Table of contents for 2026-04-17 in Cape Times

In a landscape marked by geopolitical tension, a wave of optimism swept through the global markets yesterday, buoyed by positive developments in peace negotiations between Lebanon and Israel. The potential for a ceasefire has sparked renewed hope among investors, who are now closely monitoring further updates from Iran and the White House regarding ongoing negotiations. Wall Street stocks surged to record highs, with the major indices closing up as strong corporate earnings painted a promising picture for the American economy. The anticipation of a potential deal between Iran and the US catalysed the bullish sentiment, further energising the market. “The positive sentiment continues as peace talks between Lebanon and Israel indicate the potential for a ceasefire,” said Bianca Botes, Managing Director at Citadel Global. “This optimism is not just a…

The Durban High Court has postponed the liquidation case against Tongaat Hulett. This decision follows a last-minute agreement between the company's Business Rescue Practitioners (BRPs) and the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) for R200 million in funding. The supplementary affidavits detailing the IDC's proposed R200 million funding were filed two days before the hearing on Thursday, resulting in the temporary halt of the liquidation proceedings on Thursday morning, just before they were set to begin. Advocate Arnold Subel SC, representing the BRPs from Metis Strategic Advisors, informed the court that the new funding arrangement fundamentally altered the situation. “IDC’s funding allows BRP to continue day-to-day operations, but it won’t last till the end of June,” he stated. Subel argued that the funding offered a breather until the end of June to…

South Africa's small to medium enterprises (SMEs) are currently grappling with a severe cash flow crisis, compounded by a staggering R12.4 billion in government invoices that remain unpaid after 30 days. This statistic, reported by the National Treasury, underscored the silent yet devastating impact of delayed payments on the backbone of the nation's economy. Private sector payment cycles can stretch between 90 to 150 days, often jeopardising the survival of SMEs and stifling their growth. “Waiting three to six months to be paid is simply not compatible with running a healthy small business," Daniel Goldberg, Founder and CEO of Bridgement, a South African fintech lender that is rising to the challenge of the ongoing crisis, said. "Our mission is to give SMEs a funding partner that moves at the…

About 70% of South African gig workers are using ride-hailing as a secondary source of income, underlining its growing importance as a dependable side hustle in a constrained economic environment. At the same time, 30% rely on it as their primary source of income, highlighting its role as a daily livelihood for many households navigating high unemployment and rising living costs. These insights form part of the flagship Gig Economy Report released by Bolt in partnership with Ipsos, offering a detailed look at how digital platforms are reshaping the way South Africans earn, spend, and sustain themselves. The findings point to a significant shift, where ride-hailing is no longer viewed merely as a transport solution, but increasingly as a practical pathway into income generation and entrepreneurship. According to Simo Kalajdzic,…

The looming KwaZulu-Natal High Court hearing on the potential liquidation of Tongaat Hulett is being described as a defining moment for South Africa’s sugar cane industry, with thousands of livelihoods hanging in the balance. SA Canegrowers on Thursday raised serious concerns ahead of the hearing, scheduled for Thursday and Friday, warning that the outcome could have devastating consequences for rural economies. The company’s business rescue practitioners filed for provisional liquidation in February after a proposed sale agreement with the Vision consortium fell through. Key stakeholders, including SA Canegrowers, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), and Trade and Industry Minister Parks Tau, are opposing the liquidation application. At the heart of the concern is the heavy reliance of sugarcane growers on Tongaat Hulett’s milling operations.…

The SACP’s national leadership says it would not punish any member that campaigns for the ANC in the coming local government elections, despite the SACP itself contesting the same elections. The party was reacting to the appointment of its senior member James Nxumalo to lead the ANC election campaigns in KwaZulu-Natal. On Wednesday, Nxumalo, a former SACP provincial chairperson and eThekwini mayor, was unveiled as the new provincial coordinator of the ANC in the province by Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula. He was appointed alongside Mike Mabuyakhulu, who replaced Jeff Radebe as the new provincial convener. SACP national spokesperson Mbulelo Mandlana said the party respects Nxumalo’s decision to accept the ANC appointment and would not punish him or any member of the SACP who campaigns for the ANC, arguing that SACP members…

