Innholdsfortegnelse for 2025-09-13 i Weekend Argus Saturday

Fans of The Conjuring franchise were thrilled when The Conjuring: Last Rites was recently released on the screen. Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga return as Ed and Lorraine Warren, the iconic paranormal investigators, in the fourth instalment of the popular supernatural film offering. Also reprising their roles are Mia Tomlinson as Judy Warren (Ed and Lorraine’s daughter) and Ben Hardy as Tony Spera (Judy’s partner). Approaching retirement, the paranormal investigators accept one final case: a Pennsylvania family tormented by a violent, demonic presence linked to a cursed mirror. This film is based on the real-life Smurl haunting. As Ed’s health deteriorates, the stakes escalate, and the Warrens’ daughter, Judy, finds herself caught in the demonic activity. During a recent press junket, the actors discussed their return as a couple in…

As South Africa shakes off its winter chill and welcomes the brighter, longer days of spring, this season of renewal offers more than just the chance to declutter your home. It’s the perfect moment to refresh your health, embrace new habits, and take charge of your well-being. “Spring naturally brings a sense of renewal, we're more energised, the days are brighter, and it’s easier to get outdoors,” says Tania Joffe, founder of Unu Health. She highlights that increased sunlight has profound effects, from boosting vitamin D levels to improving blood sugar regulation, cardiovascular health and even mood. “Longer days and more sun are nature’s tonic,” she adds. But spring isn’t just about enjoying the outdoors; it’s also an ideal time for proactive health checks. The transition from the winter flu…

Groote Schuur Hospital has been feeling the strain for years as one of the province’s busiest hospitals. With crowded emergency units, ageing buildings, and staff stretched to the limit with patient numbers climbing, the facility is under severe pressure. Now, a multimillion-rand Emergency Centre, set to open next year, is being hailed as a silver lining promising more space, better equipment, and the chance for staff to care for patients properly. The build began in 2022 and is scheduled for completion next February. But while the development is being billed as a game-changer, questions remain about how it will be funded. Despite the R255 million infrastructure cost already sunk into the project, the hospital still faces a significant shortfall for equipment. Equipment such as ultrasound machines, cardiac monitors, X-ray systems,…

Residents of Coniston Park are celebrating what they perceive as a significant victory following reports that construction at the site of a new school has been halted. However, the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) insists that all necessary approvals are in place and that construction is proceeding as planned. Keegan Ford, vice chairpersonmof the Coniston Park Residents’ and Property Association (CPRPA), shared optimistic news with his fellow residents on Monday, stating that all machinery had been removed from the site. “We were informed that construction would come to a halt due to various reasons, including the fact that the development is on a wetland and the breeding ground of the leopard toad,” Ford said. “There were also talks of a lawsuit against the WCED. Whatever the reason, we are happy;…

The Gauteng High Court in Pretoria ruled yesterday morning that the highly anticipated three-part Netflix true-crime documentary series, Beauty and the Bester, will proceed without interruption. Thabo Bester and his partner, Nandipha Magudumana, sought an urgent court order to prevent the airing of the series, arguing that Netflix should withhold its release until the conclusion of their criminal trial. However, Judge Sulet Potterill, after hearing arguments from Bester and Magudumana’s counsel that the series contains inaccurate, defamatory, and unsubstantiated claims and violates their constitutional rights, said the urgent applications submitted to the court were without merit and the urgency was self-created. According to Judge Potterill, the urgent application, which was brought by Magudumana’s counsel a day before the airing, placed undue pressure on the court and was wholly unreasonable. Judge…

Fifteen young people living with disabilities from Cape Flats communities - including: Crossroads, Delft, Eerste River, Khayelitsha and Mitchell’s Plain - have taken their first steps towards running their own businesses thanks to Engen’s New Venture Creation Learnership. Launched in September 2023, the programme equips participants with practical skills in business planning, finance, marketing and customer service. Over the past 18 months, learners have completed NQF Level 2 training and, to mark this milestone, each received a brand-new laptop along with computer skills training to help them put their business ideas into action. They will soon progress to NQF Level 4. For Eerste River resident Kurt Daniel Williams, the support has already paid off. A talented artist, Kurt has launched Sketch on T-Shirt, a small business where he prints his…

