Table of contents for 2025-09-19 in Star

Since September 2024 the Reserve Bank has cut rates by 125 basis points The South African Reserve Bank’s (Sarb) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has kept the repo rate unchanged at 7%, Governor Lesetja Kganyago announced on Thursday, citing rising inflation pressures. The decision that saw four members of the MPC preferring to keep rates on hold while two favoured a cut of 25 basis points, drew mixed reactions from economists, business leaders and labour unions. Kganyago said global conditions remain broadly supportive of emerging markets, with easing monetary policy in the US and UK, a weaker dollar and firmer commodity prices offset by ongoing geopolitical tensions. Domestically, headline inflation has picked up in recent months, mainly due to higher food and fuel costs. “The pressure is coming mainly from meat…

Recent returns on the JSE have mainly been driven by a handful of precious metal miners, sending the JSE All Share Index to all-time high levels and, to a large degree, masking the general economic lethargy that domestic-focused companies and consumers face. Given growth constraints and challenges faced by domestic-oriented JSE-listed companies, the ability to deliver meaningful and peer-leading growth has become more critical than ever. Despite these headwinds, several local champions are demonstrating that companies with multiple (and sustainable) growth levers can not only survive but thrive, consistently outperforming market expectations and being appropriately recognised by the market in the form of premium valuations and generous shareholder returns. While external factors can have a material impact on company fundamentals (and share price performances), in our view, the most attractive…

The South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Sacci) has sounded the alarm over deteriorating trade conditions, with its August 2025 Trade Survey showing only 40% of respondents reporting a positive overall trade experience. Released on Thursday, the survey highlights how global trade uncertainty, weak domestic economic growth, and persistently high unemployment are combining to erode business confidence. Sacci noted that trade sentiment had briefly improved in July following interest rate cuts and the monetisation of pension fund investments, which temporarily boosted household disposable income. However, these gains proved short-lived. “The reality of the real economy under considerable stress and its effect on trade resurfaced strongly in August,” Sacci said. In May, 69% of businesses expected trade conditions to improve in the next six months. By August, that optimism had…

South Africa’s agricultural success rests on collaboration and innovation, said Dr Sifiso Ngqangweni, CEO of the National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC). He spoke at an SA Breweries (SAB) “Cheers to Farmers” event in Rooiwal, Greater Taung Municipality, on Thursday, where the role of local farmers in powering the beer value chain was celebrated. He said the long-term commitment to research and development that they had witnessed in Rooiwal, including the introduction of new barley varieties and advanced mechanisation support, was helping farmers to increase productivity while staying competitive in global markets. SAB, maker of beers such as Castle Lager, Carling Black Label, and Flying Fish, has spent more than R650m on agricultural development in South Africa since 2018 in support of the ingredients for making beer. The beer industry is…

Gambling is a huge problem in South Africa, with alarming stats being revealed, calling for more awareness and education around the matter. A movie called Bet I Love You, directed by Nigeria’s Joseph Duke, uses storytelling to shine a light on the growing crisis of gambling. Khumbuza Meyiwa stars as Rex, with Nosipho Majola as Nthabi and Smangele Mhlongo as Aunt Lungi, the opportunistic wedding planner, and Gabisile Tshabalala as Wendy, Rex’s supportive yet frustrated girlfriend. Rex is a compulsive gambler who lands himself in hot water when he loses the lobola money meant for his sister’s wedding. Realising that his addiction is jeopardising both his family’s reputation and his relationship, he scrambles to make things right. Viewers get to see how Rex’s gambling not only negatively affects his own…

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has provided an update on its Beneficiary Biometric Enrollment (BBE) initiative, which was rolled out in early September 2025. The programme aims to enhance the integrity of the country’s social grants system by utilising biometric data to verify beneficiaries' identities and prevent fraudulent claims. On September 17, Minister of Social Development Sisisi Tolashe and SASSA CEO Themba Matlou briefed the Portfolio Committee on Social Development, detailing the progress and challenges of the BBE since its launch. “SASSA introduced a massive rollout of the Beneficiary Biometric Enrollment (BBE) in all its local offices across the country in its concerted efforts to enhance the integrity in the social grants system, whilst detecting and curbing all fraudulent elements,” said SASSA. Matlou revealed that, since the program's…