Anande Kuse is making her dreams a reality, balancing academic success with sporting excellence and a breakthrough role in a major Hollywood production. Kuse was among more than 9 000 students who graduated during the Cape Peninsula University of Technology’s (CPUT) autumn ceremonies this week, earning her Advanced Diploma in Film Production. Raised in Nyanga, she discovered table tennis through an after-school programme in primary school. The sport quickly became central to her life, opening doors to national and international competition. In her first year at CPUT, she represented South Africa at the International Table Tennis Federation African Youth, Junior and Cadet Championships in Tunisia. She continued to build her path forward, winning two bronze medals at the USSA Table Tennis Championships in Kimberley in December, in the women’s doubles…

The healing and moving effects of music, along with its inextricable link to a shared humanity, were on full display at a joint initiative hosted by the Robben Island Museum, the Survé Family, and the Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF). Attendees gathered on the historic grounds of Robben Island, where they heard of the brutality endured there but also connected and paid tribute through music in the lead-up to the CTIJF. The exclusive event, Music for a Shared Humanity, included performances by Yussef Dayes, Babalwa Meintjies, accompanied by Cole Krieling, Maria João, and James Mange. Robben Island holds a profound place in global history as the site where many political prisoners, including former president Nelson Mandela, were incarcerated during the apartheid era. Now, it stands as a symbolic testament…

The Western Cape High Court has upheld an appeal in a long-running dog bite dispute, ruling that a man’s fractured ankle was not caused by a dog attack and overturning a previous finding of liability against the animal’s owner. The court narrowed the matter to a single legal question: whether the bite from a dog owned by Shaun Errol Bergstedt caused the fractured ankle suffered by William Henry Rhode. The court ultimately found that it did not, concluding that the fracture resulted from Rhode’s own fall after the dog had already been secured. The case stemmed from an incident in which Bergstedt’s dog escaped from his property and bit Rhode on the ankle. Both parties agreed that the bite occurred and caused two puncture wounds. However, Rhode later claimed the…

Let the Dead Sleep Michael Wood Narrated by Gemma Whelan Audible Originals SOUND the alarms for yet another great listen. Michael Wood’s latest crime thriller, Let the Dead Sleep, narrated by the brilliant Gemma Whelan, proves that a former cold case can heat up fast. As a crime reporter, Holly Sullivan must navigate both the complexities of her sister’s murder and the impending loss of her dying mother, setting the stage for a compelling story steeped in tension, emotional depth, and the relentless pursuit of truth. The story kicks off in London, where Holly finds herself drawn back into the past, facing the legacy of the Richmond Ripper – a merciless serial killer who claimed her sister Annabel as one of his four victims. Twenty-five years later, with little time…

The Stormers enter the United Rugby Championship’s last block of four games before the playoffs, knowing that they have an excellent chance of finishing top of the table. If they can hold their nerve and win their remaining games, they could well knock Glasgow Warriors off top spot, given that the Scotsmen have the tougher run-in, including next week’s visit to the Cape Town Stadium. In fact, as soon as tomorrow, the Cape team could reclaim the No 1 position they held earlier in the tournament should the Lions do them a big favour by beating the Warriors at Ellis Park, and the Stormers get past tricky Connacht. It is a weekend where, if the Stormers win, their top-four position can be strengthened by other results. For instance, in an…

Former Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Moeneeb Josephs has delivered a blunt assessment of the Betway Premiership title race, insisting it is no longer in the Buccaneers’ hands following their recent slip. Pirates were held to a dramatic draw by Richards Bay FC last Friday, rescuing a point late on but missing a crucial opportunity to seize control at the top. Instead, they remain behind Mamelodi Sundowns, who hold a one-point lead with a game in hand — a gap that could stretch to four with just six matches left. For Josephs, the issue runs deeper than the dropped points. Speaking on the Soccer Beat podcast, the Mitchells Plain-born legend pointed to a recurring pattern that has undermined Pirates’ challenge — an inability to deliver in decisive moments. “Sundowns have got acres…