In a dramatic turn of events, a press conference held by the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (Samro) erupted into chaos as frustrated musicians stormed the venue, demanding overdue royalties. The gathering, intended to address internal governance issues, quickly transformed into a heated confrontation, highlighting the deep-seated frustrations within the music community over alleged financial mismanagement. With prominent artists like Mercy Pakela and William Mthethwa leading the charge, the disruption underscored the urgent need for transparency and accountability within Samro, as musicians voiced their grievances over unpaid dues that have left many struggling to make ends meet. Among the musicians were Ayashisa Amateki hitmaker Mercy Pakela, Sithembile Zungu from the famous 80s group Dalom Kids and William Mthethwa, who is well-known for his singles, Give Me Your Love and Cost…

In close to 30 years in college sports, Derek van der Merwe has worked at Central Michigan, Austin Peay, Arizona and now Bowling Green, where he is the athletic director. He grew up in South Africa, the son of missionaries, and was a co-captain for Central Michigan’s football team in the mid-1990s. At this point, when he adds up all the miles traveled, the late-night calls, the emails – so many emails – it can start to feel as if he has seen close to everything, until, like clockwork, there comes a reminder of that impossibility. The latest reminder is a three-year-old shorthair Persian named Pudge. “We’ve actually had meetings,” van der Merwe said, “where you have a table full of people talking, like, ‘Okay, what do we do next…

In a remarkable advancement for the field of medical healing, Dr Hafiza Parkar, a newly minted PhD graduate from the University of Pretoria (UP), has developed a pioneering skin replacement product that has the potential to transform the treatment of complex wounds. This innovative solution could soon offer an effective alternative to traditional skin grafts, particularly benefitting patients with chronic wounds left to heal through secondary intention such as ulcers and burns. Dr Parkar, now a lecturer at the the University of Pretoria’s Department of Pharmacology, celebrated her graduation on September 2 during UP’s Spring Graduation ceremony. The crux of her research lies in the creation of advanced dermal substitutes – acellular dermal scaffolds (ADS) – that replicate human skin, a significant leap toward addressing the limitations posed by current…

While the world celebrated International Literacy Day, South Africa faced a harsh reality: 81% of Grade 4 learners reportedly can decode words but cannot read for meaning, according to PIRLS 2021. This literacy crisis threatens children’s academic progress and the country’s future competitiveness. Educational psychologist Seago Maapola explained the impact: “When a child can decipher words but cannot make sense of them, it’s like giving them the key to a door but the door won’t open. “Reading with comprehension is the foundation for all other learning – maths word problems, science concepts, history texts. “Without it, children fall further behind each year because learning becomes harder and more frustrating.” He noted that cognitive skills such as reasoning, memory, and problem-solving depend on strong reading comprehension. “If this foundation is…

When the Audi Q8 was first launched in 2018, I was instantly in love. Sleek, squat and athletic, it struck all the right chords. It was certainly a departure from traditional SUV norms – coupe roof line, lower centre of gravity, massive 20+ inch wheels, and unlike the rest of Audi’s tepid engine line-up in their “normal” models, only the biggest, brashest power mills would suffice. And only in V format. Cubes is king So when the facelifted model (updated last year) rolled into my driveway, wearing massive 22-inch wheels shod with 45 profiles and a coat of chilli red metallic paint, the 9-year-old boy in me let out a little squeal of delight. In my driveway stood the Audi Q8 55 TFSI S-Line. Design and aesthetics The S-Line package…

Even as economic growth picked up in the second quarter – to 0.8% versus 0.1% in the first three months of the year – economists warn that the environment for the consumer remains subdued. Against a backdrop of low economic growth, with full-year estimates hovering at around the 1% mark, South Africa’s unemployment rate is officially 33%, inflation is at 3.5% and expected to rise to around 4% by year-end, and interest rates are still relatively high at 10.5% compared with 7% in the middle of 2020 when they were cut to stimulate growth. Economists are divided on the outlook for consumers, with Old Mutual chief economist Johann Els taking a more positive stance. He says low inflation and lower interest rates are supporting real household income and borrowing affordability.…