The Democratic Alliance (DA) took its fight to the gates of Evaton’s Levai Mbata Clinic, staging a picket and handing over a memorandum demanding answers over a pavement upgrade that has spiralled into a tender scandal mired in alleged ANC-linked nepotism. Over 500 Evaton residents took to the streets, singing and painting the streets blue in protest over being excluded from job opportunities in the Levai Mbata Clinic pavement project. Waving placards reading “Emfuleni is not a family business,” “Stamp out cadre deployment,” and “Stop corruption,” the community demanded an end to what they say is ANC-linked nepotism that continues to choke local opportunities. The DA has given Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko 14 days to respond, or face being hauled before the Public Protector. Previously, The Star reported that…

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni yesterday briefed the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday. The meeting addressed essential developments across economic policy, infrastructure projects, and government initiatives in line with the South African government’s ongoing commitment to accelerated national progress. Last week, one of the significant announcements welcomed by the Cabinet related to the country’s freight and logistics sector. Minister Ntshavheni highlighted a landmark development involving Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager’s introduction of new Train Operating Companies (TOCs), a pivotal step in implementing South Africa’s Freight and Logistics Roadmap and Rail Policy. “This is a significant milestone in transforming our rail logistics landscape,” Ntshavheni said. “The introduction of third-party access across 41 routes spanning six major corridors is designed to boost rail utilisation, enhance efficiency,…

Bidders Choice will host the auction of the Steve Tshwete Housing Association NPC, in business rescue, in Middleburg, South Mpumalanga. Bids for the property – Hope City Phase 2 at 47 Aquamarine Street – will open on October 8 at 8am and close on October 9 from 11am. The property comprises: Block A: • 6 x bachelor flats (±34m²) • 12 x one-bedroom flats (±37m²) • 3 x two-bedroom flats (±48m²) Block B: • 6 x bachelor flats (±25m²) • 12 x one-bedroom flats (±37m²) • 3 x two-bedroom flats (±48m²) Block C: • 6 x bachelor flats (±34m²) • 3 x one-bedroom flats (±31m²) • 6 x two-bedroom flats (±41m²) • 3 x two-bedroom flats (±44m²) Block D: • 3 x one-bedroom flats (±31m²) • 9 x three-bedroom flats…

Ahead of the G20 Young Entrepreneurs’ Alliance Summit (G20 YEA) 2025, this weekend, the Young Entrepreneurs South Africa (YESA) hosted a China-SA Bilateral Breakfast to strengthen trade relations between the two countries. The summit is expected to bring over 600 delegates from all G20 countries to the Sandton Convention Centre from September 18 to 22, celebrating 15 years of fostering global entrepreneurial collaboration across the G20 states. The three-day gathering is supported by the South African government as part of the broader G20 programme with the aim of fostering and bringing together a global alliance of over 500,000 entrepreneurs. Speaking at the breakfast event held in Illovo on a, Innocentia Motau, founder and spokesperson for YESA, said that the alliance has made a huge impact on young entrepreneurs from the…

The Springboks delivered a statement performance in Wellington, dismantling the All Blacks in a manner few could have anticipated. It was a victory that reignited belief in Rassie Erasmus’ plans ahead of the next Rugby World Cup in Australia and kept the Springboks’ Rugby Championship hopes alive. It was also the first real sign this year that the Boks’ evolution is on track, as they combined their physicality and top-class kicking with brilliant decision-making and clinical finishing with ball in hand. But now comes the real test for the Springboks — consistency. It’s time to deliver that sort of performance on a regular basis after a few Jekyll-and-Hyde displays over the last few months. Erasmus has admitted that the constant rotation of his matchday squads could be the reason why…

Former England Men’s coach Andy Flower often said that playing spin is all in the head but it's not brain surgery. Perhaps it came as second nature to him, judging by his Test average of 117.14 in India, but it certainly wasn’t for many of the England batters he coached during his tenure. Or for that matter the Proteas’ Women’s team. Combating slow bowlers on the spinning surfaces has long been the Achilles heel for the Proteas, and particularly for in-form opener Tazmin Brits when she started her international career. Brits learnt her cricket in Potchefstroom where the surfaces resemble billiard tables that allowed her to play through the line against the seam bowlers. Strong and powerfully-built, and naturally aggressive, Brits’ had a single-minded approach to the spin bowlers: Block,…