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned that sub-Saharan Africa’s recent economic progress is under increasing strain, as global shocks, rising debt, and declining external support threaten to derail growth and development across the region. In its April 2026 Regional Economic Outlook titled “Hard-Won Gains Under Pressure,” the IMF on Thursday painted a mixed picture of the continent’s economic trajectory. While 2025 was described as a relatively strong year for many African economies, the outlook has since darkened significantly after global instability, particularly the ongoing war in the Middle East, which has pushed up fuel, food, and transport costs. The IMF downgraded the region's growth forecast by a cumulative 0.4 percentage point, and is now forecasting growth of 4.3% and 4.4% in the two years, respectively, while in January it…

South Africa’s efforts to contain the spread of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) are showing encouraging early signs, with no new outbreaks reported among vaccinated herds, according to Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen. Announcing the latest update this week, Steenhuisen said preliminary data suggests the country’s mass vaccination strategy is beginning to yield positive results. Since February 2026, more than 2 million animals—specifically 2,033,289—have been vaccinated across all provinces as part of a nationwide effort to curb the disease. Steenhuisen said while outbreaks have been reported across all nine provinces, the intensity varies significantly. “We have strengthened surveillance and implemented a centralised reporting system, allowing for earlier detection and faster data capture,” he said. “Furthermore, heightened awareness has helped identify “sub-clinical” cases – where animals carry the virus without showing…

April is Financial Literacy Month, a dedicated time to build essential skills in budgeting, saving, investing, and managing debt. It’s a reminder that building long-term financial security doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require informed decisions. Whether you’re saving for your child’s education, planning for retirement, or simply wanting your money to work harder, understanding your investment options is the first step. One of the most accessible and transparent tools available to everyday investors is the Exchange Traded Fund (ETF), an investment vehicle that is steadily democratising access to markets. ETFs are a powerful way to start investing because they offer affordability, transparency, and diversification all in one product. Whether you invest R100 or R10 million, you get access to the same fund, on the same terms, with…

A new international partnership between Heraeus Precious Metals and Sibanye-Stillwater is set to reshape the economics of glass fibre manufacturing, with a strong focus on reducing costs while unlocking new demand for palladium. The two companies on Thursday announced the joint research and development initiative, which will focus on creating a new generation of glass fibre bushings using platinum-palladium (PtPd) alloys enhanced by Heraeus’ proprietary dispersion hardening (DPH) technology. The collaboration brings together Heraeus’ advanced materials engineering capabilities and Sibanye-Stillwater’s expertise in platinum group metals (PGMs), aiming to deliver more efficient and cost-effective industrial solutions. It also builds on previous joint efforts between the two companies, including the development of a ruthenium-based catalyst for Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) water electrolysis. That breakthrough significantly reduced dependence on iridium, another costly and…

Embattled Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge is facing possible impeachment after the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) found him guilty of gross misconduct, sharply criticising both his conduct and the earlier findings by the Judicial Conduct Tribunal (JCT) which absolved him of any wrongdoing. In a report released yesterday, the JSC concluded that Mbenenge’s actions, including pursuing a relationship with a junior court employee, Andiswa Mengo, were “grossly inappropriate” and incompatible with judicial office. The complaint stems from allegations by Mengo, a secretary at the Makhanda High Court, that she was sexually harassed by Mbenenge between June 2021 and November 2022. While the JCT had earlier found that Mbenenge was not guilty of gross misconduct and that the relationship was consensual, the JSC rejected that conclusion, finding serious flaws in…

There was chaos at Athlone Stadium yesterday when some 25 000 job seekers showed up at the City’s ‘A Day of 1 000 Opportunities’ event, and a number of people were injured in a reported stampede. SAPS Public Order Policing made use of a stun grenade to maintain crowd control outside the stadium, the City said. The event was hosted by CapeBPO and the City’s special purpose vehicle (SPC), in a partnership to create a direct path for job-hunting youth into the flourishing contact centre industry. Ahead of the event, Mayco member for Economic Growth, James Vos, said: “This isn’t just any other job fair. CapeBPO’s team, together with 12 of the biggest contact centre operators in Cape Town, will be at Athlone Stadium offering practical career guidance, interviews, and…

