamis and swaminis. Among the distinguished attendees was His Excellency Professor Anil Sooklal, South Africa’s first Hindu- born High Commissioner to India, accompanied by his wife, Dr Nelistra Singh-Sooklal. Delivering the keynote address, Professor Sooklal paid tribute to Swami Nischalananda, whose pioneering work laid the foundation for the Ramakrishna Centre SA. He praised the Swami’s dedication to Vedanta philosophy – especially Advaita Vedanta – and the four paths of yoga: Jnana (knowledge), Bhakti (devotion), Karma (action),…

Bollywood actress Kiara Advani, who will be seen in the upcoming action film War 2, is being lauded by fashion stylist, Anaita Shroff Adajania. The recently released teaser of the film sent the audience into a frenzy. While Hrithik Roshan and NTR Jr, got unanimous love for turning into jaw-dropping action gods who were baying for each other’s blood, Kiara broke the internet as she lit up the screen as she sashayed alongside a pool wearing an incredibly neon lime green bikini flaunting her perfect body that created frenzy among netizens. Anaita, who has created Kiara’s look in the film, said: “This was my first time styling Kiara for a film, and the brief was hot. I’ve styled swimsuits for many films before, and I’ve always approached them with a…

What makes a city truly happy? Is it green spaces, strong governance or access to quality healthcare? According to the 2025 Happy City Index, published by the Institute for the Quality of Life, happiness is the result of a well-balanced combination of these and other key factors. The comprehensive study analysed 82 indicators across six core categories used to evaluate how well cities are promoting the well-being of their residents: Citizens, governance, environment, economy, health and mobility. While no single city was declared “the happiest”, a group of 31 were awarded “Gold City” status for excelling across the board. From that list, five cities stood out with the highest scores. Here’s what residents in those cities had to say about what makes their hometowns among the happiest places on Earth.…

South African Tourism hails Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025 held in Durban last week as a huge economic boost. SA Tourism said that the projected economic benefits spurred by Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025, from event infrastructure and logistics to accommodation, restaurants, and local transport services, have been significant. “The direct economic impact of Africa’s Travel Indaba on Durban’s GDP is estimated at R574-million, with direct spending totalling more than R232-million, highlighting the substantial economic benefits.” SA Tourism added that the event created over 2 000 jobs, particularly for the youth and local communities, with an anticipated household income contribution exceeding R140 million. “Current figures (still to be audited) indicate that Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025, themed ‘Unlimited Africa’, hosted more than 9 990 attendees, marking an impressive 7.7% increase compared to 9…

Through a lens of love, nostalgia, and self-discovery, Nonnas is a heart-warming Netflix film that explores grief with tantalising recipes as a backdrop. It’s the kind of offering that you want to watch with the family, especially for its life lesson on the importance of bonds, whether it’s by blood or choice. Directed by Stephen Chbosky, the biographical comedy drama boasts a heavyweight cast of Vince Vaughn, Joe Manganiello, Drea de Matteo, Lorraine Bracco, Talia Shire, Brenda Vaccaro, Linda Cardellini and Susan Sarandon. The film opens with a flashback to Joe Scaravella’s (Vaughn) childhood in 1980s Brooklyn, where his mother and nonna (grandmother) would whip up the most tantalising meals for their get-togethers with family and friends. In particular, the taste and aroma of his grandmother’s sauce remain vivid in…

In recent years, myopia, commonly known as short-sightedness, has become a growing global concern. This condition, which affects a person’s ability to see distant objects clearly, is now considered an epidemic that is expected to impact nearly half of the world’s population by 2050. The rise in myopia cases is closely tied to modern lifestyles, particularly the increased use of screens, reduced outdoor activities, and urbanised living. In South Africa, while statistics on myopia are limited, anecdotal evidence suggests the trend mirrors what’s happening globally. Understanding the causes, risks, and solutions is vital for parents, educators, and healthcare providers to address this growing issue. Why is myopia on the rise? According to global studies, myopia currently affects between 25% and 33% of the world’s population. The World Health Organisation (WHO)…