Let me set the scene. It was the late 90s in the south of Johannesburg. I was a prefect then at Laerskool Theo Wassenaar and in the final days of primary school before heading to the nearby high school. It was an open day, where they welcomed prospective students, and as prefect – proudly wearing my bottle green blazer, my station pinned its lapel – it was my job, alongside my peers, to introduce them to the school. The drop off point was on the sidewalk, at the lower end of the school, next to their fields. We would guide the younger kids, along with their parents, up to the main gate, making small talk and speaking pleasantries as we attempted to convince both that this was the school that…

The Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa) have announced a dramatic venue change, in an unexpected twist in the lead-up to the 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers next month. Their pivotal clash against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana, originally slated for South African soil, will now take place at the Obed Itani Chilume Stadium in Francistown, Botswana, on October 10, 2025. This decision comes about because Zimbabwe have issues with hosting international matches at home due to a Fifa ban stemming from stadium concerns. Zimbabwe have previously held their home qualifiers in South Africa, specifically utilising popular venues such as Orlando Stadium. The transition to Botswana is seen as a move to create a more “logistical and fan-friendly environment” for their supporters. Local sources from the Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa) report that the…

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has moved to open South Africa’s bulk liquid terminal sector to black empowerment players, while at the same time shoring up the country’s fuel security. Creecy on Thursday instructed Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) to renew the leases of existing operators at Durban’s Island View precinct, a critical hub through which about 70% of South Africa’s fuel imports pass. Using her powers under Section 79 of the National Ports Authority Act, Creecy bypassed the normal leasing process, citing national interest. As part of the directive, Creecy ordered that the Central Energy Fund (CEF) — which acquired the Sapref refinery from BP and Shell in 2024 — be allocated 15% of Island View’s capacity, with the option to expand to 30%. The CEF will serve as a…

When South Africans talk about Formula 1, the conversation usually centres on whether Kyalami will host a Grand Prix again, how much it would cost, and whether government can justify the spend. Yet while we debate tarmac and tax breaks, a parallel Formula 1 is unfolding — one that doesn’t require billions in infrastructure or international approvals. It lives in games, esports, digital twins and creator platforms. And it could be worth more to our economy than the physical race. The official lap counts often quoted — such as the 847 million laps run in F1’s video game last year — should be a wake-up call. F1’s digital platforms attract millions of players worldwide, and esports competitions regularly draw hundreds of thousands of live viewers. The grid of the future…

Fidelity Services Group, Southern Africa’s leading provider of integrated services and risk solutions, said on Thursday that it has successfully acquired a majority shareholding in SSG Holdings, following all requisite regulatory approvals. This strategic transaction marks a significant milestone in Fidelity’s continued mission to deliver world-class integrated facilities services across the region. This acquisition builds on Fidelity’s track record of strategic expansion, including previous high-profile acquisitions such as ADT South Africa from Tyco (now Johnson Controls International), Bidvest Protea Coin Cash Management Solutions from The Bidvest Group, and key assets from National Security (formerly Chubb Security). Each of these has significantly enhanced the company’s scale, profitability, and service capabilities. Founded in 2014 by the late Jorge Ferreira, SSG has grown into a trusted partner to South Africa’s leading corporates, offering…

Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa has become the latest company looking to retrench workers, as it considers cutting more than 680 jobs across the country. The beverage company, which has been operating in South Africa for decades, is reportedly planning to close its manufacturing plants in Bloemfontein and East London as part of a wider restructuring aimed at addressing financial challenges. Motshidisi Mokwena, Coca-Cola’s Head of Communication, told IOL that the company was responding to changing industry conditions by making organisational adjustments that could, unfortunately, lead to job losses. "In response to evolving industry dynamics, Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa intends to make adjustments to its organisation that, if implemented, may result in some roles being impacted and may, unfortunately, result in job losses". She confirmed that consultations with unions and affected…