The systemic failure of the criminal justice system in respect of a highly vulnerable accused person, who was a teenager at the time of his arrest and nearly three-month detention, resulted in the Supreme Court of Appeal ordering that he should receive damages. The Minister of Police was held liable for the unlawful arrest and initial detention, while the Minister of Justice and the National Director of Public Prosecutions were held jointly liable for the continued unlawful detention. The curator who was appointed to manage the child’s affairs turned to the SCA after the Gauteng High Court earlier turned the claim for damages down. Judge Reylene Keightley, on appeal, said: “The whole criminal justice system failed him.” The court heard that the 17-year-old has a significantly impaired mental capacity, and…

Insights into alleged misconduct of police officers and implications for Ramaphosa Much of the public commentary on the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) investigation into the Phala Phala farm incident has generated more heat than light. Accusations that IPID “whitewashed” the matter or deliberately shielded President Cyril Ramaphosa by scapegoating Major General WP Rhoode and Sergeant Hlulani Rekhoto are baseless. They overlook the Directorate’s narrowly defined mandate. IPID’s role is confined to investigating serious criminal offences or misconduct allegedly committed by members of the SAPS. It does not extend to investigating the President or making findings on his personal conduct. In this case, IPID was requested by ATM President Vuyolethu Zungula to probe the actions of Rhoode (Head of the Presidential Protection Unit) and other officers in their handling of…

Mikel Arteta insisted Arsenal’s angst-ridden progress to the Uefa Champions League semi-finals proved they have the character to cope with the mounting pressure of their bid to end a six-year trophy drought. Arteta’s side survived an anxious quarter-final second leg against Sporting Lisbon on Wednesday as they held on for a goalless draw that secured a 1-0 aggregate victory. The Gunners were well below their best at the Emirates Stadium, but Sporting could not take advantage as Geny Catamo went closest for the visitors with a first-half volley that smacked off the post. It was the latest in a growing list of spluttering displays from Arsenal, who have lost three of their last five games in all competitions, winning just once in that period. But Arteta is adamant Arsenal’s ability…

The “quasi-equity” €75 million investment will also enable an additional $20m senior loan Biovac, based in Cape Town, will become Africa’s first multi-vaccine manufacturing site after a R1.47 billion investment by the European Investment Bank (EIB) Group, the financing arm of the European Union, the European Commission and the International Finance Corporation (IFC). The “quasi-equity” €75 million investment will also enable an additional $20m senior loan, as well as further senior financing from the IFC, a statement said Thursday. The investment is backed by a European Commission EFSD+ guarantee under the Human Development Accelerator (HDX), part of the EU's Global Gateway strategy. The EFSD+ guarantee acts as a safety net for lenders, covering potential losses if projects fail. In blended finance operations, the EU combines a small grant contribution with…

The world is witnessing more than a geopolitical conflict in the Middle East. It is witnessing a profound reconfiguration of global talent flows. Wars have always shifted borders. Today, they are shifting brains. The current conflict, centred around the escalating tensions involving Iran and the Gulf, has triggered not only a humanitarian crisis, but a silent, strategic migration of skills. Tens of thousands of professionals are reassessing where they live, work, and build their future. Entire ecosystems of talent are being disrupted, relocated, or redeployed. This moment presents both a warning and a once-in-a-generation opportunity for countries like South Africa. From brain circulation to brain flight Historically, globalisation enabled what we called “brain circulation”—talent moving fluidly between hubs like Dubai, London, Singapore, and New York. Today, that model is…

What may start out as a seemingly harmless “side hustle” can quickly spiral into serious financial consequences,including frozen bank accounts, fraud listings, and long-term damage to one’s financial standing. The Banking Division of the National Financial Ombud Scheme South Africa (NFO) has raised concern over a sharp increase in complaints linked to the misuse of personal bank accounts. This growing trend is fast becoming one of the most significant risks facing South Africa’s financial sector. According to Nerosha Maseti, lead ombud for the NFO’s Banking and Credit Division, there has been a notable rise in cases where ordinary consumers are drawn into scams or informal financial arrangements. These often involve individuals allowing third parties to use their personal bank accounts to receive and transfer funds, typically in exchange for small…

PSG Financial Services’ headline earnings per share increased by a strong 33% in the year to end-February after it benefited from positive markets, improved investment income, and a rise in performance fees. The return on equity for the group that provides financial services for investments, retirement, stockbroking, and insurance came to 317%. Considering the strong cash position, a final gross dividend of 45 cents a share (2025: 35 cents) brought the dividend to 65 cents for the year, up 25% from 52 cents in 2025. “Against a demanding backdrop, the group delivered solid growth, reaffirming that our advice-led model and diversified businesses provide consistent increases in earnings and a clear competitive advantage,” said CEO Francois Gouws. CFO Mike Smith said in an interview gross net inflows came to R25 billion,…