“What I fear is that the liberators emerge as elitists who drive around in Mercedes Benzes and use the resources of this country to live in palaces and to gather riches.” – Chris Hani There is a saying in various circles, often spoken in whispers, that there is a moral difference between Inkatha and the IFP. The two carry vastly different connotations. Before 1994, Inkatha Yenkululeko Yesizwe was a movement of voluntary activists – men and women driven by love and passion for liberation, not personal gain. Contrast this with the post-1994 IFP, a political party whose activists are, to some extent, motivated by “What’s in it for me?” – Ngizotholani. The same troubling shift applies to the ANC. The pre-1994 ANC was a movement of selfless revolutionaries, individuals who…

The annual East Meets West Bridal Fair will take place at Durban’s Pavilion Shopping Centre on Friday 30, Saturday, May 31 and June 1 to assist and inspire those preparing for their dream wedding. The fair will be held throughout the centre and boasts myriad wedding themed events, activations, exhibitions and displays designed to help couples and their families plan for their big day. Engaged-to-be-married couples can enter a phenomenal competition and stand in line to win fabulous prizes – the winner receiving a bespoke Durban wedding valued at more than R170 000. Sponsors include Premjee’s Jewellers, who are gifting a white gold and diamond ring; One Stop Tours is offering a trip to Mauritius as the perfect honeymoon destination; the Oyster Box Hotel is offering a reduced price for…

Consumers can look forward to the increases in pension and social grants remaining that were announced in the Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s previous Budget in March. However, experts warned that there will be bumps in the road in the future. Hayley Parry, a money coach and facilitator at 1Life Insurance Truth About Money, told Business Report that it would appear that government is still kicking the proverbial can down the road in terms of not making some of the hard choices that some of the opposition political parties suggested. “We are seeing that in terms of debt servicing costs, which are sitting at 22 cents out of every rand of revenue that we receive. This means that it’s going to be tough for government to find the money that it…

I work all night, I work all day to pay the bills I have to pay... Ain’t it sad? And still there never seems to be a single penny left for me... That’s too bad These are the opening lines of the Abba classic, Money, Money, Money. It was released almost 50 years ago, but for many South Africans, the lyrics are as true today as they were back then. In fact, after Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana presented his third instalment of Budget 2025, life is likely to get a bit more tough for most South Africans. Those who use vehicles will be taxed more for fuel from June – 16 cents for petrol and 15 cents for diesel. That’s over and above any monthly increases caused by higher oil…

There is something especially sad when a place of worship is abandoned, damaged by a natural disaster or demolished. In Durban, there have been a surprising number of churches which have been demolished, too many to include in a single article. The reason behind their demolition vary. Churches are built within the communities they serve, but if the community moves away, the church becomes redundant. It is either demolished or converted for commercial use, as has occurred to many old Durban churches. Conversely, where the community grows, the original church becomes inadequate and is replaced by a much larger, often more imposing new one. Fortunately, some of those little churches are converted into the church hall. Others meet their end because the value of the land for residential or…

MAMELODI Sundowns will head into the CAF Champions League final second leg on the back foot after drawing 1-1 with Pyramids FC in yesterday’s first leg at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria. Lucas Ribeiro Costa scored the opener for Sundowns in the 54th minute with a well-executed shot after Aubrey Modiba’s effort was blocked, and the rebound fell into his path. The Brazilian had started the move, with his initial shot also cleared off the line as Sundowns went for the jugular after a lacklustre first half. But his goal was cancelled out by El Karti deep into stoppage time, as the Pharaohs took a huge advantage into the second leg in Cairo next Sunday night. The Brazilians have to score away to keep their chances alive of winning the…

THEY walked around the pitch as though in a funeral procession. Their heads bowed, and their hands hanging by their sides, Mamelodi Sundowns players were an epitome of a group in mourning. Shell-shocked at having conceded the late equaliser by Walid El Karti, the South African champions clearly understood the meaning of their having conceded a goal to Pyramids FC on home soil in the first leg of the CAF Champions League final at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday. The trophy they seemed to have a hand on deep into injury time was snatched away from that within the wink of an eye. Their traditional post-match salute of their fans was equally a sombre affair that they clearly would have rather not participated in. But it is obligatory and they did…