You’ve lived with your partner for years, building a home, plate by plate, couch by couch. But without a marriage certificate or a traditional celebration, South African law does not afford you the same legal protections that married couples enjoy. So, what happens if your partner passes away? Family disputes over assets are common after a death, and for unmarried couples, the stakes can be even higher, says Shaka Zwane, head of insurance and fiduciary at Standard Bank. “Living together before marriage has become common in South Africa for several reasons,” Zwane explains. “Sometimes it’s due to economic circumstances and pooling resources might make financial sense. Other couples believe it’s wise to get to know each other’s habits before committing to marriage.” According to the 2022 Census Survey Report, around…

Approximately R60 billion has been withdrawn since South Africa’s new two-pot retirement fund system was implemented a year ago. In a recent briefing to the National Council of Provinces, National Treasury said the introduction of the two-pot system has been largely successful, improving public engagement with retirement funds, exposing non-compliance by some employers, and ensuring better long-term retirement savings. While the new system faces some teething issues, including some administrative hurdles, monitoring and evaluation mechanisms are being applied to ensure its effectiveness. The Revenue Laws Amendment Bill of 2025 provides for further corrections and technical changes to the system. This first year has offered some interesting insights into how members are responding to the new rules and what challenges still need to be addressed. Initial concerns about widespread, frivolous withdrawals…

Stellenbosch have grown into one of the most consistent cup teams in the country, and today’s MTN8 final at Mbombela Stadium against Orlando Pirates will mark their third cup final in as many seasons. For midfielder Devin Titus, this run of success is no fluke but the product of hard work, resilience, and belief instilled by coach Steve Barker and his technical team. “A third final in three years means it’s a huge credit to the players because we work hard so we can get into finals and hopefully we can win this final,” Titus said, reflecting on a period that has transformed Stellies from Betway Premiership outsiders into a side feared in knockout competitions. The Western Cape-based club tasted glory last season when they lifted the Carling Knockout Cup,…

The Lions are in pole position to win the 2025 Currie Cup title, with the semi-finals set to be played out in Johannesburg and Kimberley today. The Lions host the Boland Cavaliers at Ellis Park in the first semi at 5pm, followed by the Griquas versus Cheetahs showdown in Kimberley at 7:15pm. Last year, the Lions had only themselves to blame when they lost the final to the Sharks at the death after a terrible exit mistake led to former Lion Jordan Hendrikse kicking the winner. With the Sharks, Bulls, and Stormers failing to qualify for the playoffs, a Lions side packed with United Rugby Championship players should be too strong for the smaller unions. In fact, the Lions have stuck to the same match 23 that beat Griquas 37-7…

How the super-rich fork out over R200k a night for bespoke yacht trips As travel evolves, the elite are embracing an exciting fusion of five-star hotel comfort and the allure of yachting. A new trend has emerged within the luxury sector, where renowned hotel brands now offer bespoke yacht trips that promise to elevate holiday experiences for Ultra High Net Worth Individuals (UHNWIs). The industry heavyweight Four Seasons has launched its own fleet of yachts, taking guests on unforgettable journeys to breathtaking locales, such as the Galápagos Islands, the Caribbean, the Bahamas, the Mediterranean and the Grand Atlantic. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection also operates state-of-the-art superyachts that offer unparalleled privacy and comfort. The Aman Yachts are also joining this race, focusing on eco-friendly luxury trips that promise unforgettable experiences. “This…

I’m not going to lie: the impressive ensemble cast of Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley, Celia Imrie, David Tennant, Jonathan Pryce, Naomi Ackie and Tom Ellis was what first drew me to The Thursday Murder Club. The crime drama, which is based on Richard Osman’s novel of the same name, also captured the atmospheric charm of whodunnits like Miss Marple and Agatha Christie’s Poirot. The film opens with psychiatrist Ibrahim Arif (Kingsley), former trade union leader Ron Ritchie (Brosnan), and ex-spy Elizabeth Best (Mirren) conducting their weekly cold case meeting at Coopers Chase, a cushy retirement village. They are briefly interrupted by Joyce, a retired nurse and new resident, who is giving her daughter a quick tour. Elizabeth approaches her about becoming a temporary member after witnessing her calm…