The government has proposed tough penalties, including fines of up to R2 million and imprisonment for up to two years, in a bid to crack down on the incitement of land grabs and property invasions. The penalties form part of the Prevention of Illegal Eviction from and Unlawful Occupation of Land (PIE) Amendment Bill, which was approved by Cabinet two weeks ago and gazetted on Thursday. It is open for public input until June, thereafter expected to make its way to Parliament by the end of July. The bill also proposes removing fixed time-based thresholds linked to how long unlawful occupiers have been on a property. Under the current PIE Act, different legal thresholds apply depending on the duration of occupation, with longer stays affording occupiers additional protections. Speaking at…

EFF leader Julius Malema says his prosecution is part of a broader and orchestrated campaign to disrupt his political career and stifle the EFF’s influence ahead of the 2026 local government elections. Malema alleged that a “hidden hand” was influencing the judicial process against him and that his prosecution is politically motivated. The red berets’ leader was addressing his supporters outside the East London Magistrate’s Court following his sentencing for the unlawful discharge of a firearm during a 2018 rally. Malema was sentenced to five years’ direct imprisonment yesterday. However, he was released on warning following his immediate appeal against the sentence. This was after he was found guilty in September last year on five charges under the Firearms Control Act, including discharging a firearm in a built-up or public…

A MASS shooting in Delft has claimed the lives of four people, including a 13-year-old boy. The shooting was reported in Zandkloof Street, Voorbrug on Wednesday night, where the four victims, between the ages of 13 and 41, were found in a granny flat—each with gunshot wounds to the head. Police spokesperson Andrè Traut confirmed that the motive for the attack is believed to be gang-related. “The South African Police Service condemns the senseless gang-related murder of four males in Voorbrug in Delft on Wednesday, 15 April,” Traut said. “At approximately 7.20 pm, police responded to a shooting at a premises in Zandkloof Street, where the bodies of four victims, aged 13, 28, 40 and 41, were found inside a granny flat. All four sustained gunshot wounds to the head…

YOU have got to love South Africa’s relationship with Kaizer Chiefs; it is often said that when the Mighty Amakhosi are in a slump – which has been the official state of affairs in recent seasons – the country’s football following takes a knock. It has been also said that when Amakhosi hit a purple patch, Mzansi’s happiness index shoots up so much that even opposition fans find themselves engulfed by a sudden rush of enthusiasm for football in general. And so it is that, currently, Amakhosi ajabulile (Amakhosi are ecstatic). How can they not be? Their 4-1 drubbing of Magesi in Polokwane on Wednesday night handed them their fifth Betway Premiership win in a row. The last time Chiefs won five consecutive league matches was during the 2019/20 season,…

Thrice before did the Lions come close to lifting the Super Rugby title, and on all three occasions, "The Pride" suffered heartbreak and anguish. Ah, yes — 2016, 2017, and 2018. These were the years when the men in the famous red-and-white hoops ruled not only South Africa, but arguably the most prestigious club rugby competition in the world. Don’t be deceived by what the Europeans argue regarding their leagues and pan-continental championships; there was a time when Super Rugby was, without question, the best competition on the planet. Every game felt like a season in itself. There were stakes and consequences, and a profound sense of history in every tackle. Admittedly, it wasn't always perfect. It would have been that much better had Australian and South African franchises done…

Khulumani Ndamane is living the dream by competing in the CAF Champions League, which is why he has embraced the challenges that come with the competition as he looks to help Mamelodi Sundowns succeed. Sundowns have one foot in the Champions League final, as they need just a draw at Loftus Versfeld tomorrow (3pm) to progress, following their historic 1-0 win over Espérance in the first leg in Tunis last Sunday. Reaching the semi-finals of the competition for the second time in a row has already been a milestone for the team and some individuals, including Ndamane. The towering left-footed defender is playing in his first season in the competition, having arrived at the club from TS Galaxy in January. His stint so far has been impressive, as he has…