The DStv Delicious International Food & Music Festival Prepare for a feast of the senses at this renowned event which is returning to Joburg for its 11th edition. One of the biggest highlights will be the musical performance with Kelvin Momo, Zee Nxumalo, Don Toliver, Kwesta, Sjava and Big Zulu, Oscar Mbo, Kamo Mphela and Distruction Boyz, taking to the stage tomorrow. Then on Sunday, Lauryn Hill featuring Wyclef Jean, YG Marley and Zion Marley will perform while local acts such as Lira, Oskido and DJ Fresh will also entertain the crowd. The festival will also feature mouth-watering food experiences as well as fashion and art installations. Where: The Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit. When: Tomorrow and Sunday, from 11am daily. Echoes Between Us with Jeremy Loops and Ladysmith Black Mambazo…

Deputy chief of police at Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department, Major-General Julius Mkhwanazi, has been fingered in a scandal involving businessman Vusi “Cat” Matlala for registering Matlala’s vehicles under the municipality and fitting them with blue lights. This transpired during a testimony by Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi at the Madlanga Judicial Commission of Inquiry in Pretoria yesterday. The commission, chaired by retired Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, aims to investigate allegations of corruption, political interference and protection of criminal networks in the criminal justice system. According to Mkhwanazi’s testimony, the metro police officer’s superior (Julius Mkhwanazi), who flagged the alleged wrongdoing by reporting it to the municipality, was suspended. He said the officer (Julius Mkhwanazi) allegedly helped Matlala register his vehicles under the municipality, making them appear as municipal vehicles, using Ekurhuleni’s funds.…

Parliament's portfolio committees have voiced urgent concerns over the South African Police Service's (SAPS) failure to develop specialised training to combat the rising threat of illegal mining, which is wreaking havoc on communities and the economy. In a joint sitting this week, the Portfolio Committees on Police, Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Home Affairs, Forestry, Fisheries and Environment said the absence of such training was unacceptable. “It is unacceptable that an emerging crime trend, such as illegal mining, does not have tailored training courses to tackle the scourge. This is more alarming in the context of the socio-economic impact of illegal mining in the country,” said Mr Ian Cameron, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police. The meeting was convened to consider a petition from Ms M Clarke, MP, on behalf…

Violence and decay at Daveyton’s train station have now reached Parliament following a brutal attack on five Gauteng crime wardens during their patrols. The incident comes after written questions from both the Democratic Alliance and ActionSA highlighted prolonged delays in restoring the station. Despite repeated promises to have the station fully operational by October 2024, it remains in ruins with no visible progress. The DA formally submitted a Petition to Rescue Daveyton Train Station, which was heard by the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Transport on September 16. Councillor Mike da Silva of the DA said the petition has been officially recorded and will be considered by the committee. “The committee has agreed to take up the issue,” he said, explaining that recommendations will be divided between the police and transport…

This September, Joburg Theatre brings to life Dancing the Death Drill, the haunting, powerful stage adaptation of Fred Khumalo’s acclaimed novel. Set against the backdrop of forgotten South African history and told through masterful storytelling, stirring music, and evocative movement, this landmark production promises to be one of the most important theatrical events of the year. This moving production will run from September 9 to 28, 2025 on the Mandela Stage. Set in Paris, 1958, the story begins with a brutal incident in a prestigious restaurant, two men dead, a head waiter awaiting trial. As a determined journalist investigates the crime, he uncovers the extraordinary life of Pitso Motaung, a South African soldier who fought alongside Allied forces during World War I. Pitso’s journey takes a tragic and unforgettable turn…

ActionSA says it has not yet decided on who will be its mayoral candidate for the City of Johannesburg, but the party is not ruling out the return of former mayor Herman Mashaba. Mashaba, who previously served as the executive mayor from August 22, 2016, to November 27, 2019, is widely known for his "pro-poor" agenda and a tough stance on corruption. His potential return could significantly shake up the race ahead of the 2026 local government elections. Speaking to IOL, ActionSA national chairperson Michael Beaumont said the party is still deliberating, but acknowledged that Mashaba remains a strong contender. “ActionSA has not made any decisions in respect of a mayoral candidate in Johannesburg. The matter is still being considered, but there can be no doubt that Herman Mashaba is…

The highly speculated rift between Kaizer Chiefs and head coach Nassredine Nabi has culminated in an unexpected split, plunging the club into uncertainty ahead of their CAF Confederation Cup campaign. In a decision that has left fans perplexed, Chiefs have parted ways with Nabi, as unresolved licensing issues and deepening mistrust proved too significant to bridge. For his part, Nabi has insisted that his departure is not as sinister as many have speculated. Speaking to North African news platform WinWin, he said: "My separation from Kaizer Chiefs was a mutual agreement with the club's management, following a successful and challenging experience. "Currently, I need some time to rest, focus more on my family, and monitor my wife's health, which has required me to be by her side over the past…