As we celebrate Heritage Month, it’s the perfect time to talk about something truly special and close to my heart: how our incredible cultural diversity isn’t just a part of who we are, but a vibrant, living force that shapes our fashion industry. Forget bland, one-size-fits-all trends; our style is a vibrant mix of influences that’s taking the world by storm. South Africa is a nation of many nations. From the Zulu’s powerful beadwork and vibrant prints to the Ndebele’s geometric artistry, the Xhosa’s dignified red ochre textiles, the Basotho’s iconic blankets, and the melting pot of Malay, Indian, and European influences, we truly have it all. And what’s even more exciting is that our designers are drawing from this bottomless well of inspiration, creating looks that are not only…

South Africa’s middle class is under attack with rising food prices, rates and taxes and ever increasing municipal levies that are forcing middle income households to the brink. While Stats SA revealed that Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 0.8% in the second quarter of 2025, some economists said this is not necessarily good news for the middle class. “For the middle class, I’m afraid this is not good news. And it’s not good news because the population is growing at approximately 1.5%. An economy that’s growing less than 1% is just not keeping up with population growth,” said economist Dawie Roodt. “So, I’m afraid, no, this is just not good enough. It is slightly better than I’ve expected, but we need to make some serious changes to all sorts…

Cape Town is putting the pedal to the metal once again. The Speed Classic Cape Town, returning this October, revives a motorsport tradition that first roared to life along the city’s hills over a century ago. Backed by Motorsport South Africa and the City of Cape Town, the event pays homage to the Mother City’s rich racing heritage, dating back to the first Cape hill climbs in 1912. Philip Kgosana Drive once hosted adrenaline-fueled races that became the highlight of the local sporting calendar. The sport may have laid dormant for years, but now it’s back reconnecting a new generation to the thrill, precision, and glamour of hill climb racing. Co-founder Garth Mackintosh said: “With just over six weeks to go, the excitement is palpable as we prepare to stage…

Cape Town is set to strengthen community policing with the deployment of 700 new Metro Police officers, marking a historic expansion of neighbourhood safety across the city. Mayco member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, explained that the rollout of Neighbourhood Safety Officers (NSO) will see five officers assigned to each of the city’s 93 wards, consisting of one sergeant and four constables. The deployment builds on existing policing efforts, including the LEAP programme, which already places over 900 officers in 23 high-crime wards. In addition to ward-level policing, the new NSO teams will provide a dedicated unit for the N2/Airport precinct and offer protection escorts for frontline service delivery teams in crime hotspots. The officers, who completed an intensive 18-month learnership programme, are trained in traffic enforcement, firearm competency,…

A full-size soccer field is being constructed for the first time in Johannesburg’s Central Business District, marking a significant development in the city’s efforts to reclaim and revitalise inner-city spaces for youth development and community use. The project, called the Field of Dreams, broke ground on September 5 and is led by former national cricket captain Dr Ali Bacher. It is backed by a coalition of organisations including Standard Bank, the Maharishi Invincibility Institute (MII), Italtile, the BW Cares Foundation, and JoziMyJozi. "The Field of Dreams represents our deep commitment to the regeneration of Johannesburg and our belief in the power of public-private collaboration," said Nkosinathi Manzana, executive head: Group Real Estate at Standard Bank. "We are proud to partner with the Maharishi Invincibility Institute, an organisation with a remarkable…

This October, the stage of Cape Town’s Artscape Theatre will be transformed into a vibrant tapestry of movement and expression as Dance Intersect 2025 takes centre stage from October 2-4. This transformative event invites artists from across the globe to come together in a celebration of dance, creativity, and cultural exchange. What began as a bold initiative is rapidly blossoming into a premier cultural platform, where international and South African companies can share the same stage, rehearsal studios, and community spaces, blending diverse traditions and artistic practices into something truly spectacular. This year’s programme is particularly exciting, showcasing the South African premiere of “Fragmented Landscape” by the Netherlands’ Anderson Carvalho Dance & Choreography (ACDC) and the renowned Dutch company DOX. In a landmark moment for the South African arts scene,…