AmaZulu coach Arthur Zwane has welcomed the imminent promotion of Durban City to the Premiership, hailing it as a positive development for KwaZulu-Natal football. City’s top-flight return is all but confirmed after the Premier Soccer League’s Disciplinary Committee (PSL DC) dismissed a protest from JDR Stars, who alleged that Durban City improperly registered midfielder Saziso Magawana. While another protest – this time from Cape Town Spurs – is still pending, the result that crowned Durban City as Motsepe Foundation Championship winners and relegated Spurs has already set the stage for their promotion. Zwane, speaking in the wake of City’s successful campaign, expressed satisfaction not only with their achievement, but also with the working relationship shared between the two KwaZulu-Natal clubs. “I’ve already congratulated coach Simo... They’ve done tremendously well,” Zwane…

South Africa’s top-ranked player, Lloyd Harris, served up proof that he is over his recent injury woes when he dispatched former world No 3 Marin Cilic 6-3 4-6 6-3 in the French Open qualifiers on Friday to move into the main draw. Former US Open quarter-finalist Harris broke early in the first set and again in the final game to take a 1-0 lead. He broke Cilic’s serve again early in the second set before the Serb, who has also struggled with injury, broke back. Both players then struggled to hold their serve. Cilic, the 2014 US Open champion, landed a telling break to take a 4-3 lead in the seventh game. The rest of the set went on serve. Both players found their service rhythm in the opening games…

In a landmark achievement for the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) and in his field of medicine in South Africa, Dr Hansraj Mangray has made history as the first PhD graduate in the Paediatric Surgery Discipline since the university’s inception in 2004. Mangray’s journey reflects not only a personal quest for excellence but also a commitment to transforming healthcare for children across the nation. Born and raised in Phoenix, Durban, Mangray’s pursuit of academic and surgical brilliance began early on at Earlington Secondary School. The inadequacies he witnessed in the public healthcare system inspired a profound desire to effect change from within. “My parents instilled the value of education in us, even though they didn’t have the opportunity to study. I decided to pursue Medicine because I saw first-hand how desperate…

Nirghin elected president of the SA Hindu Maha Sabha Advocate Ranjiv Nirghin has been appointed as the new president of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha. The appointment follows the death of Ashwin Trikamjee, who led the organisation until March. Nirghin’s election was officially declared during a council meeting on Saturday, in accordance with the organisation’s constitution. Nirghin, a familiar face in the Maha Sabha, has dedicated many years to serving the organisation in various roles, including youth co-ordinator and executive member. As the organisation’s Deputy President, Professor Brij Maharaj highlighted, Nirghin’s considerable experience also extends to his leadership as the President of the Midlands Hindu Society in Pietermaritzburg. “He offers a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record that will serve the Sabha well,” Maharaj stated.…

As we commemorate Africa Day today, it’s a fitting time to explore the unique and breathtaking landscapes of Africa’s deserts. Desert tourism offers a remarkable opportunity to experience the continent’s diverse cultures, stunning natural phenomena and thrilling adventures. It encompasses travel to arid and semi-arid regions, where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty and solitude of these unique environments. The allure lies not only in the striking landscapes but also in the cultural experiences that come with them. Travellers are drawn to deserts for a variety of reasons, including the chance to witness natural wonders, engage with local communities and partake in adventurous activities. One of the main attractions of desert tourism is the opportunity to witness unique natural phenomena such as vast sand dunes, dramatic rock formations and…

Africa’s Travel Indaba, the continent’s premier leisure trade show, recently unfolded in the bustling city of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, as a vital platform designed by South African Tourism in collaboration with various local and national agencies. This year’s event reiterated its role as a gateway for African tourism products, creating invaluable market access for exhibitors to connect with both international and local buyers in an increasingly competitive landscape. During a Tourism Ministers Round Table conversation, Minister of Tourism for Zambia, Rodney Sikumba, addressed attendees, highlighting the need for cohesion among African nations within the tourism sector. “As African tourism ministers, we have a singular resolve to work as a team,” said Sikumba. “The days of competition are gone – we must support one another and showcase what makes us unique. Our…