The Champions League returned with drama on all fronts on Wednesday night as Chelsea marked their comeback with a 3-1 defeat at Bayern Munich, Diego Simeone called for greater protection for managers after Atletico Madrid’s fiery 3-2 loss at Liverpool, and holders PSG swept aside Atalanta 4-0 in Paris. Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer lamented his side’s loss of focus at the Allianz Arena, where the Club World Cup holders made their first Champions League appearance in two years. Michael Olise pressured Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah into an early own goal and England captain Harry Kane added a penalty soon after. Palmer pulled a goal back immediately, finishing off an excellent team move, but Kane capitalised on a defensive error from Malo Gusto to complete a double and secure Bayern’s opening…

Sekhukhune United coach Eric Tinkler maintains that Mamelodi Sundowns remain strong favourites for the league title, even though his side has enjoyed a more impressive start to the 2025/26 campaign. Babina Noko have been in blistering form since the season kicked off, and as they prepare to host Golden Arrows on Saturday at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium (3pm kickoff), they have a chance to stretch their lead at the summit. With Kaizer Chiefs occupied in the CAF Confederation Cup this weekend, the log leaders can seize the opportunity to open up a gap at the top. Currently, the Limpopo-based outfit leads the standings on 16 points, a single point ahead of second-placed Sundowns and three clear of Chiefs in third. Tinkler’s side and Amakhosi, however, still have a game…

Team SA’s search for an elusive World Athletics Championships medal continues after another tough day of competition on Day 5 in Tokyo yesterday. One of South Africa’s top medal hopes, Zakithi Nene, missed out on a podium place in the men’s 400m final, finishing fifth in a time of 44.55. Botswana’s Busang Collen Kebinatshipi won gold and made history as his country’s first-ever athletics world champion. Nene went out hard in the first 200m, but began to fade with around 130m to go. Kebinatshipi, the fastest man in the qualifiers, timed his surge to perfection and powered through the back straight before crossing the line ahead of Trinidad and Tobago’s Jereem Richards and fellow Motswana Bayapo Ndori. Meanwhile, in the 200m, Sinesipho Dambile kept South African hopes alive by qualifying…

Lions head coach Russell Domingo emphasised that new recruit Beyers Swanepoel is expected to do good things at the fast-bowler-friendly Bullring wicket as the Johannesburg-based team builds towards the 2025/26 season. Swanepoel, having been recruited from the Warriors over the winter, has the game that is needed to be successful at his new home, the Wanderers Stadium. He has the control and the skill to cause problems for the very best batters in Division One cricket, as he has proved during his time down in Gqeberha. Domingo highlighted that Swanepoel, considering his skill and experience, is expected to do good things in the next few months as he begins his journey as a Lions player. Swanepoel, alongside other new Lions players including Siya Plaatjie, have replaced former Lions player Tshepo…

South Africa will roll out a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system ahead of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in November, a move government says will remove long-standing visa bottlenecks that have constrained the country’s tourism growth. The announcement comes as BDO South Africa’s Tourism Trends Report this week flagged that South Africa’s recovery continues to lag behind global and regional peers, despite a 14% rise in international tourist arrivals between January and July 2025, totalling 5.85 million visitors. Unveiling the system at the Tourism Business Council of South Africa’s Leadership Conference on Thursday, Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber said the ETA formed part of government’s “Home Affairs @ Home” digital transformation agenda. The platform replaces paper-based visas with an online process that allows applicants to capture biometrics and receive approvals…

South African policymakers are grappling with how to respond to the growing number of countries adopting Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanisms (CBAMs), with the European Union’s version set to take effect in January 2026 and similar measures under consideration in the United Kingdom, United States, Australia, and Japan. At a Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) webinar on Thursday, Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) director Mahendra Shunmoogam said the government had formally opposed the EU’s CBAM in its recent submissions, describing it as a unilateral measure that undermines global trade rules and the sovereignty of developing countries. "Our position is that we fundamentally oppose CBAM because it violates potentially the WTO Agreement and also the Paris Agreement, which says that countries should not take any actions that impact on the…