Just weeks after conservation groups and small-scale fishers celebrated a landmark court victory, the fight to protect South Africa’s coastline faces a new challenge. The State and Shell have filed applications for leave to appeal the Western Cape High Court ruling that overturned approval for offshore oil drilling along the province’s coast. On August 13, Judge Mangcu-Lockwood found serious flaws in the environmental assessment that underpinned the government’s decision to grant environmental authorisation for drilling in Block 5/6/7. The court sided with The Green Connection and Natural Justice, who argued that the risks of oil spills, climate change, and socio-economic impacts on coastal communities were inadequately considered. The ruling sent the matter back to the Department of Mineral Resources and Petroleum for a fresh decision. Any new approval would require…

It is an alarming truth: while much attention has been paid to the role of maternal drinking in the development of foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), a newly unveiled dimension of risk is emerging from the shadows. Recent research has established that fathers, too, play a pivotal role in the growth and development of their children, particularly when it comes to alcohol consumption during the prenatal period. A team of international researchers, including esteemed contributors from Stellenbosch University (SU), has found evidence suggesting that a father’s drinking habits could lead to detrimental impacts on a child’s growth by the time they reach the age of seven. Their findings, published in the journal Alcohol: Clinical & Experimental Research, underscore the importance of recognising that a father’s alcohol use can contribute to…

Very few performance cars, if any, can match the feeling of balance inherent in a Porsche 911. Whether you’re blasting around a track, sweeping your way through a mountain pass, or simply trundling through traffic to the next board meeting, it is the sports car for all reasons. The 911 GTS, first introduced in 2010 as part of the “997.2” generation, has always epitomised this blend of performance, driving thrills and comfort. But whereas the previous versions felt very much like spicier Carreras, the new 2025 GTS feels more akin to a tamer 911 Turbo. It genuinely begs the question of whether you even need to stretch your way to Porsche’s performance flagship, which was also recently revised. Ushering in several visual and cabin enhancements to the 911 range, the…

The South African motor industry has lost one of its kindest and most altruistic souls, with the passing of Philip Hull on Saturday. As tributes poured in on social media following the news of his untimely passing, it became clear that many lives were touched by his generosity over the years. Many recounted stories of how he brightened their day whenever they saw him at events, and how he’d regularly follow up on people when he knew they were going through hard times. Hull, or Dr Phil as he was affectionately known by many, co-founded the South African Road Safety Foundation and also started Community Medical Services. The latter initiative led to him saving countless lives at Van Reenen’s Pass as a voluntary paramedic, and transformed many more through his…

South African residential rental growth slowed to 5% year-on-year in the second quarter after a strong start to the year, according to the latest PayProp Rental Index. Average rent increased to R9 218, up R433 from the same quarter last year, and crucially, growth remained well above inflation, keeping landlords in positive territory in real terms. At the same time, the share of tenants in arrears fell to just 16.9% nationally, the lowest level ever recorded in the Index, underscoring the overall resilience of tenant finances in managed rentals. “Rental growth above inflation and arrears at record lows are strong signals that the market remains healthy,” says Andre van Rooyen, head of sales at PayProp. “Even with signs of cooling, landlords and agents can be confident that tenants are still…

Whether it’s travelling the world, starting a side business, or pursuing a creative hobby, contrary to popular belief, passions are not just luxuries but are, in fact, real-life goals that deserve a place in your financial plan. Treating passions as life goals makes them more attainable. Too often people think passions are something they’ll get to “one day” after covering the essentials like retirement and education. But your passions are part of your life. They can be achieved if you treat them as such, plan and save for them with the same seriousness as other long-term goals such as your retirement. The best way to get onto this journey is to start by identifying and prioritising your goals, then working out what they will cost. Break it down into a…

SA Davis Cup captain Pietie Norval is relieved that SA No 1 Alec Beckley Beckley will be playing in the first rubber in the World Group II tie against Morocco at Groenkloof Tennis Club in Pretoria on Saturday and Sunday, feeling it would take the pressure off debutant Marc van der Merwe. Beckley was drawn against Morocco’s No 2, Yassine Dlimi, in the opening singles match of the tie, while SA No 2 Marc van der Merwe was drawn against Morocco’s No 1, Taha Baadi, in the second clash. On Sunday, Beckley and Thando Longwe-Smit are set to face Dlimi and Younes Lalami Laaroussi in the doubles contest, ahead of the reverse singles matches. Both teams have the opportunity to change their doubles pairings up to one hour before the…

The Springbok Women’s World Cup quarter-final against New Zealand could hinge on key mini-battles around Sandy Park today (2pm kickoff). Independent Media Sport highlights key player matchups that could decide whether SA’s fairytale run at the tournament in England continues or ends in Exeter. Nadine Roos v Arihiana Marino-Tauhina In the battle between contrasting No 9s, Roos brings quick service, sharp, sniping runs, and is a reliable tactical kicker. Marino-Tauhina is steady, experienced, and links well with Ruahei Demant at flyhalf. Roos dictates the rhythm for the Springbok forwards. If her delivery is crisp and she keeps the tempo high, South Africa can challenge and disrupt New Zealand’s defensive structure. Marino-Tauhina thrives on providing Demant with time and space, setting the platform for the Black Ferns’ strike runners. If she…

From Madrid to Paris, Rome and Venice, tourists are increasingly being targeted by gangs of pickpockets that can ruin a holiday in these historic European cities. For South Africans who feel they’re under siege by criminals, spare a thought for visitors to some of the capitals of the world, where pickpocketing has become an endemic problem that authorities are struggling to curb. Loud yells of “pickpocket, pickpocket!” ring out in the streets and at train stations as vigilant citizens warn others of the presence of known criminals moving among them, whether it is in Spain’s Barcelona, Rome in Italy or the canals of Venice. Also, there’s no way of knowing who is a petty criminal and who is not. They mingle in the crowd, taking advantage of bottlenecks on stairways,…

Former Friends actress Jennifer Aniston is private when it comes to her personal life, but she recently offered up a rare look at her romance with Jim Curtis in what is now being called a soft launch of their relationship. The picture in question shows the back of Curtis’s head as he gazes out upon a stunning sunset. The post was simply captioned: “Thank you, summer.” While The Morning Show star, who was previously married to Brad Pitt and Justin Theroux, tucked away the picture in her summer carousel, eagle-eyed fans were quick to spot the affectionately casual moment. “You think we wouldn’t notice photo number 17???,” commented @andrea_portugaldeveza. Another fan wrote: “Oh, hello 17 pic.” Pretty Woman actress Julia Roberts also casually dropped by to send Aniston a smiling…

We are pleased to see the interest that the work of Edu Invest, powered by Wesgro, is generating in the media. Unfortunately, there do seem to be some myths already doing the rounds about what private investment into the education sector looks like, and what impact it will have on public education. These myths can have a dampening effect on investment, so it is worth taking the time to dispel them. The primary goal of Edu Invest is to draw investment into new independent schools in our province, to increase the number of school places in our system and expand the variety of choices available for parents. In the Western Cape, only 5.2% of learners attend independent schools. In Gauteng, the proportion is 14%. So our province’s problem is not…

Various initiatives were launched yesterday for the coming summer season as a key step in restoring inner-city tourism that was severely disrupted during the Covid-19 pandemic. The City of Cape Town relaunched its vibrant “Urban Safari” bus route, aimed at reconnecting both local and international visitors with the cultural heart of the city. A revamped Sightseeing bus stop was also launched at the Hout Bay Hop on Hop off stop, while on top of Table Mountain a new striking yellow New7Wonders of Nature frame was unveiled. The Urban Safari bus was launched by Urban Safaris and the City of Cape Town, together with Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis. Decorated in eye-catching leopard spots and featuring a safari-style design, the bus accommodates up to 34 passengers and symbolises a bold new approach…

The Western Cape High Court has ruled that the raids conducted on January 24 at the offices of Alderman JP Smith and Alderman Xanthea Limberg were unlawful, a decision that has been formally welcomed by the City of Cape Town. Delivering judgment on Thursday, the court held that the search and seizure warrants were “inconsistent with the Constitution, unlawful, and invalid”. The finding followed a challenge instituted by Smith and Limberg against the issuing magistrate, Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola, and Western Cape Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembisile Patekile. The raid was alleged to be part of an investigation into tender fraud in the construction sector within the City of Cape Town. At the time, Limberg and Smith were slated after the raids where police…