Google on Thursday announced a new set of investments in Africa, reaffirming its nearly two-decade commitment to the continent's digital transformation. The latest commitments focus on empowering Africa's next generation through AI, unlocking opportunities and expanding on the innovation capacity of young Africans. They cover internet connectivity; youth-led learning and innovation; and skills training. Google is announcing four strategic subsea cable connectivity hubs in the north, south, east and west regions of Africa. This investment creates new digital corridors within Africa and between Africa and the rest of the world – ultimately deepening international connectivity and resilience, as well as spurring economic growth and opportunity. This is the latest addition to Google’s Africa Connect infrastructure program, which sees the company build vital connectivity across the continent: including the Google Cloud…

Season two of Married at First Sight South Africa has proved to be a viewer favourite. For the past 11 weeks, there have been numerous online conversations about the couples who got married at first sight, navigating married life in real time. They are Palesa Mphaki and Tshepo Miya as well as Makoto Phumodi and Nkuleleko Mahlangu, Themba Khosa and Nelisa Ntabeni, and Portia Baloyi and Bongani Luvalo. In the latest episode, emotions ran high as tensions surfaced between some of the couples. Baloyi and Luvalo had an intimate and heartfelt conversation about grief, following the recent passing of Baloyi’s father. After finding himself tired of the external noise, Luvalo joined the show to try a different approach to finding a wife. “To cut out options and choice and see…

Fom Robert Redford’s death to Mariah Carey’s festival performance and Tyla’s fashion nod from Claudia Schiffer, it has been an eventful week in the entertainment word. Stars passed away, albums dropped, supercars changed hands and icy celebrity feuds may have finally melted. Here’s a wrap of the biggest local and international moments. 1 Robert Redford dies, aged 89 Cinema icon Robert Redford passed away in his sleep at his Utah home on Tuesday at the age of 89. Known for his roles in classics such as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and The Sting, Redford also won an Oscar for directing Ordinary People and was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2002. He co-founded the Sundance Film Festival in 1985, supporting independent film-makers, while also being a…

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia has committed to prioritising building the capacity of the Directorate of Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) to be refocused to deal with organised crime. Cachalia said the capacity of the DPCI, as an important investigative structure, was not where it should be at the moment. “Although it does have important capabilities, building this capacity is going to be one of my priorities precisely because, as I have indicated on numerous occasions, organised crime is a growing problem. “I believe that the DPCI should be focused on organised crime. It has multiple mandates,” he said. Cachalia stated his agreement with the National Anti-Corruption Council’s recommendation to President Cyril Ramaphosa that the DPCI should be refocused on tackling organised crime. “Obviously, this is a matter that will have…

The National Taxi Alliance (NTA) has confirmed that Gauteng National Taxi Association chairperson Thami Moyo was shot dead on the Soweto Highway yesterday, in what is believed to be a hit related to ongoing taxi violence. Speaking to IOL News, NTA spokesperson Theo Malele confirmed the incident. “Yes, we confirm the incident, but the details are still sketchy at the moment. We can confirm that it has happened.” Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Mavela Masondo also confirmed the shooting, but said authorities could not yet definitively link the incident to taxi violence. “We cannot confirm that it's related to taxi violence. But we suspect it is, taking into account that the victim is the chairperson of a taxi association,” Masondo said, speaking to the media at the crime scene. According to…

The Public Servants Association (PSA) has noted with disgust the latest report regarding the Defence and Military Veterans Ministry allegedly spending more than R20 million on travel expenses, where the minister and her two deputies undertook 22 questionable trips. The department had budget cuts, resulting in inadequate resources to ensure its proper capacitation, which led to operational inefficiency. It is illogical that the minister would prioritise these trips over providing basic resources to soldiers who put their lives on the line for the security of the country. The under-resourced department resulted in operational failures where 14 soldiers lost their lives in the Democratic Republic of Congo owing to a lack of equipment and basic resources. Additionally, the department is spending billions on unaccredited training in Cuba, whereas the South African…