Authorities been given the go ahead to freeze the assets belonging to Hangwani Maumela – the man at the centre of a syndicate accused of defrauding the state of more than R326 million. Maumela, a businessman linked to President Cyril Ramaphosa through a previous marriage, is the key target in a major investigation into corruption at Tembisa Hospital. Ramaphosa has denied knowing Maumela. The National Prosecuting Authority’s Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) has secured two preservation orders to freeze assets allegedly purchased with stolen public funds. The crackdown follows a forensic trail sparked by the work of the late Babita Deokaran, a senior official in the Gauteng Department of Health, who flagged suspicious procurement deals at the hospital. Deokaran was assassinated in August 2021 shortly after submitting a report detailing systemic…

Cape Town’s Bo-Kaap, famous for its rainbow-coloured houses, cobbled streets, and rich cultural tapestry, is about to get even more vibrant. At the end of this month, the neighbourhood will launch its very own Bo-Kaap Community Market, a celebration of local culture, heritage, and entrepreneurship, taking place on September 26-27 from 9am. Faai-ekah Ryland, resident and member of the Bo-Kaap Civic Association, said: “This market is a City initiative, but the focus is very clear: we only want Bo-Kaap traders. Whether it’s food, attire, or crafts, this is a platform for our people. “Applicants must provide ID and address, which the Civic Association will check. This is an extra boost for our people and an opportunity to sustain themselves while keeping our culture and heritage alive.” The market will feature…

Children are naturally curious. Whether it’s watching a bug crawl across the floor, splashing in a puddle, or asking “why” countless times in an hour, their world is filled with questions. This curiosity is more than just a phase. It is the foundation of learning and confidence, and should form the starting point for learning at home and at school. Zaakirah Mahomed, Academic Advisor: Foundation Phase at ADvTECH, Africa’s largest private education provider, says Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL) is an approach that harnesses children’s innate sense of wonder. “It transforms everyday questions into meaningful discoveries, sparking a lifelong love for learning. For this reason, it is important that when choosing your child’s first school, you ensure the school’s approach is based on harnessing inquiry-based learning, not just handing down of facts.…

The 12th European Film Festival in South Africa (EUFFSA) is set to captivate audiences in Cape Town and Johannesburg from October 9-19 with a rich tapestry of stories reflecting on love, identity, family, and the concept of belonging. This year’s festival will present 10 contemporary European films that highlight the multifaceted realities of Europe, inviting South African audiences on a cinematic journey that transcends borders. Screenings will take place at landmark venues such as The Labia in Cape Town and The Bioscope and Nu Metro Hyde Park in Johannesburg. Additionally, film enthusiasts across Southern Africa can access a curated selection of films through an online platform at www.eurofilmfest.co.za. A glimpse into the films Among the remarkable films featured is Le Mohican from France, which follows the story of an unlikely…

In a heartwarming development for wildlife enthusiasts, a litter of six baby cheetahs born at the Metro Richmond Zoo is captivating visitors with their spirited antics. The cubs, welcomed into the world on May 13, made a joyous public debut on August 25, marking a successful chapter in the zoo's impressive conservation efforts. Zoo officials shared the delightful news of the cubs’ birth on August 26, highlighting that the little felines are currently thriving and reaching their developmental milestones. As they approach three months of age, the energetic cubs can be seen running, exploring, and playfully wrestling with one another in their specially designed cheetah habitat. Named after notable African cities, the cubs include three males – Lagos, Bukavu, and Cairo – and three females, Matola, Kampala, and Lusaka. This…

Imagine a world where one moment you’re snuggled up on a soft couch, warmly enveloped in the presence of your family. The next moment, you find yourself confined in a noisy shelter, surrounded by the unsettling smells of unfamiliar surroundings. This jarring reality is far too common for many dogs who are sadly returned to shelters after years spent in loving homes. For these canines, abandonment is not just a vague concept but a profound emotional crisis. They are left to navigate feelings of confusion, fear, and grief. The partners they cherished become mere memories within hours, leaving behind a void filled with uncertainty. Dogs may react in various ways; while some shut down completely, others may display distress by pacing and barking repetitively for the families they have lost.…

For years, the university experience for students with disabilities has been overshadowed by limited opportunities in sports, a stark contrast to their active lives in school. Recognising this gap, the University of the Western Cape (UWC) has announced the launch of the Para Sports Initiative, an innovative programme aimed at reintegrating these students into the vibrant world of athletics. This initiative, resulting from a collaborative effort between the Office for Students with Disabilities (OSwD) and UWC Sport, stands as a testament to the university’s commitment to inclusivity. The framework of the initiative is founded on the idea that “para” means parallel rather than paraplegic, signifying an effort to create sports that run alongside mainstream activities. “Students with disabilities shouldn’t feel excluded from university life,” said Craig Loubser, the OSwD Administrative…

Renault has gone bold with its sixth-generation Clio, revealed at the 2025 Munich Motor Show with daring design cues inspired by the Embleme concept car. Will this new look adorn all future Renaults? We can only assume so. The French brand describes its new compact hatch as a more expressive car with strong Latin roots. “With the sixth-generation Clio, Renault’s design teams have embarked upon a new chapter, literally cranking up all the dials to create a new generation of extremely technical, high- precision machines for the brand,” Renault said upon unveiling it at the German show. The new Clio is 67mm longer, 39mm wider and 11mm taller than its predecessor, but with just 8mm going into the wheelbase, as designers have sculpted a longer bonnet to create a sportier…

Many people consider estate planning and having a will something exclusively for the wealthy or elderly. Unfortunately, life is unpredictable, and everyone should have a will to make their final wishes clear in the event of their passing. Not having a will can result in costly and complicated legal processes for your loved ones after your passing. Taking the time to plan now can help protect your future and provide security for family and loved ones The importance of a will Your will may be the most important document your will ever sign, because it is the primary document that will be used to implement your estate plan – or how you want your assets, liabilities and care for loved ones to be managed after death. Legislation allows for an…

The corporate world is flooded with data on consumers. Much of this data is tied to you personally – how much you spend, what you spend your money on, your lines of credit, and how you are managing your debt – and the law requires your consent for such information to be gathered and used. But there’s also a mountain of de-personalised data out there, which is used to assess market trends and financial risks among different demographic groups. Banks, credit bureaus, insurance companies, large retailers, market research companies – all have access to this wealth of information to some extent. So are they using this data responsibly and is your privacy being sufficiently recognised and protected? A few weeks ago, I attended the Second Africa Credit and Risk Reporting…

Manchester City will be desperate to avoid a third successive defeat when they face neighbours Manchester United as the Premier League returns this weekend, with Alexander Isak set for his Liverpool debut. City boss Pep Guardiola and United manager Ruben Amorim are both under intense pressure just three games into the season while champions Liverpool boast the top division's only 100 percent record. Elsewhere, following the international break, Ange Postecoglou is back in management with Nottingham Forest, just three months after he was sacked by Tottenham. Here we look at three key talking points ahead of the weekend's action: Manchester derby can heal wounds The Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium pits two troubled sides against each other, both of whom have just one win from three matches. Manchester City's…

Pep Guardiola said Erling Haaland is "a little bit above" Alexander Isak as the Manchester City boss responded to Arne Slot's claim that Liverpool's new signing was "maybe the best striker in the world". Isak could make his Liverpool debut at Burnley tomorrow after the Sweden star completed a British-record £125 million move from Newcastle on transfer deadline day. Liverpool manager Slot hailed Isak's quality after the 25-year-old trained with the Premier League champions for the first time this week. But his suggestion that Isak could be the world's best did not go down well with City boss Guardiola. Haaland has scored 88 times in 100 Premier League games for City since signing from Borussia Dortmund in 2022, helping them win two Premier League titles, the Champions League and the…

As the world becomes more aware of the environmental and social impacts of tourism, a new trend is emerging – regenerative travel. This approach goes beyond sustainability. It focuses on leaving destinations better than they were found. Regenerative travel encourages tourists and businesses to actively restore and rejuvenate local communities, cultures, and ecosystems. Why move towards regenerative travel? Regenerative travel is a form of tourism that seeks a net- positive impact. It transforms tourism into a tool for revitalisation. Instead of merely reducing harm, it aims to improve the health of ecosystems and communities. This approach fosters a deeper connection between travellers and the places they visit. It encourages actions such as reforestation, community conservation and supporting local businesses. The goal of regenerative travel is to ensure that the benefits…