Gauteng's controversial e-tolls system, abandoned over a year ago, is still milking the national fiscus of substantial amounts of public funds and could also result in motorists being held liable for the R29 billion debt incurred. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has given Gauteng Finance and Economic Development MEC Lebogang Maile permission to borrow R4.1 billion to finance the maintenance and rehabilitation of phase one of the e-tolls, officially known as the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP). Godongwana indicated that the purpose of the borrowing was to finance the maintenance and rehabilitation of phase one of the GFIP in line with the approved business case and fiscal framework. According to the minister, the loan shall be repaid over a period not exceeding seven financial years, commencing in the current year (2025/26)…

The Cruise Naima Brown Multicast performance Audible Originals AH, THE tantalising world of reality television: where egos are as inflated as the inflatable pool toys on board and secrets lurk as dangerously as the sharks that circle beneath. Naima Brown’s audiobook, The Cruise, blends dark humour with dramatic undertones to remind us that sometimes the most harrowing journeys can lead to profound revelations – especially when revenge is the destination. Bailey Collins – or should I say, Sarah in her former life – has sculpted a brand new identity after being tossed around like a rag doll in the foster care system, thanks in no small part to a mother who had more jail time than parenting minutes. After a childhood marked by betrayal and trauma, Bailey has risen through…

India’s commitment to strengthen trade relations and deepen economic ties with South Africa and the other countries on the continent was highlighted during the 20th India-Africa Conclave in New Delhi in August. Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau led South Africa’s delegation at the invitation of Indian minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal. The relationship between India and countries on the African continent continues to be strengthened with India-Africa trade surpassing $100 billion in 2024/25 compared to $56 billion in 2019/20 and New Delhi has emerged as one of the top-five investors in the continent. With the focus shifting to co-creating a shared future, bilateral trade between countries on the continent and India has significantly increased since 2019/20 and India has extended significant loans and grants for…

Orlando Pirates are slowly blending as a unit, which is why they’ve set their sights on challenging for every trophy up for grabs this season — including the CAF Champions League. The Buccaneers will begin their Champions League campaign in the first-round preliminary qualifiers at a neutral venue — Toyota Stadium in the Free State — tomorrow. They are expected to win this match, and the tie overall. The Sea Robbers are high on confidence, having cruised to their fourth successive MTN8 crown after beating Stellenbosch 3–1 at Mbombela Stadium at the weekend. And that’s not all — they also had an impressive continental campaign last season and boast considerable squad depth. Pirates reached the Champions League semi-finals last term, losing to eventual champions, Pyramids of Egypt. A lot has…

The Lions’ Currie Cup final hopes have received a massive boost with the impressive form of prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye, who has chosen to put doping allegations aside and let his performance on the field speak for itself. Lions coach Mziwakhe Nkosi confirmed on Wednesday that the big forward will not only start against Griquas on Saturday at Ellis Park but will also serve as vice captain, with Quan Horn skippering the team from fullback. Springbok Ntlabakanye is embroiled in an unusual situation, having tested positive for a banned substance that is not performance-enhancing. The layman might ask, “So what is the problem?” Nevertheless, he has been formally charged. “Let us be straight. Asenathi will start for us this weekend,” Nkosi said. “He has been charged but has not been suspended,…

Durban City FC’s remarkable introduction to the Betway Premiership gathered more pace on Tuesday as they powered past Siwelele FC at a buzzing Chatsworth Stadium, thanks to goals from new signing Letsie Koapeng and Trevor Mokwena. The result lifted the newly promoted Citizens to fourth on the standings with 11 points from their first six matches, a start even seasoned head coach Gavin Hunt admits has exceeded early expectations. “Any win in the top flight is important, especially where we are with our squad and the financial side,” Hunt said after the game. “A team of our nature, new in the top flight, we have to get as many points as we can.” The victory set up what Hunt described as a “free hit” when his side travel to Tshwane…

Championship leader Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris resume their world title battle in Azerbaijan this weekend, but they could also secure McLaren the constructors’ crown. Having won 12 of the 16 races so far this year between them, Piastri and Norris are already on the brink of wrapping up McLaren’s 10th team title with seven races remaining. The teammates are also locked in a race for the drivers’ world championship, with Piastri leading Norris by 31 points after the Briton cut his advantage last time out in Monza. Despite Max Verstappen’s victory at the high-speed Italian Grand Prix, the return to a street circuit where Piastri triumphed last year should enable McLaren to resume normal service. Accidents and incidents, however, are often part of the spectacle in Baku. Norris can…